Ancient Greek Silver Didrachm of Pantikapaion

Ancient Greek City-State of Pantikapaion (Crimean Bosporus) · Circa 4th Century BC (c. 340-325 BC)

An ancient Greek silver coin featuring a dramatic, facing head of the satyr Pan on the obverse and a griffin holding a spear in its jaws with an ear of wheat below on the reverse.

Country: Ancient Greek City-State of Pantikapaion (Crimean Bosporus)
Year: Circa 4th Century BC (c. 340-325 BC)
Denomination: Didrachm (or Drachm)
Metal: Ancient Silver
Grade: Fine to Very Fine (VF) with clear central details and pleasing cabinet wear.

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified September 11, 2026More ancient greek city-state of pantikapaion (crimean bosporus) coins →

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Overview

An ancient Greek silver coin featuring a dramatic, facing head of the satyr Pan on the obverse and a griffin holding a spear in its jaws with an ear of wheat below on the reverse.

Historical significance

Pantikapaion was a major Greek colony on the Cimmerian Bosporus (modern-day Kerch, Crimea) ruled by the Spartocid dynasty. The city grew wealthy through grain export to mainland Greece, symbolized by the ear of corn on the coin, while facing satyr types reflect high artistic mastery of classical Greek die engraving.

Obverse (front)

A facing, slightly three-quarters head of the horned and bearded satyr Pan, depicting wild hair, pointed ears, and prominent eyes in fine classical style.

Reverse (back)

A griffin standing left, holding a spear in its jaws, with an ear of wheat beneath its body and surrounding Greek ethnic legend (PAN or PAN-TI).

Estimated value

$500 - $3,000+ depending on exact die variety, centering, and state of preservation.

What drives this coin's value

Centering of the high-relief satyr face, sharpness of the griffin and ear of corn, absence of heavy scratches or corrosion, and attractive old cabinet toning.

Grade assessment

Fine to Very Fine (VF) with clear central details and pleasing cabinet wear.

Mintage & rarity

Scarce to Rare; ancient production figures are unknown, but surviving specimens of high quality are actively sought by collectors.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for cast seams, soapy surfaces, incorrect weight, or bubble pitting indicative of modern counterfeit casts. Compare die style against certified authentic auction archives.

Notable varieties & errors

Various magistrate initials, control marks, or subtle differences in the satyr's hair and the griffin's posture.

Similar coins

Other Bosporan kingdom issues from Pantikapaion featuring Pan, Apollo, or lions, as well as modern reproductions and tourist replicas.

Care & preservation

Handle only by the edges with clean cotton or nitrile gloves. Do not clean, polish, or wash, as this destroys ancient patina and drastically reduces numismatic value. Store in a stable, low-humidity environment inside inert coin flips or slabs.