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Hekte
| Issuer | Kyzikos |
|---|---|
| Year | 550 BC - 450 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 | 12.0 mm |
| Thickness | Log in to see details |
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| Technique | Log in to see details |
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| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
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| Reverse description | A quadripartite incuse square divided into four recessed compartments by a raised cross, executed in the standard Archaic Greek punch technique. The four quadrants are deeply impressed and show a slightly irregular surface texture resulting from the hammered manufacture. The incuse design is characteristic of early Greek coinage from western Asia Minor, serving as the functional counterpart to the obverse device. No inscription or additional symbol is present. The overall impression is bold and well-centred on the irregular electrum flan. |
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| Edge | Log in to see details |
| Mint | Kyzikos |
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| Additional information |
Kyzikos dominated the electrum coinage market across the Aegean and Black Sea regions for roughly two centuries, and the city's hektai — struck in a naturally occurring gold-silver alloy sourced from the Pactolus river region — functioned as the primary mercenary payment currency throughout the eastern Greek world. Athenian naval records and fourth-century inscriptions confirm Kyzikenoi were accepted at a fixed premium over Attic silver, a remarkable monetary arrangement that outlasted multiple political upheavals.
The tuna on the reverse is the city's persistent civic badge, appearing on virtually every Kyzikene issue regardless of obverse type.