Paphlagonia, Sinope, time of Mithradates VI, AE Circa 105-90 or 90-85 BC, Athena / Perseus

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Description

Greek, Paphlagonia, Sinope, time of Mithradates VI, AE Circa 105-90 or 90-85 BC
Obv: Head of Athena Parthenos right, wearing decorated crested helmet
Rev: Ī£IN-Ī©Ī Ī—, Perseus standing facing, holding Medusa’s head and harpa; at feet, body of Medusa, M in lower right field
Ref: SNG Stancomb 797; cf. HGC 7, 416 Rarity/Choice: Scarce, VF (somewhat porous, deposit otherwise, beautiful style)
Note: Paphlagonia, an ancient region in northern Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), was home to the city of Sinope, a prominent center during the Hellenistic period, especially under the rule of Mithradates VI Eupator. On the obverse is the head of Athena Parthenos, “Parthenos” translates to “virgin” or “maiden” in Greek, emphasizing Athena’s status as a virgin goddess. The epithet “Parthenos” distinguishes her from other goddesses and highlights her purity and chastity. The title “Athena Parthenos” specifically refers to Athena in her aspect as the virgin goddess, often associated with her role as the protector of the city of Athens and the patroness of wisdom and crafts. a common depiction on coins of the era. This symbolizes the city’s allegiance to Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and warfare. Perseus depicted on reverse, a legendary Greek hero, stands facing forward, holding the severed head of Medusa in one hand and his harpa, a curved sword, in the other. This scene represents Perseus’s triumph over the Gorgon, a monstrous creature whose gaze turned people to stone. By displaying Medusa’s head, Perseus demonstrates his bravery and skill in slaying one of the most feared beings in Greek mythology. The body of Medusa lying at his feet further emphasizes his victory and serves as a warning to adversaries. This imagery would have been familiar to the people of Sinope, reinforcing their cultural identity and perhaps symbolizing their city’s strength and resilience against formidable challenges.

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