Asia Minor Coins - Photo Gallery

Ancient Greek and Roman coins from Asia Minor


Last additions - Mytilene EL
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B45a203 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.54g, 10mm, 11h). Head of a nymph, (possibly Europa?), three-quarter facing, turned slightly to right, wearing a taenia / Two confronting boars' heads, “A” between the heads. Very Rare. aEF.Jun 11, 2019
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL 1/24 Stater - B-346 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL 1/24 Stater (0.62g, 7mm, 1h). Head of calf left / Incuse head of lion left; rectangular punch behind. Unpublished in the standard references. Near Mint State. An excessively rare denomination; one of just three known examples of this type. P.R. coll., United Kingdom.Jul 25, 2018
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B-475 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.57g, 11mm). Laureate head of Apollo right / Female head (Persephone and Hecate) right, wearing triangular earring, within linear square. gVF. Die rust on obverse die and die match for Coin ID# 13789. Carr coll.

This coin is unknown to Bodenstedt, but is the third to appear at auction. One cataloguer thought it to be a “mule” of B100 and B99. However, the reverse is different to B99 with the female wearing triangular earrings. Noting a new emission is important as it adds two extra years to the period of the emissions of hektai from Mytilene. If the emissions did cease with Alexander, then each coin unknown to Bodenstedt supports the view that hektai were issued earlier than he suggests. There are 13 new emissions that have appeared at auction that were unknown to Bodenstedt at the time of his catalogue.
Jul 06, 2018
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B12 var272 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.56g, 10mm). Head of roaring lion left, variant with ‘sun’ and rays above eye / Incuse head of calf left; rectangular punch to right. EF. Carr coll.

19 examples known to Bodenstedt, this is the 106th example to have appeared at auction. The dies for this example are worn and otherwise unknown. This variant with a ‘sun’ and rays above the eye is similar to that on the Trites of Lydia. Some sources suggest that the lion was considered a personification of the sun as they were thought to be able to look directly at the sun.
May 06, 2018
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B38362 viewsca 454-428/7 BC. EL Hekte (11mm, 2.48g). Head of Silenos facing slightly left / Head of lion right within linear square border; within incuse square. gVF. Very rare.Feb 10, 2018
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B21 var359 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.56g, 10.5mm, 9h). Head of ram left; below, head of eagle facing right / Incuse head of bearded Herakles wearing lion’s skin headdress facing right. Good VF, toned.

This is a variant of the normal emission with an eagle’s head. This originally appeared in Elsen Auc. 111 (12/2011), lot 131, and appears to be the only example. It is unlisted in any of the standard texts except HGC 6, 947 var, this coin.
Jan 25, 2018
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Mytilene (BC 530-522) EL 1/12 Stater - BE2216 views600-550 BC. EL 1/12 Stater (1.16g, 6mm). Head of calf right / Incuse square punch. VF. Carr coll.; ex Gorny & Mosch 191 (10/2010), lot 1521.

Bodenstedt noted a rare group of fractions having a calf head facing right on the obverse and incuse square punch on the reverse. He attributed this series to Mytilene. After Bodenstedt (1981) was published, some scholars suggested this series of emissions appears to equate to a Lydo-Milesian standard which may indicate it was minted in Ionia, perhaps during the Ionian Revolt - see Kayhan (2002), Plate 28 nos 732-734. Thus far, the series of fractions consists of 1/12 stater (this coin), 1/24 stater (see Coin ID #12959) and 1/48 stater (see Coin ID #12749).
Jan 22, 2018
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B-181 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.51g, 10mm). Head of Persephone right / Lyre or kithara within incuse. VF. Carr coll.

This emission is not recorded in Bodenstedt. This is the 5th example to appear at auction. Reverse is die match to example auctioned by CNG Auc. 105 (5/2017), lot 285.
Oct 24, 2017
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL 1/24 Stater - B- 400 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL 1/24 Stater (0.65g, 6mm, 11h). Head of calf to left / Incuse head of lion to left, rectangular punch behind. EF. Carr coll.

Unknown to Bodenstedt. One other recorded example known - Gorny & Mosch 195, 222 (12,000 EUR). This coin, coupled with 1/12 Stater on Asia Minor Coins (Coin ID #13297), confirms that Lesbos had fractions of a Stater in addition to the hekte.
Sep 30, 2017
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B61222 viewsca 412-378 BC. EL Hekte (2.52g, 10mm). Head of Io in three-quarter view right / Forepart of a cow facing right, all within incuse square. VF. Carr coll.

Bodenstedt notes 4 examples of this emission. A further 10 examples, including this one, have appeared at auction.
Jul 21, 2017
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B21 var226 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.50g, 10mm). Head of ram left, cock standing right, pecking at ground. Letter E (retrograde) below. / Incuse head of bearded Herakles wearing lion’s skin headdress facing right. VF. Carr coll.

This appears to be a ‘double variant’ emission. The coin is ‘clearly’ a hybrid of an obverse of Bodenstedt 21 (ram's head left with cock below) and the reverse of Bodenstedt 2, 15, 16, 20, or 26 (incuse lion's head right). There appear to be only 6 of this variant, this being the 6th. On the other hand, it is a variant in respect to the other 5 variant examples and the normal B21, as there is a letter “E” (retrograde) below the cock on the obverse. CNG Auc. 105, lot 238 (5/2017) is a similar coin, but it has an additional letter () below the cock. Hekte emissions of Mytilene that include the letters E are B14, B20, B23, B28, B35 and B-unknown CNG Triton XX (1/2017), lot 259 - these letters have been taken to denote the island of Lesbos. CNG suggest these B21 variants should be considered a new emission as, in addition to a different type combination, none have die matches with other dies.
Jul 21, 2017
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B58290 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.56g, 10.5mm, 4h). Laureate head of Apollo facing right / Rock partridge standing right in linear square, letter “F” in front, all within incuse square. gVF. Carr coll.

