Hemidrachm - Dionysios I (405 BC - 400 BC) front Hemidrachm - Dionysios I (405 BC - 400 BC) back
Hemidrachm - Dionysios I (405 BC - 400 BC) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Hemidrachm - Dionysios I 405 BC - 400 BC

 
Silver 2.08 g 15.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Syracuse (Sicily)
Tyrant
Dionysius I the Elder (405 BC - 367 BC)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
405 BC - 400 BC
Value
Hemidrachm (5⁄2)
Currency
Litra
Composition
Silver
Weight
2.08 g
Diameter
15.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#407429
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Head of Arethousa left, hair in ampyx and sphendone; two dolphins flanking, ΣVPAKOΣION below.

Script: Greek

Lettering: ΣVPAKOΣION

Comment

Boehringer, Münzprägungen, pl. II, 18.

Interesting fact

The Hemidrachm coin from Syracuse (Sicily) featuring Dionysios I (405 BC - 400 BC) is notable for its unique design. One side of the coin depicts the head of Dionysios I, while the other side features a scene of a man riding a dolphin, which is a symbol of the city of Syracuse. This coin was used as a means of payment and trade during Dionysios I's rule, and it is considered a rare and valuable collector's item today.