Hemidrachm (Tegea) (460 BC - 450 BC) front Hemidrachm (Tegea) (460 BC - 450 BC) back
Hemidrachm (Tegea) (460 BC - 450 BC) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Hemidrachm Tegea 460 BC - 450 BC

 
Silver 3.13 g 14.0 mm
Description
Issuer
Arcadian League (Arkadia)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
460 BC - 450 BC
Value
Hemidrachm (½)
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.13 g
Diameter
14.0 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered, Incuse
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#153142
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Head of Kallisto facing right, wearing a tainia and within incuse square.

Script: Greek

Lettering:
ΑΡΚΑΔ
ΙΚΟΝ

Comment

Williams, Confederate, Period III, 1, – (O122/R– [unlisted rev. die]); BCD Peloponnesos –; HGC 5, –.

Interesting fact

The Hemidrachm coin from Tegea, Arcadia, was used as a form of currency in ancient Greece during the 5th century BC. Its name "Hemidrachm" means "half drachma," indicating that it was worth half the value of a standard drachma coin. Despite its relatively low value, the Hemidrachm was made of silver, which was a valuable and prestigious metal at the time. This coin was used for everyday transactions and was also used to pay taxes and debts. Its design featured the image of a wild boar, which was a symbol of strength and fertility in ancient Greek culture. Today, the Hemidrachm is a rare and highly sought-after collector's item, with some coins selling for thousands of dollars at auction.