


© British Museum
Silver 5 Asses Hippocamp and cerberus 325 BC - 275 BC
Silver | 5.36 g | 18 mm |
Issuer | Luca (Etruria) |
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Type | Standard circulation coin |
Years | 325 BC - 275 BC |
Value | 5 Asses |
Currency | As (circa 325-275 BC) |
Composition | Silver |
Weight | 5.36 g |
Diameter | 18 mm |
Shape | Round (irregular) |
Technique | Hammered |
Demonetized | Yes |
Updated | 2024-10-09 |
Numista | N#179786 |
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Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Cerburus facing right.
Edge
Plain
Comment
These coins were originally attributed to Populonia, the Vetulonia, but have been re-attributed to Luca based on where the majority of the coins were found.Interesting fact
The Hippocamp and Cerberus depicted on the coin are mythological creatures that have a rich history in ancient Greek and Roman mythology. The Hippocamp is a half-horse, half-fish creature that is often associated with the sea, while Cerberus is the three-headed dog that guards the entrance to the underworld. The fact that these creatures are featured together on this coin may suggest that the people of Luca (Etruria) placed great importance on the sea and the underworld in their culture and beliefs.