Ancient Greek Sicily Tetradrachm Coin from Leontini, 450 BC

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About the Item

A stunning, beautiful example of an ancient Greek silver tetradrachm from Leontini, Sicily. Struck circa 450 BC from dies of the finest severe or early classical style. The obverse (image II) with a graceful portrait of the patron deity of Leontini, Apollo. He is shown facing right, gazing skywards and crowned with a laurel wreath. His long hair tied into a chignon, sitting at the nape of the neck, loose curls cascade down his cheek and along the forehead. The reverse (image i) with a ferocious, open-jawed lion facing right and framed by the produce of the region, four plump grains of barley. The legend around reading: ΛΕΟΝΤΙΝΟΝ. "Of the Leontines." 5th century BC Greece is perhaps the most important period in the development of western culture. The art created during this glorious age of innovation was also experiencing a dramatic change; evolving from the stiff, powerful depictions of archaic art to the sensuous, refined elegance of the Classical. This coin was created during the middle of the century by a city just freed from the rule of tyrants. Perhaps in celebration of this the Leontines chose a new design for their coinage. The obverse no longer shows the old Syracusan image of the four horse chariot but instead boasts a portrait of Leontini's patron deity, executed with poised elegance. The reverse retains the city's old depiction of the lion, the sacred beast of Apollo, now shown in a more lively, playful style. The reverse also works as a pun on the city name, for the Greek word for lion is Leon. Although we have seen examples of this type in higher grades, this coin is so beautifully centered and toned that it is amongst the most appealing we have encountered. A truly delightful work of fifth century BC art. Provenance: Ex. North American private collection.

Dimensions:
Diameter: 1.07 in (2.7 cm)
Place of Origin:
Italy
Period:
18th Century and Earlier
Date of Manufacture:
450 BC
Condition:
Seller Location:
London, GB
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU105221294334

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