© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Hekte 478 BC - 455 BC
Electrum | 2.53 g | 10.0 mm |
Issuer | Mytilene (Lesbos) |
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Type | Standard circulation coin |
Years | 478 BC - 455 BC |
Value | Hekte (14⁄3) |
Currency | Drachm |
Composition | Electrum |
Weight | 2.53 g |
Diameter | 10.0 mm |
Shape | Round (irregular) |
Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
Demonetized | Yes |
Updated | 2024-10-10 |
Numista | N#178806 |
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Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Head of Herakles to right, wearing lion skin headdress and with his neck ornamented with small squares. All in incuse
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Hekte coin from Mytilene (Lesbos) is that it features an image of a lion's head on one side and an inscription of the name of the city on the other side. This design was a common motif in ancient Greek coinage and symbolized the power and strength of the city-state. The use of electrum, a naturally occurring alloy of gold and silver, also added to the coin's value and durability.