2017-05-25 Thu

The Decadrachms of Syracuse made by engravers Kimon and Euainetos are known for its artistic designs in ancient numismatics. One such exceptional Decadrachm engraved and signed by Euainetos will be offered at Stack’s Bowers 2017 ANA World’s Fair Auction.

The obverse and reverse designs feature a quadriga (a four-horse chariot) and the water nymph Arethusa respectively mostly. The tyrants of Syracuse were wealthy and used to organise chariot races. These games were associated with the reputation of the autocrat of the city. A maiden named Arethusa attracted a river deity. He kept pursuing her until she took the help of Artemis, goddess of the hunt. Arethusa transformed into an underground stream and emerged as a fountain on the island of Ortygia.

The coin features a quadriga driven by a female charioteer, kentron in her right hand and the reins in her left. Nike is flying above the horses trying to crown the charioteer. It also depicts various military implements like aegis, greaves, helmet and spear. The reverse features the face of water nymph Arethusa wearing a barley wreath necklace and earrings. The curls of her hair are very detailed. A Syracuse, four dolphins and the signature of Euainetos are also seen on the coin.