Euboea. Histiaia circa 171-168 BC.
Tetrobol AR

15 mm, 1,66 g

Wreathed head of the Nymph Histiaia right / IΣTIAIEΩN, Nymph seated right on stern of galley; wing on prow.

Extremely Fine

HGC 4, 1525.

The ancient city of Histaia, located on the northern coast of the island of Euboea in Greece, is well-known for its distinctive and beautiful coinage, particularly from the Classical period. These coins, especially the silver tetradrachms, are highly regarded for their artistic quality and the unique imagery they feature. One of the most iconic designs on the coins of Histaia is the depiction of a female figure, usually identified as the nymph Histiaia, the city's namesake and a personification of the city itself. On the obverse of these coins, Histiaia is often shown with a calm, serene expression, wearing a wreath of vines or ivy, symbolizing fertility and the agricultural richness of the region. Her portrayal is finely detailed, emphasizing her beauty and connection to nature. The reverse side of the coins typically features a depiction of a stern or prow of a ship, reflecting Histaia's maritime importance and its active role in trade and naval affairs. The ship's prow is often accompanied by the inscription "ΙΣΤΙΑΙΕΩΝ" (Histiaieon), indicating the city of Histaia as the issuer of the coin.