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This bronze coin from Lycia, struck at Phaselis between 190–167 BC, reflects the city’s maritime strength and Hellenistic identity.
The obverse typically features Athena, symbolizing wisdom, protection, and military power.
The reverse shows a warship prow, emphasizing Phaselis’ importance as a naval and trading port in the eastern Mediterranean.
Certified by Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), this scarce type is valued by collectors for its historical significance and well-preserved design.
Cities in Lycia were wealthy as shown by their elaborate architecture starting at least from the 5th century BC and extending to the Roman period.
Lycia fought for the Persians in the Persian Wars, but on the defeat of the Achaemenid Empire by the Greeks, it became a free agent. After a brief membership in the Athenian Empire, it seceded and became independent, was under the Persians again, revolted again, was conquered by Mausolus of Caria, returned to the Persians, and finally fell under Macedonian hegemony upon the defeat of the Persians by Alexander the Great. Due to the influx of Greek speakers and the sparsity of the remaining Lycian speakers, Lycia was rapidly Hellenized under the Macedonians, and the Lycian language disappeared from inscriptions and coinage.
NGC certifies most US, world, and ancient coins, tokens, and medals. The certification process consists of authentication, grading, attribution, and encapsulation in plastic holders or Coin slabs. NGC certification offers significant protection against counterfeiting, misattribution, overgrading, and damage.
Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, this ancient coin is a must-have for anyone who appreciates the rich history of Greek coinage.
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