Ionia, Miletos, Late 6th-early 5th Centruy BC, AR Obol, Lion / Floral

$270.00

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SKU: G13.20 Categories: ,
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Description

Greek,  Ionia, Miletos, Late 6th-early 5th Centruy BC, AR Obol (silver, 0.96g, 8.6mm)
Obv: Forepart of a lion right, with head reverted
Rev: Starlike floral pattern in incuse square
Ref: SNG Kayhan 476-82 Rarity/Choice: Scarce, aEF (lovely and perfectly centered)
Note:  The ancient city of Miletos, located in Ionia, a region in western Anatolia (modern-day Turkey),  The lion, a powerful and majestic creature, was often used as a symbol of strength, courage, and royalty in ancient Greek culture. Its presence on the coin may have represented Miletos’s power and authority as a city-state. On the reverse side, there is a stellate or star-like pattern within an incuse square. The incuse square design, where the image is pressed into the coin rather than raised, is a characteristic feature of early Greek coinage. The stellate pattern likely symbolizes celestial or divine elements, with stars often representing guidance, protection, or divine favor in ancient belief systems. This design might have conveyed the city’s connection to the heavens or its adherence to celestial symbolism in its coinage. Overall, the coin reflects both the earthly power and spiritual aspirations of Miletos during this period.

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