Mysia, Parion, 4th Century BC, AR Hemidrachm, Bull / Gorgoneion

$130.00

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SKU: G13.17 Category:

Description

Greek, Mysia, Parion, 4th Century BC, AR Hemidrachm (silver, 2.27g, 13.6mm)
Obv: ΠΑ/ΡΙ; bull standing left, head reverted
Rev: Facing gorgoneion with protruding tongue, surrounded by serpents
Ref: SNG BN 1356–7 Rarity/Choice: Common, VF (porous on the reverse and some roughness otherwise nicely centered)
Note: Parion was an ancient Greek city located in Mysia, situated on the coast of the Propontis (Sea of Marmara) in present-day Turkey. Founded around the 8th century BC, it was strategically positioned along major trade routes, facilitating maritime trade and cultural exchanges between the Greek world and Anatolia.  The depicted bull is likely symbolizing strength and fertility, common themes in ancient coinage. On the reverse, a Gorgoneion, the fearsome face of the Gorgon Medusa, is featured. In ancient Greek mythology, the Gorgoneion was not a god, but rather a protective symbol associated with the Gorgons, monstrous creatures with snakes for hair and the ability to turn anyone who looked at them into stone. The most famous Gorgon was Medusa. This imagery reflects the city’s cultural and mythological background, with the Gorgoneion serving as a protective symbol against evil forces, while the bull symbolizes prosperity and power.