GCV 3890 Mysia, Lampsakos. AR Hemidrachm, 4th-3rd century BC.

Mysia, Lampsakos

AR Hemidrachm,  4th-3rd century BC.

Obverse: Female janiform head

Reverse: Helmeted head of Athena right, ΛΑΜ around.

Reference: BMC 35; SNG France 1176, GCV 3890

Size: 13.17 mm. Weight: 2.45 g

Obverse: Female Janiform Head

1. Janiform Depiction: A janiform head typically features two faces, often representing duality or contrasting ideas. In the context of Greek coinage, this could symbolize various thematic elements such as balance, harmony, or the dual nature of existence—like life and death, or personal and communal identity.

2. Female Representation: The female janiform head may represent a goddess or a significant female figure. Janiform imagery could also evoke themes of fertility, wisdom, and protection, depending on the identity of the figures depicted (which may be attributed to various goddesses in local contexts).

3. Symbolism of Duality: The use of a janiform head can denote the complexity of human experience, suggesting that both aspects—like creativity and reason or nurture and protection—are essential to understanding life and society.

Reverse: Helmeted Head of Athena

1. Athena’s Significance: Athena is the goddess of wisdom, warfare, and crafts. She embodies strategic warfare, courage, and intelligence, as well as being the protector of cities, particularly Athens. Her presence on the coin indicates a strong connection to civic identity and societal values.

2. Helmeted Head: The helmet signifies protection and military prowess, reinforcing Athena’s role as a warrior goddess. The depiction of her helmeted head suggests that Lampsakos valued her protective qualities and looked to her for guidance and favor in matters of war and civic affairs.

3. Inscription "ΛΑΜ": The inscription around Athena’s head consists of the letters ΛΑΜ (LAM), which denotes the city of Lampsakos. This serves to establish the coin's origin, expressing civic pride and reaffirming the city's identity in relation to the goddess.

Overall Interpretation

The AR Hemidrachm from Lampsakos showcases a multifaceted narrative about the city and its values. The female janiform head on the obverse introduces themes of duality, balance, and the important aspects of life that may be embodied in the figures depicted. This complexity reflects human experience and the various roles that women held in society.

On the reverse, the helmeted head of Athena emphasizes traits that were essential to the city’s identity, such as wisdom, protection, and military success. The inscription reinforces the coin's connection to Lampsakos, highlighting civic identity and pride.

Together, these elements illustrate the importance of divine guidance and protection in the lives of the people of Lampsakos, as well as the cultural beliefs surrounding duality and the roles of female figures in their society.

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Referenz : GCV 3890

Sammlung : XII Greek Coins - Asia