Stater (499 BC - 494 BC) front Stater (499 BC - 494 BC) back
Stater (499 BC - 494 BC) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Stater 499 BC - 494 BC

 
Electrum 13.979 g 20 mm
Description
Issuer
Lampsakos (Mysia)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
499 BC - 494 BC
Value
1 Stater = 20 Drachm
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Electrum
Weight
13.979 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered, Incuse
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#393398
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Quadripartite incuse square.

Interesting fact

The Lampsakos Stater is considered one of the earliest coins to feature an image of a human face. The obverse side of the coin depicts a bearded man, believed to be a representation of the ancient Greek god Hermes, while the reverse side features a stag, which was a symbol of the city of Lampsakos. This coin is a rare example of early coinage that showcases the blending of art and religion in ancient Greece.