Bodenstedt notes 5 examples of this emission. A further 8 examples, including this one, have appeared at auction. A close examination of the examples that have appeared at auction reveals that 5 of the 8 are from the same reverse die, which shows deterioration and progression of a die crack. The sequence from no die crack is as follows: Roma Auc. X (4/2016), lot 370; CNG Auc. 102 (5/2016), lot 423 (this coin); CNG Auc, Triton XIX (1/2016), lot 198; CNG Auc. 69 (6/2005), lot 377 (Asia Minor Coins, Coin ID #1947); and CNG Auc. 384 (10/2016), lot 218. This group of 5 coins from the same reverse die also reveals what appears to be a letter “F” in front of the breast of the partridge. This letter is more distinct in in some coins than in others and has previously gone unrecorded in the descriptions of these coins.
Jul 02, 2017
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B42410 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.48g, 11mm, 12h). Forepart of a goat right, head reverted / Owl standing, wings spread, within incuse square. VF, lightly toned. Carr coll.

This emission is thought to have occurred at a time when Lesbos was a member of the Delian League – an alliance of around 330 Greek city-states formed in the first half of 477 BC and led by Athens for the purpose of defending themselves against the Persians. It is suggested that this emission may have been part of the Lesbos tribute (phoros) to the war chest of the League. The depiction of an owl on the reverse appears to have been copied from Athenian Dekadrachms and would seem to allude to the relationship with Athens. Bodenstedt notes 21 examples of this emission. A further 43 examples have appeared at auction, this being the 43rd.
Jun 30, 2017
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B- (B100/-)488 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.54g, 10mm). Laureate head of Apollo right. / Female head (Persephone and Hecate) right, wearing triangular earring, all within linear square border. VF. Carr coll.

This coin is the second known of this type (the first was in Heritage Auc. 3046 (4/2016), lot 29113). These two hybrids appear to share the same reverse die, but the obverse is different. This coin appears to be a combination of B100 and a reverse unknown to Bodenstedt. However, the reverse is a die match with Coin ID #12999. The cataloguer of the Heritage example thought the reverse was B99. However, the reverse is different than B99 with the female wearing triangular earrings.
Jun 10, 2017
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B52 var.225 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.61g, 10.5mm, 10h). Young male head facing right, wearing taenia / In archaic style, wreathed male head facing right, wearing long beard slanted downwards, all within incuse square. Good VF. Carr coll.

This emission is a rarer issue of this type with a small head on the reverse. The identity of the individuals featured on this coin has been open to speculation. Some suggest the obverse male is a youthful river god. Some have suggested the male on the reverse is an older river god, others suggest it is Dionysos. Bodenstedt notes 29 examples of this general emission and within that only 4 of this variety. A further 81 examples have appeared at auction, this being the 81st and within that only 5 of this variety.
Jun 02, 2017
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B66341 viewsca 412-378 BC. EL Hekte (2.60g, 10.5mm, 1h). Head of Ares facing right, wearing crested Attic helmet decorated with a griffin / Crested Corinthian helmet facing within a linear square within an incuse square. nEF and well centered. Carr coll.

This coin is one previously sold from the MM Collection Ex CNG Triton XIX (1/2016), lot 204. Bodenstedt notes 3 examples of this type and there have been another 7 from auctions including this coin.
May 19, 2017
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B55 var.286 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.52g, 10.5mm, 5h). Head of Athena facing right, wearing Chalkidian helmet / Two confronting female heads in profile, their faces overlapping with common or ‘single eye’, hair in archaic braids, all within incuse square. VF and well centered. Carr coll.

This coin is appears to be a variant of B55 sharing the same reverse – see Coin ID #11681. The obverse is different - here Athena wears a Chalkidian helmet instead of Corinthian. CNG commented: “This helmet is thought to be a derivative of the Corinthian helmet, and became popular in the 5th–4th centuries BC. It was lighter than the Corinthian helmet and afforded its wearer better visibility and hearing while worn.” This emission is only the second known example, the other being sold at the NAC Auc. 78 (5/2014) lot 1471 which appears to be from the same dies (see Coin ID #11286). The obverse of this coin is similar to an unknown type - Coin ID #11287, which was a coin sold at the Gemini Auc. IX (1/2012), lot 111.
May 11, 2017
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B95 var.429 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.54g, 9.5mm, 11h). Laureate head of Apollo (Dionysos?) facing right / Head of female facing right, drapery at neck, within linear square. Good VF. Carr coll.

