Poseidon / Bull & Octopus

Poseidonia (Lucania) - Stater (2 Drachm)
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;
Bull standing left; octopus between legs; ΠOΣEIΔANI above;

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

CompositionSilver
IssuerPoseidonia
Ruling AuthorityUnknown
Period of Issue410 BC - 350 BC
Weight7.25 g
Diameter23 mm
Orientation
↑↑
4h
DenominationStater (2 Drachm)
StandardPhocaean/Campanian Drachm
ReferencesHN Italy #1134; SNG ANS 2 #688-9,693; Kraay/Stateri #6

Numista Reference

Provenance

LocationDescriptionDate
United Kingdom
London Ancient Coins, SKU: GG1764
Aug 26, 2024
United States
Lelouch Collection
Current