© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Half Unit
| Gold | 2.56 g | 14 mm |
| Issuer | Sabaean Kingdom (Southern Arabia) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1-100 |
| Currency | Unit (ca. 400 – 150 BC) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 2.56 g |
| Diameter | 14 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#221560 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 94% |
Reverse
Owl standing right, head facing, on amphora; ynaf-monogram to left, curved symbol of Almaqah to right; all within fillet border with crescent and disk at top.
Script: Ancient South Arabian
Comment
M. Huth, "The Gold Coins" in CCK, 4aInteresting fact
The Sabaean Kingdom, which existed from the 11th century BCE to the 4th century CE, was known for its advanced irrigation systems and agricultural practices, which allowed it to thrive in the harsh desert environment of Southern Arabia. One interesting fact about the Sabaean Kingdom is that it was one of the earliest societies to use a form of writing known as the Sabaean script, which was derived from the ancient South Arabian script and was used to write the Sabaean language. This writing system was used for both practical and ceremonial purposes, such as recording trade transactions and inscribing religious texts.