Obol (450 BC - 333 BC) front Obol (450 BC - 333 BC) back
Obol (450 BC - 333 BC) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Obol 450 BC - 333 BC

 
Silver 0.69 g 8.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Uncertain Philistian city (Cities of Philistia)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
450 BC - 333 BC
Value
1 Obol (⅙)
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Silver
Weight
0.69 g
Diameter
8.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered, Incuse
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#433253
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Winged quadruped, with a horned lion-like head and wing terminating in a bull’s head, seated right, raising left forepaw; all in dotted square within incuse square.

Interesting fact

The Obol coin from the Uncertain Philistian city (Cities of Philistia) made of Silver weighing 0.69 g is interesting because it is one of the earliest known coins to feature a representation of a real person. The obverse (front) side of the coin depicts a bearded man, believed to be a king or a deity, while the reverse (back) side features a simple linear design. This coin is a rare example of a coin from the ancient Philistine culture and provides valuable insight into the monetary systems and artistic styles of the time.