Lot 45
Caria, Islands off of. Rhodes, c. 404-385 BC. AR Tetradrachm (15.22 g). Facing head of Helios, inclined slightly to the right Reverse: Rose in profile with bud to left, wreath below right, Φ above; ethnic above; all in shallow incuse square. Ashton 35; Berend 40 (this coin). Finely centered, bold strike, on outstanding metal. Even gray patina over plentiful mint luster, with iridescent shades of deep blue, green and rose. Stunning portrait. The luxuriant wavy hair emulating the radiating solar rays later became a hallmark of his facing portraits. Very Rare, especially in this quality and preservation. NGC graded Choice Almost Uncirculated.
Facing heads are the most difficult to successfully engrave upon the dies. It takes a master celator to make the relief substantial and proportionate with the proper modeling of the sculptural object, which has been so beautifully accomplished in this compelling, large coin of Rhodes. Viewing a coin such as this through a stereo microscope is a treat, as the three-dimensional quality can be even more fully appreciated.
Estimated Value $25,000 - 30,000.
Ex de Guermantes Collection. Illustrated in Money of the World, coin 6.
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| Realized $41,400 |
