Sidon, Phoenicia, 400 BC, Obol

Sidon, Phoenicia, Obol, AR, circa 400 BC. Weight: 0.71g, Diameter: 10mm. The obverse features a detailed depiction of a Persian king or hero standing to the right, gripping a dagger as he engages in combat with a lion, symbolizing power and dominance. The reverse displays a Phoenician galley sailing to the left, a representation of Sidon's maritime prowess. This coin exhibits a crisp strike and well-preserved detail emphasizing the high-quality craftsmanship of the era. Referenced in HGC 10, 257.

This Sidonian obol serves as a testament to the city's strategic role in the Persian Empire. Sidon, a prominent Phoenician city, was a vital maritime hub and its people were renowned seafarers. The imagery on the coin underscores Sidon's alliance with Persia, as well as its importance in trade and military campaigns across the Mediterranean, showcasing the intricate web of cultural and political interactions in the region during this period.