© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Stater 499 BC - 494 BC
| Electrum | 14.095 g | 18 mm |
| Issuer | Abydos (Troad) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 499 BC - 494 BC |
| Value | Electrum Stater (28) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Electrum |
| Weight | 14.095 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#393448 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Quadripartite incuse square.
Interesting fact
The Abydos Stater was used as a form of currency in ancient Greece and is considered one of the earliest coins to be minted. It was created during the reign of King Croesus, who ruled the Lydian Empire from 560 BC to 546 BC. The coin features an image of a lion and a bull on opposite sides, symbolizing the strength and power of the Lydian Empire. The use of electrum, a naturally occurring alloy of gold and silver, was a significant innovation in coinage at the time. The Abydos Stater is considered a rare and valuable artifact, with only a few examples known to exist today.
