Greek Coinages, Syracuse: Tetradrachm, struck under the Second Democracy, c. 440

Obverse: quadriga stepping slowly right, charioteer holding kentron and reins; wreath-bearing Nike flying right above to crown horses; ketos in exergue

Reverse: συρακοσιον: head of Arethusa right, her hair bound by cord wound thrice round head and tied into a chignon behind, wearing pendant earring and plain necklace with ornament; framed by four dolphins around

Metal: silver; Attic weight standard; 17.14g/3h

References: Boehringer 570.4, this coin [V286/R391] = Als Kunstwerk 406, this coin = Woodward 100, this coin; Rizzo pl. XXXVII, 16; Ashmolean –

Condition: Almost extremely fine, struck from dies of strong classical style; beautiful dark cabinet toning across a broad flan £3,000-£3,600

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, The Phillips Family Collection of Ancient Greek Coins.

View
Collection

H. Montagu Collection, Sotheby Auction, 23 March 1896, lot 134
F.S. Benson Collection, Sotheby Auction, 3 February 1909, lot 304
W.H. Woodward Collection
SNC October 1943 (21750)
Bt Spink, February 1945