© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Tetradrachm 450 BC - 420 BC
| Silver | 16.725 g | - |
| Issuer | Barke (Kyrenaica) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 450 BC - 420 BC |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 16.725 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#366772 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Head of Zeus-Ammon right, encircled by dots and circle around legend.
Script: Greek
Lettering: BAPKAION
Translation: Barca
Interesting fact
The Tetradrachm coin from Barke (Kyrenaica) was used as a form of currency in the ancient Greek city-state of Barke, which was located in present-day Libya. The coin features an image of a silphium plant on one side and a lyre on the other, which were symbols of the city's wealth and culture. The use of this coin as currency in Barke and other Greek city-states in North Africa during the 5th century BCE highlights the extensive trade networks and cultural exchange that existed between the Mediterranean region and the African continent during that time.
