Ancient Stars
Moesia, Istrus - inverted heads
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Coin Details
| Origin/Country: |
ANCIENT - GREEK CIVIC (7th CENT BC - 1st CENT AD) MOESIA, ISTRUS 4th Century BC |
| Item Description: |
AR Drachm Moesia, Istrus rv sea-eagle on dolphin obv inverted heads |
| Full Grade: |
NGC AU Strike: 5/5 Surface: 5/5 |
| Owner: |
PAL Collection |
Owner Comments:
Moesia was an ancient land comprising parts of present-day Bulgaria, Serbia, & Romania. Istrus was a city founded by the Milesean's in 7th century BC located where the Danube flows into the Black Sea. The meaning of the inverted heads on the obverse is unknown: the young men represent two branches of the Danube? Or symbolize the rising and setting sun? Or the Dioscuri? Or the slave trade where Istrus made its money? Or a clever solution allowing rapid coin identification from any angle (since there is no “right” side up). One thing is certain, the design is very unique - there are no other coins with similar designs.