Lampsakos

Lampsakos (Lampsacus) was an ancient Greek city located in modern day Turkey, strategically situated on the eastern side of the Hellespont.

Lampsakos was founded by Greek colonists in the 6th century B.C. It became main competitor of Miletus, controlling the trade routes in the Dardanelles. During the 6th and 5th centuries B.C., Lampsacus was successively dominated by Lydia, Persia, Athens, and Sparta.

LAMPSAKOS, Stater c. 360–340, Persic standard, AV 8.47 g. Obv. Laureate and head of Zeus left, lotus-tipped sceptre on right shoulder. Rev. Pegasus flying right

Lampsakos was the first ancient Greek city state to see its gold coinage reach broad acceptance for international trade, a testament to its prosperity and influence. The stater of Lampsakos became very popular, circulating from Sicily to the Black Sea.

In 196 BC, the Romans defended the town against Antiochus the Great, and it became an ally of Rome. Lampsacus was notable for its worship of Dionysus/Priapus, who was said to have been born there.