Hemiobol (280 BC - 228 BC) front Hemiobol (280 BC - 228 BC) back
Hemiobol (280 BC - 228 BC) photo
© Savoca Numismatik GmbH & Co. KG

Hemiobol 280 BC - 228 BC

 
Silver 0.14 g 6.0 mm
Description
Issuer
Tarentum (Calabria)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
280 BC - 228 BC
Value
Hemiobol (1⁄12)
Currency
Campanian (Italic-Achaean) drachm
Composition
Silver
Weight
0.14 g
Diameter
6.0 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#232217
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Two crescents back to back, 4 pellets around

Interesting fact

The Hemiobol coin from Tarentum features a unique design on its reverse side, depicting a dolphin jumping out of the water. This design was meant to symbolize the city's strong maritime tradition and its dependence on the sea for trade and commerce. The dolphin was also a sacred animal in ancient Greek mythology, associated with the god Poseidon, who was revered as the protector of the sea and earthquakes. The inclusion of this symbol on the coin highlights the cultural and religious significance of the sea in the daily lives of the people of Tarentum.