desikantide

Desikantide is a rare and historically significant term associated with a specific type of ancient Greek coinage. The name originates from the Greek word *desikantidēs*, meaning "one-tenth," which refers to a fraction of a larger monetary unit, likely the drachma. These coins were minted in the ancient Greek city-states, particularly during the Hellenistic period, and were valued at one-tenth of a standard drachma.

Desikantide coins were typically made of silver or bronze and featured small denominations, making them useful for everyday transactions. They were often struck in smaller sizes compared to larger denominations, such as the obol or the tetradrachm. The exact origins of the term are unclear, but they may have been introduced to facilitate commerce in regions where larger coins were less practical for small purchases.

These coins are now of interest primarily to numismatists and historians, as they provide insights into the economic systems of ancient Greece. Due to their small size and relatively low value, desikantide coins are less commonly encountered in collections compared to larger denominations. Their rarity and historical context contribute to their value among collectors specializing in ancient Greek coinage.

Few surviving examples exist today, and their study helps scholars understand the monetary policies and trade practices of the time. While not as widely recognized as other Greek coin types, desikantide coins remain an important part of the broader narrative of ancient Greek numismatics.