Taras & Octopus / Hippocamp

Tarentum (Calabria) - Nomos (2 Drachm)
TAPAΣ. Taras astride dolphin to right, holding octopus in his right hand and extending left.
TAPAΣ. Hippocamp swimming to right, scallop shell below, incuse radiating border around.

Description

Obverse: TAPAΣ. Taras astride dolphin to right, holding octopus in his right hand and extending left.
Reverse: TAPAΣ. Hippocamp swimming to right, scallop shell below, incuse radiating border around.

The identity of the dolphin rider on these coins is not fully certain, but for this type in particular since it says Taras on the coin it is attributed to Taras. However as well Taras is also an abbreviation for their city Tarentum itself, so that isn't foolproof evidence.

Details

CompositionSilver
IssuerTarentum
Ruling AuthorityUnknown
Period of Issue500 BC - 480 BC
Weight7.89 g
Diameter16.5 mm
Orientation
↑↑
4h
Denomination1 Nomos
StandardCampanian (Italic-Achaean) Drachm
ReferencesHN Italy #827; Vlasto #100-191; HGC 1 #753

Numista Reference

Provenance

LocationDescriptionDate
San MarinoArtemide Aste, Auction LXIII - Lot 89May 2, 2025
United StatesLelouch CollectionCurrent