Ancient Greek Silver Tetradrachm Coin from Gela Sicily, 480 BC

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About the Item

A delightful, well provenanced ancient Greek coin. A silver tetradrachm minted under tyrant Polyzalos at the city of Gela on the island of Sicily, circa 480-470 BC. The obverse (image ii) with bearded charioteer standing right in slow moving quadriga (four horse chariot), holding reins and a goad. Nike, the goddess of victory flies above, crowning the horses with a wreath. The reverse (image i) with the forepart of the local river god Gelas, shown in the form of a man-headed bull. The inscription reading: ϹΕΛΑΣ. "of the people of Gela." The ancient island of Sicily is regarded as the home of the most beautiful and influential coins ever produced. The most admired of these enchanting works of art were created during the 5th to early 4th centuries, putting this tetradrachm at the beginning of this brief but brilliant period of numismatic excellence. It was the Tyrant Polyzalos (ruled 478 - 470) who was responsible for the minting of this captivating coin. Polyzalos is known for dedicating the stunning Charioteer of Delphi, perhaps the most exquisite and best preserved ancient Greek bronze statue to have survived from antiquity. The statue was dedicated to honour the victory of Polyzalos' quadriga in the games of 474, likely celebrating a similar event to the one seen on the obverse of this coin. The reverse shows the local patron river god, in the guise of a man headed bull, a suitable representation of the area's unpredictable and at times destructive river. The coinage of Gela is renowned for its power and archaic beauty, qualities perfectly illustrated by the present example. Whilst the tetradrachmas of Gela are not the rarest of ancient coins, this example was struck from dies of superior style to most. Furthermore, this piece has a rare published provenance. Provenance: Illustrated in Gerhard Hirsch auction 163, September 1989. Lot 110.

Dimensions:
Diameter: 1.03 in (2.6 cm)
Place of Origin:
Italy
Period:
18th Century and Earlier
Date of Manufacture:
480-470 BC
Condition:
Seller Location:
London, GB
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU105221294378

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