LION'S HEAD Genuine Ancient Greek Silver Coin 5th century BC Ring

This sterling silver ring holds within it an ancient relic—a genuine coin hailing from Magna Graecia, specifically from 5th century BC Bruttium, nestled in the region of Calabria. The coin bears the visage of a lion's head on one side and on the other, a delicate garland adorns its surface.

Bruttium, once known as the Greek colony of Reggio Calabria, was a cornerstone of Magna Graecia, boasting significant artistic and cultural prominence. It flourished with the philosophical teachings of Pythagoras, alongside schools dedicated to painting, sculpture, and poetry. Over time, it evolved into one of Southern Italy's paramount cities during the imperial era.

The lion, revered as the "king of beasts," naturally emerges as a symbol of sovereignty and absolute power in human civilization. The depiction of lions on coins traces back to the early days of metallic currency. These ancient renditions often portrayed lions with wide-open jaws and prominent teeth, exuding an archaic yet captivating aesthetic allure.

Originally minted in the Kingdom of Lydia, predominantly in gold and silver—known as chryseis—under the reign of King Croesus, these lion motifs soon journeyed across lands and seas. They found their place on coins circulating in Sardis, Cyzicus, Miletus, Phoenicia, and eventually found their way to Velia and Reggio Calabria, leaving a trail of cultural exchange and artistic expression in their wake.

Our jewelry store, Serra Roma, proudly presents an exquisite collection that beautifully honors the ancient traditions of Greek and Roman civilizations. Each piece in our collection, including authentic ancient Roman and Greek coins and intaglios, is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, providing proof of its historical significance and origin.