Diobol (325 BC - 280 BC) front Diobol (325 BC - 280 BC) back
Diobol (325 BC - 280 BC) photo
© Roma Numismatics Limited

Diobol 325 BC - 280 BC

 
Silver 1.24 g 14 mm
Description
Issuer
Tarentum (Calabria)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
325 BC - 280 BC
Value
Diobol (⅓)
Currency
Campanian (Italic-Achaean) drachm
Composition
Silver
Weight
1.24 g
Diameter
14 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#195469
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Herakles strangling the Nemean Lion; ΤΗ astragalos and club to left; ΙΦ below.

Script: Greek

Lettering:
ΤΗ
ΙΦ

Interesting fact

The Diobol coin was used as a form of currency in the ancient Greek city of Tarentum, which is now located in Calabria, Italy. The coin features an image of a mythical creature called a "Taras," which is a young boy riding a dolphin. This image was a symbol of the city and its connection to the sea. The coin was also adorned with other symbols and letters that represented the city's name and the ruling authority at the time. It's interesting to note that the Diobol coin was made of silver, which was a valuable and widely used metal in ancient times. The coin's weight of 1.24 grams is relatively small compared to modern-day coins, but it was a significant amount for its time. The fact that the coin has survived for centuries and is still studied and admired today is a testament to the craftsmanship and durability of ancient Greek coinage.