© Leu Numismatik
© Leu Numismatik
Drachm 400 BC - 375 BC
| Silver | 3.67 g | - |
| Issuer | Massalia (Gaul) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 400 BC - 375 BC |
| Value | Drachm (1) |
| Currency | Phocaean Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.67 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#194667 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Lion prowling to right.
Script: Greek
Lettering: ΜΑΣΣΑ
Unabridged legend: Μασσαλία
Translation: Massalia
Comment
Brenot 43.The first drachms of Massalia, struck on the heavy “Campanian” standard as used in Velia, can be divided into two major groups: the rarer consists of pieces of fine style like this one, which are clearly copied from the heads of Arethusa by Euainetos and date to the first quarter of the 4th century. The larger group is composed of similar pieces with often unattractive heads of Artemis engraved made by much less skilled workers (as DLT 794 ff.).
Interesting fact
The Drachm coin from Massalia (Gaul) was used as a form of currency in ancient Greece and Gaul, and its design was inspired by the Greek goddess Athena. The obverse side of the coin features an image of Athena's head, while the reverse side features an owl, which was a symbol of wisdom and intelligence in ancient Greek culture. The use of Athena's image on the coin was a nod to the cultural and economic ties between Greece and Gaul during that time period.
