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ancient classic artifacts coins numismatic roman greek

                                 Lot: 31

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            [Image]              CRETE: Phaestus. Ca. 350–330 BC. AR stater.
    (i.e. Keywords, Catalog
           ID, etc.)             CRETE. Phaestus. Ca. 350–330 BC. AR stater (11.54 gm).
                                 Winged giant Talon advancing left, head right, throwing
                                 rock, dog standing right between his feet / Forepart of bull
      Mail Bid Home Page         right. Le Rider pl. iii, 12 (this coin). Svoronos 6, pl.
                                 xxiii, 3 (same dies). Very rare. The obverse struck from a
                                 somewhat worn die and the reverse struck from a heavily
                                 eroded die. Very fine

                                 Ex Phaestus hoard, 1953 (IGCH 152).

                                 According to one of its foundation legends, Phaestus was one
                                 of three Cretan cities founded by Minos. Talon (also called
                                 Talus) was a magical giant made of bronze, crafted by
                                 Hephaestus and animated by a vein of fire. Hephaestus gave
                                 his creation to Minos to guard the nymph Europa. Talon
                                 circled the coast of Crete every day, repelling intruders by
                                 throwing rocks or by incinerating them. He was eventually
                                 destroyed by Medea.

                                 Estimated Value: $ 3,750

 ... sold for high bid of $3075 [ $3536.25, or approx 2758.275 EUR, 1838.85 GBP ] including the 15% buyers fee. 


From the Freeman & Sear Mail Bid Sale 13, Closed August 25th, 2006.

Re-used by permission of Freeman & Sear, www.freemanandsear.com.