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Drachm
| Issuer | Chios |
|---|---|
| Year | 510 BC - 493 BC |
| Type | Log in to see details |
| Value | Drachm (1) |
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| 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 | Log in to see details |
| Technique | Log in to see details |
| Orientation | Log in to see details |
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| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
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| Obverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Reverse description | Deep quadripartite incuse square divided by two raised ridges crossing at right angles, creating four recessed compartments of roughly equal size, each with a granular surface texture. This incuse punch type is characteristic of early Archaic Greek coinage and served as the anvil die impression during striking. The incuse is boldly struck and well-centred on the flan. |
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| Edge | Plain |
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| Additional information |
Chios maintained one of the more independent monetary policies among the Ionian Greek cities during the late Archaic period, continuing to strike silver on the old Chian standard even as neighboring mints shifted their weight conventions under Persian pressure following the Ionian Revolt. The terminal date of this issue, 493 BC, coincides with the Persian reconquest of the island after the catastrophic Greek defeat at the Battle of Lade, when the Chian fleet — reportedly the largest contingent in the allied force at 100 triremes — was effectively destroyed.
After Lade, Herodotus records that Persian forces under Histiaeus ravaged Chios systematically. Coinage of this type would have ceased abruptly under occupation.