Bull Medallion
£12,490 – £12,940
Authentic silver coin minted in Lucania circa 530-510 B.C. set in 18K gold with ruby and citrine cabochons.
Handmade in Rome.
The coin of Sybaris depicts a bull whose head is gracefully turned backwards, in relief on the obverse and incuse on the reverse. Its type is one of the most artistic on the coins of Southern Italy and, indeed, elsewhere in the Greek world. The Sybaris elite were renowned for their indulgences, giving root to the modern work “sybarite.” It was said that Sybarite chefs were able to patent their recipes, and the games hosted by this city state were more elaborate than those of Olympia. There was an uprising in 510 B.C., squelched by the elite. Rebels took refuge in nearby Croton. Sybaris demanded their extradition. When Croton refused, Sybaris attacked Croton. Although vastly outnumbered by the Sybarite forces, Croton managed to repel the attack and destroyed Sybaris. To prevent Sybaris from ever being resettled, it then diverted the Crathis River to pass through the center of the old city. Because of this, remnants of the center of Sybaris have never been uncovered, and coins are among the few surviving artifacts of this fascinating city-state.
- Ancient silver coin
- 18K Yellow Gold
- Ruby
- Citrine
- Due to the unique process of hand carving coins in ancient times, there may be a few stylistic differences from the image shown.
- This piece is provided with a certificate of authenticity.
- Ancient Coin Ø 29mm – 30mm
London zones 1-2 – same day courier delivery for orders placed by 3pm (GMT).
UK Mainland – next day delivery with DHL for orders placed by 3pm (GMT).
Europe and USA – 1 to 2 day delivery with Fedex for orders placed by 2pm (GMT).
Rest of the world – 2 to 3 day delivery with Fedex for orders placed by 3pm (GMT).
All orders placed after the cut-off time will be shipped the next working day.
You may return or exchange all mainline products ordered within 14 days of receipt of the goods.
Each ancient coin and artefact we place into jewellery has been restored and professionally stabilised to preserve it for lifetimes of enjoyment. Patina, the natural toning and oxidation that occurs on silver, bronze and copper coins, is not dirt – it is a layer of what becomes protection for the coin formed over hundreds of years and is a valuable part of the coin’s unique history. Conservation efforts stabilise and preserve these precious patinas whenever possible. Please don’t try to “improve” your ancient coin, it has already been perfected by numismatic specialists.
Silver naturally tones over time to a soft to deepening grey, with brighter highlights on the raised surfaces of the design. This toning is highly coveted as it adds a touch of age and beauty to the coin’s details that only time can. DO NOT, under any circumstances, attempt to strip this patina. You may clean your coin bezel (the metal frame around your coin) only with a soft, non-abrasive polishing cloth. To remove skin oils and smudges from your silver treasure coin jewellery, use warm water mixed with non-citrus, plain dish soap and a soft-bristle tooth brush. Rinse it in clean water and use a soft, cotton towel to gently and completely dry.
Depicted on the Coin
Obverse: Bull standing left, head right; VM in exergue.
Reverse: Incuse bull standing right, head left.
Please note that we offer a bespoke service. Should you wish to customise your piece by selecting from our range of coins, gemstones, type of metal or engrave a message. Feel free to get in touch with our team at shop@dubini.co.uk
