Lapethos Stater - Demonicus I

Posted on: December 1, 2025

keywords: --- **Introduction** The Stater - Demonicus I coin from Lapethos is a remarkable piece of ancient numismatic history. This silver coin, with a denomination of 2 Sigloi, serves as a testament to the rich cultural and economic tapestry of the ancient city of Lapethos. Known for its exquisite craftsmanship and historical significance, this coin is a prized possession among collectors and historians alike. The Stater - Demonicus I not only offers a glimpse into the past but also highlights the artistic and political prowess of its time. **Historical Background** Lapethos, a prominent city-state in ancient Cyprus, was an influential hub during the time of Demonicus I. The issuance of the Stater - Demonicus I coin marks an important period in the city's history, reflecting its economic strength and political autonomy. The coin's issuance under the authority of King Demonicus I suggests a flourishing period in Lapethos, where trade and cultural exchange were vibrant. The use of Aramaic script on the coin underscores the region's connections to the broader Near Eastern world, indicating a complex and cosmopolitan society. **Design Features** The Stater - Demonicus I coin is celebrated for its intricate design, a hallmark of ancient coinage artistry. On the obverse, the coin features Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and war, standing majestically. She is depicted facing forward, with her head turned to the left, holding a spear and shield, symbolizing protection and strength. On the reverse, the coin showcases a dynamic depiction of Herakles, the legendary hero, advancing to the right. Herakles is portrayed naked, emphasizing his heroic nature, as he wields a club and bow. The reverse is further adorned with an inscription in Aramaic, which reads either 𐡋𐡌𐡊𐡅 𐡃𐡌𐡍𐡊𐡅 or 𐡋𐡌𐡊 𐡃𐡌𐡍𐡊𐡅, translating to \"of King Demonicus,\" or a variant indicating \"Demonicus, King of Lapethos.\" This script not only adds to the coin's authenticity but also links it directly to its historical issuer. **Technical Specifications** The Stater - Demonicus I coin is crafted from silver, a common material for coinage of significant value in ancient times. It weighs approximately 10.95 grams and measures around 23.00 millimeters in diameter. These specifications highlight the coin's substantial nature, indicative of its value and the economic status of Lapethos during its minting. **Collectible Value** As a coin from an ancient city-state, the Stater - Demonicus I holds immense collectible value. Its rarity and historical importance make it a sought-after piece among numismatists. The coin's pristine silver composition, detailed design, and the context of its issuance contribute to its high market value. Coins like the Stater - Demonicus I are not only collectibles but also serve as tangible connections to the ancient past, offering insights into the cultural and economic conditions of the time. **Conclusion** The Stater - Demonicus I coin from Lapethos is a significant artifact from the ancient world, encapsulating the artistry, culture, and economy of its era. Its intricate design, historical inscriptions, and substantial silver composition make it a valuable addition to any numismatic collection. As a representation of the power and influence of Lapethos under King Demonicus I, this coin continues to fascinate and intrigue both collectors and historians, ensuring its place in the annals of ancient numismatic treasures.

[SEO TITLE]: Discover the Stater - Demonicus I Coin from Lapethos: 2 Sigloi of Silver [SEO DESCRIPTION]: Explore the historic Stater - Demonicus I coin from Lapethos, a silver numismatic gem. [KEYWORDS]: Stater - Demonicus I coin, Lapethos coin, 2 Sigloi, silver coin, ancient currency, Demonicus I, numismatic value

Introduction The Stater - Demonicus I coin from Lapethos is a remarkable piece of ancient numismatic history. This silver coin, with a denomination of 2 Sigloi, serves as a testament to the rich cultural and economic tapestry of the ancient city of Lapethos. Known for its exquisite craftsmanship and historical significance, this coin is a prized possession among collectors and historians alike. The Stater - Demonicus I not only offers a glimpse into the past but also highlights the artistic and political prowess of its time. Historical Background Lapethos, a prominent city-state in ancient Cyprus, was an influential hub during the time of Demonicus I. The issuance of the Stater - Demonicus I coin marks an important period in the city's history, reflecting its economic strength and political autonomy. The coin's issuance under the authority of King Demonicus I suggests a flourishing period in Lapethos, where trade and cultural exchange were vibrant. The use of Aramaic script on the coin underscores the region's connections to the broader Near Eastern world, indicating a complex and cosmopolitan society. Design Features The Stater - Demonicus I coin is celebrated for its intricate design, a hallmark of ancient coinage artistry. On the obverse, the coin features Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and war, standing majestically. She is depicted facing forward, with her head turned to the left, holding a spear and shield, symbolizing protection and strength. On the reverse, the coin showcases a dynamic depiction of Herakles, the legendary hero, advancing to the right. Herakles is portrayed naked, emphasizing his heroic nature, as he wields a club and bow. The reverse is further adorned with an inscription in Aramaic, which reads either 𐡋𐡌𐡊𐡅 𐡃𐡌𐡍𐡊𐡅 or 𐡋𐡌𐡊 𐡃𐡌𐡍𐡊𐡅, translating to "of King Demonicus," or a variant indicating "Demonicus, King of Lapethos." This script not only adds to the coin's authenticity but also links it directly to its historical issuer. Technical Specifications The Stater - Demonicus I coin is crafted from silver, a common material for coinage of significant value in ancient times. It weighs approximately 10.95 grams and measures around 23.00 millimeters in diameter. These specifications highlight the coin's substantial nature, indicative of its value and the economic status of Lapethos during its minting. Collectible Value As a coin from an ancient city-state, the Stater - Demonicus I holds immense collectible value. Its rarity and historical importance make it a sought-after piece among numismatists. The coin's pristine silver composition, detailed design, and the context of its issuance contribute to its high market value. Coins like the Stater - Demonicus I are not only collectibles but also serve as tangible connections to the ancient past, offering insights into the cultural and economic conditions of the time. Conclusion The Stater - Demonicus I coin from Lapethos is a significant artifact from the ancient world, encapsulating the artistry, culture, and economy of its era. Its intricate design, historical inscriptions, and substantial silver composition make it a valuable addition to any numismatic collection. As a representation of the power and influence of Lapethos under King Demonicus I, this coin continues to fascinate and intrigue both collectors and historians, ensuring its place in the annals of ancient numismatic treasures.

Coin Images

Coin obverse image Obverse

Coin reverse image Reverse

Marion Stater - Doxandros

Lapethos Stater

ScanMyCoin: AI Coin Recognition

Professional AI coin recognition and collection management platform. Identify, learn, and track your coin collection with advanced AI technology and a vast database of over 300,000 coins.