Æ19 (Tyche; Sandan) (164 BC - 27 BC) front Æ19 (Tyche; Sandan) (164 BC - 27 BC) back
Æ19 (Tyche; Sandan) (164 BC - 27 BC) photo
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Æ19 Tyche; Sandan 164 BC - 27 BC

 
Bronze 4.22 g 19 mm
Description
Issuer
Tarsos (Cilicia)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
164 BC - 27 BC
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Bronze
Weight
4.22 g
Diameter
19 mm
Thickness
2 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#331945
Rarity index
93%

Reverse

Sandan right, nude, carrying quiver and sword, holding bipennis in left hand and flower with petals in right hand, standing on horned animal to right, with lion's body and closed wings.
Inscription in right field.

Script: Greek

Lettering: TAPCЄΩN

Translation: of Tarsos

Comment

Sandan (or Sandas) is an ancient Cilician war and weather deity worshipped mainly in Tarsus, equated to Hercules in the Greco-Roman world.

Variants exist with various symbols in left field of the reverse.

Interesting fact

The Tyche; Sandan coin from Tarsos (Cilicia) features a unique blend of Greek and Persian influences in its design. The obverse side of the coin depicts the goddess Tyche, who was a protector of the city, while the reverse side features a Persian-style seated figure of Sandan, who was a local deity. This blending of cultural influences reflects the rich history and diversity of the region where the coin was minted.