Litra (450 BC - 430 BC) front Litra (450 BC - 430 BC) back
Litra (450 BC - 430 BC) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Litra 450 BC - 430 BC

 
Silver 0.54 g 12.0 mm
Description
Issuer
Katane (Sicily)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
450 BC - 430 BC
Value
1 Litra
Currency
Litra
Composition
Silver
Weight
0.54 g
Diameter
12.0 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#169041
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Upright winged thunderbolt with two shields flanking, surrounded by retrograde inscription

Script: Greek

Lettering: ΚΑΤΑΝΕ

Comment

Boehringer, Kataneische, Series II, Li 3; Mirone 28.

Interesting fact

The Litra coin was used as a form of currency in ancient Sicily and was equivalent to one-third of a Greek drachma. It was made of silver and weighed approximately 0.54 grams. Despite its small size, the Litra was an important coin in the ancient Greek world and was used for everyday transactions. Its design featured the head of the Greek goddess Athena on one side and an owl on the other, symbolizing wisdom and prosperity. The Litra coin was also used as a form of currency in other parts of Magna Graecia, which was the name given to the Greek colonies in southern Italy and Sicily.