Double Replica Ancient Coin/Medallion Dangling Pin

Top Coin Back: "VENGA MEDUSA E LA FAREM D1 SMALTO"
Upper Coin/Medallion: The Medusa/Gorgon
This image is a popular motif from ancient Greek and, less frequently, Roman coinage, specifically the Gorgoneion (a mask of the Gorgon).

Mythology & Symbolism: Medusa was one of three Gorgon sisters in Greek mythology, the only mortal one. Her most famous attribute was her hair of venomous snakes and a gaze that could turn men to stone.

Purpose on Coins: In antiquity, the Medusa face was used as an apotropaic symbol—a protective talisman meant to ward off evil and enemies. It was commonly depicted on soldiers' shields, breastplates, and temples.

The Phrase "Venga Medusa e la farem di smalto" on the back is from Dante Alighieri's Inferno. The phrase translates to "Let Medusa come, and we will make him into enamel (or stone)"


Bottom Coin/Medallion: "LVERVSAVGARM PARTHMAXIRP VIIII" and "COS II SC" Lucius Verus Chariot---This piece is a replica of a large bronze Roman Sestertius coin featuring the Emperor Lucius Verus.

The Emperor: Lucius Verus was the Roman co-emperor with Marcus Aurelius from 161 to 169 AD. The Obverse Inscription (man's profile side): The full inscription is approximately "LVERVSAVGARM PARTHMAXIRP VIIII", which are his imperial titles. This identifies him as a conqueror (Parthicus Maximus) of the Parthians.

The Reverse Image (chariot side): The image of the emperor in a four-horse chariot (quadriga) is a symbol of a triumph, a grand procession held to celebrate a major military victory. The Reverse Inscription: The "COS II S C" stands for Consul iterum (Consul for the second time) and Senatus Consultum (by decree of the Senate), official Roman titles and administrative marks that help date the original coin design to around 163-164 AD.

This brooch is a beautiful example of vintage or modern jewelry that draws on rich ancient history and mythology for its design