Caria, Knidos, Circa 411-405/4, AR Obol, Lion / Aphrodite – RRR

$190.00

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SKU: G13.21 Categories: ,

Description

Greek, Caria, Knidos, Circa 411-405/4, AR Obol (silver, 0.84g, 9.1mm)
Obv: Forepart of a roaring lion right
Rev: Head of Aphrodite right within incuse square
Ref: McClean 8478 Rarity/Choice: Rare, aVF VF (somewhat porous otherwise nice)
Note: Knidos were located in the region of Caria on the southwestern coast of Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), On the obverse side of the coin is the forepart of a roaring lion facing right. The lion, a powerful and majestic creature, was often associated with strength, courage, and royalty in ancient Greek culture. Its depiction on the coin may symbolize Knidos’s power and authority, as well as its connection to the natural world. On the reverse side, there is the head of Aphrodite facing right, encased within an incuse square. Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, beauty, and desire, was one of the most revered deities in the ancient Greek pantheon. Knidos was renowned for its devotion to Aphrodite, as the city was home to one of the most famous statues of the goddess, the Aphrodite of Knidos sculpted by Praxiteles. The depiction of Aphrodite on the coin reflects the city’s religious and cultural significance, highlighting its association with love, beauty, and fertility. Overall, this coin from Knidos embodies the city’s rich cultural heritage, depicting symbols of both its earthly power represented by the lion and its spiritual devotion embodied by Aphrodite, showcasing the city’s importance in the ancient world.