MYSIA. Parion. 4th century BC. Hemidrachm (Silver, 13 mm, 2.34 g, 12 h). ΠΑ/ΡΙ Bull standing left, head turned back to right; below, six-rayed star. Rev. Facing gorgoneion with protruding tongue, surrounded by serpents. BMC 35-7. A. Demeester: Les animaux et la monnaie grecque. Bruxelles 2003, 92 (this coin). SNG Copenhagen 263. SNG Paris 1368-70. SNG von Aulock 1322. An unusually well centered, boldly struck and beautifully toned example. A few very light marks, otherwise, extremely fine.




The important city of Parion struck a substantial number of these hemidrachms, though they were often marred by crude dies and careless production - hallmarks of mass minting. This particular specimen, however, stands as a delightful exception: while the flan is a bit tight, the dies are crisp and fresh, and the remarkable intricacy of detail, accentuated by the wonderful collection toning, is outstanding for the issue.