Apollonia Pontica Drachm Replica (c. 470-430 BC) – Gorgoneion, Anchor & Crayfish

his replica reflects a classic silver drachm from Apollonia Pontica (on the western Black Sea coast, modern‐Sozopol, Bulgaria), struck around 470-430 BC. Apollonia was an important Greek colony, known for its maritime trade, natural resources, and distinctive coinage—which blended myth, local symbols, and commerce.

Obverse (Front):
A facing head of Gorgoneion (the Gorgon’s face), complete with serpents. The Gorgon motif was used for its apotropaic power—believed to ward off evil or watchful danger.

Reverse (Back):
An upright anchor (sometimes shown upside-down in certain die varieties), surrounded by a crayfish to one side and the letter “A” (or the local ethnic initial) to the other. These symbols emphasize Apollonia’s maritime identity: the anchor for port and sea commerce; the crayfish perhaps reflecting local marine life or simply as a field mark.

Historical Context:

• Apollonia Pontica was founded by Greeks from Miletus around the 7th century BC, and by the 5th-4th centuries BC it was thriving through trade, especially maritime commerce.
• The period when this coin was struck was one of relative stability and cultural florescence in the Greek world, but also geopolitical tensions: Athens and Sparta still dominated much of Greek politics, and colonies like Apollonia played roles in regional alliances and local rivalries.
• Coins like this were used both locally and in trade beyond Thrace. They helped project the identity and economic strength of Apollonia.