Circa: 30 -27 B.C.E.
Obverse: Laureate Head of Apollo
Reverse: Lyre with Masikytes mint
The Masikytes Lycian League (Apollo-with-Lyre) coin is an ancient silver hemidrachm minted in the region of Lycia (modern Turkey) during the rise of the Roman Empire under Augustus. Masikytes was a mountainous monetary district in central-southern Lycia named after the local Massikytos mountain range.
The Lycian League was a federation of city-states that shared a common coinage system while under the watchful political protectorate of Rome.
The obverse features a laureate head of Apollo (the god of music, light, poetry, prophecy, and healing), flanked by the ethnic letters Λ-Υ (abbreviation for Lycia).
The reverse has the symbol with a lyre labeled with the mint letters M-A for Masikytes. In Greek mythology, the 'messenger god' Hermes invented the first lyre out of a tortoise shell and gave it to Apollo to atone for stealing his cattle. Apollo mastered the instrument, becoming its divine patron.
Culturally and politically, the "harmony of the strings" served as a metaphor for political unity. Stamping a lyre on league coinage sent a message that separate city-states were working together in peaceful coordination, under the protection of divine order.
Bezel-set in 14k gold with a versatile diamond carabiner clasp that allows additional charms to be added or it can be clipped to hang on any chain, showing either side of the coin.
A perfect gift for music lovers, mathemeticians and musicians.
- 15mm, Argentum (AR) Silver Drachm
- 14k Gold setting with 14k gold w/ Diamond carabiner bail clasp
- Arrives in satin pouch / gift box with certificate of authenticity
- Chain not included
Authentic coin procured and hand fabricated by Cynthia Green one-at-a-time
See my Ancient Coin Jewelry Guide to learn more about ancient coins!
Enjoy!
AR29