MYSIA, Lampsakos
AR Diobol. 1.24g, 13.0mm
MINTED: MYSIA, Lampsakos, 4th century BC
REF: SNG BN 1193
OBVERSE: Janiform female heads.REVERSE: ΛAMΨ, Helmeted head of Athena right.
Notes:
Toned slightly textured surfaces.
The term 'janiform' refers to heads with two faces looking in opposite directions, resembling the depictons of the Roman deity Janus, who was the god of the passage of time, of doorways, and of beginnings, transitions, and endings.
Historical Notes:
Lampsakos, on the eastern end of the Hellespont, possessed a good harbour, and its strategic location meant that the city was often fought over by larger regional powers such as Persia, Athens and Sparta. During his years in exile, the famed Athenian statesman Themistokles served the Persian Empire, and it was said that King Artaxerxes I (465-424 BC) gave him Lampsakos so that he could enjoy its famous wine. During Alexander the Great's campaign against Persia, he was so infuriated by the loyalty of the city to the Persians that it was only saved from his fury by the pleas of his former tutor, Anaximenes, who was a native of Lampsakos. The city also produced numerous other notable philosophers and historians.
MYSIA, Lampsakos . 4th century BC . AR Diobol . Janiform head / Athena
MINOTAUR COINS offers a Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee on all coins purchased. Any coin determined to be inauthentic can be returned unconditionally and at any time for a full refund.
Delivery by Registered Mail within Singapore is FREE for orders $50 and above. Shipping fees apply only for orders under $50 and for all international orders.