KYRENAICA. Kyrene. Circa 500-480 BC. Drachm (Silver, 13 mm, 4.27 g), Attic standard. Head of a river-god, as a man-headed bull, to left; before to left, two silphium fruits. Rev. Star-like floral pattern set on circle; all within incuse square punch. BMC 20. SNG Copenhagen -. Extremely rare and in exceptional condition for the issue. A well struck and perfectly centered example with a river-god of enchanting archaic style. Very minor marks, otherwise, good very fine.


From the P.T.M. collection of coins from North Africa, ex Leu 1, 25 October 2017, 108.

The early silver coinage of Kyrene is notorious for being struck off center and worn. This piece however, with its perfect centering and unusually fine condition, is quite exceptional and fully captures the beauty of this wonderful die pair. It is undoubtedly among the best examples known.