Athens issued gold coins in 407/406 Kraay, C. M., “Greek Coinage and War” The Nickle Numismatic Papers. Other evidence comes from the play, The Frogs by Sophocles.
The Athenians would routinely melt down parts of the statue of Athena Parthenos when in dired need - it was actually accounted as part of the treasury. The only other time they issued gold, however, was in 297 BC.
Interesting post. Thank you. Athens should have accepted the earlier peace agreement with Sparta and never have undertaken the silly Sicilian campaign. guy
