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This modern replica of an ancient Greek tetradrachm from Syracuse offers a window into the artistry and symbolism of 5th-century BCE Sicily. The obverse features the serene profile of Arethusa, the nymph revered as the patron of Syracuse’s freshwater springs, her hair intricately styled with a diadem of reeds, a hallmark of the city’s coinage. The detailed rendering of her hair and the flowing lines of her headpiece reflect the exceptional skill of ancient Syracusan engravers, who were renowned for their ability to blend naturalism with mythological themes. This design, often attributed to the period of the Deinomenid dynasty under Gelon and Hieron I, underscores Syracuse’s cultural prominence in Magna Graecia during a time of political and economic flourishing.
The reverse presents a powerful image of a horse’s head, a symbol deeply tied to Syracuse’s equestrian heritage and its celebrated victories in the Panhellenic Games, particularly at Olympia. The horse is depicted with a braided mane, and a palm branch beside it signifies triumph, a common motif on Syracusan coinage meant to honor the city’s athletic and military achievements. The inscription “ΣΥΡΑΚΟ” (Syrako), a shortened form of Syracuse, encircles the design, affirming the coin’s origin. This novodel piece, while not an original, captures the essence of Syracuse’s golden age, making it a compelling addition for collectors fascinated by ancient Greek numismatics and the historical legacy of one of Sicily’s most influential city-states.
278,00 Kč