© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Tetradrachm 183 BC - 182 BC
| Silver | 16.79 g | - |
| Issuer | Messene (Messenia) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 183 BC - 182 BC |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 16.79 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#146810 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Zeus Ithomatas standing facing right, hurling thunderbolt with his right hand and with an eagle with spread wings perching on the wrist of his outstetched left arm. Below his left arm, the name of the magistrate and under it a tripod
Script: Greek
Lettering:
ΜΕΣΣΑΝΙΩΝ
ΣΩΣΙΚΡΑ
Comment
In 182 BC, the Messenians revolted against its forced membership in the Achaian League and even managed to capture Philopoimen, one of the greatest strategoi of the Achaian League. He was put on trial for his perceived crimes against Messene and executed. Unfortunately, not long after this, Messene was once again besieged by Achaian forces and compelled to rejoin the league. The capital of Messene also suffered the great indignity of being stripped of many of its dependent towns, which were subsequently enrolled as independent members of the Achaian League.Interesting fact
The Tetradrachm coin from Messene (Messenia) was minted during a time of great political and social change in ancient Greece. The coin's design features the image of a mythical creature called the "Messenian Delta," which represents the region's rich agricultural land and its connection to the goddess Demeter. This coin was used as a form of currency for everyday transactions and was also seen as a symbol of the city's wealth and prosperity.