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I’ve always loved coins with animal designs, but a little Ar Triobol from Thurium recently captured my heart and sent me down a rabbit hole exploring ancient bull coins. This tiny treasure, brimming with history and artistry, opened my eyes to a whole herd of fascinating pieces – each with its own story to tell.
The Thurium Triobol: My Close Companion
My Thurium coin dates to about 443–400 BC in Southern Lucania. At just 11 mm across and 1.174 grams, it’s small but mighty. On the front, Athena stares proudly from her olive-wreathed helmet. Flip it over and there’s a bull standing head-down, with a fish swimming below and the inscription ΘOYΡI(ΩN). Mine shows lovely toning with some find patina, plus a small flan flaw on the reverse that gives it character. References like HN Italy 1777 help with ID, but what really fascinates me is the debate: is this a “wild bull” or even an auroch? That mystery makes me appreciate the engraver’s skill even more.
When Measurements Don’t Measure Up
Here’s something I discovered: while auction listings claimed 12.5 mm, my calipers showed 11 mm. I’ve seen similar discrepancies before – probably from different measuring tools or techniques. My advice? Always double-check sizes yourself with good calipers. That roughness or minor flan flaw on my coin? Don’t dismiss it. These little quirks can speak to authenticity or wear, so jot them down in your records. They’ll help when trading or selling later.
Bulls That Stole My Heart
My Thurium piece led me to other stunning bull coins. Here are a few that stood out:
- Gela, Sicily (420–405 BC): An Æ Trias (3.55g) with a bull standing right and a river god – perfect for Sicilian history buffs.
- Carthage (216–215 BC): Sardinia-minted bronze (3.3g) showing Tanit and a “sickly” bull that’s oozing personality.
- Syracuse under Hieron II (275–269 BC): AE coins featuring Persephone and bulls – the left-facing ones are rare prizes.
- Hydissos, Caria (450 BC): A tiny AR Hemiobol (0.3g!) with confronting bull foreparts – pure magic for micro-coin lovers.
- Rome, L Thorius Balbus (105 BC): My favorite AR Denarius (Sear 192) with Juno in goat skin and a charging bull – the energy in this design still thrills me.
Seeing how bulls symbolized strength and fertility across cultures made me realize what a powerful theme this is for building a collection.
Collecting Wisdom from the Pasture
Along this journey, I’ve gathered some practical tips. Always trace auction histories – coins like the Thorius Balbus often carry fascinating provenance. Market-wise, bull coins from Thurium or Syracuse can be surprisingly affordable if you’re patient. Look for pieces with nice toning or patina; they develop such character over time. And about that “dilapidated” look on some bulls? Don’t worry – it’s often just ancient charm shining through. I’ll never forget receiving a similar coin as a birthday gift years ago – simple yet steeped in history, reminding me that these aren’t just artifacts but personal connections to people long gone.
Exploring these bovine beauties has reminded me why I fell for numismatics in the first place. They’re tiny time machines blending art, history, and precious metal into something you can hold in your hand. Whether you’re just starting or have been collecting for decades, focusing on a theme like bull coins might just reignite your passion.
