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SICILY. Syracuse Agathocles Tetradrachm
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Coin Details
| Origin/Country: |
ANCIENT - GREEK EMPIRES (6th CENT BC - 5th CENT AD) SICILY, SYRACUSE Agathocles, 317-289 BC |
| Item Description: |
AR Tetradrachm Sicily, Syracuse rv quadriga, trisceles obv Arethusa, dolphins |
| Full Grade: |
NGC Ch AU Strike: 5/5 Surface: 5/5 |
| Owner: |
Taler Universe |
Owner Comments:
SICILY. Syracuse. Agathocles (317-289 BC). AR Tetradrachm. 26mm, 17.09gr ca. 310-305 B.C. Pre-royal coinage, Agathocles as Tyrant, ca. 310-305 BC. Obv: Wreathed head of Arethusa facing left wreathed with grain ears, wearing triple-pendant earring and necklace, three dolphins around, "NI" below neck truncation. Rev: Charioteer holding kentron and reins driving a fast quadriga left, triskeles above, AI monogram in exergue. An absolutely stunning example, leaving little to be desired. Great centering, allowing for a good portion of the obverse beaded border and the full reverse design evoking the finely styled decadrachms of Euainetos struck a century earlier. What really elevates this exquisite piece is the toning, with gorgeous cerulean toning amongst Arethusa's hair seems to reinforce her presence in an aquatic realm. The reverse also features beautiful toning, with similar cerulean and some azure hues melding with breath-taking sunset and rose surrounding the vigorous horses. NGC Ch. AU★ 5/5, 5/5. Fine Style.
Purchased from Catherine E. Bullowa-Moore in 1987.