Lot 1642

Description

Sicily, Syracuse, Agathocles, (317-289 B.C.), silver tetradrachm, (17.36 grams), obv. head of Artemis-Arethusa (Persophone) to left, surrounded by three dolphins, with dotted border, wearing wreath of barley N[K] below, rev. galloping quadriga driven left by charioteer holding goad, above trisceles, in exergue **SURAKOSIWN over AN monogram, (S.971; Ierardi, No.11a (This Coin, ANS AJN 7-8, p.40], Kraay/Hirmer 134 [similar dies], SNG Fitz. 1327-8 [same obverse die], SNG Lloyd 1477 [same obverse die], SNG ANS 637 [same obverse die]). Attractively toned, reverse slightly off centre, otherwise extremely fine and very rare, the only known example from these dies.

Ex Bank Leu, Zurich Sale 15, 4th May 1976 (lot 128 and realised 11,550 SFr.), and previously from Vinchon, Paris, Sale of 7th November 1966 (lot 22) and similarly Sale 6th April 1959 (lot 27).