Oscan Coinage

From the British Museum. Transcription: VITELLIU; Translation: ITALIA © The Trustees of the British Museum

We have many remaining coins from Oscan-speaking towns in southern Italy. However, most of these coins are found in the Greek alphabet, as Greek craftsmen transmitted Greek influence into this region. Greek craftsmen were almost always the ones manufacturing these coins on behalf of the mints of the small towns in this region such as Sybaris.

One notable exception to this rule is Messana, where coins were manufactured in Oscan.

The designs of these coins often reflected the cultural and political landscape of these Italian cities. Symbols on the coins could differentiate the various towns. Magistrates could also commemorate themselves on the coins. Like other ancient coins, abbreviations were common on the coins.

Moreover, these coins have distinct weights and traits that give us hints towards what places they are from and the relationship that various cities had with trade between one another.

Overall, Oscan coinage is a valuable method of cultural expression that allow us to peer into the cities that dotted ancient Italy.

Source: Oscan in Southern Italy and Sicily by Katherine McDonald