Hekte - Alyattes II (Sardes) (610 BC - 560 BC) front Hekte - Alyattes II (Sardes) (610 BC - 560 BC) back
Hekte - Alyattes II (Sardes) (610 BC - 560 BC) photo
© Nomos AG

Hekte - Alyattes II Sardes 610 BC - 560 BC

 
Electrum 2.34 g -
Description
Issuer
Kings of Lydia
King
Alyattes II (Circa 610-560 BC)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
610 BC - 560 BC
Value
Electrum Hekte (14⁄3)
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Electrum
Weight
2.34 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered, Incuse
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#182227
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Double incuse square

Comment

Weidauer 93 (Trite)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Hekte coin is that it features the first known portrait of a king on a coin, which was a groundbreaking design choice at the time. The coin's obverse side features a bearded king, believed to be Alyattes II, facing right and wearing a crown. This design element was a departure from the more common abstract symbols and animals found on earlier coins, and it paved the way for the use of portraits on future coins.