THRACO-MACEDONIAN REGION. Berge (previously identified as either Lete or Siris). Circa 525-500 BC. Stater (Silver, 17 mm, 9.94 g). Ithyphallic satyr standing to right, grasping with his right hand, the right hand of a nymph fleeing to right; in the fields to left and right, three pellets (those on the left are almost entirely off the flan). Rev. Rough incuse square. Cf. ACGC 515. J. H. Kagan, An Archaic Greek Coin Hoard from the Eastern Mediterranean and Early Cypriote Coinage, NC 154 (1994), 8 ( possibly the same obverse die ). Toned and of a pleasing Archaic style. Very slightly rough surfaces , otherwise, good very fine.
From an American collection, ex Leu Numismatics 61, 17 May 1995, 99.
Normally, this scene is described as showing a satyr rather forcefully grabbing a reluctant nymph. However, on this coin both participants seem to be quite enjoying themselves. In fact, the nymph seems to be saying, to a very slightly reluctant satyr, "Come on Handsome, let's dance!".
Price realized | 9'000 CHF |
Starting price | 6'800 CHF |
Estimate | 8'500 CHF |