Greece 50 Lepta 1926

History

Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com

Description

The Second Hellenic Republic is the modern historiographical term for the political regime of Greece between 24 March 1924 and 10 October 1935, which at the time was simply known as the Hellenic Republic. It followed from the period of the constitutional monarchy under the monarchs of the House of Glücksburg, and lasted until its overthrow in a military coup d'état which restored the monarchy.

Between 1926 and 1930, a new coinage was introduced for the new Hellenic Republic, consisting of cupro-nickel coins in denominations of 20 lepta, 50 lepta, 1 drachma, and 2 drachmae; nickel coins of 5 drachmae; and silver coins of 10 and 20 drachmae.

Engraver: Emile Gilliéron fils (Emile Gilliéron, son)

Obverse	Deity (god, goddess etc.) Athena Military Helmet Athena with Corinthian helmet facing left. Engraver's name below. Athena is the goddess of wisdom, courage, inspiration, civilization, law and justice, mathematics, strength, war strategy, the arts, crafts, and skill in ancient Greek religion and mythology. The Corinthian helmet originated in ancient Greece and took its name from the city-state of Corinth. It was a helmet made of bronze which in its later styles covered the entire head and neck, with slits for the eyes and mouth. A large curved projection protected the nape of the neck. GILLIERON FILS
Reverse	Denomination surrounded by the country name in Greek and date. Mintmark (if any) below. ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΗΜΟΚΡΑΤΙΑ 50 ΛΕΠΤΑ B • 1926 •
Edge	Reeded (milled)