Obverse © Forum Ancient Coins (with permission) – Reverse © Forum Ancient Coins
Obverse © Forum Ancient Coins (with permission) – Reverse © Forum Ancient Coins
Memnon of Rhodes Æ Chalkous 360 BC - 340 BC
| Bronze | 0.70 g | 8.9 mm |
| Issuer | Achaemenid Empire (Achaemenid Empire (559 BC - 330 BC)) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 360 BC - 340 BC |
| Value | 1 Chalkous |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 0.70 g |
| Diameter | 8.9 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#374085 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Rose
Script: Greek
Lettering: M - E
Unabridged legend: Memnon
Comment
Recent hoard and coin finds prompted Ashton to reattribute this type to the Troad, probably Lampsakos (Ashton Memnon, NC 162 (2002), pp. 11-15). Ashton suggests ME refers to Memnon of Rhodes, that these coins were struck at Lampsakos when he controlled the city and similar coins inscribed EY and NI possibly refer to Memnon's subordinates. (Credit: Forum Ancient Coins) In addition, Ashton knows of only 14 coins of this type in total. Credit: Opuscula AnatolicaInteresting fact
One interesting fact about the Memnon of Rhodes Æ Chalkous coin is that it features a unique blend of Greek and Persian design elements. The obverse side of the coin depicts a bearded king, believed to be Memnon, wearing a Persian-style crown, while the reverse side shows a Greek-style owl perched on a branch. This fusion of design styles reflects the cultural exchange and influence that occurred during the Achaemenid Empire's expansion into the Mediterranean region.