| Heritage World Coin Auctions > Showcase Auction 61388 | Auction date: 14 May 2024 |
| Lot number: 23007 Price realized: This lot is for sale in an upcoming auction - Bid on this lot  | Show similar lots on CoinArchives Find similar lots in upcoming auctions on  |
| Lot description: Ancients CALABRIA. Tarentum. Ca. 302-280 BC. AR didrachm (18mm, 7.83 gm, 6h). NGC Choice AU 4/5 - 4/5, Fine Style. Nikon, Ey-, and Ari- magistrates. Nude warrior dismounting from horse charging left, round shield and spear in left hand; EY in upper right field, NIKON below / TAPAΣ, Taras on dolphin left, grain ear in outstretched right hand, left hand on dolphin; API in left field, horizontal spearhead right in lower right field. HN Italy 969. Vlasto 701-703. Gorgeous detailing on stormy toning gives life to the horse and dolphin, along with their riders. Taras, a figure of Greek mythology and the eponymous founder of Tarentum in Calabria, played a pivotal role in the art and culture of the region. Taras was believed to be the son of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea, and a local nymph named Satyrion. According to mythology, Taras was saved by his father Poseidon when he was thrown into the sea by his mother, who feared his divine nature. He was carried to the shores of southern Italy, where he founded the city of Tarentum. Depicted as a youthful and handsome figure riding a dolphin, Taras symbolized the city's maritime significance and its unique blend of Greek and local influences. His imagery, prevalent in coinage, sculptures, and other artistic representations, served as a source of civic pride and a testament to Tarentum's rich heritage. Taras' influence extended beyond Calabria. The city of Tarentum itself became known for its wealth and cultural achievements, including its distinctive red-figure pottery. The figure of Taras and his association with the sea continued to be influential in the art and culture of the region for centuries. https://coins.ha.com/itm/ancients/greek/ancients-calabria-tarentum-ca-302-280-bc-ar-didrachm-18mm-783-gm-6h-ngc-choice-au-4-5-4-5-fine-style/a/61388-23007.s?type=DA-DMC-CoinArchives-WorldCoins-61388-05142024 HID02906262019 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved |  |
