Macedonian Coin Ring

Eion was the port out of which metals and money flowed—so much so that the Byzantines called the city Chrysopolis, city of gold.

The significance for Eion of the goose and the salamander is unclear, however, several facts are known about each. The salamander was believed by the ancients and medieval peoples to be born from flames. The goose is a symbol of fidelity, but it often serves as an early warning system for intruders to a farm, barnyard or even city.

Eion, Macedonia. 460-400 BC. Silver trihemiobol. Obverse: Goose looking over its back at lizard. Reverse: Windmill incuse square. 18kt yellow gold and 0.18cttw diamond.