Sarmatia, Olbia. 4th-5th century BC. Bronze Cast Dolphin Money

Sarmatia, Olbia. 4th-5th century BC. Bronze cast dolphin money. Nice form with dorsal fin, lateral line and large round eye visible. These dolphins were used as barter across the entire Black Sea and modern day Ukraine.  Most are unaware but there is a large population of dolphins in the Black Sea which explains the shape for this “coin”.  The most desired specimens have an even black patina, are full dolphin shape with a defined eye, defined fins, and including full snout and "tail" which is not actually a tail but a byproduct from the bronze pouring process.