CultureAugust 17, 2026

tetradrachm

TET-ruh-dram

Definition

An ancient Greek silver coin that was worth four drachmae, commonly featuring the owl of Athena in classical Athens.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'tetra-' meaning 'four' and 'drachme' meaning 'a handful' (referring to a handful of iron rods used as currency before coins), the term describes a coin worth the weight of four drachmas.

In the news

In the article, the tetradrachm is mentioned as the standard silver currency that circulated throughout the Agora, illustrating how trade and daily wages were conducted in Athenian society.

Ancient Agora History Guide: Democracy & Daily Life

Read the full article ↗

https://www.thetraveler.org/

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