Savoca Coins
Online Auction 209 | Silver 28 Apr 2024
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Calabria. Tarentum circa 272 BC-AD 240.
Nomos AR
19 mm, 6,33 g
Warrior, nude, holding javelin, on horse running right; |-IΠΠOΔA below / TAPAΣ, Phalanthos, nude, holding distaff and kantharos, riding dolphin left; IΔ to inner right, amphora to outer right.
Very Fine
Vlasto 907; HN Italy 1040.
Tarentum, also known as Taras in Greek and Taranto in Italian, was an ancient Greek city located in southern Italy, specifically in the region known as Magna Graecia. It was founded by Greek colonists from Sparta and other parts of the Peloponnese around the 8th century BC. Tarentum was strategically situated on a peninsula surrounded by natural harbors, making it an important maritime and commercial center in antiquity. The city flourished as a prosperous trading hub, benefiting from its access to trade routes in the Mediterranean Sea. One of the most notable features of Tarentum was its strong defensive walls, which helped protect the city from invasion. Tarentum was known for its skilled warriors, particularly its cavalry, which played a significant role in various conflicts throughout its history.
The city was also renowned for its cultural achievements, including its contributions to literature, philosophy, and the arts. Tarentum was home to several notable figures, such as the philosopher Archytas and the historian Polybius. Tarentum's prosperity attracted the attention of neighboring powers, including the Romans. The city became involved in conflicts with Rome, leading to the Tarentine War in the 3rd century BCE. Eventually, Tarentum fell under Roman control and became an important Roman colony. Today, the modern city of Taranto occupies the site of ancient Tarentum. Archaeological excavations in the area have uncovered remains of the city's ancient walls, buildings, and artifacts, providing valuable insights into its rich history.
Nomos AR
19 mm, 6,33 g
Warrior, nude, holding javelin, on horse running right; |-IΠΠOΔA below / TAPAΣ, Phalanthos, nude, holding distaff and kantharos, riding dolphin left; IΔ to inner right, amphora to outer right.
Very Fine
Vlasto 907; HN Italy 1040.
Tarentum, also known as Taras in Greek and Taranto in Italian, was an ancient Greek city located in southern Italy, specifically in the region known as Magna Graecia. It was founded by Greek colonists from Sparta and other parts of the Peloponnese around the 8th century BC. Tarentum was strategically situated on a peninsula surrounded by natural harbors, making it an important maritime and commercial center in antiquity. The city flourished as a prosperous trading hub, benefiting from its access to trade routes in the Mediterranean Sea. One of the most notable features of Tarentum was its strong defensive walls, which helped protect the city from invasion. Tarentum was known for its skilled warriors, particularly its cavalry, which played a significant role in various conflicts throughout its history.
The city was also renowned for its cultural achievements, including its contributions to literature, philosophy, and the arts. Tarentum was home to several notable figures, such as the philosopher Archytas and the historian Polybius. Tarentum's prosperity attracted the attention of neighboring powers, including the Romans. The city became involved in conflicts with Rome, leading to the Tarentine War in the 3rd century BCE. Eventually, Tarentum fell under Roman control and became an important Roman colony. Today, the modern city of Taranto occupies the site of ancient Tarentum. Archaeological excavations in the area have uncovered remains of the city's ancient walls, buildings, and artifacts, providing valuable insights into its rich history.