Buy The Creatures of Greek Myth (Three-Coin Box) Online
GRIFFIN-The griffin, or gryps, is a beast with the head and wings of an eagle fused to the body of a lion. A clan of the creatures protected the rich gold deposits in the Scythian mountains from incursions by the one-eyed Arimaspians. On this silver diobol from Ionia, Teos (320-294 BCE), a griffin sits with its forepaw raised.—DELPHIN-Dolphin-shaped sea demons in the service of Poseidon, god of the sea. For their service in his wooing of the nymph Amphitrite, the god placed the dolphin among the stars as the constellation Delphinus. Twin delphins grace this bronze unit from Syracuse (275-215 BCE). Poseidon’s bust is on the obverse.—HEIFER-Io was a Naiad and a princess of Argive. She was also Zeus’s lover. When Hera, his wife, caught them in the act, the god transformed Io into a heifer, to protect her. Cows were also sacred to Apollo. This silver drachm from Illyria, Apollonia (c.229-100 BCE) features a heifer.
Overview of This Unique Collection:
- Griffin (320-294 BCE, Teos, Ionia):
- Design: The griffin, a majestic creature with the head and wings of an eagle and the body of a lion, sits proudly with its forepaw raised.
- Mythology: Griffins guarded the rich gold deposits in the Scythian mountains from the one-eyed Arimaspians.
- Coin Type: Silver diobol.
- Delphin (275-215 BCE, Syracuse):
- Design: Twin dolphins gracefully swim around Poseidon’s trident, while Poseidon's bust adorns the obverse.
- Mythology: Dolphins were sea demons in the service of Poseidon, who placed them among the stars as the constellation Delphinus.
- Coin Type: Bronze unit.
- Heifer (c. 229-100 BCE, Apollonia, Illyria):
- Design: Features a heifer, symbolizing Io, a princess turned into a cow by Zeus to hide her from his wife, Hera.
- Mythology: Io was a Naiad and a lover of Zeus, transformed into a heifer to protect her from Hera’s wrath.
- Coin Type: Silver drachm.
Highlights:
- Ancient Origins: These coins date back to ancient Greece, each with its unique story and historical context.
- Mythical Creatures: Featuring the griffin, delphin, and heifer, these coins bring the magic of Greek mythology to life.
- Certified Quality: Each coin is authenticated and graded, ensuring its genuineness and historical significance.
