CALABRIA Tarentum 302-281 BC Silver Didrachm Taras Horse Dolphin NGC AU Coin D73

Description

Greek Coin of CALABRIA
Tarentum. Circa 302-280 BC. AR Didrachm (19mm, 7.72 gm, 3h)
Philocles, Si-, and Ly-, magistrates.
Reference:
Vlasto 687-90. HN Italy 965
Certified:
NGC AU 4/5 - 4/5 6625605-021
Obverse:
ΦIΛOKΛHΣ, nude youth astride horse galloping left, small round shield on left arm; ΣI behind
Reverse: TAPAΣ, Taras astride dolphin left, wreath in outstretched right hand; ΛY below.
See the
Genuine History
Collection
Taras, the eponymous hero of Tarentum (modern-day Tarento, Italy), was the son of Poseidon, god of the sea, and the nymph Cornus. As an infant, he was abducted by a giant eagle but was dropped into the sea and was miraculously rescued by a dolphin sent by his father, Poseidon. The dolphin guided Taras to the shore, where he was found and raised by the local people. In gratitude, they named their city after him.
Obverse: The portrayal of a Warrior on horseback holding a palm tied with a fillet symbolizes victory and martial prowess.
Reverse: The image of Phalanthos, the legendary founder of Tarentum, riding a dolphin, holding a kantharos (drinking vessel) and a trident, signifies the city's maritime heritage.
Coins from Tarentum often highlighted its cultural and economic prominence. The city's strategic location facilitated trade and maritime activities, as depicted by the Taras-on-dolphin motif.