Obverse: Two facing male heads, left head inverted.

Reverse: IΣTPIH, sea-eagle grasping a dolphin with talons; A monogram below.

SNG BM: 247; BMC: Thrace p. 25, 6. [Thrace, Istros, circa 313-280 BC].

Diameter: 18 mm. Weight: 5.8 g.

A superb example of a silver drachm minted in Istros. Probably the first Greek colony on the Black Sea, Istros was founded circa 620 BC by Milesian settlers in a strategic position near the Danube Delta. The striking design of the obverse has been variously interpreted as representing the Dioscuri, the rising and setting sun, and the two branches of the river Danube. This coin is in superb condition, perfectly centred with attractive old cabinet toning - a highly desirable example of this classic ancient coin.