Ionie, Teos, AE Circa 4th Century BC, Griffin / THI-ΩN Within Wreath – RRRRR

$670.00

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SKU: G12.22 Categories: ,

Description

Greek,  Ionie, Teos, AE (bronze, 2.17g, 12.3mm), Circa 4th Century BC
Obv: Griffin leaping to the right
Rev: THI-ΩN; within a wreath
Ref: Only one similar example could be found, Jean Elsen & ses Fils Auction 109, lot 188 (June 18, 2011); SNG Copenhagen 1472 (var) Rarity/Choice: Extremely Rare, aEF (of fine style)
Note: Teos was an ancient Greek city located on the coast of Ionia, in present-day Turkey. Founded around the 11th century BC by Ionian Greeks, Teos was strategically situated on the Aegean Sea, making it an important maritime and trading center. The city flourished during the Archaic and Classical periods, becoming known for its wealth, prosperity, and cultural achievements. Teos was renowned for its sanctuary dedicated to the god Dionysus, which attracted pilgrims from across the region. The city was also known for its philosophical school, the Teian School, which counted Anacreon and Hecataeus among its notable members. On the obverse, the image of a griffin, a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle, is depicted. The griffin was a common symbol in ancient Greek mythology, often associated with guardianship and protection. Its presence on the coin suggests that Teos revered this creature as a symbol of divine power and might. On the reverse, the inscription “THI-ΩN” is enclosed within a wreath. This likely refers to Teos itself, indicating the city’s authority and ownership of the coin. The wreath symbolizes victory and honor, suggesting that Teos sought to commemorate its achievements or celebrate its identity through this coinage. Overall, this coin reflects Teos’s cultural and religious beliefs, emphasizing themes of protection, power, and civic pride. The imagery of the griffin and the wreath offers valuable insights into the values and aspirations of the city during the 4th century BC.