Description: Amphipolis, Macedonia (under Augustus) | AE21 Reference: RPC 1626 Date: 27 BCE-14 CE Obverse: ΚΑΙΣΑΡ ΘΕΟΥ ΥΙΟΣ; bare head of Augustus right Reverse: ΑΜΦΙΠΟΛΕΙΤΩΝ; Artemis Tauropolos on bull, right Mint: Amphipolis, Macedonia Size: 21.0 mm Weight: 6.32 grams A fine example of an 2 millenia-old issue from the Macedonian city of Amphipolis. What makes this coin historically interesting is the reverse, which depicts a bull-riding goddess. Coinage depictions of Artemis in this role (Tauropolos can mean "worshiped at Tauris" (Crimea), or "pulled by a yoke of bulls", or "the hunting bull goddess") seem to be unique to Macedonia. Other bull-riding figures can be found on ancient coins from Cilicia (see Lindgren 1597, rider is typically identified as Aphoridite, Tyche, or Cybele ); Mysia (see SNG von Aulock 1212); and Cyprus (Zapiti & Michaelidou 5). The bull-riding goddess is even depicting on modern 2 Euro coins commemorating Cyprus' entry to the European Union. This iconography might be an connected to the bull-leaping sport. Bull-leaping has a long history in the Mediterranean with depictions found on Hittite pottery (~1650 BCE) and Minoan frescos (~1450 BCE). A related sport involving horses, taurokathapsia was popular in Thessaly (not too far from Macedonia) during Classical antiquity. Even today, bull leaping sports continue in France and Spain (course landaise). These Spanish bull sports were brought to the New World during the 16th century CE and eventually evolved into the American rodeo. Policies I apply the highest ethical standards in selling ancient coins. All coins are guaranteed to be genuine and any item found to be otherwise may be returned for a full refund. The most important thing is that you are happy with your new coin(s)! All coins are shipped in PVC-free, archival-grade coin flips and inserts made of acid-free paper Domestic (USA) shipping only If you purchase multiple items please message me and I will combine the shipping for you. I accept all returns within 30 calendar days upon receipt of the item. No explanation is required for the return, but it would be appreciated. Any item which has been altered from its original state may not be returned. Don't see what you're looking for? Just shoot me a message, I might have it but haven't gotten around to listing it!
Price: 24.99 USD
Location: Canton, Michigan
End Time: 2024-02-29T14:41:59.000Z
Shipping Cost: N/A USD
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Item Specifics
Restocking Fee: No
Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 30 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Historical Period: Roman: Provincial (100-400 AD)
Composition: Bronze
Era: Ancient
