© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Obol 500 BC - 485 BC
| Silver | 0.8 g | 11 mm |
| Issuer | Delphi (Phokis) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 500 BC - 485 BC |
| Value | Obol (⅙) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.8 g |
| Diameter | 11 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#284833 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Omphalos or phiale within incuse square
Comment
Comment from Roma Numismatics: "The unique Berlin hemiobol illustrated in Svoronos pl. XXV, 6 provides the link between the tripod obols and the ram's head trihemiobols and confirms the Delphic identity of this type. The reverse of this coin has been variously said to depict a phiale (Svoronos), an omphalos (BMC), and also a wheel, however its significance must be closely connected to the Delphic tripod on the obverse, making its attribution as the omphalos of Delphi the most likely. According to Greek mythology, Zeus sent out two eagles to fly across the world to meet at its centre, the 'navel' of the world. Omphalos stones used to denote this point were erected in several places, but the most famous of those was at the oracular temple of Apollo in Delphi; most accounts place it in the adyton of the temple near the Pythia. The Omphalos at Delphi came to be identified as the stone which Rhea wrapped in swaddling clothes, pretending it was Zeus. This was to deceive Kronos, his father, who swallowed his children so they could not grow up and depose him as he had deposed his own father, Ouranos. The omphalos was thus important in establishing a 'proof of creation' for the Greeks, giving them something to identify with as a race."Interesting fact
The Obol coin from Delphi (Phokis) was used as a form of currency in ancient Greece and was considered a standard unit of exchange. It was made of silver and weighed 0.8 grams, which was a significant amount for a coin at that time. This coin was used for buying goods and services, and it was also used as a form of payment for workers and merchants. The Obol coin was a symbol of the wealth and prosperity of the city-state of Delphi, and it played an important role in the economy of ancient Greece.
Price
| Date | Mintage | VG | F | VF | XF | AU | UNC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ND (500 BC - 485 BC) | - | - | - | - | - | - |
Values in the table are based on evaluations by sales realized on Internet platforms. They serve as an indication only for Obol (500 BC - 485 BC) coin.
