GREECE 2019 SILVER PROOF COIN 10 EURO GREEK PHILOSOPHERS SERIES '' ALCAEUS ''

GREECE 2019 SILVER PROOF COIN 10 EURO GREEK ALCAEUS

MINTAGE : 1200

Obverse

Classically sculpted left-facing bust of Alcaeus surrounded by a traditional Greek-key border. The text "ALCAEUS" in Greek is placed on the right periphery. The year of issue "2019" and the mint mark of the Hellenic Mint are engraved at centre left.

Lettering:
ΑΛΚΑΙΟΣ
2019

Translation:
ALCAEUS
2019

Engraver: G. Stamatopoulos

Reverse

The design recreates a classical scene of Alcaeus instructing the playing of a lyre by a seated female figure. The denomination "10 EURO" (in Greek) is seen the centre. Along the outer periphery is inscribed "HELLENIC REPUBLIC" (also in Greek). The Hellenic Crest (Emblem) is placed at lower left of the seated figure.

Lettering:
ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΔΗΜΟΚΡΑΤΙΑ
10 ΕΥΡΩ

Translation:
HELLENIC REPUBLIC
10 EURO

Engraver: G. Stamatopoulos

Edge

Plain

Comments

Alcaeus of Mytilene (ca 620 - 6th century BC), a contemporary of Sappho, was one of the canonical nine lyric poets of ancient Greece. He composed monodies in the local Aeolian dialect, of which only fragments survive. Born into an aristocratic family, Alcaeus lived through turbulent times, marked by a challenging of traditional aristocratic power, frequent political changes and a rise of tyrants. Alcaeus took active part in these conflicts
and, for this, was exiled. Thus, much of his poetry is political, with virulent attacks on his opponents. He also wrote hymns to gods, love poems, as well as drinking songs, for which he was famous. His style was praised in ancient times for its dynamism, conciseness, vigour and rhythm. His drinking songs were, in particular, greatly admired and imitated by Horace.

Packaging: Coin box with Certificate of Authenticity
Minting quality: Proof