Tripod / Octopus

Kroton (Bruttium) - Triobol (½ Drachm)
Tripod; ϘPO left; to right, grain ear
Octopus

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

CompositionSilver
IssuerKroton
Ruling AuthorityUnknown
Period of Issue425 BC - 350 BC
Weight1.11 g
Diameter12 mm
Orientation
↑↑
10h
DenominationTriobol (½ Drachm)
StandardAchaean Drachm
ReferencesHN Italy #2154; SNG ANS 3 #414-415

Numista Reference

Provenance

LocationDescriptionDate
Unknown
Privately purchased in 1975
1975
France
"Collection sans Pareille" of Ancient Greek Fractions
-
Switzerland
Nomos AG, obolos 35 - Lot 1020
Dec 15, 2024
United States
Lelouch Collection
Current