Trikka

Triton XV, Lot: 765. Estimate $150. Sold for $3750. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

Trikka (IACP 417)

Trikka (modern Trikala) was a city that seems only to have been of importance in the 5th and 4th centuries BC. It was famous as being the birth place of Asklepios (a sanctuary was constructed over a Mycenaean grave thought to be his). It was also famous for its horses which were reputedly the models used by Pheidias for those on the Parthenon freize. There are some remains, mostly 5th/4th century BC or later.

The city produced silver coinage for the Theassalian League in the 5th century BC and municipal bronze in the first half of the 4th century BC.

THESSALY, Trikka. Mid 5th century BC. AR Hemiobol (9mm, 0.32 g, 9h). Bull’s hoof in a circle of dots / T-PIK-K-A-IOИ from above, r. down and circular, forepart of horse r., all in shallow incuse square. Liampi, Corpus, p. 112, K 1 a (V1/R1), pl. 5, 50 (this coin). Near VF, lightly toned; both sides not perfectly centred; a unique coin of the highest importance.

This amazing fraction was a surprise gift from a good friend in August 1991. As this is being written, the first part of his collection is being readied to go under the hammer. The catalogue is a work of art and this alone should be a cause for celebration with some good wine from his cellar. Thank you, RBW, for all the years you have generously favoured me with your friendship and lots of good wishes for October 5/6.