2015
10 euro 2015 Proof Archimidis
10 euro 2015 Proof Aristophanes
Greek collectible silver proof coin with a face value of 10 euros, for the Ancient Comedy Series - Aristophanes, maximum number of 1.500 pieces, Bank of Greece mint, issued in 2015. Aristophanes was the greatest Greek comic playwright of the 5th century BC and eleven of his comedies have survived complete. Comedy in the days of Aristophanes, flourishing in a context of free speech in democratic Athens, was strongly political. In his works, Aristophanes criticised the failings of his city, speaking out against the war (Acharnians, Peace, Lysistrata) and deriding his fellow citizens for their flaws (Wasps, Birds). He also caricatured prominent figures of his time (Socrates in Clouds, Euripides in Thesmophoriazusae and Cleon in Knights) and even reflected on a poet’s role in society (Frogs). The works of Aristophanes, bold, caustic and yet remarkably discerning, ring true to this day, as shown by the frequent stagings of his plays by contemporary theatre companies. The photo is indicative, the coin you will receive is in the original box along with the certificate of authenticity.
100 euro 2015 Proof Hera
Greek collectible gold proof coin with a face value of 100 euros, for the Gods of Olympus - HERA, maximum number of 1,000 pieces, Bank of Greece mint, issue in 2015.
Hera was the supreme goddess of the Olympian pantheon, the wife of Zeus and the mother of Ares, Hephaestus and other gods. She was worshipped as the protectress of marriage (Hera Τeleia), but also as a virgin (Parthenos) and as the queen of gods (Vasileia). Portrayed in mythology as majestic and beautiful, Hera was notoriously jealous of Zeus and vengeful towards the numerous women he seduced, amongst them Leto, Io and Semele, and their offspring, most notably Hercules. Festivals in honour of Hera were held in many cities in Ancient Greece, especially at Olympia, where the “Heraia” consisted of footraces for maidens. Major centres of the cult of Hera in antiquity were Argos, Samos and Corinth (the sanctuary of Perachora). Today, the lighting of the Olympic Flame takes place during a ceremony before the Temple of Hera (the Heraion) in Olympia.