Ancient Greek Obol from Selge, Pisidia – Gorgoneion & Athena with Astragalos – 350–300 BC
This rare and visually compelling silver obol was struck in Selge, a fiercely independent city in Pisidia, around 350–300 BC. The obverse features a confronting gorgoneion, the mythic face of Medusa, used as a protective talisman to ward off evil. The reverse shows a detailed helmeted head of Athena—goddess of wisdom and warfare—accompanied by an astragalos (knucklebone), a symbol associated with fate and divine chance.
Region: Pisidia, Selge
Date: Circa 350–300 BC
Denomination: Silver Obol
Weight: 0.98 g
Diameter: 10 mm
Coins from Selge are admired for their bold iconography and symbolic content. The gorgoneion was believed to ward off evil, making this coin not just currency, but a spiritual amulet. The presence of Athena, revered for her strategic wisdom and battlefield prowess, alongside an astragalos, suggests a connection between divine favor, intellect, and fate.
Collectors prize this coin for:
Its rare and dramatic gorgoneion obverse
A classical portrait of Athena, rich in detail and mythology
The astragalos, rarely featured on coins, adding unique charm
Its compact size and historical symbolism, ideal for ancient Greek and apotropaic-themed collections
A powerful blend of mythology, symbolism, and ancient craftsmanship—struck over 2,300 years ago.