SICILY. Syracuse. Dionysios I, 405-367 BC. Dekadrachm (Silver, 36 mm, 43.16 g, 2 h), unsigned dies in the style of Euainetos, circa 400-390. Charioteer driving quadriga galloping to left, holding kentron in his right hand and reins in his left; above, Nike flying right, crowning the charioteer with a wreath; in exergue, on two slightly raised lines, shield, pair of greaves, cuirass and crested Attic helmet; below, [AΘΛA]. Rev. Σ-ΥΡΑ-Κ-[Ο-Σ-ΙΩΝ] Head of Arethousa to left, wearing wreath of reeds, triple-pendant earring and pearl necklace; around, four dolphins; behind neck, scallop-shell. Gallatin R.XIV/F.VIIA. Gulbenkian 315 (same dies). HGC 2, 1299. Pozzi 617 (same dies). SNG München 1080 (same dies). Lightly toned, very well centered and with a wonderful reverse. Struck from a somewhat worn obverse die, otherwise, nearly extremely fine.



The Syracusan dekadrachms of the late 5th century BC arguably represent the pinnacle of ancient Greek die engraving. Created during the early tyranny of Dionysios I, these masterpieces reflect the artistic rivalry between the great engravers of the era, particularly Euainetos and Kimon. Their works exhibit distinct stylistic differences: Euainetos' designs are characterized by elegance and fluidity, while Kimon's compositions exude a more austere and structured grandeur.

Struck on large flans exceeding 40 grams, these dekadrachms are among the largest and most impressive silver coins of antiquity, adding to their desirability among collectors. The influence of these artists extended far beyond Syracuse, shaping the numismatic art of Sicily, Magna Graecia and the world beyond. Even in antiquity, these coins were widely admired and imitated, and they have remained highly coveted since the Renaissance, celebrated as some of the finest examples of classical coinage.