405-370 BC Sicily, Syracuse Silver Decadrachm NGC Extremely Fine 5x3

The Syracuse Decadrachm signed by Euainetos stands among the most celebrated coin designs of the ancient world, and this example carries the full weight of that reputation in silver. Issued by the prosperous city-state of Syracuse on Sicily between approximately 405 and 370 BC, these large ten-drachm pieces were among the grandest coins produced in the Greek world, commissioned partly to commemorate Syracusan military victories. The engraver Euainetos, whose signature appears on this coin, was one of a select group of master die-cutters whose names have survived across twenty-four centuries.

The obverse presents the head of the nymph Arethusa in three-quarter facing left, her flowing hair elaborately coiled and bound, surrounded by four dolphins - a hallmark of the finest Syracusan coinage. The engraving carries the hallmarks of Fine Style work: bold, sculptural relief and a confident rendering of the portrait that feels almost alive. The reverse depicts a racing quadriga, four horses at full gallop driven by a charioteer, with Nike descending from above to crown the victor and a trophy of arms below the exergual line, a composition of remarkable energy and precision.

NGC certifies this Decadrachm as Extremely Fine with a Strike of 5 and a Surface of 3, and designates it Fine Style - a designation NGC reserves for coins whose die work reflects exceptional artistic execution. The surfaces show the honest patina of age, and the strike is exceptional across both sides, bringing the quadriga and the portrait of Arethusa into sharp, well-defined relief. Gallatin RIII/CI reference confirms the die pairing. The Euainetos Decadrachm is one of the pinnacle collecting objectives in all of ancient numismatics, and a certified Fine Style example at this strike level is genuinely difficult to find. For those pursuing the highest expressions of Greek coinage artistry, this coin represents a singular opportunity. The coin pictured is the exact coin you will receive.

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