BCE 0301 - 0400 (4th Century) PISIDIA, Selge. Ca. 4th c. BCE. AR Obol. Gorgoneion Facing / Athena in Winged Attic Helmet; Astragalus.
Description
Selge Obol with Gorgoneion and Athena (ca. 4th century BCE)
Pisidia, City of Selge
This silver obol was struck at Selge in the mountainous region of Pisidia during the Classical period. The obverse features a facing gorgoneion, an apotropaic image associated with protection and divine power, rendered here in a restrained Classical style rather than a monstrous form. The reverse depicts Athena in profile, wearing a crested Attic helmet fitted with a wing—an emblem emphasizing vigilance, martial readiness, and divine intelligence. The small astragalus placed behind Athena’s head functions as a civic or control symbol and reflects Selge’s local numismatic identity. The pairing of gorgoneion and Athena underscores themes of protection and warfare appropriate to a fortified inland city known for its military resilience. Certified Choice XF by NGC, the coin exemplifies high-quality Classical civic silver from southern Asia Minor.
