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Ancient Greek Parion Mysia Silver Drachm – 5th Century BC – Gorgoneion Type

Ancient Greek Parion Mysia Silver Drachm – 5th Century BC – Gorgoneion Type

$365.00
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FR-315
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Ancient Greek Parion Mysia Silver Drachm – 5th Century BC – Gorgoneion Type

Parion Mysia Silver Drachm – Archaic Greek Coin – 5th Century BC

Own a remarkable piece of ancient Greek history with this Silver Drachm of Parion in Mysia, dating to the 5th century BC. Struck approximately 2,500 years ago, this ancient silver coin represents the artistry, mythology, and independent identity of the Greek city-states of the Classical era.

Parion was renowned for its use of the Gorgoneion, the terrifying head of the Gorgon, as its primary civic emblem. The image of the Gorgon was featured prominently on Parion's coinage and likely represented protection, strength, and military power.

This attractive silver drachm displays the characteristic archaic style of early Greek coinage, including a powerful frontal Gorgon head and an ancient incuse reverse design. Measuring 11.9 mm and weighing 3.11 grams, this compact silver coin is a tangible connection to the ancient world.

Coin Specifications

  • Culture: Ancient Greece
  • Region: Mysia
  • City: Parion
  • Date: Approximately 5th Century BC
  • Denomination: Silver Drachm
  • Metal: Silver
  • Weight: 3.11 grams
  • Diameter: 11.9 mm
  • Reference: SNG Copenhagen 256
  • Period: Archaic / Early Classical Greek

Design Details

Obverse:

  • Facing Gorgoneion (Gorgon head)
  • Open mouth with protruding tongue
  • Distinctive archaic Greek artistic style

Reverse:

  • Incuse square
  • Cruciform pattern
  • Central pellet detail

Historical Background

The ancient city of Parion was a Greek colony located on the southern coast of the Sea of Marmara in the region of Mysia, near the entrance to the Hellespont. Founded around the 7th century BC, Parion became an important maritime center connecting the Greek world with Asia Minor.

Like many Greek city-states, Parion selected a unique civic symbol for its coinage. The Gorgon head served as the city's emblem and appeared on many of its silver issues. In Greek mythology, the Gorgons were fearsome creatures whose appearance could turn viewers to stone, making the image a powerful symbol of protection and intimidation.

The Gorgoneion was also widely used in ancient Greece as a protective symbol placed on shields, armor, temples, and artworks. Its appearance on Parion's coinage reflects both the city's identity and the importance of military strength during the ancient Greek period.

Why Collect This Coin?

  • Over 2,500 years old
  • Authentic ancient Greek silver coin
  • Classic Gorgoneion / Medusa imagery
  • Issued by the Greek city of Parion in Mysia
  • Archaic style with ancient incuse reverse
  • Excellent addition to:
    • Ancient Greek coin collections
    • Classical world collections
    • Mythology-themed collections
    • Ancient silver coin collections
!