Athena, the revered goddess of war and wisdom, graces this exquisite Corinthian coin. She is depicted wearing a Corinthian helmet, symbolising her integral role in the founding myth of the city-state.
Corinth, a key port city in Magna Graecia, rivaled Athens and Thebes in wealth and influence. Its currency, featuring Athena and Pegasus, was widely recognised and circulated. According to legend, the Corinthian hero Bellerophon received a golden bridle from Athena to tame Pegasus, the immortal winged horse. This myth accentuates Athena's patronage of heroes and leaders. Bellerophon, with Pegasus by his side, went on to slay the Chimera and achieve great feats, cementing Pegasus's frequent appearance on Corinthian coins and those of its colonies.
Pegasus, a symbol of divine inspiration and ascension, is depicted in dynamic motion on the reverse with finely detailed wings, capturing the creature's grace and power. According to myth, Bellerophon later attempted to fly to heaven, but Zeus caused Pegasus to buck, throwing him back to earth in disgrace. Pegasus's name, meaning either "of the spring" or "sprung forth," alludes to its connections with various springs and its birth from the Gorgon Medusa's neck.
Athens and Corinth were renowned for their early and significant coinages, with two of the most famous types in the ancient Greek world: the Owl of Athens and the Pegasus, or "colt," of Corinth. This Corinthian coin not only celebrates Athena's divine influence but also embodies the rich mythological and cultural heritage of ancient Greece.