Hemiobol (500 BC - 400 BC) front Hemiobol (500 BC - 400 BC) back
Hemiobol (500 BC - 400 BC) photo
© PA-Engineer (CC0)

Hemiobol 500 BC - 400 BC

 
Silver 0.35 g 7 mm
Description
Issuer
Uncertain Ionian city
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
500 BC - 400 BC
Value
½ Obol (1⁄12)
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Silver
Weight
0.35 g
Diameter
7 mm
Thickness
1 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#343231
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Stellate (Star) or floral pattern of 4 rays with dots between rays inside incuse squares.

Comment

This is a rare and uncataloged coin with a few examples seeing auction:
https://www.cngcoins.com/Coin.aspx?CoinID=224147
https://www.cngcoins.com/Coin.aspx?CoinID=250736

Interesting fact

The Hemiobol coin was used in ancient Greece during the 5th century BC and was equivalent to half of an obol, which was the standard unit of currency at the time. The coin's design featured a distinctive "incuse" technique, where the image on one side of the coin was stamped into the metal, creating a sunken relief. This unique design made the Hemiobol easily recognizable and helped to prevent counterfeiting.