The cistophorus was a silver coin minted in the city of Pergamon, in Mysia. It was a Hellenistic kingdom ruled by the Attalid Dynasty. Unlike other currency of the time, the cistophoric tetradrachms do not depict a ruling figure. Instead they portray attributes and symbols of leading deities. The cista mystica was associated with Dionysus or Bacchus, with the casket used to house a serpent during the Bacchic mysteries. The snake, sitting on a bed of grapes, was thought to represent the god. The decoration to the obverse of the bow and quiver depict an association with both Herakles and his son, Telephus. The latter was supposedly the mythical founder of Mysia, and thus the founding figure of the Attalid Dynasty.
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Ancient Greek Pergamon Cistophoric Tetradrachm Pendant
$339.42
A silver pendant encasing a silver cistophoric tetradrachm minted in the Greek city of Pergamon in Mysia. The obverse features two entwined serpents around a bow and quiver. A monogram consisting of the two greek letters, AP, sits at the top of the coin, whilst another ΠPE, graces the left side. A thyrsos, with another intertwined snake coiling around the staff, is situated to the right side. The reverse features a central cista mystica, a secret casket used in mystic rites, with an escaping serpant. The basket is encircled by a floral wreath.
We do have chains available upon enquiry.
Out of stock
Additional information
| Weight | 14.5 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.2 cm |
| Culture | Ancient Greek |
| Greek mythology | Dionysus, Herakles |
| Metal | Silver |
| Region | Southern Europe |
