Catalog
| Issuer | Lapethos |
|---|---|
| Year | 500 BC - 470 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Siglos (1) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 11.13 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | GCV#3602 |
| Obverse description | Head of Athena right wearing Athenian helmet. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Head of bearded Heracles right, clad in lion`s skin, all within dotted square in incuse square. |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (500 BC - 470 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 9854925080 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Siglos was issued by the ancient Cypriot city-kingdom of Lapethos between 500 and 470 BC. During this early Classical period, Cyprus, though under Persian suzerainty, maintained significant autonomy. Lapethos, a prominent maritime center, adopted the Persian weight standard for this silver coinage, reflecting its active participation in regional trade and strategic position within the Achaemenid sphere. This substantial currency underscores the kingdom's wealth and independent economic authority.
Artistry: The design of this Siglos, referencing GCV#3602, exemplifies the early Classical Greek style prevalent in Cypriot numismatics. The obverse typically features a finely rendered head of Aphrodite right, adorned with an earring and necklace. The reverse presents a powerful head of Herakles right, wearing his iconic lion-skin headdress. Skilled local artisans, working within the broader Hellenic artistic tradition, executed these sophisticated details.
Technical/Grading: At 11.13 grams and 20 millimeters, this silver Siglos exhibits typical dimensions. Key high-points for grading include Aphrodite's intricate hair, facial features, earring, and necklace. On the reverse, the lion's mane and Herakles' facial contours are critical. A well-struck example will show full detail on both sides, often on an irregular but broad flan, with minimal die wear and good centering. Off-center strikes are common for this early coinage.