Unknown Maker, Greek

This coin exemplifies the trend toward artistic imagery in Greek numismatics. The engraver did not choose to represent the god Poseidon, but instead depicted a famous statue of the deity. Referencing a work of art shows that ancient coins were not designed with purely utilitarian motives. This coin also reflects the endurance of certain styles of art. Although this archaic styleof sculpture was no longer employed by the time this coin was minted, the statue was still considered worthy of representation.