LUCANIA. Velia. Circa 300-280 BC. Didrachm or Nomos (Subaeratus, 21 mm, 6.81 g, 12 h). Head of Athena to left, wearing crested Attic helmet decorated with a griffin springing to left on the bowl; behind neck guard, Θ. Rev. ΥEΛHTΩN Lion standing to right, devouring ram's head; above, cicada to right between Φ-I. HN Italy 1305. SNG München 879 (same dies). Williams 423 (O209/R299). A beautifully toned and perfectly centered piece. Minor edge marks, otherwise, good very fine.


Were it not for its low weight, this contemporary plated imitation would most certainly not have revealed itself. Perfectly centered from official dies, one cannot help but wonder if it was produced by the regular mint.