2021-05-19 Wed

Istros, also known as Histria, was an ancient Greek colony located on the western Dobrudja coast of the Black Sea. Situated approximately 300 miles north of Byzantium, this small city was founded by Milesian traders around 657 or 656 BCE.

Such a long-lasting settlement had produced several interesting and important numismatic types. The most recognizable Istrian coin is the “unique” anti-parallel Apollonian silvers. Struck in both drachmai and the associated fractional denominations, these coins portray “essentially identical” dual portraits of the sun god Apollo on their obverse.

The reverse design shows an eagle in flight with wings outstretched as it clutches a dolphin in its talons. The eagle represents Zeus and the dolphin the Black Sea. The reverse image symbolizes either some unspecified military victory or Greek domination over the region and its vital trade routes.

The reverse is inscribed with the name of the city Istros in Greek at the top and shows a variety of monograms. In this case, it is the Greek letter “I” and a triangle below the dolphin.

Image Courtesy: wildwinds.com