Greek Coinages, Akanthos: Stater, struck under Persian subjugation, c. 510-500

Obverse: lion grounding bull, sinking jaws into its rump while gripping its rear with mighty paws; the bull’s knees buckling and its head turned back in despair; floral motif in the shape of bull’s horns in exergue

Reverse: quadripartite incuse square, partially filled, giving in the form of a swastika

Metal: silver; Attic weight standard; 17.60g

References: Desneux 9 [D8/R3]; Lockett 1280; Ashmolean 2196

Condition: Centrally struck in high relief on a heavy flan; extremely fine, grey toned with diffused iridescence £6,000-£8,000

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Phillips Family Collection of Ancient Greek Coins.

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Collection

Probably ex Hierissos Hoard, 1934 (IGCH 357)
G. Empedocles Collection
SNC April 1943 (18981)
Bt Spink, November 1944