Paphlagonia. Sinope circa 330-250 BC.
Hemidrachm AR

15 mm, 2,98 g

Head of Nymph Sinope left / ΣΙΝ[Ω], sea eagle standing facing, wings spread, head turned left; monogram to right.

Good Very Fine

HGC 7, 394.

In Greek mythology, Sinope was a nymph who was associated with the region of Paphlagonia, located on the southern coast of the Black Sea (modern-day Turkey). Sinope is believed to have been the daughter of Asopus, a river god, and Metope. The mythological story of Sinope varies, but a common version involves her being pursued by the god Apollo. In order to escape his advances, she fled to the sea and prayed to the gods to be transformed into a seal. Her plea was granted, and she became a seal, finding refuge in the Black Sea. The city of Sinope, also located in Paphlagonia, was said to be founded by Autolycus, the son of Hermes, and it was named after the nymph Sinope. This city grew to become a significant Greek colony known for its trade, culture, and history.