© Roma Numismatics Limited
© Roma Numismatics Limited
Stater 300 BC - 270 BC
| Silver | 11.25 g | 26 mm |
| Issuer | Phalasarna (Crete (ancient)) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 300 BC - 270 BC |
| Value | Silver Stater (3) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 11.25 g |
| Diameter | 26 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#199802 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Elaborate trident head; Φ-A between prongs.
Comment
Boutin 198; Evans 1652; Traeger 306.
Britomartis was the Minoan goddess of mountains and hunting, who was later assimilated into classical Greek mythology through her equation to Artemis. She was worshipped as an aspect of Potnia, the Cretan Mother of Mountains, who in Minoan art appears as a demonic gorgon, accompanied by double-axes of power, and gripping divine serpents. Her name Britomartis, which means 'sweet maid', appears to have been an apotropaic euphemism to allay the dangerous, terrifying side to the goddess.
Interesting fact
The Phalasarna Stater is considered one of the most beautiful coins of ancient Crete, with its elegant design and intricate details. The obverse features a portrait of the goddess Hera, while the reverse depicts a bull's head, which was a symbol of strength and fertility in ancient Crete. The coin's design and craftsmanship are considered exceptional for its time period, and it is highly prized by collectors and historians today.