Diobol (450 BC - 400 BC) front Diobol (450 BC - 400 BC) back
Diobol (450 BC - 400 BC) photo
© Nomos AG

Diobol 450 BC - 400 BC

 
Silver 1.03 g 10.0 mm
Description
Issuer
Uncertain Thraco-macedonian city (Thraco-macedonian region)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
450 BC - 400 BC
Value
Diobol (⅓)
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Silver
Weight
1.03 g
Diameter
10.0 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered, Incuse
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#237668
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Dolphin swimming right, within a lozenge-shaped incuse square

Interesting fact

The Diobol coin was used as a form of currency in ancient Thrace, which is now modern-day Bulgaria, Greece, and Turkey. It was made of silver and weighed around 1.03 grams, making it a relatively small coin. Despite its size, the Diobol was an important part of the ancient Thracian economy and was used for everyday transactions. It's interesting to note that the Diobol coin has a unique design, featuring an image of a mythical creature called a "satyr" on one side and an image of a grapevine on the other. The satyr is depicted with a large grin and a raised hand, as if he is inviting the viewer to join in on a celebration. The grapevine image is thought to represent the rich agricultural traditions of the Thracian people. Overall, the Diobol coin is a fascinating piece of history that gives us a glimpse into the daily life and culture of ancient Thrace.