Sicily. Messana (as Zankle). Samian occupation, circa 493-488 BC. Diobol or litra (Silver, 9.76 mm, 1.10 g). Facing lion's scalp on a circular relief. Rev. Prow of a Samaina (Samian galley) left; in field left, Corinthian helmet; all within shallow incuse circle. A. Campana & A. Morello, “Samos, Zankle e la Samaina, La nave di Policrate tra Samo e Messina”, Cassino 2012, p.47, 57 = A.P. Barron, “The Silver Coins of Samos”, London 1966, p. 179, pl. VII, 5 (same dies). SNG ANS 309 (same dies). SNG Lloyd 1082 (same dies). SNG Ashmolean 1822 (same dies). Buceti 9b (same dies). HGC 2, 773 (same dies). Attractively toned with some light iridescence. Very Fine. Very Rare.
Ex Nomisma 10, 6 December 1997, lot 35.
A coin minted during the Samian occupation of the city, depicting on the reverse the bow of the Samaina, a ship type typical of Samos.