Poseidon / Bull & Octopus
Poseidonia (Lucania) - Stater (2 Drachm)

Description
Obverse: Poseidon, nude but for chlamys draped over both arms, standing right, preparing to cast trident held aloft in right hand, left arm extended; to right, ΠOΣEIΔANI downwards, dolphin downwards;
Reverse: Bull standing left; octopus between legs; ΠOΣEIΔANI above;
This coin provides evidence that the octopus was a symbol of Poseidon.
Details
Detail | Value |
---|---|
Composition | Silver |
Issuer | Poseidonia |
Ruling Authority | Unknown |
Period of Issue | 410 BC - 350 BC |
Weight | 7.25 g |
Diameter | 23 mm |
Orientation | ↑↑ 4h |
Denomination | 1 Stater |
Standard | Phocaean/Campanian Drachm |
References | HN Italy #1134; SNG ANS 2 #688-9,693; Kraay/Stateri #6 |
Provenance
Location | Description | Date |
---|---|---|
United Kingdom | London Ancient Coins, SKU: GG1764 | Aug 25, 2024 |
United States | Lelouch Collection | Current |