Ancient Greek AR Tetrobol- Griffin/Apollo, 14Kt
- Description
This 15mm ancient Greek AR Tetrobol was minted at the Aberda mint in the region o Thrace, circa 411-385 BCE. One side shows a griffin springing from an ear of grain, while the opposite side shows the Laureate head of Apollo, facing left, in a linear square within an incuse square. It has been skillfully mounted in a pendant setting of precious 14Kt yellow gold, that protects this centuries old coin, while showcasing its unique beauty.
The Greeks were fond of minting coinage that featured powerful animals and gods. The Griffin is a mythological monster with the head and wings of an eagle- the king of birds on the body of a lion- the king of beasts. According to ancient lore, such creatures guarded Scythian gold. Griffin coins were minted in Abdera, on the coast of Thrace*. Many mythologies, including Herakles and creatures similar to the Griffin appear to have originated or become established in Abdera.
Apollo and his twin, Artemis, are the offspring of Zeus and Leto. Apollo is the god of healing and medicine, music and poetry, and the leader of the Muses. Being such a passionate god, he was also a god of revenge and justice. Often depicted with a lyre, Apollo's music was said to be all-powerful, bringing stability and order into chaos.
*The region known as Thrace is an area in southeast Europe that sits between modern-day Bulgaria, Greece, and Turkey. It has three natural boundaries: the majestic Balkan Mountains in the north, the Aegean Sea to the south, and the Black Sea to the east.
SKU:
H-ID13010
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!