The New York Sale
Auction 54 11 Jan 2022
View prices realized
► Sale information
Find similar lots
Antoninus Pius. Æ 35 mm (20.76 g), AD 138-161. Tralles in Lydia. Poplios, grammateus. TI AI KAICAP ANTΩNEINOC, laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Antoninus Pius right. Reverse: [EΠI ΠOΠΛIOY ΓPAM TPAΛIANΩ--N, Andrasteia seated facing, head left, holding the infant Zeus in her arm and a veil which billows around her; eagle at her feet; around, three Korybantes, dancing around and beating their swords against their shields. GRPC - Lydia 185 (this coin illus.); LS 35; BMC 138. Glossy black patina. A fantastic coin with an interesting reverse. Choice Very Fine. Estimated Value $3,000 - UP
The Korybantes were guardians and nurturers of the infant Zeus. They are often depicted in ancient art dancing and drumming their swords against their shields, as on this coin. This armored dance, a Pyrrhic dance, was a ritual coming-of-age initiation for males associated with victory celebrations in Greek warrior society.
The Korybantes were guardians and nurturers of the infant Zeus. They are often depicted in ancient art dancing and drumming their swords against their shields, as on this coin. This armored dance, a Pyrrhic dance, was a ritual coming-of-age initiation for males associated with victory celebrations in Greek warrior society.