Hercules and Apples of the Hesperides
GERMANY, Sachsen (Duchy & Electorate [Albertine line]). Johann Georg II. Elector, 1656-1680. AR Taler Klippe (39x41mm, 23.34 g, 12h). Commemorating the dedication of a new shooting gallery in Dresden. Dresden mint. Dated
1678. Coat-of-arms surmounted by elector’s cap within garter and wreath; coats-of-arms surmounted by elector’s cap in corners / Hercules standing facing, holding club and apples. Clauss & Kahnt 539; Davenport 7636; KM 562. Richly toned. In NGC encapsulation 2157014-004, graded AU Details, obverse spot removed.
Ex Alexander Christopher Collection.
The golden apples of the Hesperides, which Eurystheus had ordered Hercules to fetch for him, were guarded by the immortal, unsleeping dragon Ladon. Hercules killed Ladon with arrows dipped in the blood of the Hydra, and then, having been warned by Prometheus not to touch the apples himself, convinced Atlas to collect them for him, while he held up the Earth in his place.
