Greek Coinage

Question 1

Define the following: numismatics, obverse, reverse

Answer 1

• numismatic: study or collection of currency
• Obverse: side that is fixed and contains the head, pokes out
• Reverse: side of coint struck with die and hammer, caves in

Question 2

What is the origin of coins?

Answer 2

• Lydia
• Use electrum: silver-gold alloy

Question 3

Elaborate on Aegina

Answer 3

• Where first stamped silver coinage of Greece was stamped
• First accepted standardized currency
• No inscriptions or legends

Question 4

Describe the relationship of money and slavery

Answer 4

• Mined from Luarion in Southern Attica
• Largest source of Aegean silver
• Around tens of thousands slaves worked in mines

Question 5

List the different types of civic badges

Answer 5

• Commodities
• Mythology
• Pun
• Cults
• Civic pride
• Leagues