Gold coin
Unknown Artist
ca. 391–380 BCE
Medium
Gold
Dimensions
Diameter: 3/16 × 1/16 in., 1.1g (0.5 × 0.1 cm, 1.1g)
Classification
Coins
Culture & Period
Cypriot · Classical
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76
Accession Number
74.51.3668
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite gold coin, struck around 391–380 BCE in Cyprus during the Classical period, exemplifies island's rich numismatic tradition. Measuring just 3/16 × 1/16 inches and weighing a mere 1.1 grams, its diminutive size belies its immense value—gold signified prestige and wealth in Cypriot city-kingdoms like Salamis or Kition, where such coins circulated as high-denomination currency for trade and tribute. Featuring a finely engraved male profile, a hallmark of Classical Greek-influenced portraiture, the coin showcases advanced die-striiking techniques. Artisans hammered blank flans betwe...