Obole meaning

An obole is an Ancient Greek coin worth one-sixth of the drachma, used for paying the fare to cross the River Styx in the afterlife.


Obole definitions

Word backwards elobo
Part of speech Noun.
Syllabic division o-bo-le
Plural The plural of the word "obole" is "oboles".
Total letters 5
Vogais (2) o,e
Consonants (2) b,l

Obole: Understanding the Ancient Currency

An obole is an ancient unit of currency that originated in Greece and was used in various parts of the ancient world. It was a small silver coin, roughly equivalent to the Roman denarius, and was typically the smallest denomination of currency in circulation. The obole played a crucial role in the economic systems of many ancient civilizations and was used in daily transactions for goods and services.

The Value and Use of Oboles

Despite its small size, the obole had significant value in the ancient world. It was used in a wide range of transactions, from purchasing food and clothing to paying taxes and fines. The obole was also used as a form of payment for labor and services, making it an essential part of the economy. Due to its widespread use, oboles were minted in large quantities and circulated throughout the region.

The Symbolism of Oboles

Aside from its practical value, the obole also held symbolic significance in ancient societies. In some cultures, the obole was used as a funerary offering, placed in the mouths of the deceased to pay for passage to the afterlife. This practice illustrates the deep-rooted belief in the importance of wealth and prosperity in both life and death.

The Legacy of Oboles

Although the use of oboles has long since faded into history, their legacy lives on in the study of numismatics and ancient economics. These ancient coins provide valuable insights into the economic systems of the past and offer a glimpse into the daily lives of people in ancient civilizations. Today, oboles serve as tangible links to our distant past, reminding us of the enduring importance of currency and commerce in shaping human history.

Overall, oboles are not just simple coins but artifacts of great historical and cultural significance. Through their study and preservation, we can continue to learn about the fascinating world of ancient economies and the role of currency in shaping human society.


Obole Examples

  1. The obole was a type of coin used in ancient Greece.
  2. I found an ancient obole while digging in my backyard.
  3. The merchant accepted an obole as payment for the goods.
  4. The rare obole coin was sold at an auction for a high price.
  5. Historians study the obole to understand the economy of ancient civilizations.
  6. The museum displayed a collection of obols from different time periods.
  7. Numismatists specialize in collecting and studying obols and other ancient coins.
  8. The archaeologist discovered a burial site with obols buried alongside the deceased.
  9. The obol was used as a form of payment in the ancient marketplaces.
  10. Ancient texts often mention the use of obols in various transactions.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 25/03/2024 - 06:09:14