A variation of the usual B95 type or a distinct new type. The obverse head appears different to that of Apollo and more like Dionysos with a laurel wreath rather than the usual ivy leaves. The female head on the reverse is unusually large. CNG described this coin as: “This is one of the few coins of this type that we have handled where the obverse portrait may actually be Dionysos, as there is what looks like a pinecone at the top of the laurel wreath. Normally, Dionysos would be wreathed with ivy leaves, but the wreath on this coin, and this type, usually looks more like laurel leaves. It is possible that this type is either an engraver’s error, or was meant to be a distinct issue different from the Apollo obverse type”.
Mar 30, 2017
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B71410 viewsca 412-378 BC. EL Hekte (2.49g, 10mm, 6h). Head of Athena facing right, wearing crested Attic helmet / Long bearded head of Pharnabazos facing right wearing Persian headdress with ends falling behind neck, within linear frame within incuse square. Good VF, well centred, long bearded variety of this emission. Carr coll.

Bodenstedt notes 13 examples, a further 17th examples have appeared in auctions including this coin. A very sought after emission in this series for its historical importance. The reverse depicts Pharnabazos who played a significant role in the Peloponnesian War, providing Persian military and financial support to Sparta. In BC 399, when Sparta turned on its former ally and invaded Persia, Pharnabazos organised the Persian fleet and with the assistance of the Athenian Conon and Evagoras of Salamis, fought a decisive sea-battle in BC 394 near Knidos, completely destroying the Spartan fleet. Pharnabazos was the hereditary satrap of Phrygia and his granddaughter, Apame (Apama), married Seleukos and thus is said to be the founding Queen of the Seleukid Empire.
Feb 18, 2017
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B51226 viewsca 454-428/7 BC. EL Hekte (2.56g, 10mm, 3h). Laureate head of Apollo facing right / Bearded head of Silenos facing right, within incuse square. Good VF, well centred with reverse weakly struck as is usual for this emission. Carr coll.

A popular collectors' coin, Bodenstedt noting 9 examples. This is the 17th additional example to appear in auctions.
Feb 18, 2017
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B44383 viewsca 454-428/7 BC. EL Hekte (2.51g, 10mm, 12h). Head of nymph three-quarter facing and turned slightly right, wearing taenia that is bound up at the back of her head / Bull's head left; M above; all within incuse square. Good VF. Carr coll.

A rare coin with Bodenstedt noting just 7 examples. There are only 7 additional examples appearing in auctions before this sale. This emission shares an obverse similar to B45 with some sharing the same die. There is a variation of the obverse in which at the top left of field (10:00) contains a letter “A” (see Coin ID 12993). On the reverse, the “M” above the bull’s head has been taken to indicate Mytilene.
Feb 12, 2017
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Mytilene (BC 477-455) EL Hekte - B-448 viewsca 478-455 BC. EL Hekte (2.50g, 9.5mm, 11h). Head of female right, hair bound in sakkos; Λ¬E flanking neck; all on raised disk / Incuse head of cock right; small square behind neck. gVF.

The cataloguer at CNG described this coin as “Unique.” If genuine, this is a fascinating and important coin as its obverse and reverse are of an unknown type and the obverse appears to be a ‘shield-like’. The obverse has a ‘hint’ of an under-type at 5 o’clock.

The coin is an ‘enigma’: The reverse is a cock's head facing right. B3, B7 and B9 are comparable portraits but all face left. The reverse type suggests that the coin is pre-455 BC but the obverse has a portrait of a woman which is unknown for the early series. The 'shield-like' attachment on the obverse does not have a precedent in the Mytilene series.
Jan 13, 2017
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B65 var.401 viewsca 412-378 BC. EL Hekte (2.59g, 10mm, 7h). Bearded head of Ares right, wearing crested Attic helmet / Head of Amazon right, her hair drawn up and tied, in linear border within incuse square. gVF. Carr coll.

This emission is a variation of Bodenstedt 65. The reverse usually shows Amazon wearing an ornate helmet with the forepart of a griffin. This coin shows the Amazon without a helmet and her hair drawn up and tied. Bodenstedt does describe this variation for which he records 5 examples from a single die. At auction, only 5 other examples have appeared, thus this appears to be only the 11th example known. The obverse is from a die unrecorded by Bodenstedt and unknown from the examples from auctions.
Nov 10, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL 1/12 Stater - B-546 viewsca 530-522 BC. EL Hemihekte (1.25g, 9.4mm). Forepart of winged boar, right / Incuse head of man-headed bull / river god, left. Obverse struck from rusty die, otherwise gVF. Carr coll.

The cataloguer at CNG described this coin as “Unpublished. Unique, and this issue is unknown in any other denomination.” A fascinating and important coin, as it confirms that a fraction, in addition to Hekte, was issued by Mytilene. Bodenstedt suggested a series of fractional emissions could be attributed to Mytilene - these have a calf head facing right on the obverse and incuse square on the reverse. This attribution is disputed by many scholars (see Coin ID #12959). In this context, this new fraction is of significant interest.
1 commentsSep 15, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B92486 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.53g, 11mm). Bust of Maenad, hair in sphendone, right / Torch in linear square. EF.Sep 12, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B91438 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.53g, 11mm). Veiled head of Demeter right, wearing wreath of grain ears / Filleted tripod with linear square. gVF.Sep 12, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B79464 viewsca 412-378 BC. EL Hekte (2.52g, 11mm). Female head right, with hair in sakkos / Kithara within linear border. gVF.Sep 12, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B78380 viewsca 412-378 BC. EL Hekte (2.57g, 11mm). Head of Ariadne left, hair in sakkos decorated with three grape bunches / Lion standing right, broken javelin in jaws; all within linear square. aEF.Sep 12, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B51203 viewsca 454-428/7 BC. EL Hekte (2.52g, 11mm). Laureate head of Apollo right / Bearded head of Silenos right within incuse square. gVF. Very rare.Sep 12, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B49184 viewsca 454-428/7 BC. EL Hekte (2.57g, 11mm). Female head right / Head of roaring lion right within incuse square. gVF. Very rare. Sep 12, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B42403 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.50g, 11mm). Forepart of goat right, head left / Owl standing facing, wings spread, within incuse square. EF. Sep 12, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 477-455) EL Hekte - B34224 viewsca 478-455 BC. EL Hekte (2.46g, 11mm). Bearded head of Silenos facing slightly right / Incuse head of roaring lion left. VF.Sep 12, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B19521 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.57g, 11mm). Facing gorgoneion, tongue protruding / Incuse head of Herakles right, wearing lion's skin. EF.Sep 12, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B09418 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.53g, 11mm). Forepart of winged lion left / Incuse head of cock left; rectangular punch to right. EF.Sep 12, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B90 type 1 371 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.55g, 10mm, 1h). Wreathed head of young Dionysos right/ Facing bald head with long tousled beard swept back, smooth forehead, long pointed (animal?) ears upward, all within linear square. gVF. Carr coll.

