Silver 2½ Asses (Male head series II: blank) (301 BC - 206 BC) front Silver 2½ Asses (Male head series II: blank) (301 BC - 206 BC) back
Silver 2½ Asses (Male head series II: blank) (301 BC - 206 BC) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Silver 2½ Asses Male head series II: blank 301 BC - 206 BC

 
Silver 0.99 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
0.99 g
Diameter
11 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#152075
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Blank (uniface).

Edge

Plain

Comment

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

The second Male 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

The Silver 2½ Asses coin from Populonia (Etruria) was used as a form of currency in ancient Rome and was equivalent to one-fourth of a Roman denarius. It was made of silver and weighed 0.99 grams. The coin features a blank male head on one side and a wheel on the other, which symbolized the goddess Fortuna. The coin was minted during the Roman Republic, specifically between 301 BC and 206 BC. It's fascinating to think that this coin was used in everyday transactions over 2,000 years ago and provides a glimpse into the economic and social practices of ancient Rome.