Celtic “Thasos-Type” Tetradrachm Replica – Dionysos & Herakles (c. 200 BC – 1 BC)

This replica is based on the distinctive “Thasos-type” silver tetradrachms produced by Celtic tribes in Eastern Europe between 200 BC and 1 BC. These coins imitate the classical Greek designs of the island of Thasos, but with a bold, stylized artistic character typical of Celtic workmanship.

Obverse:
The front features the head of Dionysos, god of wine and ecstasy, shown facing right and crowned with an ivy wreath. His features are rendered in the expressive, slightly abstract style characteristic of Celtic engravers, who adapted Greek prototypes into their own artistic language.

Reverse:
The reverse shows Herakles (Hercules) standing left, holding his club and draped in the skin of the Nemean lion. The surrounding inscription, imitating the original Greek legend, identifies Herakles as the protector and savior associated with the Thasian tradition.
This image reflects both the enduring influence of Greek mythology and the Celtic fascination with heroic strength.

Historical Background:
During the late Hellenistic and early Roman periods, Celtic tribes across the Danube region produced their own silver coinage, often modeled after well-known Greek types. The Thasos tetradrachm — with Dionysos on the obverse and Herakles on the reverse — became one of the most widely copied designs.
These imitative coins circulated throughout Eastern Europe and reveal the close cultural and trade connections between Greek colonies and neighboring Celtic peoples.