Lampsakos was a wealthy and influential Greek city in northern Asia Minor, particularly during the 5th century BCE. It joined the Delian League, initially formed to combat Persia but later dominated by Athens in its rivalry with Sparta. Lampsakos issued electrum staters, which earlier scholars mistakenly dated to the early 5th century due to their archaic style. Hoard evidence now places these coins around 412 BCE, during a period of rebellion against Athens following its disastrous Sicilian expedition (415–413 BCE). This revolt coincided with broader resistance within the League, supported by Sparta.

Despite Lampsakos’ brief rebellion in 411 BCE, Athenian naval superiority quickly reasserted control. The city fell to Athens under Admiral Strombichides but later became part of Sparta’s territory after the decisive Athenian defeat at Aegospotami in 405 BCE. Coins from this period, such as those found in the Vourla Hoard, may reflect Lampsakos’ rebellion and subsequent turmoil.

Lampsakos was also renowned for its vineyards, referenced by ancient authors like Strabo, Thucydides, and Plutarch. The Persian king Xerxes famously gave the city to Themistocles to supply wine, underscoring its prominence in viticulture. The grapevine imagery on Lampsakene staters reflects this cultural and economic significance.

Mysia, Lampsacus. Stater circa 412 BC, EL 15.18 g. Forepart of Pegasus l., below, All within vine wreath. Rev. Quadripartite incuse square;
Traité II 327 and pl. VIII, 4 (this coin); BMC 8; Head, NC 1876, pl. VIII, 31 (this coin); Agnes Baldwin-Brett, The Electrum Coinage of Lampsakos, pl. II, 12c (this coin); SNG von Aulock 1292 (these dies); Kraay-Hirmer 727 (these dies)

Ex Coll. James et Sneja Velkov, Vinchon sale 24 November 1994, 89; Ex. Sincona sale 10, 2013, 130; Found in Smyrna in 1875; Traité II 327 and pl. VIII, 4 (this coin); Head, NC 1876, pl. VIII, 31 (this coin); Agnes Baldwin-Brett, The Electrum Coinage of Lampsakos, pl. II, 12c (this coin)