Monthly Archives: August 2023

Augustus Saint-Gaudens' artistic brilliance left an indelible mark on American coinage. Born in Dublin in 1848 and raised in New York City, Saint-Gaudens displayed an early aptitude for sculpture. Importantly, his journey led him to Paris, where he honed his craft at the École des Beaux-Arts, a renowned art school. Afterwards, upon his return to the United States, his innovative approach to sculpting gained admiration.

A Presidential Commission

The pivotal moment in Saint-Gaudens' career came with a commission from President Theodore Roosevelt in 1905. Tasked with rejuvenating American coin design, Saint-Gaudens brought a fresh perspective to numismatic art. Furthermore, his designs captured the essence of American identity and history, elevating coins from mere currency to intricate works of art.

Nestled along the northern coast of Africa, Zeugitana emerged as a region of historical significance during the reign of Carthage in c.350-320 BC. This era witnessed the zenith of Carthaginian power and influence, shaping the destiny of the Mediterranean landscape. Also, the ancient glory of Zeugitana is a captivating tale and a period that left an indelible mark on the region's history.

The Rise of Carthaginian Supremacy

During c.350-320 BC, Carthage was at the height of its power, ruling over a vast maritime empire that spanned across the Mediterranean. With its strategic location, naval prowess, and robust economy, Carthage exerted significant influence over the lands it controlled. Zeugitana, a coastal region encompassing parts of modern-day Tunisia, was an integral part of Carthage's dominion. This period marked an era of expansion and prosperity

Introduction

The majestic city of Syracuse, nestled on Sicily's eastern coast, stood as a powerful city-state with significant influence over the Mediterranean region. Additionally, the reigns of Timoleon and Hiero II contributed to the "Glory Days of Sicilian Syracuse," the golden era of Syracuse's history. This marked an extraordinary time for the ancient city.

The Rise of Sicilian Syracuse

Nestled on Sicily's eastern coast, Syracuse emerged as a powerful city-state during ancient times. Two remarkable leaders, Timoleon and Hiero II, played pivotal roles in shaping the city's golden era. Let's delve into their reigns and the enduring impact they had on Syracuse's history.