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Dolphin Θ Υ
| Issuer | Olbia |
|---|---|
| Year | 410 BC - 400 BC |
| Type | Log in to see details |
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| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Log in to see details |
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| Obverse description | Cast bronze dolphin-shaped coin modeled in the round, depicted in profile with the body arching gracefully from head to tail in the characteristic swimming posture. The obverse presents the dorsal surface of the dolphin, with naturalistic rendering of the body contour, a clearly defined eye rendered as a raised circular boss, and a pointed snout. The surface displays a deep patina of green and reddish-brown, characteristic of ancient cast bronze from the Pontic region. |
|---|---|
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| Reverse description | The reverse presents the ventral surface of the dolphin, cast with a flat or slightly concave field bearing two incuse Greek letters, Theta (Θ) and Upsilon (Υ), disposed along the body of the coin. The tail fin is rendered in low relief at one extremity, while striations suggesting the mouth or gills appear at the opposite end. These letters are believed to represent a magistrate's or mint official's initials, a common feature on Olbian dolphin coinage of the late fifth century BC. |
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| Mintage | ND (410 BC - 400 BC) - There are varieties in weight and size |
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