Economy > Tetartemorion

Greek Tetartemorion

Background

The Greek tetartemorion (τεταρτημόριον) was a small denomination coin used in various Greek city-states during antiquity. It represents one of the smallest fractional units of currency in the ancient Greek monetary system and provides valuable insights into the everyday economic transactions of ancient Greece.

Characteristics

Denomination:

The tetartemorion was equivalent to one-quarter of an obol (an obol being 1/6 of a drachma).
Therefore, one tetartemorion was equal to 1/24 of a drachma.

Weight and Size:

The weight of a tetartemorion varied depending on the mint and time period but typically ranged around 0.15 to 0.18 grams.
These coins were very small, often less than 5 millimeters in diameter, making them one of the smallest coins in the ancient Greek world.

Material:

Tetartemoria were usually made of silver, like most Greek fractional coins.

Usage

Small Transactions:

The tetartemorion was used for minor everyday transactions, such as buying small quantities of food, paying for services, or making charitable donations.
Its small value made it practical for day-to-day commerce among the lower classes, ensuring that even the smallest economic activities could be conducted using coinage.

Change for Larger Denominations:

In larger transactions, the tetartemorion served as small change to complement higher denomination coins like obols and drachmas.
This allowed for precise payments and reduced the need for bartering or using other less convenient forms of currency.

Minting and Design

Minting Authorities:

Various Greek city-states minted tetartemoria, each with distinctive designs reflecting local symbols, deities, or emblems.
Cities known to have produced tetartemoria include Athens, Corinth, and several cities in Asia Minor.

Design Elements:

Due to their small size, the designs on tetartemoria were often simple. They typically featured symbols or abbreviated inscriptions rather than detailed imagery.
Common motifs included geometric patterns, animals, and abbreviated city names or monograms.

Examples from Specific Regions

Athens:

Athenian tetartemoria might feature an owl, representing the city’s patron goddess Athena, along with an abbreviated version of the city's name, such as "AΘ" (short for "ΑΘΗΝΑΙΟΝ" – "of the Athenians").

Asia Minor:

Cities in Asia Minor, such as Miletus and Ephesus, minted tetartemoria with local symbols. Miletus, for instance, used a lion's head as a common design, reflecting a local emblem.

Historical Context

Economic Context:

The use of tetartemoria reflects the sophistication of the Greek monetary system and its accommodation of various economic needs. The availability of such small denominations highlights the integration of coinage into everyday life.
These coins facilitated minor transactions, contributing to the smooth functioning of the market economy in Greek city-states.

Archaeological Evidence:

Tetartemoria have been found in archaeological excavations across the Greek world, often in marketplaces, domestic settings, and hoards.
Their discovery provides valuable information about local economies, trade practices, and the spread of Greek coinage.

Legacy

Numismatic Significance:

Tetartemoria are of particular interest to numismatists and historians for their role in the broader context of ancient Greek coinage.
They illustrate the diversity and complexity of the Greek monetary system and the attention to detail in accommodating all levels of economic activity.

Cultural Impact:

While small in value, tetartemoria were an essential part of the everyday economic life of ancient Greeks. Their widespread use underscores the importance of coinage in facilitating commerce and trade in the ancient world.

In summary, the Greek tetartemorion was a small silver coin used for everyday transactions in ancient Greece. Its small size and value made it practical for minor purchases and change, reflecting the sophistication and inclusivity of the Greek monetary system. The minting and use of tetartemoria by various city-states highlight their significance in the daily economic activities of ancient Greek society.