Hemistater (625 BC - 600 BC) front Hemistater (625 BC - 600 BC) back
Hemistater (625 BC - 600 BC) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Hemistater 625 BC - 600 BC

 
Electrum 7.11 g 15.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Uncertain Ionian city
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
625 BC - 600 BC
Value
Hemistater (½)
Currency
Electrum Stater
Composition
Electrum
Weight
7.11 g
Diameter
15.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered, Incuse
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#189923
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Incuse square

Comment

Lydo-Milesian standard.

Traité I 6, pl. I, 5.

Interesting fact

The Hemistater coin was used as a form of currency in ancient Ionia, which is now modern-day Turkey. The coin's name "Hemistater" comes from the Greek word "hēmi-" meaning "half" and "stater" meaning "standard," indicating that it was worth half the value of a standard coin. Despite its relatively low value, the Hemistater was still made of electrum, a rare and valuable metal that was highly prized in ancient times. This suggests that even low-denomination coins were made with a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail, reflecting the importance of currency in ancient societies.