Catalog
| Issuer | Brettii |
|---|---|
| Year | 213 BC - 205 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1/2 Gold Stater (10) |
| Currency | Attic drachm |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 4.2 g |
| Diameter | 17 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | HN Italy#1950 3#14 |
| Obverse description | Bearded head of Poseidon left, wearing taenia, trident behind; dolphin below. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Hippocamp right on which Amphitrite is seated left, holding Eros in extended right hand, who stands left drawing a bow; star to right, tiny Γ (engraver`s signature) at feet of Eros; in right field murex. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | BPETTIΩN Γ |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (213 BC - 205 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 9635571560 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This gold drachm was issued by the Brettii, an indigenous Italic confederation, during the tumultuous Second Punic War (213-205 BC). Their territory in Bruttium, southern Italy, became a critical battleground after allying with Hannibal against Rome. The issuance of high-value gold coinage (4.2 grams, 17 millimeters) signifies the Brettii's temporary autonomy and need for currency, likely for mercenary payments. This period represents a desperate bid for independence against the encroaching Roman Republic.
Artistry: While the engraver remains anonymous, this drachm exemplifies strong Hellenistic artistic traditions prevalent in Magna Graecia. The design typically features a