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Dolphin
| Issuer | Olbia |
|---|---|
| Year | 520 BC - 440 BC |
| Type | Log in to see details |
| Value | Log in to see details |
| Currency | Log in to see details |
| Composition | Log in to see details |
| Weight | Log in to see details |
| Diameter | Log in to see details |
| Thickness | Log in to see details |
| Shape | Other |
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| Obverse description | Cast bronze piece struck in the form of a stylized dolphin in left-facing profile, with the body rendered in low but three-dimensional relief. The dorsal fin is prominently indicated at the centre of the back, while the snout tapers to a rounded point and the tail flukes are rendered as a bifurcated fin at the rear. A longitudinal ridge runs along the ventral surface, dividing the underbelly and adding anatomical articulation to the otherwise schematic form. The surface displays a granular, sand-cast texture consistent with archaic Greek casting techniques, and retains a deep olive-green patina. No inscriptions or legends are present on this face. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Log in to see details |
| Obverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Reverse description | The reverse presents the convex dorsal surface of the dolphin-form casting, mirroring the obverse in its overall silhouette and showing the characteristic arched back with the dorsal fin rendered as a small raised triangular projection. The surface is smooth but granular from the casting process, covered with an even dark green patina with traces of brown oxidation. A shallow central groove runs longitudinally along the body, echoing the ventral ridge of the obverse. No inscription, device, or exergual marking is present, as is typical of this early pre-coin monetary form from the Greek colony of Olbia on the Black Sea. |
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| Edge | Log in to see details |
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| Mintage | ND (520 BC - 440 BC) - There are varieties in weight and size |
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