Gozo
Gozo museum acquires historic Gayliton coin that dates back to the 1st century BC
So cool!

Jillian Mallia

Calling all history buffs! The Gozo Museum has announced that it has received a Gayliton coin that dates back to the 1st century BC. We’re speechless.

“We are delighted to receive this wonderful donation from the President of the Malta Numismatic Society, Mr Simon Ellul Sullivan. This is a perforated Gayliton coin dating to the 1st century BC. Gayliton coins were minted in Gozo – this is the only period in history when our little island issued its own coinage!” they shared on social media.

About the coin

“On the obverse appears the bust of the goddess Astarte on a crescent moon, wearing a Corinthian helmet,” the museum’s page notes. “On the reverse stands an armoured warrior hurling a spear, with a star at his side. The Greek legend ΓΑΥΛΙΤΩΝ (GAYLITON) can be seen very faintly to the left. The perforation indicates that the coin was held on a string at some point in history.”

Did you know this?

5th February 2021


Jillian Mallia
Written by
Jillian Mallia
A book lover, writer and globetrotter who loves exploring new places and the local gems that the Maltese Islands have to offer. An avid foodie and arts fanatic, Jillian searches the island and beyond for the perfect settings to write about.

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