Ancient Greek Medusa Pendant

Coin: Bronze dichalka
Obverse: Head of Gorgon
Reverse:  Nike, victory, advancing left with palm branch
Date: c. 85 - 65 B.C.
Bezel: Sterling Silver
Weight:  10.26 grams
Diameter: 23 mm / .90 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

Bronze coins featuring the head of Medusa on one side and the goddess Nike on the other were issued under Mithridates VI Eupator, king of Pontus, during the early first century B.C. Struck in Asia Minor, particularly in cities under his control such as Amisos and Pergamon, these coins reflected both the artistry and the political messaging of his reign. The obverse shows the Gorgon Medusa, rendered with a fierce, protective expression and flowing serpentine hair — a powerful symbol of warding off evil and danger. This image suited Mithridates’ self-styled role as the protector of the Hellenic world against Roman domination, invoking mythic power and divine guardianship over his realm.

The reverse depicts Nike, the goddess of victory, often shown striding or standing with a wreath in her hand. Her presence proclaimed triumph and divine approval, celebrating Mithridates’ early military successes and his vision of restoring Greek independence. Cast in bronze, these coins were used in everyday trade across Pontus and neighboring regions, ensuring that their symbolism reached every level of society. Today, they stand as a vivid expression of Mithridates’ propaganda — coins that blended Greek mythology, artistic refinement, and political defiance into a single enduring emblem of resistance to Rome.

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 in Amisos (modern-day Samsun, Turkey) is relatively accessible for collectors due to the city's significance as a regional trade and cultural hub. Amisos, a prominent city on the southern coast of the Black Sea, was founded by Greek colonists in the 6th century BCE. Its strategic location made it an important center for commerce, particularly in grain, fish, and metals, which necessitated the minting of coins for local and regional trade.

Their sturdy bronze composition allowed many to survive through centuries of use, burial, and eventual rediscovery. These coins were often buried in hoards for safekeeping during periods of conflict or instability, a common practice in the ancient world.

Today, bronze coins from Amisos can be found through numismatic dealers, auctions, and online platforms specializing in ancient Greek coinage. Their artistic designs, historical significance, and relative affordability make them a popular choice for collectors.