Byzantine AR Hemidrachm Earrings
- Description
Ancient Silver Hemidrachm Coins minted in Thrace, Byzantion (Byzantium) circa 357-340 B.C. Obverse:, Forepart of a bull on dolphin right ITY above. Reverse: Ornamented trident . Framed in 14Kt yellow gold post earrings with diamond accented dangle and button top with floral/leaf design. Dimensions; 1-3/8" drop, 1/2" wide. Certificate of Authenticity.
Byzantium (Byzantion in ancient Greek) was founded by Greek colonists from Megara in 657 B.C. In 340 B.C., the Byzantines, with the aid of the Athenians, successfully withstood a siege by Philip of Macedon. They were, however forced to recognize Macedonian suzerainty after surrendering without a fight to Alexander the great in 334 B.C.. The city was rebuilt as the new capital of the Roman Empire by Constantine I in 330 A.D and renamed Constantinople. It became the capital of the Ottoman Empire when it was conquered in 1453. Today it is Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, and the country's economic, cultural, and historical heart. It was mainly a trading city due to its location at the Black sea's only entrance. Byzantium later conquered Chalcedon, across the Bosporus on the Asiatic side.
Poseidon's trident, a fish spear, is found on the reverse of the coin. It's form resembles the arrow-headed pronged fork, used by the Mediterranean fishermen to catch eels. Poseidon became particularly worshipped in coastal countries, where fish formed a basic commodity of trade.
*Suzerainty was a common arrangement in historical empires, where a powerful state exerted influence over other smaller entities, often in exchange for tribute or other obligations.
SKU:
H-ID12690
Extremely knowledgeable staff and excellent service! Great jewelry!
Angela Cary
Amazing place. The jewelry is exquisite. So much to choose from and wonderful one on one customer service. I highly recommend The Cedar Chest to everyone for all of their jewelry needs and wants.
Suzanne Benn
Awesome store and staff! I have been buying jewelry from them since 1975. They have a fabulous selection and really great prices. Their sealife selection is the best around. I love to peek into their Estate cases when I visit. I always find a treasure to bring home.
Just Barefoot
Really nice selection of jewelry, lots of sea-themed pieces. Julie helped me get a lovely larimar piece and aquamarine ring. Wanted to get more but couldn’t. Next time!
Carol dufinetz
My favorite store to visit on Sanibel. The staff is kind and knowledgeable. The jewelry is beautiful!
Kathy Thies
The Cedar Chest carries very beautiful, unique jewelry of the highest quality. I have made many purchases over the years, both in the store and online, and I've always been more than happy with the pieces I've chosen. My most recent purchase was online. I trust them completely. I ordered a medium size rose-gold periwinkle earring and pendant set with a diamond in the centers. They are so beautiful. I want to wear them always! Shelley handled my order with care. She was wonderful. Thanks again, Shelley!
L Makhoul
Absolutely 5-stars for originality, creative interpretations, exceptional service and being a generous supporter of the community.
Trailways Camp
Excellent customer service and absolutely beautiful jewelry!
Maureen Plunkett
Wonderful collection of authenticated coin jewelry as well as the kindest and most professional staff. Highly recommend. Bonnie is the best!
Wendy Johnson
Beautiful jewelry pieces and excellent quality. I highly recommend this jewelry.
Zayra Belfort
Beautiful jewelry and excellent customer service.
Leslie DiGiacomo
Excellent craftsmanship and great customer service!