Crete, Gortyna, AE Circa 220 BC, Zeus / Europa Riding Bull – RRRR

$1,250.00

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SKU: G5.24 Categories: ,

Description

Crete, Gortyna, AE (bronze, 7.34g, 23.3mm), Circa 220 BC
Obv: Laureate head of Zeus right within circle of dots
Rev: Europa riding bull galloping left, holding billowing veil floating above; all within circle of rays
Ref: Svoronos, Numismatique 120; Traeger 94 Rarity/Choice: Very Rare, Good VF (exhibits one of the best-known expressive portraits for this type, as only a few are known, featuring a dark green/brown patina)
Note: Gortyna, one of the most important cities in ancient Crete, Greece, was renowned for its legal code, which was considered one of the earliest and most comprehensive in the ancient world. The imagery on this coin reflects both the island’s mythical heritage and its historical significance as a center of trade and culture in the Mediterranean.  the coin features a laureate head of Zeus. Zeus, the king of the gods in Greek mythology, is a common motif on ancient Greek coins, symbolizing power, authority, and divine protection. The laurel wreath around Zeus’s head is a symbol of victory and honor. Europa riding a bull galloping left, with her arm outstretched holding a billowing veil floating above her. This scene is one of the most iconic and enduring myths of Greek mythology. According to the myth, Zeus, in the form of a bull, abducted Europa, a Phoenician princess, and carried her across the sea to Crete, where he revealed his true identity. Europa’s abduction by Zeus gave birth to the continent’s name, Europe. The image of Europa riding the bull is a powerful symbol of the union between the divine and mortal worlds, as well as the adventurous spirit and exploration associated with ancient seafaring civilizations like those of Crete.