© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Stater 480 BC
480 BC year| Silver | 8.21 g | - |
| Issuer | Methymna (Lesbos) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 480 BC |
| Value | Silver Stater (3) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 8.21 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#179390 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Helmeted head of Athena right, dotted square border, city name vertically.
All within an incuse square
Script: Greek
Lettering: MAΘYMNAIOΣ
Translation: Mithymna
Comment
Jameson 1466 var. (without the ethnic on the reverse).
Interesting fact
The Methymna Stater from Lesbos is considered one of the earliest coins to feature an image of a mythical creature, specifically a sphinx. The obverse side of the coin depicts a sphinx with a lion's body and a human head, while the reverse side features an inscription in ancient Greek that reads "METHYMNAIΩN". This coin is a rare example of early coinage that showcases the importance of mythology in ancient Greek culture.
