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HISTORICAL CONTEXT: This coin was minted in AIGINA between 490 - 450 BC. Aigina was an important trading port in the 6th and 5th Centuries BC. Although still important on the 5th and 4th centuries, it was eclipsed by Athens after the Persian wars. The city was captured by the Athenians in 456 BC and a quarter of the residence were expelled. In 404 BC, after the fall of Athens, the exiles were restored to their homes. These turtle coins are amongst the oldest coins ever produced and is the first European coin produced for TRADE PURPOSES.
Obv: Sea Turtle
Rev: Incuse punch
Diameter: 19 mm across (the diameter of a US Penny, but, 3-4 times as thick)
Condition: Fine
Antique Coins
Ancient coins
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