Decadrachm of Sirakousai (Syracuse) (Fg5122)

Decadrachm of Sirakousai (Syracuse) (Fg5122)

Obverse/ Auriga is depicted driving a two-horse chariot on the gallop while he is crowned by a Nike; on the exergue is a trophy. Reverse/ Head of Kore - Persephone shown in left-facing profile, with a wreath of wheat-ears, a necklace and earrings; in the background there are three dolphins. At the bottom are the letters EYAINE, within a beaded circle. The beautiful cones used to produce this decadrachm were made by Euainetos, one of the most skilled engravers working at Syrakousai (Syracuse) between the end of the fifth and the beginning of the fourth centuries B.C. The face value, which is extremely high, was used for issues linked to important moments in the history of the issuing poleis during which payments of large sums were necessary. Nevertheless, in this case, the presence of the trophy would seem to suggest that the coins were part of a series of prizes for winners of games held to celebrate the glory of the city.