|
|
|
THE FACING HEAD COINS OF: LUCANIA, VELIA (HYELE, ELEA) |
The facing heads of Velia are among the most striking and dramatic produced by the ancient Greeks. The obverse features the bust of Athena, wearing a winged and crested Phrygian helmet. The reverse shows a lion devouring its prey. The renditions of Athena exude power and intensity, yet the best preserved specimens reveal the delicate grace and beauty of her face. The impressive reverse motif adds to the intriguing appearance of these coins.
The dating follows Historia Numorum Italy..
 |
c. 334– c. 300? BC. AR Didrachm. Numismatica Ars Classica, Auction Q, 6 April 2006, Lot number: 1116. |
 |
c. 334–c. 300? BC. AR Didrachm. Classical Numismatic Group, Mail Bid Sale 67, 22 September 2004, Lot number: 162. From the Tony Hardy Collection. |
 |
c. 334–c. 300? BC. AR Didrachm. Image Source: T. J. Buggey Website. |
 |
c. 334–c. 300? BC. AR Didrachm. Classical Numismatic Group, Triton VI, 14 January 2003, Lot number: 68. Ex Leu 65 (21-22 May 1996), lot 60; Leu 48 (10 May 1989), lot 26; Hess-Leu 31 (6-7 December 1966), lot 67. |
 |
c. 334–c. 300? BC. AR Didrachm. Image Source: American Numismatic Society (ANS) Database. |
|
|
 |
|
