© British Museum
© British Museum
Silver 20 Asses Gorgoneion series II: star with crescent 301 BC - 206 BC
| Silver | 7.60 g | 21 mm |
| Issuer | Populonia (Etruria) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 301 BC - 206 BC |
| Value | 20 Asses |
| Currency | As (circa 475-201 BC) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 7.60 g |
| Diameter | 21 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#179398 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Six-pointed star and crescent surrounded by legend.
Lettering: PVLPVNA
Translation: Populonia
Edge
Plain
Comment
There has been much controversy on dating Populonian coins, and as such, the date ranges my vary per source.The second Gorgoneion 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 the image of a Gorgon, a mythical creature from ancient Greek mythology, on one side, and a star with a crescent on the other. The Gorgon image was believed to have the power to protect the coin and its owner from harm.
