Ionia, Smyrna AE Bronze, 2nd-1st Century BC

Ionia, Smyrna

AE Bronze, 2nd-1st Century BC

22 mm 8.1 g

Obverse: Laureate head of Apollo right, hair in formal braids down the back of neck.

Reverse: Homer seated left on throne, holding scroll in right hand and resting chin on hand in contemplative pose; scepter or staff before.

Legend: ΣΜΥΡΝΑΙΩΝ = Of the Smyrnaeans

References: SNG Copenhagen 1089-1091; BMC Ionia pg. 244, 24; Milne 1927

Condition: Good Very Fine. Well centered on a compact flan. Attractive dark green patina with minor earthen highlights. Strong portrait of Apollo. Homer figure complete with fine details of drapery and scroll visible. Minor roughness, otherwise exceptional for the type.

Notes: Famous civic type of Smyrna celebrating the city's claim as the birthplace of Homer. The poet is shown in his traditional contemplative pose that became standard for Hellenistic representations. Smyrna issued this type for centuries to promote its connection to Homer against rival claims from other Ionian cities.