Tetradrachm (455 BC - 409 BC) front Tetradrachm (455 BC - 409 BC) back
Tetradrachm (455 BC - 409 BC) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Tetradrachm 455 BC - 409 BC

 
Silver 17.20 g 27.0 mm
Description
Issuer
Selinos (Sicily)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
455 BC - 409 BC
Value
Tetradrachm (20)
Currency
Litra
Composition
Silver
Weight
17.20 g
Diameter
27.0 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#135200
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

River god Selinos, nude, standing and facing in front, head turned left, holding in his right hand a phiale over lighted altar and cradling in left arm a filleted palm branch. To his left, a rooster standing left before the altar. To his right, a selinon leaf above bull standing left on basis.

Script: Greek

Lettering: Σ-ΕΛΙ-Ν-Ο-Σ

Comment

Schwabacher 44 (Q14/S34); SNG ANS -; Rizzo pl. 33, 11.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Tetradrachm coin from Selinos (Sicily) is that it features a unique combination of Greek and indigenous Sicilian elements on its design. The obverse side of the coin depicts the head of the Greek goddess Athena, while the reverse side features a representation of a native Sicilian deity, possibly the goddess Astarte, along with a Greek inscription that reads "ΣΕΛΙΝΟΙ" (Selinos). This blending of cultural influences reflects the rich cultural diversity of Sicily during the ancient Greek period.