LOT #23001 |
Current Bid: $410
Greek: CALABRIA. Tarentum. Ca. 302-280 BC. AR didrachm (21mm, 7.88 gm, 5h). NGC Choice XF★ 4/5 - 5/5, Fine Styl...
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Description
CALABRIA. Tarentum. Ca. 302-280 BC. AR didrachm (21mm, 7.88 gm, 5h). NGC Choice XF★ 4/5 - 5/5, Fine Style. Si-, and Deinocrates, magistrates. Nude warrior on horse rearing right, spearing downwards with right hand, shield and two spears in left; ΣI behind, ΔEINOKPATHΣ below / TAPAΣ, Taras astride dolphin left, dolphin left in outstretched right hand. HN Italy 967 var. (ΔA on reverse). Nicely centered and crisp dies with sunflower backlight.Taras, a figure of Greek mythology and the eponymous founder of Tarentum in Calabria, played a pivotal role in the art and culture of the region. Taras was believed to be the son of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea, and a local nymph named Satyrion. According to mythology, Taras was saved by his father Poseidon when he was thrown into the sea by his mother, who feared his divine nature. He was carried to the shores of southern Italy, where he founded the city of Tarentum.
Depicted as a youthful and handsome figure riding a dolphin, Taras symbolized the city's maritime significance and its unique blend of Greek and local influences. His imagery, prevalent in coinage, sculptures, and other artistic representations, served as a source of civic pride and a testament to Tarentum's rich heritage. Taras' influence extended beyond Calabria. The city of Tarentum itself became known for its wealth and cultural achievements, including its distinctive red-figure pottery. The figure of Taras and his association with the sea continued to be influential in the art and culture of the region for centuries.
Auction Info
2026 February 1 Spotlight: Ancient Art - Star, Fine Style, and Toned Ancient Coins Showcase Auction #61593 (go to Auction Home page)
Proxy Bidding Ends
February
1st
Sunday
6:50 pm CT
Auction Dates
February
1st
Sunday
Proxy Bidding Time Remaining
24 Days
22h 18m 26s
Internet/Mail Bids: 16
Lot Tracking Activity: 43
Page Views: 340
Buyer's Premium per Lot:
22% of the successful bid (minimum $29) per lot.
This lot is in: 1 -
World & Ancient Coins Session
(Lots 23001-23082) - 7:00 PM Central Time, Sunday, February 1, 2026.
[Proxy bidding ends ten minutes prior to the session start time. Live Proxy bidding on Heritage Live now starts within 2 hours of when the auction opens for proxy bidding and continues through the live session.]
Additional Location Info:
Heritage Auctions - Dallas
2801 W. Airport Freeway
Dallas, TX 75261
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