Cimmerian Bosporos. Pantikapaion circa 310-303 BC.
Bronze Æ

20 mm, 7,14 g

Head of bearded Satyr to right / Π-Α-Ν, forepart of griffin to left; sturgeon to left below.

Very Fine

MacDonald 69; SNG BM Black Sea 869-71; SNG Stancomb 541-2; HGC 7, 113.

The Griffin, also spelled Gryphon or Gryphon, is a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle. It is a popular creature in various mythologies and folklore, often representing strength, courage, and guardianship. In ancient Greek mythology, Griffins were believed to be the guardians of treasures and sacred places, serving as protectors of the divine. They were seen as majestic and noble creatures, combining the attributes of the king of beasts (the lion) and the king of birds (the eagle). Griffins are also found in other cultures, including Persian, Egyptian, and Mesopotamian mythology. In these traditions, they were associated with royalty, divinity, and protection.