Ancient Greek AR Tetrobol- Griffin/Apollo, 14Kt

This 15mm ancient Greek AR Tetrobol was minted at the Aberda mint in the region of Thrace, circa 411-385 BCE. One side shows a griffin springing from an ear of grain, while the opposite side shows the Laureate head of Apollo, facing left, in a linear square within an incuse square. It has been skillfully mounted in a pendant setting of precious 14Kt yellow gold, that protects this centuries old coin, while showcasing its unique beauty. The Greeks were fond of minting coinage that featured powerful animals and gods. The Griffin is a mythological monster with the head and wings of an eagle- the king of birds on the body of a lion- the king of beasts. According to ancient lore, such creatures guarded Scythian gold. Griffin coins were minted in Abdera, on the coast of Thrace*. Many mythologies, including Herakles and creatures similar to the Griffin appear to have originated or become established in Abdera. Apollo and his twin, Artemis, are the offspring of Zeus and Leto. Apollo is the god