NumisBids
  
VAuctions
Triskeles Sale 23  6 Apr 2018
View prices realized

Lot 138

Estimate: 1200 USD
Price realized: 995 USD
Find similar lots
Share this lot: Share by Email
Mysia, Kyzikos. Ca. 450-410 B.C. EL hekte (9 mm, 2.68 g). Head of Attis righ, wearing Phrygian cap; below neck, tunny / Mill-sail incuse square. Von Fritze 9; SNG BN 292-3. Rare. Excellent strike well centered, a touch of toning around the devices. Choice extremely fine.

Attis was originally a Phrygian god of Pessinos, but came to be associated in Greek religion as the consort of the goddess Kybele. According to Pausanias, Attis was a godlike beauty betrothed to the king of Pessinos' daughter. During the wedding ceremony, Kybele appeared which caused Attis to go mad, wherein he cut off his own genitals, prefiguring the devotees of Kybele, the korybantes.

Question about this auction? Contact VAuctions