Tripod / Octopus
Kroton (Bruttium) - Triobol (½ Drachm)
Description
Obverse: Tripod; ϘPO left; to right, grain ear
Reverse: Octopus
Interestingly, this coin is produced by Kroton but almost certainly features the Syracusan octopus with it's two tentacles entagled. Kroton produced a few different types that seemed to pay homage to various Sicilian cities, like one with the crab of Akragas or hare of Messana. It is uncertain the exact reason those types were produced, with the most common theory being an alliance issue.
Details
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Composition | Silver |
| Issuer | Kroton |
| Ruling Authority | Unknown |
| Period of Issue | 425 BC - 350 BC |
| Weight | 1.11 g |
| Diameter | 12 mm |
| Orientation | ↑↑ 10h |
| Denomination | 1 Triobol |
| Standard | Achaean Drachm |
| References | HN Italy #2154; SNG ANS 3 #414-415 |
Provenance
| Location | Description | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Unknown | Privately purchased in 1975 | 1975 |
| France | "Collection sans Pareille" of Ancient Greek Fractions | - |
| Switzerland | Nomos AG, obolos 35 - Lot 1020 | Dec 14, 2024 |
| United States | Lelouch Collection | Current |