SINOPE, Paphlagonia. Circa 85-65 BC.
Struck under Mithradates VI.
Obv:  Aegis with head of gorgoneion in center
Rev:  ΣIN-ΩΠHΣ, Nike advancing right, holding palm. Monograms across fields.

8.27 grams, 20 mm

Mithradates the Great was one of the most formidable foes of the Roman Empire.  He claimed descent from both the great kings of Persia and the generals of Alexander the Great.  He is said to have spoken the 22 languages of the nations which he ruled.  He made himself immune to poison, by ingesting sublethal doses.  Mithradates was unstoppable except for the full military might of Rome.

Ancient sources are clear on the awesome power of the aegis. The Iliad states that Athena went to battle "...holding the precious aegis which is ageless and immortal: a hundred tassels of pure gold hang fluttering from it, tight-woven each of them, and each the worth of a hundred oxen."  It had legendary power to protect, and to intimdate enemies.  When the aegis is shaken, "Mount Ida is wrapped in clouds, the thunder rolls and men are struck down with fear." ""It produced a sound as from a myriad roaring dragons."  It was awesome, that is agreed upon. However, what it actually was remains a complete mystery. It did have a gorgon head in the middle. 

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