Hekte (478 BC - 455 BC) front Hekte (478 BC - 455 BC) back
Hekte (478 BC - 455 BC) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Hekte 478 BC - 455 BC

 
Electrum 2.53 g 10.0 mm
Description
Issuer
Mytilene (Lesbos)
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
References
Numista
N#178806
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.