Stater (550 BC - 525 BC) front Stater (550 BC - 525 BC) back
Stater (550 BC - 525 BC) photo
© Leu Numismatik

Stater 550 BC - 525 BC

 
Silver 12.24 g 23 mm
Description
Issuer
Aegina
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
550 BC - 525 BC
Value
Stater (2)
Currency
Aeginetic drachm
Composition
Silver
Weight
12.24 g
Diameter
23 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered, Incuse
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-09
References
Numista
N#385860
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

'Union Jack' pattern reverse with eight segments, some partially filled up.

Comment

H. Cahn: Griechische Münzen archaischer Zeit. Basel 1947, fig. 11 (same dies). Holloway, Early, class A, 4.

Interesting fact

The Aegina Stater is considered one of the earliest coins in the ancient Greek world, and it's believed to be the first coin to feature an image of a living creature - a sea turtle - on its reverse side. This design choice was likely made to represent the island's strong maritime economy and its reputation for producing high-quality purple dye from sea snails. The coin's obverse side features a stylized image of the Greek goddess Athena, further highlighting the island's cultural and religious ties to the Greek mainland.