PAMPHYLIA. Side. Ca. 2nd-1st centuries BC. AR tetradrachm (30mm, 16.45 gm, 12h). NGC XF

Description

PAMPHYLIA. Side. Ca. 2nd-1st centuries BC

Type: AR Tetradrachm
Diameter: 30mm
Weight: 16.45 g
Orientation: 12h
Catalog References: SNG France 689
Grade: NGC XF 5/5 – 2/5, countermark, mark

Obverse:

• Design: Head of Athena.
• Description: The obverse features the head of Athena facing right, adorned with a crested Corinthian helmet. There is a countermark of ΣΛI and a bow in a bowcase within a shallow circular incuse on her face. Athena is a symbol of wisdom and warfare, often depicted on coins of ancient Greek city-states to signify strength and protection.

Reverse:

• Design: Nike advancing left.
• Description: The reverse shows Nike, the goddess of victory, advancing to the left. She holds a wreath upward in her right hand and folds of her skirt in her left. Above Nike is a pomegranate, a symbol often associated with fertility and prosperity. The magistrate’s name, ΔIO, appears in the left field.

Condition: The coin is graded NGC XF (Extremely Fine) with a strike quality of 5/5 and surface preservation of 2/5. The presence of countermarks and other marks indicate historical usage and circulation.

Historical Context: Side, an ancient Greek city in Pamphylia, was an important center of commerce and culture during the Hellenistic period. Coins from Side often feature Greek deities, emphasizing the city’s connection to Greek mythology and its cultural heritage. The depiction of Athena and Nike reflects the city’s values of wisdom, warfare, and victory.

For further information, please call 212 3191077.