Hemiobol (490 BC - 480 BC) front Hemiobol (490 BC - 480 BC) back
Hemiobol (490 BC - 480 BC) photo
© Nomos AG

Hemiobol 490 BC - 480 BC

 
Silver 0.36 g 7.0 mm
Description
Issuer
Akanthos (Macedon)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
490 BC - 480 BC
Value
Hemiobol (1⁄12)
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Silver
Weight
0.36 g
Diameter
7.0 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered, Incuse
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#186373
Rarity index
94%

Reverse

Quadripartite incuse square

Interesting fact

The Hemiobol coin was used as a form of currency in ancient Greece, specifically in the city-state of Akanthos, which is now modern-day Greece. The coin's name "Hemiobol" comes from the Greek words "hēmi-" meaning "half" and "bolos" meaning "throw", which refers to the coin's value being equal to half the value of a full unit of currency, called a "bolos". This coin was made of silver and weighed 0.36 grams, which was a significant amount for a coin at that time. Despite its small size, the Hemiobol coin played an important role in the economy of Akanthos and surrounding regions, and its use can be traced back to the 5th century BC.