BRUTTIUM, Terina.
BRUTTIUM, Terina.
AR Didrachm/Nomos, c. 444/40-425 BC, 7.67g (21mm, 7h).
Nymph head l. with ampyx and necklace, surrounded by olive branch. / [ΤΕΡΙ]-ΝΑΙΟΝ. Nike with wreath in extended r. hand and a kerykeion in l., seated on overturned hydria
Pedigree: Ex R.C. Lockett, Esq. – Glendining & Co, London auction of October 25, 1955, lot 546 and October 25, 1938, lot 43 as well as A. Sambon, Paris auctions of June 27, 1927, lot 615 and P&P Santamaria, Rome of April 6, 1908, Lot 132.
References: Franke-Hirmer 273; Holloway & Jenkins 12; HN Italy 2575; HGC 1730
Grade: Obverse has some wear on high points, but well centered and of fine style. Reverse is slightly off center and worn. VF+/EF (gk1696)
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Terina is a port city on the Tyrrhenian Sea. This made it important for trade due to its ease of access from the water in conducting trade. The Greek city state of Croton, located also on the water at the “boot” of Italy, founded Terina in c. 480-470 BC. Shortly thereafter it started minting coins. This act allowed Terina to become independent from Croton. This coin was possibly struck in c. 443 which would have been a time of war in Terina. Thurii, always called Thurium, aggressively sought to capture Terina due to its dislike of Croton which was the mother city of Terina. While the plan failed after the army was discovered, some of Terina’s beautiful terrain was destroyed. These coins could have easily been made to pay troops fighting on behalf of Terina.