Stater 550 BC - 500 BC
| Electrum | 15.87 g | 18.00 mm |
| Issuer | Kyzikos (Mysia) |
|---|---|
| Period | City administration (600 BC - 1 AD) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 550 BC - 500 BC |
| Value | Electrum Stater (1) |
| Currency | Electrum Stater (600-330BC) |
| Composition | Electrum |
| Weight | 15.87 g |
| Diameter | 18.00 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#132056 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Quadripartite incuse square.
Comment
In his 1887 book on Cyzicene coinage, Greenwell lists this issue as "naked male figure, with rounded wings and short tail, and the head of a lion" and goes further to say "a type perhaps impossible to explain with entire satisfaction. The oriental character of the monster is evident, and its occurrence on a coin of Cyzicus may be due to Persian influence."
Dr. Imhoof-Blumer, in 1881, described the creature as Fear (Phobos), the son of Ares and Aphrodite, and a similar creature is found on a frieze in Pergamon. Other cultures with similar artistic influences were the Phoenicians and Assyrians. Also, there are a number of bas-relief near the village of Jasili-Kaia, in ancient Cilicia, which are attributed to the Hittites, are two winged monster, one a lion-headed man, the other possibly a dog-headed man.
Alternatively, this is, perhaps, a humanized form of Chrysaor, the winged boar brother of Pegasus and son of Poseidon and Medusa, or an amalgam of several of the winged mythical creatures all displayed on Cyzicene coinage.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an early depiction of a lion, which was a symbol of power and strength in ancient Greek culture. The lion is shown in a seated position, with its front paws tucked under its body and its head turned to the side, as if looking out at the viewer. This design was likely inspired by the lions that were native to the region and were considered sacred animals in ancient Mysia. The use of the lion motif on this coin reflects the cultural and religious beliefs of the people of Kyzikos during this time period.
Price
| Date | Mintage | VG | F | VF | XF | AU | UNC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ND (550 BC - 500 BC) | - | - | - | - | - | - |
Values in the table are based on evaluations by sales realized on Internet platforms. They serve as an indication only for Stater (550 BC - 500 BC) coin.
