Aeolis, Elaia, AE Circa 350-300 BC, Athena / Barley-grain – RRR

$110.00

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SKU: G7.12 Categories: ,

Description

Greek, Aeolis, Elaia, AE (bronze, 0.91g, 9.6mm), Circa 350-300 BC
Obv: Helmeted head of Athena to right
Rev: Barley-grain, E-Ī› across fields; all within laurel wreath
Ref: SNG Copenhagen 169 var Rarity/Choice: Rare (head right), VF
Note: Aeolis was an ancient region located in western Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), along the Aegean coast. It was inhabited by Greek settlers and comprised a number of city-states, each with its own distinct culture and coinage. Elaia was one of the cities in Aeolis, situated on the coast of the Aegean Sea. Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, warfare, and crafts, is depicted wearing a helmet. This is a typical representation of Athena on Greek coinage, as she was a popular deity and often featured on coins. A barley-grain is often depicted alongside Athena. This symbolizes agriculture and fertility, as barley was one of the staple crops in ancient Greece. These coins played an important role not only in trade but also in expressing the identity and values of the issuing city.