The Ancient Greek Mysia Parion Silver Hemidrachm from the 4th century BC stands out as one of the most visually striking and coveted coins of the ancient world. This exceptional hemidrachm features a bold, expressive Gorgon face on the reverse—complete with a protruding tongue and deeply engraved details that bring the mythical creature to life. The dramatic rendering of Medusa’s visage, often surrounded by serpents, exudes both power and artistry; collectors treasure it for its “extreme detail” and mesmerizing appearance.

On the obverse, a bull or cow stands to the left with its head turned back to the right, a motif celebrating the agrarian roots and religious significance of Parion in Mysia. The coin typically shows the Greek letters ΠΑ (PA) above and PI or a star below, marking its civic origin. Struck in high-purity silver, this hemidrachm usually weighs between 2.25-2.50 grams and measures about 13-14 mm in diameter—yet its compact size is not a limitation for its bold artistry and clear imagery.

The beautiful state of preservation and precision of these coins make them highly sought by ancient collectors and connoisseurs of numismatic art. The intense Gorgon face is considered one of the most successful Hellenistic designs for its ability to evoke awe and repel evil, while the bull scene anchors the piece in the pastoral mythos of classical Greece. Each coin’s imagery and historical context ensure it holds strong appeal to anyone seeking an ancient coin that’s both “huge in detail” and deeply historic.

A Mysia Parion Gorgon Hemidrachm in extreme condition truly offers the best of ancient coin collecting: captivating myth, incredible craftsmanship, and a surviving link to the world of Greek legends and city-states.