Catalog
| Issuer | Eretria |
|---|---|
| Year | 500 BC - 465 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Didrachm (2) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 8.03 g |
| Diameter | 27.0 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | BCD Euboia#307, Jameson#1172, BMC Greek#28 cf. |
| Obverse description | Cow standing left, head facing right and scratching his head with its hind foot, with the letter E below. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Greek (retrograde) |
| Obverse lettering | Ε |
| Reverse description | Octopus in incuse square |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (500 BC - 465 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 3326236150 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver Didrachm was issued by the prosperous Euboean city-state of Eretria during 500-465 BC. A significant maritime and trading power, Eretria was a key Aegean player. This period includes the devastating Persian sack of 490 BC, followed by its remarkable recovery and assertion of independence before Athenian influence grew. The coin thus attests to Eretrian resilience and commercial vitality after profound geopolitical upheaval.
Artistry: The anonymous engraver's work exemplifies the nascent Early Classical style. The obverse typically features a naturalistic cow, often scratching its head, frequently with a suckling calf. This iconic design, unique to Eretria, showcases developing mastery in animal portrayal, with attention to anatomical detail. The reverse commonly depicts a finely rendered octopus, its tentacles gracefully splayed, reflecting Eretria's maritime identity.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a substantial silver flan weighing 8.03 grams and measuring 27.0 mm, this Didrachm is a significant early Greek currency. High-points for strike or wear on the obverse include the cow's head and shoulder; on the reverse, the octopus's central body and tentacle tips. The broad flan typically allows for a full design display, though minor off-centering or slight die wear are common. Its weight and diameter confirm its status as a robust trade coin.