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

Silver 2½ Asses Necklaced male head series 301 BC - 206 BC

 
Silver 1.00 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
1.00 g
Diameter
11 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#178552
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Blank (uniface).

Edge

Plain

Comment

While the portrait is similar to Apulu, the inclusion of the necklace is an anomaly, meaning this is probably just a generic male's head.

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

The Necklaced 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) features a unique design element - a necklaced male head on the obverse side. This design was a common motif in Etruscan art and symbolized the importance of the male figure in Etruscan society. The inclusion of this design on the coin highlights the cultural and artistic influences of the Etruscans and their impact on the region's currency.