Crete, Itanos. c. 320-270 BC

AR Hemidrachm, c. 320-270 BC, 2.71g (12mm, 12).Helmeted head of Athena r. / Eagle standing l. with head reverted back. Ethnic, ITANIΩN, behindPedigree: From the Brünn CollectionReferences: BMC 17. Svoronos, Crete, 32 and pl. XIX, 15. Treaty 1430 and pl. CCXLV, 2Grade: Was recently professionally cleaned to get rid of black encrustation on obverse and reverse. Toned surfaces. Body of eagle not fully struck. One of the nicer examples on the market. EF Price: $8500gk1745This coin comes from Itanos, on a promotory, which is located on the northeast corner of Crete. Like many important ancient cities, Itanos had a port which meant that they could rely on trade as a means of sustenance. The time period in which this was struck was devastating to Crete's economy due to the combative city states and erupting wars. Cretan coins are typically very stylistic and crude. This coin is a departure from the typical with a quasi-classical looking Athena and eagle.Scroll down for more information about this coin.