The Greek Drachma
The drachma is one of the world’s earliest coins. The name drachma originated from the verb “grasp,” and also the word “handful” which comes from the ancient Linear B, the earliest attested form of Greek language. From the start, a drachma was a fistful, or “grasp” of six oboloi or obeloi (metal sticks meaning “spits”) and was used as currency as early as 1100 BC. In ancient times, many cities in Greece developed their own coin with recognizable symbolic images and phrases befitting for each coin.
The drachma was used in ancient times by many Greek states during a period of ten centuries, while there are three modern currencies, of which the first was introduced in 1832 and finally replaced by the euro in 2001.
As part of our collection at Kantyli, we make engraved replicas of this beautiful coin rich in history and Greek heritage, which can be used as wall art or tabletop décor. These exquisite pieces of art are engraved on circular cut Crescent mat board protected by Masonite backing and clear Plexiglas and make the perfect gift for anyone who appreciates and enjoys Hellenic art. View our drachma wall medallion collection and our drachma paperweight collection.
UPDATE
Three years went past and I'm still fooling around with this design. It's not the design but, how can I make it look fabulous and sell. Finally have a solution and looking for the time to put all the designs together.
The site will carry two sizes. One will be the standard 17" round and the second will be the half round, 31" in length. Two halves that could be put together to make a whole circle will make a larger more attractive display.