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Hekte
| Issuer | Kyzikos |
|---|---|
| Year | 550 BC - 500 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 | 11.0 mm |
| Thickness | Log in to see details |
| Shape | Log in to see details |
| Technique | Log in to see details |
| Orientation | Log in to see details |
| Engraver(s) | Log in to see details |
| In circulation to | Log in to see details |
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| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Log in to see details |
| Obverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Reverse description | A quadripartite incuse square dominates the reverse field, formed by two intersecting raised ridges dividing the depression into four recessed rectangular compartments of roughly equal size. The incuse is deeply struck and irregular in outline, consistent with the archaic punch technique employed at Kyzikos during this period. The surfaces of the four quadrants show granular texture typical of the hammered electrum fabric. No inscription or additional devices are present. This standard mill-sail incuse pattern is characteristic of early electrum coinage from western Asia Minor. |
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| Edge | Log in to see details |
| Mint | Log in to see details |
| Mintage | ND (550 BC - 500 BC) |
| Additional information |
Kyzikos dominated electrum coinage production in the eastern Aegean during the sixth and fifth centuries, and its hektai functioned as the principal trade currency across a vast commercial network stretching from the Black Sea grain ports to the markets of mainland Greece. The city's electrum was alloyed to a consistent standard that merchants recognized and trusted — a monetary reliability that outlasted most contemporary issuers by generations.
Von Fritze's classification remains the standard reference for the series, though individual dies show considerable variation in the natural gold-to-silver ratio of the raw electrum, reflecting different ore batches from the Propontis region.