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Stater
| Issuer | Samos |
|---|---|
| Year | 600 BC - 522 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 | Round (irregular) |
| 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 | Deep quadripartite incuse square divided into four equal recessed compartments by a raised cross, the result of the punch used during hammered production. The incuse is sharply cut and rectilinear, set within a slightly raised border, occupying the majority of the convex reverse flan. The four quadrants are plain and undecorated, consistent with early archaic Greek coinage convention. No legend or additional device is present. |
| Reverse script | Log in to see details |
| Reverse lettering | Log in to see details |
| Edge | Plain |
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| Additional information |
Samos was among the earliest Greek states to adopt coinage, and its electrum staters predate the island's subjugation under Polycrates — the tyrant who transformed it into a naval power before his execution by the Persians around 522 BC. The terminal date of this series corresponds almost exactly to that political rupture.
The electrum itself was almost certainly sourced through Lydian trade networks rather than local deposits, Samos having no significant gold or silver mines of its own.