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 14.005 g 19 mm
Description
Issuer
Methymna (Lesbos)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
499 BC - 494 BC
Value
Electrum Stater (28)
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Electrum
Weight
14.005 g
Diameter
19 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered, Incuse
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#393482
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Quadripartite incuse square.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features the earliest known depiction of a mythical creature, the Griffin, on its obverse side. The Griffin was a symbol of protection and strength in ancient Greek mythology, and its appearance on this coin may indicate that the people of Methymna saw themselves as protected or watched over by this powerful creature.