GREEK. MOESIA. Kallatis. Circa 3rd-2nd centuries BC. Silver Hemidrachm (2.48g). Head of Herakles right, wearing lion skin / Club left between grain ear and quiver right. SNG BM Black Sea 203-4; HGC 3.2, 1826. A very choice example for the type, one of the finest known, if not the finest. Attractively toned. gVF. This silver hemidrachm was issued by Kallatis, a key Greek colony on the western Euxine coast whose wealth and importance rested on maritime trade. By invoking the heroic figure of Herakles, the coin proclaims the city's Hellenic identity and ideals on a distant frontier. Compact yet eloquent, it neatly captures how a coastal outpost expressed strength, pride and cultural continuity through its coinage. (P)

Estimate: AUD 500