Bodenstedt notes 16 obverse and 25 reverse die varieties. His reverse dies can be simplified to small variations of 3 different head types and 4 “motifs” that may occur in the field. The 3 different head types are: small bald head with long tousled beard swept back, smooth forehead, long pointed ears upward; larger head, shaggy hair and close cropped beard and moustache, small ‘animal ears’, furrowed or smooth brow; as previous type but shaggy hair. The 4 “motifs” are additions in the field: ivy leaf, upper right and sometimes lower left corners; grapes, lower left corner – Bodenstedt makes a distinction on basis of a stem being present; 8-armed/beamed star top right corner; and, 8-armed/beamed star top left corner. (see Coin ID #11346)
Jun 29, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B90 type 6 469 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.53g, 10mm). Wreathed head of young Dionysos right/ Facing large head of satyr with small ‘animal ears’, shaggy hair, close cropped beard and moustache, furrowed brow, ivy leaf top right in field, all within linear square. EF. Carr coll.

Bodenstedt notes 16 obv. and 25 rev. dies. His reverse die varieties can be simplified to small variations of 3 different head types and 4 “motifs” that occur in the field. The 3 different head types are: small bald head with long tousled beard swept back, smooth forehead, long pointed ears upward; larger head, shaggy hair and close cropped beard and moustache, small ‘animal ears’, furrowed or smooth brow; as previous type but shaggy hair (as in this example). The 4 “motifs” are additions in the field: an ivy leaf, upper right and sometimes lower left corners; grapes, lower left corner (Bodenstedt makes a distinction on basis of a stem being present); 8-armed/beamed star top right corner; and, 8-armed/beamed star top left corner.

These 7 simplified reverse varieties/types for Bodenstedt 90 have been described elsewhere on this website (see Coin ID #11346). Second known from auction.
May 19, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B-785 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.54g, 6h, 11mm). Laureate head of Apollo right / Female head (Persephone and Hecate) right, wearing triangular earring, within linear square. VF.

The cataloger of this coin thought it to be a “mule” of B100 and B99. However, the reverse is different than B99 with the female wearing triangular earrings. There are no die matches for the obverse and the reverse is a new type. Noting a new emission is important, as it adds two extra years to the period of emissions of hecte from Mytilene. If the emissions did cease with Alexander, then each coin unknown to Bodenstedt supports the view that hecte were issued earlier than he suggests. It appears this is the eighth new emission unknown to Bodenstedt.
Apr 15, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B19.1595 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.57g, 10mm, 12h). Facing head of grimacing Gorgon, tongue protruding (no small row of top teeth) / Bearded head of Herakles right, wearing lion-skin headdress; truncation with two rows of dots, rectangular punch behind neck; the whole in incuse. EF. Carr coll.

Obverse and reverse die unknown to Bodenstedt and no match with examples that have come to auction thus far. 34 examples known to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the 60th example offered at electronic auction or sale.
Apr 10, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B45a571 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.54g, 10.5mm, 4h). Head of nymph three-quarter facing and turned slightly right, wearing taenia bound at back of head / Two boars' heads confronting each other, “A” between. nEF. Carr coll.

It has been suggested that the obverse portrait is that of Sappho (see Coin ID #153) or Europa. Three examples noted by Bodenstedt, this appears to be only the eighth additional example offered at electronic auction. Of the total, four examples have the letter “A” between the heads.
1 commentsApr 05, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 530-522) EL 1/24 Stater - BE-370 viewsca 530-522 BC. EL 1/24 Stater (0.58g, 6mm). Calf head facing right / Incuse square. VF, toned. Carr coll.

Unknown to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the fifth example that has been offered at auction. This example shares the same die and punch as two other examples – CNG Auc. 88 (9/2011), lot 363 (Coin ID #8310); and CNG Auc. 97 (9/2014) lot 223. After Bodenstedt was published in 1981, some scholars have suggested this series of emissions appears to equate to a Lydo-Milesian standard, which may indicate it was minted in Ionia, perhaps during the Ionian Revolt - see Kayhan (2002), Plate 28 nos. 732-734 (also Coin ID #12749).
Mar 10, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B82338 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.48g, 10mm, 5h). Female head (possibly Leda) facing right / Swan standing right, head left, wing raised, within linear square in incuse square, VF/F. Carr coll.

