An authentic silver hemidrachm from ancient Chersonesos, struck between 386 and 338 BC.

Not every remarkable ancient coin comes from Athens or Rome. This authentic silver hemidrachm was struck in Chersonesos, a prosperous Greek city on the Gallipoli Peninsula, where Europe meets Asia. Positioned along vital trade routes connecting the Aegean and the Black Sea, Chersonesos flourished through commerce, agriculture, and maritime exchange. More than 2,300 years later, this small silver coin remains a tangible reminder of a world shaped by travel, trade, and exploration.

The Lion: Strength with Awareness

The obverse depicts the forepart of a lion in mid-leap, its head turned back over its shoulder. Unlike the static lions often seen in ancient art, this one is full of movement and alertness. It is a striking image that has been interpreted as symbolising courage, vigilance, and the wisdom to remain aware of where one has come from even while moving forward. Its dynamic composition makes it one of the more distinctive designs found on Greek coinage.

A Coin of Trade

The reverse bears the characteristic quadripartite incuse square together with a barley grain, a symbol of the agricultural prosperity that helped sustain the city. For the people of Chersonesos, silver coins like this facilitated trade across the northern Aegean, passing through the hands of merchants, sailors, and travellers over two millennia ago.

Handcrafted to Honour the Coin

This authentic Greek silver hemidrachm has been carefully set by hand in a handcrafted 14k gold bezel, designed to protect the ancient coin while allowing its artistry and history to remain the centre of attention. Every setting is individually made to complement the character of the coin rather than compete with it.