Lot 4968

Description

Sicily, Syracuse, (c.405-393 B.C.), silver tetradrachm (17.29 grams), obv. galloping quadriga driven to left by male charioteer holding goad, Nike flying right crowning rider, in exergue dolphin left, dotted border, rev. **SUPAKOSION* around but off flan, head of Artemis-Arethusa to left, hair tied in spendone, wearing earring and necklace, four dolphins around, (cf.S.955, BMC 195, cf.Tudeer 99 [dies, obv.34, rev.68], cf.SNG ANS 298 [same dies], Boston 443 [same dies], cf.Hirsch Sale sale 32, 14-5/11/1912, Pl. XIV, [lots 363-8]). Exceptional head of Arethusa with details of flowing hair in the finest classical style, full depiction of four horses on obverse, distinctive crescent shaped striking mark to left of head, attractive deep toning, nearly extremely fine and very rare.

Compare with similar piece offered at the Gemini VII auction, January 9, 2011, that realised US$24,000. Both pieces display the distinctive crescent shaped striking mark and similar dies, however this piece includes the heads of all four hourses on the obverse.