Corinth Stater

Posted on: December 1, 2025

keywords: --- ## Main Content ### Introduction The Corinthian Stater is a captivating piece of ancient numismatic art, cherished by collectors and historians alike. Minted in Corinth, one of the most significant city-states of ancient Greece, this silver coin is distinguished by its remarkable design and historical importance. Featuring the mythical Pegasus on its obverse and the revered goddess Athena on its reverse, the Corinthian Stater offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of ancient Greece. This article delves into the fascinating aspects of this coin, highlighting its unique features, historical background, and collectible value. ### Historical Background The Corinthian Stater was issued by the city of Corinth, an influential maritime power in ancient Greece. Corinth's strategic location on the narrow land bridge connecting the Peloponnesian peninsula with mainland Greece made it a thriving hub of commerce and culture. The city was known for its wealth, artistic achievements, and innovations in coinage. During the Archaic and Classical periods, Corinthian coinage played a pivotal role in trade throughout the Mediterranean region. The Stater, a standard silver coin, was widely accepted and circulated, underscoring Corinth's economic influence. The imagery of Pegasus and Athena on the Stater resonates with Corinth's mythology and reverence for these iconic figures, symbolizing strength, wisdom, and divine protection. ### Design Features **Obverse Design:** The obverse of the Corinthian Stater features Pegasus, the winged horse of Greek mythology, elegantly depicted flying to the left. Below Pegasus, the Greek letter phi is inscribed, representing Corinth. Pegasus, born from the blood of Medusa, is a symbol of freedom and inspiration, reflecting Corinth's aspirations and legendary heritage. **Reverse Design:** On the reverse, the coin showcases the head of Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, facing right. Athena is adorned with a Corinthian helmet, a nod to her martial prowess, and a pearl necklace, signifying her divine beauty and wisdom. Behind her, ivy leaves are intricately rendered, adding a touch of natural elegance. The design is enclosed within a partially incuse square, a characteristic feature of many ancient Greek coins. ### Technical Specifications The Corinthian Stater is crafted from silver, a testament to its enduring value and aesthetic appeal. It weighs approximately 8.47 grams and measures 20.00mm in diameter, standard dimensions for coins of this denomination during the period. The precise craftsmanship and attention to detail in its production highlight the advanced metallurgical skills of Corinthian artisans. ### Collectible Value The Corinthian Stater holds significant appeal for numismatists and collectors due to its historical provenance and exquisite design. Its rarity and condition greatly influence its market value, with well-preserved specimens fetching premium prices at auctions and private sales. The coin's connection to ancient Greek mythology and Corinth's historical legacy enhances its desirability, making it a prized addition to any collection of ancient coins. ### Conclusion In conclusion, the Corinthian Stater is more than just a piece of ancient currency; it is a symbol of Corinth's rich history and cultural significance. Its intricate designs of Pegasus and Athena capture the imagination, while its historical context provides valuable insights into the economic and artistic achievements of ancient Greece. For collectors and enthusiasts, the Corinthian Stater is a tangible link to a bygone era, a testament to the enduring legacy of one of Greece's most influential city-states. Whether acquired for its aesthetic beauty or historical value, the Corinthian Stater remains a celebrated treasure in the realm of numismatics.

[SEO TITLE]: Discover the Corinthian Silver Stater: A Numismatic Treasure [SEO DESCRIPTION]: Explore the historic Corinthian Stater, a silver coin with rich history. [KEYWORDS]: Corinthian Stater, silver coin, ancient coin, Pegasus coin, Athena coin, Corinth numismatics, Greek coins

Main Content

Introduction

The Corinthian Stater is a captivating piece of ancient numismatic art, cherished by collectors and historians alike. Minted in Corinth, one of the most significant city-states of ancient Greece, this silver coin is distinguished by its remarkable design and historical importance. Featuring the mythical Pegasus on its obverse and the revered goddess Athena on its reverse, the Corinthian Stater offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of ancient Greece. This article delves into the fascinating aspects of this coin, highlighting its unique features, historical background, and collectible value.

Historical Background

The Corinthian Stater was issued by the city of Corinth, an influential maritime power in ancient Greece. Corinth's strategic location on the narrow land bridge connecting the Peloponnesian peninsula with mainland Greece made it a thriving hub of commerce and culture. The city was known for its wealth, artistic achievements, and innovations in coinage. During the Archaic and Classical periods, Corinthian coinage played a pivotal role in trade throughout the Mediterranean region. The Stater, a standard silver coin, was widely accepted and circulated, underscoring Corinth's economic influence. The imagery of Pegasus and Athena on the Stater resonates with Corinth's mythology and reverence for these iconic figures, symbolizing strength, wisdom, and divine protection.

Coin Images

Coin obverse image Obverse

Coin reverse image Reverse

Design Features

Obverse Design: The obverse of the Corinthian Stater features Pegasus, the winged horse of Greek mythology, elegantly depicted flying to the left. Below Pegasus, the Greek letter phi is inscribed, representing Corinth. Pegasus, born from the blood of Medusa, is a symbol of freedom and inspiration, reflecting Corinth's aspirations and legendary heritage. Reverse Design: On the reverse, the coin showcases the head of Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, facing right. Athena is adorned with a Corinthian helmet, a nod to her martial prowess, and a pearl necklace, signifying her divine beauty and wisdom. Behind her, ivy leaves are intricately rendered, adding a touch of natural elegance. The design is enclosed within a partially incuse square, a characteristic feature of many ancient Greek coins.

Technical Specifications

The Corinthian Stater is crafted from silver, a testament to its enduring value and aesthetic appeal. It weighs approximately 8.47 grams and measures 20.00mm in diameter, standard dimensions for coins of this denomination during the period. The precise craftsmanship and attention to detail in its production highlight the advanced metallurgical skills of Corinthian artisans.

Collectible Value

The Corinthian Stater holds significant appeal for numismatists and collectors due to its historical provenance and exquisite design. Its rarity and condition greatly influence its market value, with well-preserved specimens fetching premium prices at auctions and private sales. The coin's connection to ancient Greek mythology and Corinth's historical legacy enhances its desirability, making it a prized addition to any collection of ancient coins.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Corinthian Stater is more than just a piece of ancient currency; it is a symbol of Corinth's rich history and cultural significance. Its intricate designs of Pegasus and Athena capture the imagination, while its historical context provides valuable insights into the economic and artistic achievements of ancient Greece. For collectors and enthusiasts, the Corinthian Stater is a tangible link to a bygone era, a testament to the enduring legacy of one of Greece's most influential city-states. Whether acquired for its aesthetic beauty or historical value, the Corinthian Stater remains a celebrated treasure in the realm of numismatics.

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