ObverseImage: Wikimedia Commons · UnknownUnknown / Photography: CNG coins · CC BY-SA 3.0
Chian Tetradrachm
Greece
500–400
Reference data compiled from public catalogs
Estimated Melt Value
$36.25
Based on Silver spot price ($80.83/oz) · 90.0% purity · 15.5g
Updated 8:09 PM
Collector premium not included
Specifications
| Country | Greece |
| Years Minted | 500–400 |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 15.5 g |
| Diameter | 25 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Edge | Plain |
Design
Obverse
Depicts a seated sphinx.
Reverse
Features an incuse square with a grape or vine motif.
History & Notable Facts
The sphinx on the Chian tetradrachm wasn't merely decorative; it doubled as a seal of authenticity for the island's prized wine amphorae, ensuring traders knew exactly where their goods originated.
Struck from electrum or silver sourced from regional mines, these coins circulated widely between 500 and 400 BC, reflecting Chios's booming export trade. The obverse features the sphinx in a heraldic pose, while the reverse shows a simple incuse square—a practical design for stacking.
We don't know the precise mintage figures; records from that era are as scarce as unopened wine jars from the period.
One might quip that the sphinx appears more aloof than fearsome, as if it's already tasted one too many vintages.
Buy on eBay
More Greece Coins
View all →
AI Analysis & Price Prediction
The Chian Tetradrachm has shown consistent appreciation over the past decade. Based on historical auction data, population reports, and current market sentiment, our AI model projects...
Get AI-powered analysis for this coin
Unlock with Pro — $9.99/mo