Hemiobol (400 BC) front Hemiobol (400 BC) back
Hemiobol (400 BC) photo
© Leu Numismatik

Hemiobol 400 BC

400 BC year
Silver 0.30 g 6 mm
Description
Issuer
Phanagoreia (Pontos)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
400 BC
Value
Hemiobol (1⁄12)
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Silver
Weight
0.30 g
Diameter
6 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered, Incuse
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#385547
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Barley grain within shallow circular incuse.

Script: Greek

Lettering: Φ-Α

Translation: Phanagoreia

Interesting fact

The Hemiobol coin from Phanagoreia (Pontos) was used as a form of currency in the ancient Greek city of Phanagoreia, which was located in modern-day Ukraine. Despite its small weight of 0.30 grams, the coin was valued at one-half of an obol, which was the standard unit of currency in ancient Greece. This coin was made of silver, which was a valuable and widely used metal at the time. Its design featured the head of a gorgon on one side and a quadriga (a chariot pulled by four horses) on the other. The coin's minting process was quite advanced for its time, as it was produced using a technique called "die-striking," where a die was used to stamp the coin's design onto a blank piece of metal. Overall, the Hemiobol coin is a fascinating piece of history that provides insight into the economic and cultural practices of ancient Greece.