Elephant Medallion

£18,000
Short 47 cm Medium 60 cm Long 75 cm CHOKER
Details

Authentic rare bronze Greco-Baktrian Kingdom coin of Demetrius I Aniketos minted circa 200-185 B.C. set in 18K yellow gold with double-set citrine and garnet cabochons.

Handmade in Rome, each piece is unique.

History

Demetrius I (c. 167-222 B.C.) was the Indo-Greek ruler of the kingdom of Bactria. His victories in India are highlighted on this coin through the symbolism of the elephant. The elephant was also a frequent emblem of wealth and achievement.

A bell hangs from the elephant's neck, echoing Hindu traditions where bell sounds are considered auspicious, welcoming divinity and dispelling evil. Elephants were first used in warfare by Indian and Persian armies. Greco-Macedonian troops encountered them during Alexander the Great's campaign, and later Hellenistic rulers continued to use them in battle, integrating the animal into Greco-Roman art.

The reverse of the coin is also significant. With his conquests in India, Demetrius gained control over vast stretches of the Silk Road, earning the epithet "the Unconquered" (aniketos). The depiction of the kerykeion, or caduceus, showed that power was in Demetrius' hands as it guaranteed sanctity to its possessor. This emblem, associated with the Greek god Hermes, signifies his role as a messenger and guide for souls to the Underworld. The intertwined snakes, a symbol of harmony, originate from a legend in which Hermes intervened in a fight between two snakes, causing them to entwine around his rod, symbolising the resolution of disputes. The inscription on the reverse, "ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΔΗΜΗΤΡΙΟΥ," translates to "of King Demetrius" or "belonging to King Demetrius."

Measurements
  • Coin Ø 30mm
Delivery

Free worldwide delivery is available on all orders over £1500 / €1800.

You may return or exchange all mainline products ordered within 14 days of receipt of the goods.

View our FAQs for more information

Care

Each ancient coin and artefact featured in our jewellery has been meticulously restored and professionally stabilised, ensuring it can be cherished for generations. The patina, a natural toning and oxidation on silver, bronze, and copper coins, is not merely dirt; it is a protective layer that has formed over centuries, contributing to the coin's unique history and character. Our conservation efforts focus on preserving these valuable patinas to maintain the authenticity and beauty of each piece. The rich patina, with its spectrum of dark to golden brown hues, is a testament to the coin's journey through time, making each one uniquely beautiful.

View our CARE recommendations

Elephant Medallion
Elephant Medallion
Elephant Medallion
Elephant Medallion
Elephant Medallion
Demetrius I Aniketos
Demetrius I Aniketos
(TRICHALKON)
Demetrius I (c. 167-222 B.C.) was the Indo-Greek ruler of the kingdom of Bactria. His victories in India are highlighted on this coin through the symbolism of the elephant. The elephant was also a frequent emblem of wealth and achievement.
Gold
Gold
(18K)
It is a dense, soft, malleable, and ductile metal. Gold is highly valued for its beauty, rarity, and resistance to corrosion. It does not tarnish or corrode over time, making it a perfect choice for jewellery.
Citrine
Citrine
(QUARTZ)
Citrine, a stunning yellow gemstone, has been cherished for millennia, often regarded as a gift from the sun. Its name, derived from the French word 'citron' for lemon, perfectly captures the bright, distinctive allure of this gem.
Garnet
Garnet
(SILICATE)
Garnet, typically seen in striking hues of red or orange, is a captivating gemstone that has been precious for millennia, with beads dating back to 3000 B.C. attesting to its timeless allure.
Demetrius I Aniketos
Demetrius I Aniketos
(TRICHALKON)
Demetrius I (c. 167-222 B.C.) was the Indo-Greek ruler of the kingdom of Bactria. His victories in India are highlighted on this coin through the symbolism of the elephant. The elephant was also a frequent emblem of wealth and achievement.
Gold
Gold
(18K)
It is a dense, soft, malleable, and ductile metal. Gold is highly valued for its beauty, rarity, and resistance to corrosion. It does not tarnish or corrode over time, making it a perfect choice for jewellery.
Citrine
Citrine
(QUARTZ)
Citrine, a stunning yellow gemstone, has been cherished for millennia, often regarded as a gift from the sun. Its name, derived from the French word 'citron' for lemon, perfectly captures the bright, distinctive allure of this gem.
Garnet
Garnet
(SILICATE)
Garnet, typically seen in striking hues of red or orange, is a captivating gemstone that has been precious for millennia, with beads dating back to 3000 B.C. attesting to its timeless allure.