Lot 4009
Sicily, Gela. Silver Didrachm (8.6g) struck ca. 490-475 BC. [G]E - LA (retrograde). Forepart of man-headed bull running right. Reverse: Naked horseman in peaked helmet galloping right, brandishing spear in right hand, holding reins in left. SNG ANS 5; Jenkins 19. Attractive antique toning. Extremely Fine.
This superbly preserved didrachm of the southern Sicilian city of Gela belongs to the time of the tyrants Gelon and Hieron, subsequently rulers of Syrakuse. The obverse honors the cavalry for which Gela was justly famous, while the man-headed bull on the reverse represents the river god Gelas who is named in the accompanying inscription. The city stood at the mouth of the Gelas and commanded its fertile plain.
Estimated Value $2,500 - 3,000.
The Hunter Collection.
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| Realized $2,990 |
