Double Unity?

[Paul B4]

What is a "double unity" coin?

[Meepzorp]

Hi PB4,

Is it a "double unity"? Or is it a "double unit"? It may be a typo, or it may be "lost in translation" (from a foreign language).

If it is a "double unit", then it is simply twice the weight of the standard reference unit for that particular series.

Meepzorp

[Altamura]

Unit, double unit, quadruple unit etc. are used for bronze coins, because for these it is usually not known how the denominations have been called in antiquity.

For silver coins we know the names of denominations (but not always): https://www.forumancientcoins.com/numiswiki/view.asp?key=Greek%20Coin%20Denominations  ()

Regards

Altamura

[Paul B4]

The seller of this coin described it as "double unity".  

I am finding that "double unity" is commonly used in religions.  It may be that the "double unity" of this coin and others is a description of a god depicted in both his/her role as god and as earthly personification.  

Here "double unity" is used to describe a coin depicting Heracles and an Eagle. https://www.catawiki.com/l/6759923-greek-antiquity-sicily-mamertin-278-270-bc (this is one of several examples)  Might this be a "double unity" because Herakles is wearing the leonte over his head?

Page 17 of this publication uses the term to describe how personifications became distinct deities from the original gods.  https://ia600207.us.archive.org/31/items/cu31924032329207/cu31924032329207.pdf

What are your thoughts?

[Altamura]

... What are your thoughts? ...

I would say in connection with these coins "unity" is simply the wrong term  .

The coins from Roman Antioch have been minted in different sizes, but we don't knwo how they have been called.

Regards

Altamura