2010 Greece €2 UNC Coin "Battle of Marathon"

• Mint: Bank of Greece
• Denomination: €2
• Quality: Uncirculated
• Issue limit: 2.5 million pcs.
• Alloy: Base Metal
• Diameter: 25.75 mm
• Weight: 8.5 grams
• Design:
• Box/Capsule: No/No
• Certificate: No

Additional Information

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This issue commemorates the 2500th anniversary of the Battle of Marathon.

The center of the coin shows a synthesis of a shield and a warrior, symbolizing the battle for freedom and the noble ideals derived from the battle of Marathon. The bird on the shield symbolizes the birth of western civilization in its present form.

The Battle of Marathon took place in 490 BC during the first Persian invasion of Greece. It was fought between the citizens of Athens, aided by Plataea, and a Persian force commanded by Datis and Artaphernes. It was the culmination of the first attempt by Persia, under King Darius I, to subjugate Greece. The first Persian invasion was a response to Greek involvement in the Ionian Revolt, when Athens and Eretria had sent a force to support the cities of Ionia in their attempt to overthrow Persian rule. The Athenians and Eretrians had succeeded in capturing and burning Sardis, but were then forced to retreat with heavy losses. In response to this raid, the Persian king Darius I swore to have revenge on Athens and Eretria.