Lot 3107

Description

Sicily, Katana (Catana), (450-420 B.C.), silver tetradrachm, (17.436 grams), obv. slow quadriga driven to right by male charioteer holding goad, rev. laureate head of Apollo to right, hair turned up behind, before off flan [KATANAION], (S.767 [£1500], SNG ANS 1240 [same dies], Luynes 2869, Rizzo Pl.X, No.17, [with same reverse striking flaw from clashed dies as this example], Naville Sale XVI, No.470 [same dies, same clashed dies]). Off centred on the obverse, clashed die on edge on reverse as desribed by Rizzo, stiking edge split, very fine, dark tone, very rare.

Ex Noble Numismatics Sale 56 (lot 1782). The striking flaw behind Apollo's head on the reverse are the feet of the horses from the obverse due to clashing of the dies. This die is very distinctive having a larger head than usual for this type.