SICILY. Syracuse. Agathokles (317-289 BC). Tetradrachm.

Obv: Wreathed head of Arethusa left, wearing triple-pendant earring and pearl necklace; three dolphins around; ΦI below neck.
Rev: ΣYPAKOΣION.
Charioteer driving quadriga left; triskeles above, AI in exergue.

SNG ANS 642; BAR Issue 2; HGC 2, 1348.

The first period (317-310 BC) of Agathokles' coinage is distinguished by the presence of the triskeles on the reverse. This symbol, which appears for the first time in the city's coinage, symbolizes Syracusan supremacy and the tyrant's rule over all of Sicily. The triskeles, commonly believed to be an allusion to the tricuspid shape of the island (Trinacria), is also an ancient symbol of the Sun and the cosmic sky, of rebirth and eternity. This tetradrachm is also a clear Agathoklean reworking of the magnificent dekadrachms designed by the engraver Euainetos, which were also imitated by the Sicilian-Punic coinage of Panormos.

Condition: Good very fine.

Weight: 17.00 g.
Diameter: 28 mm.