Drachm (480 BC - 450 BC) front Drachm (480 BC - 450 BC) back
Drachm (480 BC - 450 BC) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Drachm 480 BC - 450 BC

 
Silver 5.9 g 17 mm
Description
Issuer
Chersonesos (Caria)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
480 BC - 450 BC
Value
Drachm (1)
Currency
Aeginetic drachm
Composition
Silver
Weight
5.9 g
Diameter
17 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered, Incuse
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#392866
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Bull’s head facing within incuse square.

Script: Greek

Lettering: XΕP

Unabridged legend: Χερσόνησος

Translation: Chersonesos

Interesting fact

The Drachm coin from Chersonesos (Caria) was used as a form of currency in ancient Greece and its design was inspired by the ancient Greek goddess Athena. The obverse side of the coin features the image of Athena wearing a helmet and carrying a shield, 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 meant to signify the importance of wisdom and intelligence in the ancient Greek city-state of Chersonesos.