-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 46473
Checkout
The Tarentum Calabria AR Nomos, dating from 281-272 B.C., is a remarkable piece of ancient Greek coinage, showcasing the artistic and monetary sophistication of the Magna Graecia region. Tarentum, located in the southeastern part of Italy, was one of the most prosperous Greek colonies in Italy during the Classical period. Known for its thriving economy based on trade, agriculture, and naval prowess, Tarentum produced a significant amount of coinage to facilitate its commercial activities. The Tarentum Calabria AR Nomos is particularly noteworthy as it was struck during the late 4th and early 3rd centuries B.C., a period of political upheaval and military conflict, which added an extra layer of historical importance to the coin. These nomoi were used as high-value coins for trade and were issued in a variety of designs, reflecting the culture, economy, and priorities of the region at the time.
The design of the 281-272 B.C. Tarentum Calabria AR Nomos is a testament to the rich artistic tradition of Greek coinage. On the obverse, the coin features a young boy riding a horse, a motif that symbolizes youth, vitality, and the importance of cavalry in Greek warfare. The horseman is depicted in an elegant and dynamic posture, embodying the skill and nobility associated with the cavalry. The boy is often interpreted as representing the city’s patron deity, Taras, the legendary founder of Tarentum, who is said to have been a son of Poseidon. The presence of a horse, an important symbol of both war and transportation, reinforces the significance of cavalry in the military organization of the Tarentine people. This image not only captures the essence of Greek military culture but also celebrates the heritage of the Tarentum colony itself, which relied heavily on its naval and military strength for both defense and trade.
The reverse of the coin features the image of the god Taras, depicted as a youthful figure riding a dolphin. Taras, the god of the sea and protector of the Tarentine people, is shown swimming through the waves on the back of a dolphin, an animal associated with both Poseidon and the god’s own mythological origin. The depiction of Taras riding a dolphin is not only an iconic image of Tarentine religious symbolism but also highlights the colony’s close relationship with the sea, which played a central role in its economic and cultural life. The dolphin symbolizes both the power and grace of the sea, while Taras, riding it with confidence, reinforces the city’s connection to Poseidon and the broader maritime world. The reverse also features the inscription “TARAS,” identifying the city and confirming its minting authority. The design reflects the city’s reverence for its mythical past and its deep connection to the sea, a crucial element for trade, defense, and identity in the ancient world.
The minting of the 281-272 B.C. Tarentum Calabria AR Nomos took place in the city of Tarentum, an important Greek colony located on the “heel” of Italy, in what is now modern-day Taranto. Tarentum was one of the most influential and prosperous Greek cities in Italy, and its mint was well-known for producing high-quality coinage used not only locally but also for trade across the Mediterranean. The city’s position on the coast, along with its naval and commercial power, made it an ideal location for minting coins. The Tarentum mint was one of the leading mints in the region, producing a wide range of coin denominations, including the iconic nomos. These coins were minted in large quantities, as they were crucial for facilitating trade, paying mercenaries, and supporting the city’s economy. The high-quality silver used in the production of the Tarentum Calabria AR Nomos also speaks to the prosperity and wealth of the city at the time.
The mintage of the 281-272 B.C. Tarentum Calabria AR Nomos is believed to have been substantial, as the coin was used for both local and regional trade. However, due to the coin’s high silver content and its use as a primary medium of exchange in the ancient world, many of these coins were melted down or lost to history over time. As a result, surviving examples of the 281-272 B.C. Tarentum Calabria AR Nomos, especially in high-quality condition, are relatively rare and highly valued by collectors. The minting practices of Tarentum were highly sophisticated, and the precise craftsmanship of the design, along with the high-quality silver used, ensure that these coins have remained an enduring testament to the economic power of the colony. The relative scarcity of high-grade examples, particularly in Choice VF condition, makes the Tarentum Calabria AR Nomos a sought-after piece for numismatists.
The condition of the 281-272 B.C. Tarentum Calabria AR Nomos, graded as Choice VF (Very Fine), is indicative of its well-preserved state. Coins from this era were often heavily circulated, and most examples show significant wear due to their frequent use in trade and transactions. However, a coin in Choice VF condition retains much of its original detail and sharpness, with only minor signs of wear on the high points of the design. In the case of the Tarentum Calabria AR Nomos, the horseman on the obverse and the figure of Taras on the reverse are still clearly visible, and the inscriptions are legible. The coin may show some light surface wear and aging, such as light scratches or toning, but these do not detract significantly from its visual appeal or historical significance. The preservation of the coin in this condition, especially given its age and the fact that it was likely used in trade, is a testament to the quality of the minting process and the care with which it has been handled and preserved over the centuries.
The silver content of the 281-272 B.C. Tarentum Calabria AR Nomos is an essential aspect of its value, both as a historical artifact and as a piece of currency. These coins were struck in high-quality silver, which was a precious commodity in the ancient world. The use of silver in the production of nomoi reflects the wealth of the Tarentum colony and its involvement in the broader Mediterranean economy. The silver content of the coin also ensured its desirability and utility in trade, both locally and with other regions around the Mediterranean. The coin’s intrinsic silver value, combined with its historical and artistic importance, makes it an important piece for collectors and investors interested in ancient Greek coinage.
In conclusion, the 281-272 B.C. Tarentum Calabria AR Nomos is a beautiful and significant piece of ancient Greek coinage that captures the cultural, religious, and economic importance of the city of Tarentum during the Classical period. The coin’s design, featuring the boy on horseback and the god Taras riding a dolphin, reflects the Tarentine people’s deep connection to their mythical past and the importance of the sea to their identity and prosperity. The Tarentum Calabria AR Nomos is a product of one of the most prosperous and influential Greek colonies in Italy, and its high silver content and intricate design make it a prized collectible. The coin’s excellent condition, with sharp details and well-preserved imagery, further enhances its appeal to collectors, and its rarity adds to its value in the numismatic market. The 281-272 B.C. Tarentum Calabria AR Nomos is not only a beautiful piece of history but also a valuable artifact of ancient Greek civilization.