Mysia, Kyzikos. Circa 450-400 BC. Hemiobol (No reserve price)

The hemiobol from Kyzikos in Mysia, circa 450-400 BC, provides an intriguing glimpse into early classical era coinage. Mysia was an ancient region in northwest Anatolia, and Kyzikos was a prominent city that minted distinctive coins known for their artistry and craftsmanship. A hemiobol, literally meaning 'half an obol,' was a very small denomination coin, often made of silver, used for minor transactions. The period around 450-400 BC corresponds to classical Greece's height, just before the Peloponnesian War, when city-states like Kyzikos were economically and culturally vibrant. Kyzikos coins are celebrated for their detailed and innovative designs, often featuring iconic symbols such as the labyrinth or mythological creatures, making them highly prized by collectors today. This coin reflects both the economic activities and artistic sensibilities of classical Mysia within the wider Greek world.