Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 50 Lekë 2003, KM# 86, Albania, Albanian Antiquity
  • 50 Lekë 2003, KM# 86, Albania, Albanian Antiquity
Description

Albanian Antiquity refers to the ancient history and early civilizations that inhabited the territory of modern-day Albania, primarily the Illyrians, who were among the most prominent ancient peoples of the western Balkans. Dating back to the Bronze Age, the Illyrians developed distinct cultural traits, fortified settlements, and engaged in both trade and warfare with neighboring Greek and Roman civilizations. Key ancient cities such as Apollonia, Dyrrachium (modern Durrës), and Byllis flourished as important urban centers. With the Roman conquest in the 2nd century BCE, Illyrian lands were incorporated into the Roman Empire, leading to centuries of Roman influence in architecture, language, and infrastructure. Albanian antiquity forms the foundation of the country's cultural identity, with archaeological sites and artifacts continuing to reveal insights into its ancient past.

Obverse

Depicts a side profile of an Illyrian helmet enclosed within a circular design, bordered by the country name in Albanian and the inscription "ALBANIAN ANTIQUITY" in Albanian. The year of issue appears on either side of the design, all surrounded by a beaded chain border.

The Illyrian helmet is a distinctive type of ancient bronze headgear that originated in the western Balkans around the 7th century BCE and was used extensively by Illyrian warriors as well as early Greek hoplites. Characterized by its rounded dome, solid cheek guards, and open-face design, it provided effective protection while allowing good visibility and mobility. Despite its name, it was widely adopted beyond Illyria, especially in southern Italy and Greece. The helmet's evolution reflects both local craftsmanship and the cross-cultural influences of Mediterranean warfare during the Archaic and Classical periods.

2003 REPUBLIKA E SHQIPERISE 2003
ANTIKITETI SHQIPTAR

Reverse

Depicts a large denomination at the center, divided by a horizontal line within a circular frame. The inscription "ALBANIAN ANTIQUITY" appears above in Albanian, all enclosed by a decorative beaded chain border.

ANTIKITETI SHQIPTAR
50
LEKE

Edge

50 Lekë

4th Republic

Albanian Antiquity

KM# 86
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Cupronickel
Weight 5.5 g
Diameter 24.25 mm
Thickness 1.65 mm
Shape round
Alignment Medal
Mint
Kremnica Mint (MK)

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