Silver 2½ Asses (Female head series I) (301 BC - 206 BC) front Silver 2½ Asses (Female head series I) (301 BC - 206 BC) back
Silver 2½ Asses (Female head series I) (301 BC - 206 BC) photo
© Roma Numismatics Limited

Silver 2½ Asses Female head series I 301 BC - 206 BC

 
Silver 0.75 g 11 mm
Description
Issuer
Populonia (Etruria)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
301 BC - 206 BC
Value
2½ Asses (2.5)
Currency
As (circa 475-201 BC)
Composition
Silver
Weight
0.75 g
Diameter
11 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#178553
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Blank (uniface).

Edge

Plain

Comment

There is some uncertainty on who is being depicted. Some sources say it is a generic female, while others say it is actually Apulu.

There has been much controversy on dating Populonian coins, and as such, the date ranges my vary per source.

The first Female head series was struck using Populonia's fourth silver standard, which is equal to the third silver standard except with the weights of all denomination being halved.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a female head on one side, which was a rare design choice for coins during that time period. The inclusion of a female figure on the coin may indicate the importance of women in Etruscan society or possibly a tribute to a particular female deity.