Macedon. Neapolis. 500-480 BC. AR Stater (9.76g). Jenkins 101; Franke-Hirmer 133. Old cabinet tone. Perfectly centered and struck. Among the finest known. Choice extremely fine. From a European private collection; The Numismatic Auction 1985 (3) lot 61; former Clarence Sweet Bement (1843-1923) collection, Naville 1924 (6) lot 611

In Ancient Greece, Gorgons were a popular image. Because of their legendary and powerful gaze that could turn one to stone, images of Gorgons were put upon objects and buildings for protection. Athena and Zeus are said to have worn a gorgoneion as a protective pendant. It was also assumed by Hellenistic kings as a royal aegis to imply divine birth and protection, as shown, for instance, on the Alexander Mosaic and the Gonzaga Cameo.