Bodenstedt notes only one example. This is the third additional example known from auction. The other two sold at auction were NAC Auction O (2004), lot 1603 and Tkalec Auction (4/2007), lot 71. The obverse of all the examples have been struck from the same die. This obverse die was also used for an emission, unknown to Bodenstedt, that has Nike on the reverse – see Coin ID #11240 and Coin ID #12842. The reverse die used for this coin is different to what is the common die for the other three examples - the ‘underwing’ of the swan is more extensive and detailed.
Feb 23, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B-444 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.53g, 11mm). Head of a roaring lion, facing left / Incuse head of a calf facing left, incuse rectangular punch behind. gVF. Carr coll.

The combination of roaring lion with incuse head of calf are noted in Bodenstedt as emissions 12, 13, 14, 24 and 25. This coin has the obverse and reverse figures facing left - a combination unknown to Bodenstedt and unpublished in other standard references. This is the second of three examples known from auction. The first was sold in Gorny and Mosch Auc. 151 (10/2006), lot 179. The second and third examples in Pecunem Auc. 40 (2/2016), lots 226 and 227. The examples from Pecunem auction are from the same obverse and reverse dies.
Feb 07, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B73374 viewsca 412-378 BC. EL Hekte (2.51g, 11mm, 6h). Head of Athena, right, wearing crested Attic helmet / Head of Artemis-Kybele right, wearing stephane, within square incuse. aEF. Carr coll.

34 examples noted by Bodenstedt. This appears to be the 56th additional example offered at electronic auction. Most examples of this emission are worn or poorly struck. This example is arguably one of the best known - being well centered, sharply struck and, because of the shape of the flan, the obverse displays waves of hair falling below the neckline normally absent on other examples. There are a variety of decorations that appear on the helmet of the obverse. The obverse (and reverse) is a die match for Lanz Auc. 148 (1/2010), lot 39.
Jan 30, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B-342 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.54g, 9mm). Forepart of bull running right / Incuse head of roaring lion right, incuse punches behind. VF. Carr coll.

This emission is previously unknown. The combination of forepart of bull with incuse head of roaring lion are noted by Bodenstedt as M1, M2, M4 and M5. This coin has the obverse and reverse figures facing right - unknown to Bodenstedt and unpublished in other standard references. Currently there are no die matches for either obverse or reverse.
Jan 04, 2016
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B-650 viewsca 378-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.52g, 10mm). Female head (Leda?) right, hair rolled behind / Head of Nike right, hair bound with a taenia, [N]-I/K-A, all within linear square. VF. Carr coll. Ex Münzen and Medaillen Deutschland, Auc. 22 (2008), lot 928 (Schulte coll.); ex Karl coll.; ex Münzen and Medaillen Deutschland, Auc. 9 (2001), lot 254.

Only 3 examples known of this type. Obverse of all examples is die match with Bodenstedt 82 that he described as head of Leda. The obverse die for Bodenstedt 82 has a reverse of a swan and is only known by 2 specimens. The reverse of this coin is Nike. The inscription is not complete on any of the 3 examples known, but it is clear that the letters are N-I/K-A. Silvia Hurter, in her article on this specific example, notes that the inscription makes it clear that the reverse is Nike and it can be inferred that this coin was struck to commemorate a victory, but which is uncertain (see Die Nike von Mytilene: Eine anonyme Siegespragung, SM 202, June 2001, pp. 21-22).
Oct 06, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 477-455) EL Hekte - B53.2654 viewsca 370 BC EL Hekte (2.57g, 10mm, 6h). Facing gorgoneion / Incuse head of lynx facing. EF

2 known to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the 4th additional example offered at auction.
Oct 02, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B? 439 viewsca 412-378 BC. EL Hekte (2.58g, 10mm, 4h). Head of Ares right, wearing crested helmet decorated with forepart of griffin / Calf's head to right within incuse square. EF. Carr coll.

This emission is unpublished in the standard references including Bodenstedt and appears to be unique. The obverse is that of Bodenstedt emission 65 and 66 and is a die match for Bodenstedt 66 in Roma Numismatics Auc. X (9/2015), lot 459 - see Coin ID #12825. The reverse is that of Bodenstedt 56, but has no die match with any example known at the time of this sale.

This is an important coin, as it raises questions as to whether it is a completely new emission or a hybrid. If it is a combination of two existing dies used in other emissions, those dies are at least 20 years apart in the Bodenstedt order. The condition of the coins in the aforementioned example of a die link with Bodenstedt 66, suggests they are a contemporary issue.
Oct 02, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B861021 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.55g, 11mm, 6h). Helmeted head of Athena facing slightly right, single-pendant earring, and pearl necklace / Head of Hermes right, chlamys around shoulders and petasos behind neck, within linear frame. gEF.

41 examples known to Bodenstedt. Additionally, there appear to be the 58 additional examples that have come to auction – this being the 58th.
Oct 01, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B64/65436 viewsca 412-378 BC. EL Hekte (2.55g, 11mm, 12h). Laureate head of Apollo facing 3/4 slightly right / Head of an Amazon in Thracian leather helmet with cheek guards to right, hair in sakkos. gEF.

The reverse appears to be that of Bodenstedt 65ß. Thus this example could be a hybrid B64/65. On the other hand, this could be an example of a die break which links the reverses of B64 and B65. See Coin ID #11245 for similar emission.
Oct 01, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B59469 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.56g, 11mm, 1h). Laureate head of Apollo right / Goat head to right within square linear frame. EF.

