GCV 4353 Ionia. Kolophon AE 15, 4th-3rd century BC.

Ionia. Kolophon

AE Chalcous, 4th-3rd century BC

Obverse: Youthful head of Apollo right, hair bound in taenia.

Reverse: KOΛOΦ ΛATΩN,  Forepart of horse r.  Near VF

Reference: Cf. SNG Copenhagen 149-157., GCV 4353

Size: 15 mm Weight: 2.15 g Conservation: very fine 

Kolophon was a city of very early foundation, and was one of the places claiming to be the birthplace of Homer. A temple of Apollo excisted at Clarus in the territory of Kolophon, and was the highly regarded oracle of Apollo Clarius, thus the frequent appearance of Apollo and his lyre on the coins of Kolophon. This began with late archaic style drachms, and continued on silver and bronze coinage in classical style during the 4th century BC. 

Obverse: Youthful Head of Apollo

1. Depiction of Apollo: The youthful head of Apollo facing right highlights both his divine beauty and the attributes of youth. Apollo is often depicted as an idealized figure, symbolizing the quintessential aspects of Greek culture, such as art, poetry, and music.

2. Hair Bound in Taenia: The taenia, a ribbon or headband traditionally used in ancient Greece, signifies not only Apollo’s identity as a god but also cultural values associated with beauty and harmony. This detail emphasizes his divine status and the reverence the people of Kolophon held for their patron deity.

3. Cultural Significance: The consistent representation of Apollo in Kolophon coinage reflects the city's deep connection to the worship of this god, underscoring the significance of Apollo in local identity and religious practices.

Reverse: KOΛOΦ ΛATΩN, Forepart of Horse

1. Inscription: The inscription "KOΛOΦ ΛATΩN" translates to "of the Kolophonians," clearly marking the coin's origin and reinforcing civic pride. It indicates that this coinage was used as currency within the city, emphasizing the local identity and autonomy of Kolophon.

2. Forepart of Horse: The image of a horse's forepart facing right is significant both symbolically and practically. Horses were revered in ancient Greek culture, often associated with nobility and power, and they played an essential role in transportation and warfare.

3. Symbol of Wealth and Status: The horse can also signify the wealth and status of the citizens of Kolophon, reflecting their engagement in equestrian activities, possibly connected to competitions or displays of horsemanship that were celebrated in Greek society.

4. Contextual Importance: The horse's representation may relate to local traditions or historical events involving cavalry or racing, which were culturally important to the people of Kolophon.

Connection to Local Heritage

Kolophon, being one of the early foundations in Ionia and claiming to be the birthplace of Homer, is steeped in rich cultural and literary tradition. The frequent appearance of Apollo and equestrian symbols on their coinage not only connects the city to its divinities but also underlines significant local customs, including the importance of the arts and athletic competitions.

The presence of the Temple of Apollo at Clarus in the region further illustrates the city’s strong religious connections. The oracle at Clarus, revered throughout Asia Minor, added another layer of significance to the city, reinforcing the divine connection expressed through its coinage. The consistency in using Apollo's iconography, beginning with archaic drachms and continuing into classical styles, reflects the enduring cultural values and artistic traditions of Kolophon.

Conclusion

This AE Chalcous from Kolophon represents a tangible connection to the city's history and identity, showcasing its dedication to the divine, its civic pride, and its cultural heritage during the 4th to 3rd centuries BC. The interplay of Apollo's imagery and the horse symbolizes a blend of spirituality, local pride, and the values cherished by the citizens of Kolophon, making this coin a fascinating artifact of ancient Ionia.

Riferimento : GCV 4353

Collezione : XII Greek Coins - Asia