© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Semis 200 BC - 100 BC
| Bronze | 8.22 g | 20 mm |
| Issuer | Brundisium (Calabria) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 200 BC - 100 BC |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 8.22 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#396259 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Phalanthos riding dolphin left, holding Nike and kithara; Q • EV (retrograde and ligate) before; S behind.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
Q • EV
S
BRVN
Comment
Virzi 18; Pozzi (Boutin) 289.
Interesting fact
The Semis coin from Brundisium (Calabria) was used as a form of currency during the Roman Republic and features a unique design. On one side, it depicts a mythical creature called a "sphinx," which has the body of a lion and the head of a woman. The sphinx was a symbol of wisdom and strength in ancient Greek and Roman mythology. On the other side of the coin, there is an image of a dolphin, which was a common motif in ancient Greek and Roman art and symbolized good luck and protection. The combination of these two symbols on the Semis coin may have been intended to convey the idea of wisdom and protection for the person who carried it.
