© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Stater 525 BC
525 BC year| Silver | 12.09 g | - |
| Issuer | Andros (Cyclades) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 525 BC |
| Value | Silver Stater (3) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 12.09 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#146193 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Square incuse divided into six triangular segments
Comment
Note from NCG: The attribution of this type has long been controversial. Seltman, followed by the catalogers of Kunstfreund, attributed the type as the very first issue of Athens, struck on the Aeginetan rather than the Attic standard. Similar staters which feature the amphora with an added dolphin have been attributed to Karthaia in Keos (BMC Crete pg. 90, 17), and the present type has sometimes been attributed to that island. An attribution to Andros, which employed the amphora as a type on its later coinage, seems more likely but remains uncertain. The island was famous for its wine, to which all its coin types relate.Interesting fact
The Andros Stater, which was minted in 525 BC, features a unique design on its obverse side. It depicts a mythical creature called a "sphinx" - a creature with the body of a lion, the wings of an eagle, and the head of a woman. This design was a popular motif in ancient Greek art and symbolized the power and strength of the city-state of Andros.
