A silver hemidrachm from Thracian Chersonesos, struck between 386 and 338 BC, now reborn as a pendant in solid 18k gold. The obverse shows a lion leaping with its head turned back, a motif of strength and agility. The reverse bears a quadripartite incuse square, alternating fields engraved with a barley grain and a civic monogram—symbols of agricultural wealth and identity. This timeless relic of ancient craftsmanship is preserved in a bold, modern setting.
The History
The name Chersonesos means “peninsula,” and this coin hails from one of the most contested regions of the ancient Mediterranean. Controlling access between the Aegean and Black Seas, the Gallipoli Peninsula was fought over by Athenians, Persians, Macedonians, and later the Romans. Its fertile land and strategic harbors made it both valuable and vulnerable. The lion motif evoked strength, while the barley grain spoke to the agricultural wealth that sustained the region. These coins likely circulated as civic currency before Philip II of Macedon’s conquest in 338 BC, marking the end of local independence. Today, they survive as rare emblems of resilience at the crossroads of empire.
What’s Included
Sterling silver chain included, with 14k gold upgrades available at checkout (message us for 18k chain options)
Certificate of authenticity and background information
Elegant packaging for gifting or safekeeping
Free 2–3 day U.S. shipping; international shipping available
Coin Details
Type: Silver Hemidrachm
Date: c. 386–338 BC
Region: Chersonesos, Thrace (Gallipoli Peninsula)
Obverse: Forepart of lion leaping right, head turned back
Reverse: Quadripartite incuse square with barley grain and monogram
Metal: Ancient silver
Provenance: Acquired from Britain’s leading ancient coin dealer
Lion and Pattern in Gold
18k Gold / Bezel / Small
$950.00
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Testimonials
My four daughters absolutely LOVED them! Your work is excellent and the pendants look great- Thank you!
— Eva S.
Thank you for making this spectacular necklace! I provided the denarius of Julia Domna, and they did the rest. I was delighted with the results - and so (more importantly) was my girlfriend.
— Garrett Ryan from Toldinstone
Got the ring today! Love it!
— Margaret B.
The Athenian Owl pendants are awesome! We're saving the gift for a special occasion. My wife loved it, she got it and was all hushed quiet, that smile while opening and handling it for the first few minutes. It's special.
— Joe E.
OMG the coin. It’s sooo gorgeous. I love it so so so so much. Thank you for keeping me in mind and finding this piece of perfection for me.
— Cecilia A.
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FAQs
Are all coins authentic?
Yes — all coins are genuine, not replicas. Fakes are rare because good forgeries take too much effort for low-value coins, and bad ones are easy to spot.
Where are your coins bought?
Mostly from reputable ancient coin auctions in Europe and the USA, plus private collections.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we proudly ship worldwide. Shipping options and times vary by country — you’ll see available methods at checkout.
Can I send you my own coin to make a pendant?
Absolutely! We love turning personal coins into wearable pieces. Just email us at info@peregrinependants.com to discuss your custom order.
What if my pendant needs repair?
If your pendant ever needs repair or resizing, contact us — we’re happy to help keep your piece in top shape.
