Feb 13 2009
Croesus’ Treasure Stolen in Turkey
King Croesus was the king of Lydia from 560BC until his defeat by the Persians in about 547BC. Renowned for his wealth, his name became a synonym for a wealthy man. You may have heard someone called “rich as Croesus” and, well, that’s where the saying came from. Greek and Persian culture adopted his name to identify wealthy men. But don’t worry; Croesus wouldn’t have had a problem with that. He credited himself with the invention of the first formalized currency system and coinage.
That story is part of which makes this article we found so very interesting. The DIRECTOR of the a state museum in turkey and NINE accomplices have been convicted of stealing some of Croesus’ fabled treasure.
The theft included a coin and a gold brooch in the shape of a winged sea horse and the items were taken several years ago. In 2006 the taken items were replaced by fakes, and have never been recovered.
As for the director, he received a 13 year prison sentence for theft and embezzlement. The other nine received lesser prison terms.
Wow.
