HistoricalCoins





Research Sold Coins 
Search 

All winning bids are subject to a 10% buyer’s fee. 


Description
59, Lot: 32. MYSIA, Pergamon. Circa 133-67 BC. 
AR Cistophoric Tetradrachm (26mm, 12.63 gm). 
Estimate $100. Sold For $81 

MYSIA, Pergamon. Circa 133-67 BC. AR Cistophoric 
Tetradrachm (26mm, 12.63 gm). Cista mystica with 
serpent; all within ivy wreath / Bow-case with 
serpents, monogram to left, AM above, 
snake-entwined staff to right. SNG France 5, 
1716; SNG von Aulock -. VF.
A Dionysiac ivy wreath surrounds the cista 
mystica or "mystic basket", which held the 
sacred serpent carried by young girls of high 
rank at public festivals and feasts in 
celebration of the mystic rites of Dionysos, a 
divinity particularly honoured by the kings of 
Pergamon. The reverse quiver was a symbol of 
Herakles. The serpents were symbols of the king 
because of their power, of time because of their 
length, and of rebirth or renewal, because of 
the shedding of their skins. Serpents played a 
central part in the mysteries of Dionysos in 
their role as protectors of the vine (by eating 
mice and other consumers of grapes).