Skythia, Olbia, AE Circa 310-280 BC, Borysthenes / Axe and bow

$190.00

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SKU: G9.1 Categories: ,
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Description

Skythia, Olbia, AE (bronze, 12.22g, 21.3mm), Circa 330-250 BC
Obv: Horned head of the river-god Borysthenes to left
Rev: Traces OΛBIO Axe and bow in bow-case; to left, monogram of EPΔ (?)
Ref:  HGC 3.2, 1887 var. (monogram) Rarity/Choice: Rare var, aEF (slightly off-centered reverse otherwise, well struck and attractive)
Note: Skythia, a region in Eastern Europe known for its nomadic tribes, was home to Olbia, an ancient Greek colony situated along the northern coast of the Black Sea. On the obverse side, we see the horned head of Borysthenes, the river-god of the Dnieper River (known as the Borysthenes River in antiquity). This depiction pays homage to the river that was crucial for Olbia’s trade and sustenance, reflecting the city’s connection to the natural world and its reliance on the river for survival. Depiction of axe and bow are emblematic of the military and hunting prowess of the Scythian tribes that inhabited the region surrounding Olbia. The presence of these weapons symbolizes the defensive capabilities of the city against potential threats, as well as its role in trade and warfare in the surrounding territories. Additionally, the bow-case suggests a connection to the nomadic lifestyle of the Scythians, who were skilled horsemen and archers. Overall, this coin reflects Olbia’s identity as a Greek colony in the midst of Scythian territory, with its economy influenced by both Greek and nomadic cultures. It highlights the importance of the Dnieper River to the city’s prosperity and depicts symbols that represent Olbia’s military strength and its integration into the wider Scythian world of the northern Black Sea region. As per references monogram of EPΔ could stand for  “ΕΠΙ ΟΛΒΙΑΣ” (Epi Olbias), meaning “under the authority of Olbia.”

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