Taurus Medallion

The Sybaris coin depicts a bull with its head turned backwards, as if leading the herd or watching over the Sybarite fields. The bull, a powerful and revered animal in ancient Greek culture, symbolised strength, fertility, and prosperity.

This distinctive design, set on a circular flan, also symbolises the two rivers, Krathis and Sybaris, flowing through the Taranto Valley. This coin is celebrated as one of the most artistic examples from Southern Italy and the broader Greek world. The Sybaris elite, known for their opulent lifestyle, inspired the modern term “sybarite.” Legend has it that Sybarite chefs could patent their recipes, and the games hosted by this city-state were even more elaborate than those of Olympia.

In 510 B.C., an uprising in Sybaris led rebels to seek refuge in nearby Croton. Sybaris demanded their extradition, but Croton's refusal ignited a conflict. Despite being outnumbered, Croton successfully defended itself and razed Sybaris. To ensure it remained uninhabitable, Croton diverted the Crathis River through the heart of the old city. As a result, the central remains of Sybaris remain buried, with coins serving as rare surviving artefacts from this captivating ancient city-state.

• Ancient Coin Ø 29–30mm

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Each ancient coin and artefact used in our jewellery has been restored and professionally stabilised to ensure it can be enjoyed for lifetimes. Patina, the natural toning and oxidation on silver or bronze coins, is not dirt; it is a protective layer formed over hundreds of years, adding to the coin’s unique history. Conservation efforts aim to stabilise and preserve these valuable patinas whenever possible. Silver naturally tones over time, developing a soft to deep grey with brighter highlights on raised surfaces. This toning is highly coveted, adding a touch of age and beauty to the coin’s details that only time can provide.

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