Calabria, Brundisium. Æ Sextans, circa 215 BC
Obverse: Laureate head of Neptune right, god of the sea, symbolizing Brundisium’s maritime power; behind, Nike poised above a trident, with two pellets (mark of value) below.
Reverse: Phalanthos, the mythical founder-hero of Tarentum, depicted riding a dolphin left—an image evoking Greek colonization and naval dominance—holding Nike in his right hand and a kithara in his left; two pellets below.
References: HN Italy 737; SNG ANS 779.
Condition: Very Fine, with an attractive green patina enhancing the details.
Historical Context:
Struck during the Second Punic War era, this coin reflects Brundisium’s strategic importance as a major Adriatic port allied to Rome. The imagery of Neptune and Phalanthos emphasizes both the city’s maritime heritage and its Greek cultural roots. The appearance of Nike underscores themes of victory, while the kithara suggests a link to civic identity and Hellenic tradition.
Calabria, Brundisium. Æ Sextans, circa 215 BC
Obverse: Laureate head of Neptune right, god of the sea, symbolizing Brundisium’s maritime power; behind, Nike poised above a trident, with two pellets (mark of value) below.
Reverse: Phalanthos, the mythical founder-hero of Tarentum, depicted riding a dolphin left—an image evoking Greek colonization and naval dominance—holding Nike in his right hand and a kithara in his left; two pellets below.
References: HN Italy 737; SNG ANS 779.
Condition: Very Fine, with an attractive green patina enhancing the details.
Historical Context:
Struck during the Second Punic War era, this coin reflects Brundisium’s strategic importance as a major Adriatic port allied to Rome. The imagery of Neptune and Phalanthos emphasizes both the city’s maritime heritage and its Greek cultural roots. The appearance of Nike underscores themes of victory, while the kithara suggests a link to civic identity and Hellenic tradition.
