Lot 4022
Sicily, Syrakuse. Dionysios I, 405-367 BC. Silver Dekadrachm (43.49g) struck ca. 400-390 BC. Unsigned dies by Euainetos. Fast quadriga left, the charioteer holding long kentron in his right hand and reins in his left; above, Nike (Victory) flying right to crown charioteer; in exergue, shield, cuirass flanked by greaves, and crested Attic helmet arrayed on a horizontal spear. Reverse: Σ - YPA - K - O - ΣIΩN. Head left of Arethusa, wreathed in grain leaves, wearing triple-pendant earring and beaded necklace; to right, scallop shell; around, four dolphins. SNG ANS 372; Dewing 904-906 (all from the same dies); Gallatin O.XI-R.E.I; cf. Rizzo pl. 54, 1 (reverse) and 4 (same obverse die). Excellent metal, well struck on both sides and delicately toned. A truly remarkable example. Extremely Fine.
The magnificent series of Syrakusan dekadrachms issued under the tyrant Dionysios I (405-367 BC) and designed by the master engravers Euainetos and Kimon and their schools were destined to exert an important influence over the later fourth century issues of many Greek states. War with the Carthaginians required large sums of money for the payment of mercenary troops, and it may be presumed that this was the principal reason for the production of these medallic pieces. Although unsigned, this specimen is clearly the work of the school of Euainetos, and the dies may well have been engraved by the master himself.
Estimated Value $50,000 - 60,000.
The Hunter Collection; Ex Leu 52, 15 May 1991, lot 24; Sternberg 20, 20 April 1988, lot 409; Münzen & Medallen 53, 29 November 1977, lot 44.
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| Realized $97,750 |
