Bee and Horse Coin from the Greek City of Ephesus in Ionia 202-133 BC Hellenian Period AE Sterling Silver Coin Jewelry
This is a fantastic coin which is very well struck and centered. The obverse is of a bee and the reverse a horse standing, probably grazing w/ a palm tree. The coin is approximately 17mm in diameter and 3.6gm weight.
In Greek Mythology, Aristaeus was the god of bee-keeping. After inadvertently causing the death of Eurydice, who stepped upon a snake while fleeing him, her nymph sisters punished him by killing every one of his bees. Witnessing the empty hives where his bees had dwelt, Aristaeus wept and consulted Proteus who advised him to give honor in memory of Eurydice by sacrificing four bulls and four cows. Upon doing so, he let them rot and from their corpses in which rose bees to fill his empty hives. Later on, bees are continued to be a discussion in Greek mythology; mostly in the context or hurting someone and so goes the story. These are the types of coins that display artistry, tells stories and in great uncleaned condition.
We thought this coin would be a great candidate for coin jewelry, as it is suitable for a man or woman; it is placed tightly in a secure sterling silver bezel and comes with a solid 18" sterling silver chain. We were right!; the coin looks fantastic and is a great value for the price. You can't find real coin jewelry with authentic coins anywhere near this investment. Many know, if you've ever visited the caribbean islands; most coin jewelry starts in the $500 range.