Stater (280 BC) front Stater (280 BC) back
Stater (280 BC) photo
© Nomos AG

Stater 280 BC

280 BC year
Silver 8.62 g 24 mm
Description
Issuer
Ambracia (Epeiros)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
280 BC
Value
Stater (3)
Currency
Corinthian drachm
Composition
Silver
Weight
8.62 g
Diameter
24 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#410549
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Pegasos flying to right.

Script: Greek

Lettering: A

Comment

This is a very late example of a Corinthian-type Stater, probably struck around the time Pyrrhus was rampaging in Magna Graecia and Sicily. What is truly extraordinary about it is that its fabric shows us that Athena is on the obverse and Pegasos is on the reverse!

Interesting fact

The Ambracia Stater, minted in 280 BC, features a unique combination of symbols and imagery that reflect the cultural and religious beliefs of the ancient Greek city-state of Ambracia. On one side, the coin bears the image of a mythical creature known as the "Ambracian Hound," which was said to have been founded by the god Apollo himself. On the other side, the coin features a depiction of the goddess Artemis, who was revered as a protector of the city and its people. This coin is not only a valuable artifact for numismatists, but it also provides a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and values of the ancient Greeks.