Stater (350 BC) front Stater (350 BC) back
Stater (350 BC) photo
© Numismatica Ars Classica NAC AG

Stater 350 BC

350 BC year
Silver 11.60 g 26 mm
Description
Issuer
Phaistos (Crete (ancient))
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
350 BC
Value
Silver Stater (3)
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Silver
Weight
11.60 g
Diameter
26 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#397521
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Bull butting right; all within an olive-wreath.

Comment

BMC 17 and pl. XV, 9; Kraay-Hirmer pl. 167, 550; Svoronos, Crète p. 260, 39 and pl. 24, 6.

Interesting fact

The Phaistos Stater is considered one of the most beautiful coins of ancient Greece, with its elegant design and intricate details. The obverse features a stunning image of a youthful Zeus, while the reverse depicts a majestic eagle grasping a snake in its talons. The coin's design has been interpreted as a symbol of the struggle between good and evil, with Zeus representing the former and the snake representing the latter. Despite its age, the Phaistos Stater remains a popular collector's item and a testament to the artistic and cultural achievements of ancient Crete.