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Caduceus
12 products
Showing 1 - 12 of 12 products
The Caduceus is a symbolic staff associated with Hermes (or Mercury in Roman mythology), consisting of two serpents intertwined around a winged staff. This symbol has evolved over centuries, carrying rich historical, cultural, and allegorical significance.
Origins and Mythology
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Greek Mythology:
- The Caduceus originally belonged to Hermes, the messenger of the gods, who was also associated with trade, eloquence, and negotiation. According to myth, Hermes received the staff from Apollo as a gesture of friendship.
- The staff’s design—two serpents entwined around a rod—comes from an ancient tale where Hermes used the rod to separate two fighting snakes, which then became entwined, symbolizing peace and balance.
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Roman Mythology:
- In Roman culture, the Caduceus is linked to Mercury, the Roman counterpart of Hermes, carrying similar associations with commerce and communication.
Symbolism and Usage
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Commerce and Negotiation:
- The Caduceus symbolizes trade, negotiation, and balanced exchange, reflecting Hermes’ role as the god of commerce. It often appears on coins and emblems related to trade and economic activities.
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Medicine and Healing:
- While often confused with the Rod of Asclepius (which has a single serpent and is a true symbol of medicine), the Caduceus has been adopted by various medical organizations, particularly in the United States, symbolizing healthcare and medical practice.
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Peace and Diplomacy:
- The intertwined serpents can represent harmony and balanced opposites, symbolizing peace and reconciliation. The wings signify swiftness and the dynamic nature of communication.
Historical and Modern Contexts
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Ancient and Medieval Use:
- In antiquity, the Caduceus was a symbol of protection and heraldic authority. It appeared on coins, shields, and various artifacts to denote divine protection and swift communication.
- During the Middle Ages, alchemists and scholars adopted the symbol to represent the balance of opposing forces and the transformative process of alchemy.
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Modern Usage:
- Today, the Caduceus is widely used in various contexts:
- Medical Field: Although not traditionally correct, it is used by some medical corps and institutions, particularly in the United States.
- Commerce and Trade: It remains a symbol of commerce and is often seen in logos and emblems of commercial enterprises.
- Military Insignia: The Caduceus is used in military insignia to denote logistical support and medical services.
- Today, the Caduceus is widely used in various contexts:
Coin Representation
- On coins, the Caduceus often appears as a representation of commerce and communication. It is found on ancient Greek and Roman coinage, emphasizing the importance of trade and economic stability in those cultures.
- Modern commemorative coins might also feature the Caduceus to honor contributions to commerce, healthcare, and diplomacy.
Showing 1 - 12 of 12 products
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France | 6 Coin Set | 5 10 25 50 Centimes 1 2 Francs | Phrygian cap | Mercury | 1917 - 1938
Sale price$17.86
Regular price$22.29
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Indonesia 50 Sen Coin | Blossom | Pangeran Diponegoro | KM9 | 1952
Sale price$4.40
Regular price$8.80
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Yugoslavia 25 Para Coin | Petar I | Two Headed Eagle | KM3 | 1920
Sale price$7.58
Regular price$15.16
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Belgian 2 Francs Coin | Albert I Belgique | Shield | Caduceus | KM91 | 1923 - 1930
Sale price$7.83
Regular price$15.66
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Belgian 2 Francs Coin | Albert I Belgie | Libertine | Caduceus | KM92 | 1923 - 1930
Sale price$7.83
Regular price$15.66
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Belgian Coin 1 Franc - Albert I Belgique | Libertine | Sword | KM89 | 1922 - 1934
Sale price$7.54
Regular price$15.08
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Belgian Coin 50 Centimes - Albert I België | Libertine | Caduceus | KM88 | 1923 - 1934
Sale price$7.40
Regular price$14.79
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Belgian Coin 50 Centimes - Albert Belgique | Libertine | Caduceus | KM87 | 1922 - 1933
Sale price$7.40
Regular price$14.79
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Belgian Coin 1 Franc - Albert I België | Libertine | Sword | KM90 | 1922 - 1935
Sale price$7.54
Regular price$15.08
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French 50 Centimes Coin | Chambers of Commerce | KM884 | France | 1920 - 1929
Sale price$4.71
Regular price$9.41
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