Lot 1496
Calabria, Taras. Silver Nomos (7.85 g), ca. 315-302 BC. Ari., X., and Kl., magistrates. Nude warrior, on horseback right, holding shield and two spears, thrusting with third spear downward; below horse, API; in right field, Ξ. Reverse: T-APAΣ, Phalanthos riding dolphin left, holding kantharos and rudder; in left field, KΛ. Fischer-Bossert grp. 74a, 925 (V360/R717); Vlasto -; Jameson 153 (same dies); HN Italy 939. Beautifully toned. Superb Extremely Fine. Estimate Value $2,000 - 2,500
From the Herbert & Aphrodite Rubin Collection; Purchased privately from CNG in the early 1990s. Ex Cahn 60 (2 July 1928), 57.
The obverse of this nomos depicts an example of the mercenary cavalrymen for which Taras became famous in the Hellenistic period. The Tarentine cavalryman is believed to have been the first mounted warrior of the Greek world to carry a shield. This novelty made him popular in the armies of Hellenistic kings and led to the training of cavalrymen in the Tarentine style.
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| Realized $4,700 |
