Greek, Sicily, Syracuse, 19th century struck fantasy decadrachm, Arethusa/quadriga
Greek, Sicily, Syracuse, 19th century struck fantasy decadrachm, Arethusa/quadriga
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£2,000.00 GBP
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Sale price
£2,000.00 GBP
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per
Greek, Sicily, Syracuse, 19th century struck fantasy decadrachm, Arethusa/quadriga. 43 mm, 40.52 g.
This rather beautiful object is clearly inspired by the renowned decadrachms struck in Syracuse from the late 5th to early 4th century BC. From the style, it appears to have been made in Western Europe in the early or mid-19th century. The engraver was clearly competent but was probably working from an engraving rather than a photograph or an example of the coin, hence the unusual style.
An original example of this coin would cost well over £100,000 in this condition, so this is a pleasant filler. It could also be useful in jewellery.
Practically as struck, lustrous, old cabinet tone. Extremely rare, apparently unpublished.