8 known to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the 9th additional offered at auction.
Oct 01, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B58439 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.56g, 11mm, 11h). Laureate head of Apollo to right / Rock partridge walking to right, linear frame around; all within incuse square. EF.

5 known to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the 3rd additional offered at auction.
Oct 01, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B56394 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.51g, 11mm, 3h). Laureate head of Apollo right / Head of calf to right within incuse square. gEF.

24 known to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the 25th additional offered at auction. See Coin ID #11681 for further details.
Oct 01, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B55807 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.53g, 11mm, 1h). Head of Athena wearing crested Corinthian helmet to right / Two confronted female heads, their faces overlapping; all within incuse square. EF.

8 known to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the 7th additional offered at auction. See Coin ID #11681 for further details.
Oct 01, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B49399 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.53g, 11mm, 8h). Head of Persephone right, hair in bunch behind / Head of roaring lion to right within incuse square. EF.

11 known to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the 9th additional offered at auction.
Oct 01, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B48345 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.59g, 11mm, 5h). Young female head to right, hair tied up with ribbon / Facing head of wolf (or lion) within incuse square. EF.

3 known to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the 4th additional offered at auction.
Oct 01, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B43458 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.56g, 11mm, 4h). Bearded head of Priapos right, wearing tainia / Head of female (nymph Chione or Dione?) right, hair in sphendone, within shallow incuse square. EF.

5 known to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the 8th additional offered at auction.
Oct 01, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B41514 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.53g, 11mm, 1h). Forepart of boar right / Head of lion right within linear square. EF.

32 known to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the 56th additional offered at auction.
Oct 01, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B20424 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.53g, 11mm, 6h). Forepart of a bridled horse right, ΛΕ below / Incuse head of roaring lion right; rectangular punch behind.

3 known to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the 4th additional offered at auction.
Oct 01, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B19.2514 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.52g, 10mm, 6h). Facing gorgoneion with protruding tongue / Incuse head of Herakles left, wearing lion skin headdress; small incuse square behind, incuse club below.

2 known to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the 1st offered at auction.
Oct 01, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B66503 viewsca 412-378 BC. EL Hekte (2.53g, 10mm, 7h). Head of Ares right, wearing crested helmet decorated with forepart of griffin / Facing Corinthian helmet, linear frame around; all within incuse square. EF.

Bodenstedt notes 2 examples of this coin, this appears to be the 1st additional example to come auction.
Oct 01, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B67553 viewsca 412-378 BC. EL Hekte (2.45g, 11mm). Bearded head right of Zeus Ammon with ram's horn, two tendrils of hair curling back from crown of head / Diademed head right of female, hair rolled above nape of neck, within square incuse. VF. Carr coll.

Five examples noted by Bodenstedt, this appears to be only the ninth additional example offered at electronic auction. Of the more than 5,000 different electrum issues of Mytilene documented by the owner of this coin, this is the first ‘kidney-shaped’ flan noted. The obverse and reverse are a die match for Goldberg Auc. 70 (9/2012), lot 3118 and Pecunem Auc. 15 (4/2014), Lot 198.
Aug 09, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 530-522) EL 1/48 Stater - BE2541 viewsca 522 BC. EL 1/48 Stater (0.30g, 5mm). Calf head facing right / Incuse square punch. VF. Carr coll.

One example noted by Bodenstedt, this appears to be only the fifth additional example offered at electronic auction. Obverse die match with Bod Tafel 50 E2 a/-.
1 commentsAug 09, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B10618 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (10.5mm, 2.57g, 12h). Forepart of winged boar right / Incuse head of lion left; rectangular punch behind. EF, toned. Well centered. Very rare. Cooke coll.Aug 04, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B05389 viewsca 521­-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.61g). Forepart of bull right / Lion’s head left, open jaws, within incuse. Virtually as struck and almost FDC. Ex Tkalec 29 (2/2000), 88.May 23, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B78399 viewsca 412-­378 BC. EL Hekte (10mm, 2.56g, 6h). Head of Ariadne left, hair in sakkos decorated with three grape bunches / Lion, spearhead in jaws, right in linear square within incuse square.Near EF, toned, tiny pit on cheek, some light deposits. Very rare.May 23, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B63857 viewsca 412­-378 BC. EL Hekte (11mm, 2.50g, 12h). Forepart of winged lion left / Sphinx seated right in linear square within incuse square. Near EF, toned. Well struck.May 23, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B37734 viewsca 454­-428/7 BC. EL Hekte (10mm, 2.50g, 11h). Diademed head of Silenos right / Two ram heads butting each other, palmette between; all in incuse square. Good VF. Well centered.May 23, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 477-455) EL Hekte - B27476 viewsca 478­-455 BC. EL Hekte (10.5mm, 2.52g, 5h). Head of ram right; below, cock standing left / Incuse head of bull right. Good VF, lightly toned. Unusual centering, allowing full view of cock.May 23, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B52 581 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.52g, 10mm). Young male head facing right, wearing knotted taenia with lotus-like ornament above the forehead / Wreathed male head (in archaic style) facing right, wearing long beard, within incuse square. gVF, one of the best examples known, with reverse in much better condition than usual for this emission. Carr coll.

