SICILY. Syracuse. Dionysios I, 406-367 B.C. AR Dekadrachm (41.88 gms), ca. 405-380/67 B.C. NGC Ch EF, Strike: 4/5 Surface: 2/5. Fine Style. HGC-2, 1299; cf. SNG ANS-373/374 (for obv./rev. dies); Gallatin dies-R.XV/F.VIIa. Unsigned dies in the style of Euainetos. Obverse: Charioteer, holding kentron and reins, driving quadriga left; above, crowning Nike flying right; below heavy exergual line, military harness, shield, greaves, cuirass, and crested Attic helmet, all connected by a horizontal spear; ΑΘΛA below; Reverse: Head of Arethousa left, wearing grain wreath, triple-pendant earring, and pearl necklace; shell behind neck, four dolphins swimming around. An ever-popular type, this impressive specimen features a rather bold strike on each side, with the horses seemingly leaping off of the obverse, and the hair on Arethousas head pressing ever outward, giving great contour to the portrait. Some typical surface roughness is noted, as well as some light scratches near the edges of the reverse, but this nevertheless presents an exceptional opportunity for one of the more classical ancient coin types, and one that is in the style of the always elegant engraver, Euainetos. <strong>RARE </strong>and ceaselessly desirable. From the Collection of a Gentleman.<p>Ex: Coin Galleries (7/2002) Lot # 62.
