The Ionian Islands, after six centuries under the rule of the Republic of Venice, formed the 'Republic of the Seven Islands' in 1800 under Ottoman sovereignty. In 1803, Greek became the official language instead of Italian. The British protectorate 'United States of the Ionian Islands' was installed in 1815 and merged in 1864 with the Greek state, which had been independent since 1830. According to the coin's designer, the 'Seven Point Star' symbolizes the "Ionian Dimension" ("Ιόνια Διάσταση"). 'The Group of Seven Islands' ("Ἑπτάνησα") in theIonian Sea bore and inspired outstanding musicians, poets, painters and politicians. Clockwise from top, the visuals symbolize these Ionian islands:Corfu: "Άπήδαλος Nαῦς" (apēdalos naus), an antique rowing ship with a square rig, depicted rudderless due to the myth being steered only by thought. The Phaeacians from Scheria, to which the Corfiotes – well known for their nautical abilities and skills – trace back, invented this fast ship type. Zakynthos (Zante): sacrificial tripod, depicted according to an ancient coin of Acarnania, symbol of Apollo and a reference to the island's widespread Apollo's cult.Ithaca: mythical home of Odysseus, who is depicted with the characteristic felt hat "Pilos". Paxi: trident, with which – according to the mythologycal tale – Poseidon separated Paxi islands from the southern tip of Corfu to create a protected love nest for himself and his beloved Amphitrite.Kithira: Aphrodite, depicted on a scallop, rose from the sea there, according to the myth. Lefkada: Apollonian harp („Απολλώνια Άρπα“), a symbol of the island's great musical tradition. Cefalonia: the depicted mythical hero Cephalus, son of Hermes, gave the island his/its name.The motif is surrounded by an antique meandering ornament known as „Running Dog“, which is reminiscent of rolling waves. |
