Troas, Assos, AE 4th-mid 3rd Century BC, Athena / Griffin – RRRRR

$480.00

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SKU: G12.21 Categories: ,

Description

Greek,Ā  Troas, Assos, AE (bronze, 1.69g, 12.2mm), 4th-mid 3rd Century BC
Obv: Head of Athena to right, wearing crested Attic helmet
Rev: AĪ£Ī£I Griffin to left; in exergue, uncertain symbol
Ref: Probably Unpublished with Griffen Right and Exergue Symbol, Zero found on acs and coin archives, SNG MĆ¼nchen 157 (var); SNG von Aulock 7586 (var) Rarity/Choice: Extremely Rare, Good VF (some roughness and flan flow on obverse otherwise, beautiful and nicely struck)
Note: The ancient city of Assos, located in the region of Troas in Asia Minor. On the obverse side, it features a depiction of Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, warfare, and craftsmanship, wearing a crested helmet, symbolizing her role as a protector of the city. Athena’s presence on the coin reflects the city’s allegiance to her and emphasizes its Greek cultural identity. On the reverse side is a representation of a griffin, a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle. The griffin was often associated with divine power and protection in Greek mythology, and its presence on the coin could symbolize Assos’s belief in its guardian role and its readiness to defend the city. Additionally, the griffin may have served as a symbol of strength and vigilance, reflecting the city’s ability to withstand external threats. Overall, this coin provides valuable insight into the cultural and religious life of Assos during the Hellenistic period, highlighting its connection to Greek mythology and its emphasis on divine protection and strength.