Syracuse, Dekadrachm (silver coin replica)
405-380 BC.
OBV: Galloping quadriga driven r. by charioteer, holding goad, crowned by Nike flying r. above. In ex., panoply of armour consisting of cuirass flanked by greaves, with shield on l. and crested helmet on r.
R:
Head of Artemis-Arethusa, or Persephone l., hair bound with wreath of corn-leaves, four dolphins around. ΣΥΡΑΚΟΣΙΟΝ above head. Beneath ΣVΣΟΚ (engraver's signature).

Customer's feedback:

Today I received the reproductions I just purchased from you. Obviously, your coins are always in the highest class of quality that makes them truly appreciated by every collector, but I must share with you my absolute joy and happiness with your recent production of the decadram of Syracuse.
This is truly a masterpiece. The obverse is perfect, and captures the movement of the horses in quadrigemina WITHOUT the common dye rust and wear, particularly over the head of the leading horse, a characteristic that bedevils too many of the existing originals I have seen or handled.
The subtle wear (or absence of complete striking up over the hairline, as it is sometimes explained) is an ingenious artistic element which you have had the sensitivity to include in this wonderful re strike of a coin felt to be the high point of classical Greek coinage by many. I can not tell you how much pleasure it brings me to behold this coin. The surfaces are well done, and the absence of centuries of the chemical effects of Sicilian soil allows the viewer a less distracted view of this true masterpiece. I want to thank both of you gentlemen profoundly for bringing this level of numismatic art into the lives of those who love it at a modest cost. An original, if you could find it in this condition would cost over Dollars 40,000 at this point in time.

Thank you again,
M.C., USA

 
Home  Czech Terms FAQ Basket

© 2000-2009 ANTIQUANOVA