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Stater
| Issuer | Kyzikos (Mysia) |
|---|---|
| Year | 410 BC - 330 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 | 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 |
| Engraver(s) | Log in to see details |
| In circulation to | Log in to see details |
| Reference(s) | Von Fritze#200 , SNG von Aulock#7320 , CN type#12441 |
| Obverse description | Log in to see details |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Log in to see details |
| Obverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Reverse description | Quadripartite incuse square occupying the full reverse field, produced by the punch of the reverse die during hammered striking. The four recessed compartments are arranged symmetrically around a raised central ridge forming a Greek cross pattern, with alternately smooth and granular surfaces within each quarter. The incuse technique is characteristic of early and Classical electrum coinage of Asia Minor, serving both as a mechanical aid to striking and as an anti-counterfeiting measure. The surface of the coin beyond the incuse is irregular and convex, reflecting the flan's hand-cut preparation. No legend or additional devices are present. |
| Reverse script | Log in to see details |
| Reverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Edge | Log in to see details |
| Mint | Kyzikos |
| Mintage | Log in to see details |
| Additional information |
Kyzikos held a near-monopoly on electrum coinage in the Greek world for roughly two centuries, and its staters circulated far beyond Mysia — found in hoards from the Black Sea coast to the Aegean and into Thrace. The city's position on the Propontis made it the dominant transit point for grain shipments from the Pontic region, and the staters functioned as a trusted mercantile currency across that entire network. Athenian records mention Kyzikene staters by name as acceptable payment in certain commercial contracts, a rare distinction for a non-Athenian issue.
Each obverse type is unique — the series runs to hundreds of distinct designs, changed with deliberate frequency, likely as an anti-counterfeiting measure given how widely the coins traveled.