Tarsos Stater

Posted on: December 1, 2025

keywords: --- ## Introduction The Tarsos Silver Stater is a remarkable piece of ancient numismatic history, captivating collectors and historians alike with its unique design and rich historical background. As a coin issued by the city of Tarsos, this silver stater offers a glimpse into the economic and cultural life of an influential ancient city. Its intricate designs, featuring mythological imagery, make it not only a rare collectible but also a piece of art that narrates a story from antiquity. ## Historical Background The city of Tarsos, located in what is now modern-day Turkey, played a significant role in ancient trade and commerce due to its strategic position along the Mediterranean. Tarsos was a hub of cultural and economic activity, and its currency reflected its prosperity and influence. The Tarsos Silver Stater was issued under the authority of the city, symbolizing its economic strength and artistic prowess. This coin is believed to have been minted during the Hellenistic period, a time characterized by the spread of Greek culture across the Mediterranean and Near East, which explains the Greco-Phoenician influences in its design. ## Design Features The Tarsos Silver Stater boasts a captivating design that reflects both the artistry and mythology of the time. ### Obverse Design The obverse side of the coin features a male figure, possibly Melkart, the Phoenician god often equated with the Greek Heracles. This figure is depicted riding a hippocamp to the right, a mythical sea creature that combines the features of a horse and fish, symbolizing power over both land and sea. Beneath the hippocamp, waves are illustrated, adding depth and movement to the scene. The presence of Melkart emphasizes Tarsos' connections and cultural exchanges with the Phoenician world. ### Reverse Design The reverse side of the coin presents a deity standing to the left, holding a trident—a symbol of power and dominion over the sea. To the left of the deity is a grain ear, signifying fertility and abundance, crucial aspects of the region's economy. The entire design is enclosed within a dotted square set inside an incuse square, a common motif in ancient coinage, which frames the imagery effectively, enhancing its visual impact. ## Technical Specifications The Tarsos Silver Stater is crafted from silver, a standard for high-value coins of the period, ensuring durability and ease of trade. It weighs approximately 10.43 grams and has a diameter of 18.00mm, making it a substantial piece in both weight and presence. These technical specifications not only highlight the coin's physical attributes but also its intended use as a significant medium of exchange in ancient times. ## Collectible Value The Tarsos Silver Stater holds immense value for numismatists and collectors due to its rarity and the historical insights it provides. As an artifact from a prominent ancient city, it is a testament to the artistic and economic achievements of the period. The market value of this coin can vary significantly based on its condition, provenance, and market demand. However, its rarity and the intrigue surrounding its mythological designs often make it a sought-after piece in auctions and private collections. ## Conclusion In conclusion, the Tarsos Silver Stater is more than just a coin; it is a window into the past, showcasing the cultural and economic vibrancy of ancient Tarsos. Its intricate design and historical significance make it a prized possession for collectors and historians alike. Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or a casual enthusiast, the Tarsos Silver Stater is a remarkable piece that enriches any collection and provides a tangible connection to the ancient world.

[SEO TITLE]: Discover the Tarsos Silver Stater: A Rare Numismatic Treasure [SEO DESCRIPTION]: Unveil the historical Tarsos Silver Stater, a unique ancient coin. [KEYWORDS]: Tarsos coin, Silver Stater, ancient currency, coin collecting, Melkart

Introduction

The Tarsos Silver Stater is a remarkable piece of ancient numismatic history, captivating collectors and historians alike with its unique design and rich historical background. As a coin issued by the city of Tarsos, this silver stater offers a glimpse into the economic and cultural life of an influential ancient city. Its intricate designs, featuring mythological imagery, make it not only a rare collectible but also a piece of art that narrates a story from antiquity.

Historical Background

The city of Tarsos, located in what is now modern-day Turkey, played a significant role in ancient trade and commerce due to its strategic position along the Mediterranean. Tarsos was a hub of cultural and economic activity, and its currency reflected its prosperity and influence. The Tarsos Silver Stater was issued under the authority of the city, symbolizing its economic strength and artistic prowess. This coin is believed to have been minted during the Hellenistic period, a time characterized by the spread of Greek culture across the Mediterranean and Near East, which explains the Greco-Phoenician influences in its design.

Coin Images

Coin obverse image Obverse

Coin reverse image Reverse

Design Features

The Tarsos Silver Stater boasts a captivating design that reflects both the artistry and mythology of the time.

Obverse Design

The obverse side of the coin features a male figure, possibly Melkart, the Phoenician god often equated with the Greek Heracles. This figure is depicted riding a hippocamp to the right, a mythical sea creature that combines the features of a horse and fish, symbolizing power over both land and sea. Beneath the hippocamp, waves are illustrated, adding depth and movement to the scene. The presence of Melkart emphasizes Tarsos' connections and cultural exchanges with the Phoenician world.

Reverse Design

The reverse side of the coin presents a deity standing to the left, holding a trident—a symbol of power and dominion over the sea. To the left of the deity is a grain ear, signifying fertility and abundance, crucial aspects of the region's economy. The entire design is enclosed within a dotted square set inside an incuse square, a common motif in ancient coinage, which frames the imagery effectively, enhancing its visual impact.

Technical Specifications

The Tarsos Silver Stater is crafted from silver, a standard for high-value coins of the period, ensuring durability and ease of trade. It weighs approximately 10.43 grams and has a diameter of 18.00mm, making it a substantial piece in both weight and presence. These technical specifications not only highlight the coin's physical attributes but also its intended use as a significant medium of exchange in ancient times.

Collectible Value

The Tarsos Silver Stater holds immense value for numismatists and collectors due to its rarity and the historical insights it provides. As an artifact from a prominent ancient city, it is a testament to the artistic and economic achievements of the period. The market value of this coin can vary significantly based on its condition, provenance, and market demand. However, its rarity and the intrigue surrounding its mythological designs often make it a sought-after piece in auctions and private collections.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Tarsos Silver Stater is more than just a coin; it is a window into the past, showcasing the cultural and economic vibrancy of ancient Tarsos. Its intricate design and historical significance make it a prized possession for collectors and historians alike. Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or a casual enthusiast, the Tarsos Silver Stater is a remarkable piece that enriches any collection and provides a tangible connection to the ancient world.

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