Bodenstedt notes 29 examples of this emission. A further 30 examples have appeared at auction, this being the 30th.
1 commentsMay 21, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B47 542 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.48g, 10mm, 9h). Bearded head of Silenos right / Head of lion (or wolf?) facing within incuse square. gVF.

This is only the fourth known example of this emission, two of which are noted in Bodenstedt. The reverse is a die match with a reverse die used for an emission of B48 (CNG 85, 411).
May 13, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B84636 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.50g, 11mm). Head of nymph facing right, hair in sphendone / Amphora, two ivy leaves flanking; all within linear square border. VF. Rare.May 13, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B49 387 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.52g, 9mm, 12h). Head of Persephone right / Downward head of lion to right within incuse square. VF. Carr coll.1 commentsApr 30, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B35 655 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.47g, 9mm, 6h). Helmeted head of Athena right / Confronting calf’s heads and ΛΕ above, all within incuse square. Near VF. Carr coll. Ex Naville 9, lot 72 (9/2014).

Bodenstedt notes two varieties of the reverse - one with the letters ΛΕ above the confronting calf’s heads and one without. Of the 24 examples noted by Bodenstedt, only 4 are with ΛΕ. The letters ΛΕ denote the coin is from the island of Lesbos. There are 5 different electrum coin emissions of Mytilene that include the letters ΛΕ - B14, B20, B23, B28 and B35.
1 commentsApr 30, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B46 665 viewsca 478-455 BC. EL Hekte (2.55g). Female head right, wearing sakkos / Two herms (?) facing, one male, one female, within linear border; all within shallow incuse square. The male herm with an exaggerated erect phallus. Good VF. Carr coll.

Six examples known to Bodenstedt. This appears to be only the second example offered at electronic auction or sale. The dies for this coin are unrecorded in Bodenstedt, but the same as the other example offered at electronic auction (Roma Numismatics 7 (3/2014), lot 611).
1 commentsMar 15, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B87 (unlisted reverse die)438 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.54g). Ivy-wreathed head of youthful Dionysos right / Head of horned Satyr right, within linear frame. About EF. Carr coll.

9 examples noted by Bodenstedt. An additional 21 examples have been offered at electronic auction. Unlisted reverse die in Bodenstedt, but same reverse die as Pecunem 19 (7/2014), lot 196. Ex Roma 14 (12/2014), lot 125.
Mar 01, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B13447 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.5g). Head of a roaring lion right / Incuse head of a calf right with collar, incuse rectangular punch behind. Obverse has signs of die rust, reverse is from a die unknown to Bodenstedt and no match with examples that have come to auction thus far. aVF/gVF. Carr coll.

141 examples known to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the 227th example offered at electronic auction or sale. From the numbers known to Bodenstedt and those that have appeared at auction, the coins of this emission are the most extensive of all those electrum of Lesbos. It has been suggested by a number of authorities that this emission was struck around 500 BC when Lesbos took part in the Ionic revolt.
Feb 09, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B68300 viewsca 412-378 BC. EL Hekte (2.44g). Female head facing right, wearing hair-net / Beardless head with grotesque features facing left, lamp at forehead, the hair covered by net; thin square frame, all in incuse square. aVF. Carr coll.

Bodenstedt interpreted the male head on the reverse as a Daktylos or Telchine, both from mythical bands of miners and blacksmiths, sometimes described as having a sinister character (a common feature of mythical blacksmiths - Hephaestus is the exception). It has been suggested that the object at the forehead is a miner's lamp. Six examples noted by Bodenstedt, this appears to be only the seventh additional example offered at electronic auction.
Feb 02, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B45431 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.44g). Head of nymph three-quarter facing and turned slightly right, wearing taenia that is bound up at the back of her head / Two boars' heads confronting each other. It has been suggested that the obverse portrait is that of Europa. VF. Carr coll.

Three examples noted by Bodenstedt, this appears to be only the fifth additional example offered at electronic auction.
1 commentsFeb 02, 2015
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B80535 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.55g). Female head right, hair in sakkos / Head of Athena right, wearing crested Corinthian helmet, within linear square. Exceptionally well centred example, one of best known. gVF/EF. Carr coll.

Six examples noted by Bodenstedt, this appears to be only the second additional example offered at electronic auction.
Dec 16, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B14499 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.56g). Head of roaring lion right, ΛE to left (facing outward, E retrograde) / Incuse head of calf right with collar, incuse rectangular punch behind. One of the finest known to capture all elements of the type, gVF. Carr coll.

Thirteen examples known to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the tenth example offered at electronic auction or sale. The obverse is one of the five coin types noted by Bodenstedt (B14, B20, B23, B28 and B35) that bear the initial letters of the name of the island - Lesbos.
Sep 10, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B01433 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.56g). Forepart of bull running left, “M” below between mouth and front leg / Incuse head of roaring lion left, incuse punches behind. Exceptionally well centred example, one of best known. gVF. Carr coll.Aug 21, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B80393 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.53g, 11mm). Female head right, hair in sakkos / Head of Athena right, wearing crested Corinthian helmet, within linear square. VF.

Six examples noted by Bodenstedt, this appears to be the first additional example offered at electronic auction.
Aug 10, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B55458 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.49g, 11mm). Head of Athena right, wearing Corinthian helmet / Two overlapping female heads facing each other, hair in archaic braids all within incuse square. Obverse nicely centered on flan, good VF. Carr coll.

