Neither Man Nor Beast: Animal Images on Ancient Coins
Ongoing
Gallery 155

Overview: Animals pervade the imagery found on the gold, silver, and bronze coinage of ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt. Although they often appear in their natural state, animals sometimes share the features of humans or other beasts, taking the form of mythical creatures like centaurs and sphinxes. Ancient Greek and Roman coins also feature heroes, divinities, and rulers outfitted with animal attributes to emphasize their special powers or to promote a specific political identity.

Coin Showing the Nymph Parthenope, 280-241 B.C. Italy, Campania, minted in Neapolis (Naples); Greek. Gift of Martin A. Ryerson.