Cilicia, Aigeai, AE Circa 130-77 BC, Tyche / Horse Head – RR

$125.00

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SKU: G8.15 Categories: ,

Description

Greek, Cilicia, Aigeai, AE (bronze, 7.34g, 22mm), Circa 130-77 BC
Obv: Turreted and veiled bust of Tyche right
Rev: ΑΙΓΕΑΙΩΝ / ΤΗΣ ΙΕΡΑΣ – ΚΑΙ / ΑΥΤΟΝΟΜΟΥ; horse’s head left; monograms flanking, HAP monogram to right
Ref: Bloesch 157; SNG France 2297 var. (monogram) Rarity/Choice: Scarce, Good VF (somewhat porous otherwise beautifully struck on broad flan)
Note: Cilicia, an ancient region in modern-day southern Turkey, was renowned for its strategic location and diverse cultural influences. Aigeai (or Aegae) stood as one of the prominent cities within Cilicia, situated near the coast and serving as a vital port and trading center. In the depiction on the coin, Tyche, the city’s protective deity, wears a turreted crown, symbolizing the city’s fortifications, and a veil, signifying her divine status. This portrayal signifies Aigeai’s prosperity and protection under Tyche’s watchful eye. The inscription “ΑΙΓΕΑΙΩΝ” (of the people of Aigeai) above and “ΤΗΣ ΙΕΡΑΣ – ΚΑΙ / ΑΥΤΟΝΟΜΟΥ” (of the sacred and autonomous) below on the coin indicates the city’s identity and autonomy, highlighting its religious and political independence. Horses held significant importance in ancient Greek culture, symbolizing nobility, strength, and swiftness. The depiction of a horse’s head on the coin may symbolize Aigeai’s equestrian heritage or its military prowess. Overall, this coin from Aigeai in Cilicia offers valuable insights into the city’s history, culture, and autonomy during the Hellenistic period. It reflects the city’s devotion to Tyche, its protective deity, and its assertion of independence and authority as a sacred and autonomous entity.