Æ Obol Olbia

in Anokhin, Cast, Coin, Countries, HGC 3.2, Mints, Moesia, Olbia, Reference Catalogs, Technique

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Æ Obol

Issuer Olbia

Type Standard circulation coins

Mints Olbia, Moesia

Obverse

Head of Athena left, in crested Corinthian helmet

Reverse

Four-spoked wheel; magistrate name in angles.

Lettering: Π-A-Y-Σ

Basic Information

Category Coin

Technique Cast

Demonetization Yes

Face Value

References

Anokhin #164

HGC 3.2 #1880

Physical Characteristics

Composition Bronze

Weight 142 g

Size 68 mm

Shape Round (irregular)

Technical Details

Reverse Lettering

Π-A-Y-Σ

Comments

The cast series of Olbia has a close resemblance to the Italian aes grave both of whose function was to provide denominations in bronze at its intrinsic value. The theoretical ratio of silver to bronze in Italy before 217 BC was about 1:144 and this would presumably have been much the same in the Black Sea region.