THRACE. Aenus. Ca. 475-400 BC. AR tetradrachm (25mm, 16.13 gm, 6h). NGC AU 5/5 - 2/5, Fine Style. Persic standard, ca. 431-429 BC. Head of Hermes left, wearing riveted conical petasus / AIN, billy goat standing right; bipennis facing left in right field, all within incuse square. HGC 3.2, -, cf. 1268. SNG Copenhagen -. SNG von Aulock -. May -, cf. 114 (goat left). Cf. Triton XXII (8 January 2019), lot 161 for left-facing type. Exceedingly rare - there are only three left facing tetradrachms of this series in sales archives and none with this symbol or with the portrait left and goat right. Struck from magnificent style dies with bold pellets on the petasus, a youthful portrait with delicate falling curls, and a strong beast on the reverse. The velvety surfaces are complimented by a light sheen of golden toning. Founded in the 7th century BC by the Miletians, Aenus enjoys a distinguished placement in antiquity's vast register. Situated strategically at the mouth of the river Hebros, it served as a thriving hub of commerce, its significance amplified by the fertile agricultural lands surrounding it, represented by the goat on its coinage. With its pivotal location and an inherently resourceful populace, Aenus transformed into an epicenter of cultural exchange and maritime trade, inviting the interest of various powers, including, notably, the Athenians and the Persians, reflected in the changing weight standards of its coinage over time. HID09801242017 © 2023 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

To the auctioneer's website