Ancient Greek Bee Coin Pendant

Obverse: Bee
Reverse:  Stag running left
Date: c. 320 - 300 B.C.
Bezel: Sterling Silver
Weight:  8.11 grams
Diameter: 21 mm / .82 inches

Description

This item is an authentic Greek coin, placed in a handmade bezel of sterling silver. There is only 1 of this item; you will receive the exact pendant shown in the photos.  

Chain necklaces can be purchased separately through this link.

History of the Artifact

This bronze issue was produced in the Ionian city of Ephesos during the late Classical to early Hellenistic period, a time when the city stood as one of the most important religious and commercial centers of the Greek world. Ephesos was closely associated with the cult of Artemis, whose great temple dominated the city and attracted pilgrims, wealth, and political influence from across the Aegean. Coinage from this era reflects a confident civic identity, expressed through symbols that would have been instantly recognizable to anyone familiar with the city’s traditions.

The bee and stag are deeply tied to Ephesian religion and mythology. The bee likely refers to the priestesses of Artemis, known as Melissae, and symbolizes order, fertility, and sacred service, while the stag is the sacred animal of Artemis herself, representing the wild, protection, and divine authority over nature. Together, these images form a compact visual statement linking the city’s economy, faith, and identity. Rather than commemorating a ruler or event, the design emphasizes continuity and devotion, presenting Ephesos as a community defined by its ancient cult and its enduring place within the Greek world.

Ancient Artifacts guarantees the Authenticity of items sold through a three layer system of protection: 

1. Ancient Artifacts exclusively sources artifacts from trusted and reputable antique distributors, many of whom have been selling Artifacts for decades.  
2. Next, the Artifact is inspected by an expert team member, who is professionally trained in counterfeit detection After the artifact passes inspection, the Certificate of Authenticity is signed and the Artifact is packaged. 
3. Finally, Ancient Artifacts gives an additional layer of protection by promising a full refund with no questions asked, in the extremely unlikely event that a counterfeit slips through our vetting process.

You will receive the exact pendant shown in the photos.

Owning a bronze coin minted by the ancient Greeks is relatively accessible for collectors today, as these coins were produced in vast quantities across the Greek world for everyday commerce. Unlike the silver and gold issues reserved for larger transactions or state payments, bronze coins circulated locally in the markets of countless city-states, serving merchants, farmers, and travelers alike. They were struck from the 5th century BCE onward in cities throughout Greece, Asia Minor, the Aegean Islands, and southern Italy, each bearing symbols of local identity — gods, heroes, animals, and emblems unique to their issuing polis. These designs reflected civic pride and cultural richness, making every coin a miniature testament to the diversity of the ancient Greek world.

Because of their durable bronze composition, many of these coins have survived the centuries despite heavy use and burial. They are often recovered from hoards, ancient settlements, or coastal trade centers where they once changed hands in daily life. Today, ancient Greek bronze coins are among the most attainable and rewarding artifacts for collectors, available through reputable numismatic dealers, auctions, and specialized online platforms. Their combination of history, artistry, and affordability allows collectors to hold a tangible piece of the ancient world — an object that once carried real value in the bustling markets of classical civilization.