Eight examples known to Bodenstedt. This is the fifth further example to appear at auction. The reverse is an amazing picture puzzle. Examining the reverse of B55 emissions, one can note two different types: one type has an overlap of the heads such that an optical illusions is created where they appear to have a common eye; the other type, each head retains a distinct eye in profile. The overlap of the heads is a reverse that also appears on a later emission, B62 - part of a different series for Bodenstedt.
Jul 07, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Stater - B60.21007 viewsca 428-427 BC. EL Stater (15.45g). Laureate head of Apollo right, hair short; MVTI above / Quadripartite incise square. aEF.

This is the only example known and is noted in Bodenstedt as being in the British Museum (BMC 28 Pl. 32,1). It has been speculated that this may have been issued at the time of the Lesbian revolt from Athens, 428/7 BC.
1 commentsJul 01, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 530-522) EL 1/24 Stater - BE- 424 viewsca 530-522 BC. EL 1/24 Stater (0.62g). Calf head facing right / Incuse square. EF.

No example known to Bodenstedt.
Jun 30, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 530-522) EL 1/48 Stater - BE2328 viewsca 530-522 BC. EL 1/48 Stater (0.31g). Calf head facing right / Incuse square. aEF.

One example known to Bodenstedt, this appears to be the only additional example that has been offered at auction.
Jun 30, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 530-522) EL 1/12 Stater - BE2533 viewsca 530-522 BC. EL 1/12 Stater (1.15g). Calf head facing right / Incuse square. Good VF.

One example known to Bodenstedt, two examples have since appeared at auction.
Jun 30, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B66406 viewsca 412-378 BC. EL Hekte. Head of Ares in Attic helmet, facing right / Corinthian helmet from the front face within incuse square. Two known to Bodenstedt. A further example has yet to appear at auction.

The obverse is similar to that of B65.
Jun 22, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B62483 viewsca 412-378 BC. EL Hekte. Female head, three quarters facing right / Confronting and overlapping female heads within incuse square. One known to Bodenstedt. A further example has yet to appear at auction.

The obverse appears to have a die match with that of B61 and the reverse appears to have a die match with that of B55. The die matches are not conclusive due to the different relative wear of the respective examples. However, the obverse and reverse are firmly related to earlier emissions.
Jun 22, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 477-455) EL Hekte - B32339 viewsca 478-455 BC. EL Hekte. Laureate head of Apollo facing left / Incuse female head, facing right wearing spendone. One known to Bodenstedt. A further example has yet to appear at auction.Jun 22, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 477-455) EL Hekte - B26333 viewsca 478-455 BC. EL Hekte. Forepart of a bull charging right / Incuse lion head, facing right. One known to Bodenstedt. A further example has yet to appear at auction.Jun 22, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B08427 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte. Forepart of a lion left head facing / Incuse lion head, facing left. One known to Bodenstedt. A further example has yet to appear at auction.Jun 22, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B03419 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte. Forepart of bull running left / Incuse cock head, facing right. Two known to Bodenstedt. An example is yet to appear at auction.Jun 22, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B90742 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.57g, 12h, 9mm). Wreathed head of young Dionysos right / Facing large bald head of satyr with small ‘ears’ and close cropped beard and moustache, all within linear square. Good VF. Carr coll.

There are seven general reverse varieties/types for Bodenstedt 90. This is the first known from an auction of what we can call "type 7."
1 commentsJun 13, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B13501 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.54g, 7h, 10mm). Head of roaring lion facing right / Incuse head of calf facing right; rectangular punch behind. VF. May 30, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 521-478) EL Hekte - B12 var688 viewsca 521-478 BC. EL Hekte (2.58g). Head of roaring lion facing left / Incuse head of calf facing left; rectangular punch behind. EF.

This is an unrecorded variant of Bodenstedt 12 with the lion facing left instead of right.
May 30, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B37 Fourrée443 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.539g, 6h, 10.2mm). Diademed head of Silenos right / Confronted rams heads, palmette above. F. Carr coll.

Fourrées of Mytilene electrum coinage are rare as it appears that the penalty of forgery was death. This is a well preserved fourrée with the bronze core completely exposed. Of note is the weight of the coin does not betray this coin as a forgery (in contrast see B85 fourrée on this website).
May 29, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 377-326) EL Hekte - B85 Fourrée378 viewsca 377-326 BC. EL Hekte (2.17g, 12h, 10mm). Young male head right, wearing tainia with frontal horn / Female head right, hair in sphendone, within linear square. Good VF. Carr coll.

Fourrées of Mytilene electrum coinage are rare as it appears that the penalty of forgery was death. This is a well preserved fourrée with the plating broken in several places but the overall appearance is still that of an electrum coin. The weight, as well as the broken plating, reveal the coin to be a fourrée.
May 29, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 412-378) EL Hekte - B72336 viewsca 412-378 BC. EL Hekte (2.6g, 10mm). Head of Athena right, wearing Attic helmet, the side-flap turned up / Lion-scalp facing in thin square frame, the whole in incuse square. Good VF. Carr coll.

Six known to Bodenstedt. A further seven examples have appeared at auction.
May 29, 2014
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Mytilene (BC 454-427) EL Hekte - B56292 viewsca 454-427 BC. EL Hekte (2.56g, 10mm). Laureate head of Apollo right / Head of cow right within incuse square. Unusually good VF for type. Carr coll.

Twenty four known to Bodenstedt. A further thirty examples have appeared at auction.
May 29, 2014
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