This rare and significant silver Diobol coin from ancient Tarentum (modern-day Taranto) in Southern Apulia, minted circa 380–325 BCE, is set within a stunning 18 karat rose gold bespoke hand-bracelet, adorned with 15 grey diamonds. The bracelet’s contemporary and unexpected design was specially commissioned to harmoniously blend ancient heritage with a modern, edgy aesthetic. Its adjustable nature ensures effortless, everyday wearability.
The obverse of the coin features Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, facing right and wearing a crested Corinthian helmet on which the mythical sea monster Skylla is depicted, hurling a stone at a ship. Athena is wearing a single pendant earring. This imagery is a powerful declaration of strength from Tarentum: Athena’s wisdom and divine protection, paired with Skylla’s maritime might, reflect Tarentum’s confidence as a prominent maritime power and key commercial port of Magna Graecia.
On the reverse, a youthful Heracles (Hercules in Roman mythology) is strangling the Nemean Lion, a striking symbol of strength, courage, and resilience. Together, Athena’s protection, Skylla’s might, and Heracles’ unmatched power declare Tarentum’s readiness for any challenge—no matter how great. This small but significant coin speaks volumes: Tarentum was a city to be reckoned with.
This bespoke bracelet thoughtfully draws inspiration from the rich traditions of hand-bracelets in South Asia and Asia Minor, reinterpreted with a modern aesthetic. The unexpected fusion of ancient symbolism and contemporary design results in a distinctive statement piece, celebrating timeless heritage through innovative craftsmanship and contemporary design.
