Drachm (colonial issue with Marsyas and galley prow) (114-117) front Drachm (colonial issue with Marsyas and galley prow) (114-117) back
Drachm (colonial issue with Marsyas and galley prow) (114-117) photo
© Fred24

Drachm colonial issue with Marsyas and galley prow

 
Bronze 2.1 g 13.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Berytus (Syria)
Emperor
Trajan (Marcus Ulpius Traianus) (98-117)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
114-117
Value
Drachm (1)
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Bronze
Weight
2.1 g
Diameter
13.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#91396
Rarity index
90%

Reverse

Forepart of Galley right.

Script: Latin

Lettering: BER

Unabridged legend: Berytus

Comment

This coin is dated from the Phoenicia Roman colonization started under the reign of August. The Berytos colony, named Colonia Augusta Iulia Felix Berytus was built on the coast, near the old Achemenid-Hellenistic city which depends to the Roman colony.
This kind of coinage coexisted with other coinage depicting the Emperor.

Interesting fact

The Drachm coin from Berytus (Syria) featuring Marsyas and a galley prow on its design was issued during the reign of Emperor Trajan (98-117 AD). This coin was part of a colonial issue, indicating that it was minted in a province of the Roman Empire outside of Rome. The use of bronze in the coin's composition was a common practice during this time period, as it was a more affordable and accessible material than other metals like gold or silver. I hope you find this information helpful!