Authentic Silver Greek Seleucid Drachma (285 B.C)

$260.00

Greek Seleucid Drachma from 285 B.C.

Drachma – Greek. The name drachma is derived from the verb “δράττω” (dratto, “to grasp”). Initially a drachma was a fistful (a “grasp”) of six oboloi (metal sticks), which were used as a form of currency as early as 1100 BC.

2 in stock

Qty:
Compare

Description

Authentic silver drachma from the Seleucid Period (285 BC)

Greek: The name drachma is derived from the verb “δράττω” (dratto, “to grasp”).

Initially a drachma was a fistful (a “grasp”) of six oboloi (metal sticks), which were used as a form of currency as early as 1100 BC.

It was the standard unit of silver coinage at most ancient Greek mints. The name ‘obol’ was used to describe a coin that was one-sixth of a drachma. The 5th century BC Athenian tetradrachmon (“four drachmae”) coin was the most widely used coin in the Greek world prior to the time of Alexander the Great. It featured the helmeted profile bust of Athena on the obverse (front) and an owl on the reverse (back).

In daily use they were called γλαῦκαι glaukai (owls), hence the phrase Γλαῦκ Ἀθήναζε, ‘an owl to Athens’. Referring to something that was in plentiful supply, like ‘coals to Newcastle’. The reverse is featured on the national side of the modern Greek 1 euro coin.

When they had come to Capernaum, those who received the temple tax came to Peter and said, “Does your Teacher not pay the temple tax?” (Matthew 17:24)

Includes a certificate of authenticity and all required documents for export.

Shipped direct from the Holy Land.

Zak’s Antiquities is the website of Zak’s fine art and antiquities. Located on the Christian Quarter road in Jerusalem’s Old City. The shop began in 1964 and has remained as a family owned and operated business till this day. For the past 50 years Zak’s Antiquities has sold ancient coins, antiquities and art authentic to Israel and Jerusalem.

Additional information

Weight 1 kg

Reviews

There are no reviews yet.

Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.