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Celtic imitative tetradrachm of Thasos

DocumentedSupported by at least one credible specialist source.

Record status

Individual type · partial

Period

circa 148-50 BC

This ancient Celtic silver tetradrachm is an imitative issue based on the coinage of the Greek city of Thasos, located on an island in the Thracian Sea. Celtic imitations of Thasian coins are characterized by their distinct, often stylized reinterpretations of the original Hellenistic prototypes.

This specimen features a classical portrait of a deity, typically identified as the youthful Dionysos, wearing an ivy wreath on the obverse. The artistic execution demonstrates the unique regional interpretations practiced by Celtic tribes during the late Hellenistic period. The coin measures 34 mm in diameter and weighs 15.57 grams. These imitative coins were widely circulated throughout various Celtic territories and served as a significant medium of exchange, reflecting the influence of Greek monetary systems on the broader ancient world.

The obverse depicts the profile head, while the reverse, though not fully described in the text, traditionally depicts Herakles standing and holding a club. This piece represents a significant historical artifact of ancient Celtic numismatics.

Evidence at a glance

Linked sources
1
Photograph views
1
Catalogue references
0

Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.

Physical characteristics

Weight
15.57 grams
Diameter
34 mm

Technical characteristics

Denomination
tetradrachm

Design

Obverse
Portrait head with ivy wreath

Identification

Source note
Described from a single auction-house listing published on Invaluable (reproduced with Invaluable's permission). Details apply to that one example; other examples of the type may differ, and the listing is supplementary evidence, not authentication.

Documentation checklist

Denomination
Research required
Issue or mint date
Recorded
Material
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Weight
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Mint or printer
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Mint or printer mark
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Catalogue reference
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Attached photograph (check rights)
Recorded

Recorded means a field is present, not independently verified. Read its wording, supporting source and the entry’s confidence level.

Catalogue references

No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.