© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Drachm 499 BC - 494 BC
| Silver | 2.7 g | 13 mm |
| Issuer | Klazomenai (Ionia) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 499 BC - 494 BC |
| Value | Drachm (1) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 2.7 g |
| Diameter | 13 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#389534 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Quadripartite incuse square.
Interesting fact
The Klazomenai Drachm was one of the first coins to feature a portrait of a living person. The obverse side of the coin features a bearded man wearing a laurel wreath, believed to be a representation of the Ionian satrap (governor) who issued the coin. This was a bold move at the time, as most coins featured generic symbols or deities. This coin's design choice paved the way for future coins to feature portraits of rulers and other notable figures.
