| Tetartemorion | |
|---|---|
| |
| General information | |
| Country |
Emporion |
| Value |
¼ obol = 1⁄24 drachma (speculated) |
| Years |
ND; after 241 BC |
| Measurements and composition | |
| Mass |
0.15 g |
| Diameter |
7 mm |
| Composition |
silver |
| Appearance | |
| Shape |
irregularly round |
| Die axis |
varies |
| Edge |
plain |
| Obverse |
Portrait |
| Reverse | |
| v · d · e | |
The tetartemorion is a coin that was issued at some point in the 3rd century BC (presumably after 241 BC) by Emporion, a Phocaean settlement that was located in Catalonia, Spain. Based on its mass, the coin is considered to have had a value of ¼ of an obol, in turn equaling 1⁄24 of a drachma. The tetartemorion of Emporion, influenced by Greek currency, was eventually demonetized.
The coin is composed of a silver alloy, weighs approximately 0.15 grams, and measures roughly 7 millimeters in diameter. Like most European currency of the time period, the piece is irregularly round in shape and bears a plain edge. Its die axis varies. Displayed in the center of the obverse is a profile head of a person facing right, often encircled within a circular beaded border. The size of this head and its design are inconsistent. Engraved in the middle of the reverse is an illustration of Pegasus, a winged stallion in Greek mythology, flying to the right. Two annulets are also present underneath Pegasus' abdomen. Like the portrait on the obverse, the image of Pegasus may differ in design and size between pieces.
Like most coins of the time period, the mintage of the tetartemorion of Emporion is currently unknown. In listings by the Classical Numismatic Group, the piece is deemed rare, so very few examples are known to exist.
See also[]
- Emporion 1 hemitartemorion coin
References[]
- WildWinds.com – Ancient Coinage of Spain, Emporiai
- Classical Numismatic Group website
- Antique Marks – A look at the Spanish Emporion Coin 450-425 BC
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