IONIA. Ephesus. Ca. 4th century BC. AR tetradrachm (23mm, 1h). NGC Fine. Ca. 340-325 BC, Melanion, magistrate.

Description

✨✨ Featured Coin: IONIA, Ephesus. Ca. 4th century BC. AR Tetradrachm ✨✨

🌟 Specifications:

🔹 Diameter: 23mm

🔹 Die Axis: 1h

**NGC Grade:** Fine

**Obverse:** E-Φ, bee with straight wings seen from above.

**Reverse:** MEΛANIΩN, forepart of stag kneeling right, head reverted; palm tree in left field.

📜 References:

– Kinns, Ephesus, Pixodarus Hoard in: Coin Hoards IX (2002), Class I, pg. 205.

🌿 **Historical Context:**

This exquisite tetradrachm hails from Ephesus, a prominent city in Ionia, minted around 340-325 BC under the magistrate Melanion. The obverse features the iconic bee, a symbol of the city’s famed sanctuary of Artemis and its thriving bee cult. The bee represents industriousness and community, qualities highly valued in Ephesus.

The reverse depicts the forepart of a stag kneeling right with its head reverted, a symbol associated with Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, who was worshipped as the patron deity of Ephesus. The palm tree in the left field adds to the coin’s intricate design, highlighting the artistry of ancient Ephesian minting.

This coin belongs to the renowned Pixodarus Hoard, providing a direct link to the historical and economic context of the time. Ephesus was a major cultural and commercial hub in the ancient world, and its coinage reflects its significance and wealth.

Own a piece of ancient Ephesus with this remarkable tetradrachm, capturing the city’s rich heritage and artistic mastery. 🏺✨