MYSIA. Pergamum. Ca. 180/167-133 BC. AR cistophorus (28mm, 1h). NGC VF, brushed.

This is a beautiful example of an ancient Greek silver Cistophoric Tetradrachm (often simply called a Cistophorus), minted in the ancient city of Pergamum (Pergamon), located in modern-day Turkey.

These coins were originally introduced by the Attalid Kingdom around 175–160 BC and continued to be struck in massive quantities after the region became the Roman Province of Asia in 133 BC. They served as the dominant silver currency of Asia Minor.

The Obverse (Left)

Central Motif: A cista mystica (a sacred mystical basket used in the initiation rites of the cult of Dionysus) with its lid slightly ajar, from which a serpent emerges and rears its head.

Border: The entire scene is enclosed within a lush, detailed wreath of ivy leaves and berries, also sacred to Dionysus.

The Reverse (Right)

Central Motif: A highly stylized bow-case (gorytos) containing a strung bow, heavily ornamented with scrolls and tendrils.

Flanking Imagery: The bow-case is tightly flanked by two large, intricately coiling serpents with their tails entwined at the bottom and heads facing one another at the top.

Mintmark (Left Field): The monogram ΠΕΡ (representing Pergamum) is visible to the left of the left serpent's coils.

Control Symbol (Right Field): A symbol stands to the right—in this specific issue, it appears to be a thyrsus (a ritual staff topped with a pinecone) entwined by a small serpent, which acts as an official's mark to denote the specific workshop or magistrate responsible for the minting.

The centering on this piece is excellent, cleanly capturing the full border of the ivy wreath on the obverse and keeping the entire reverse design perfectly within the flan. The strike delivers sharp details on the scales of the serpents and the intricate weaving of the basket, complemented by a lovely cabinet toning that emphasizes the depth of the high-relief elements.

Ex Classical Numismatic Group, Electronic Auction 538 (10 May 2023), lot 123.

NGC Certification: https://www.ngccoin.com/certlookup/8522251-004/NGCAncients/