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Gorgon, Greek, Apollonia Pontica
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Silver Drachm
Obverse : Gorgon Facing with tongue protruding.
Reverse :Upturned anchor, crayfish and A to either side.
Apollonia Pontica Mint , 450 - 404 BC ( Before Christ ).
XF , Max Dia 14mm , 2.9 gr. scarce.
References : SNG 160f
Historical & Numismatic Note:
This is a scarce and interesting authentic ancient silver drachm from Apollonia Pontika.
Apollonia Pontika was a Greek colony on the Black sea in Thrace. It was settled around 600 B.C., and was first called Antheia before being renamed after the town's most prominent feature, a Temple dedicated to Apollo centering around a colossal statue of the Greek God. The city's name means, literally, “City Of Apollo On The Black Sea.” This coin features a spectacular image of Medusa on the obverse side. In ancient Greek mythology, if you gazed at Medusa's face you would immediately turn to stone. Perseus overcame this obstacle, slaying Medusa and using her head to adorn the face of his shield. And despite it's frightening visage, the image of Medusa was used as a protection talisman in many of these ancient Greek societies. The reverse of this coin shows the city's connection with the Black Sea, and displays an anchor turned upside down, flukes up, as if it were hanging off the edge of a ship. There is a crawfish to the right and an A, for Apollonia Pontika, to the left.
Mrs. Amy Savasta - Gauthier Collection.
EX The Sam Mansourati Collection.
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