Tetradrachm (ΣΙ∆ΩΝΙΩΝ ΤΗΣ ΙΕΡΑΣ ΚΑΙ ΑΣΥΛΟΥ) (46 BC - 45 BC) front Tetradrachm (ΣΙ∆ΩΝΙΩΝ ΤΗΣ ΙΕΡΑΣ ΚΑΙ ΑΣΥΛΟΥ) (46 BC - 45 BC) back
Tetradrachm (ΣΙ∆ΩΝΙΩΝ ΤΗΣ ΙΕΡΑΣ ΚΑΙ ΑΣΥΛΟΥ) (46 BC - 45 BC) photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Tetradrachm ΣΙ∆ΩΝΙΩΝ ΤΗΣ ΙΕΡΑΣ ΚΑΙ ΑΣΥΛΟΥ 46 BC - 45 BC

 
Silver (.940) 12.54 g 27.9 mm
Description
Issuer
Sidon (Phoenician cities)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
46 BC - 45 BC
Value
1 Tetradrachm = 1 Shekel = 4 Drachms
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Silver (.940)
Weight
12.54 g
Diameter
27.9 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#94284
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Eagle standing left, right leg on prow; palm frond behind, date left

Script: Greek

Lettering:
ΣΙ∆ΩΝΙΩΝ ΤΗΣ ΙΕΡΑΣ ΚΑΙ ΑΣΥΛΟΥ
L ςΞ
ΣΤ
Α

Translation:
Sidonion tes ieras kai asylou: "From Sidon the Holy and Sacred Asylum".
Year 66

Comment

This particular coin is a kind of hybrid coin between the classical Tetradrachm (for dimensions) and the Didrachm (for inscriptions).

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of a Phoenician galley, which was a type of ship used by the Phoenicians, a civilization that flourished in the eastern Mediterranean from 1500 to 300 BCE. The Phoenicians were known for their advanced maritime technology and their ability to navigate the open sea, and their ships played a crucial role in their trade and cultural exchange networks. The image of the galley on this coin highlights the importance of maritime trade and navigation in the economy and culture of Sidon during this time period.