 |
| Coin, Sicily, Siculo-Punic decadrachm, ca. 260 BC, Carthage, , Silver |
|
| Head of Tanit/Persephone on the left, crowned with ears of corn and wearing a pendant earring., Pegasus prancing on the right, wings spread., An exceptional coin, as much for its absolute rarity as for the incredible finesse of its engraving, this decadrachm with spectacular dimensions of more than 37 g and a diameter of almost 4 cm (!) can only fascinate.
The island of Sicily, first occupied by the Punic colonies, then by Carthage itself, minted these decuples to facilitate regional trade, inspired by the engraving models of their influential Greek neighbours. The result is simply stunning, on a module that never ceases to impress. The example we offer is superbly preserved, well centred, struck with great force and extreme precision on a meticulously prepared flan. A beautiful cabinet patina has formed in the fields and reliefs, alternating between golde reflections and iridescent tones, particularly on the reverse. The details of Pegasus' wing or Tanit-Persephone's hair never cease to amaze, this is truly a spectacular object! This decadrachm was sold in the Vinchon sale of the P M collection, 7 November 1966, lot no. 24; it is supplied with the collector's labels. Head 880; Coll. de Luynes 3757; M. 127; Jenkins & Lewis, pl. 27-2., BARZTH in Punic characters. This legend means "in the lands" or "on the territory", to be understood and developed into "(currency minted) in the territories (of Carthage)". |
| FEATURES |
|---|
| DENOMINATION | Décadrachme |
|---|
| YEAR | ca. 260 BC |
|---|
| MINT NAME | Carthage |
|---|
| COMPOSITION | Silver |
|---|
| DIAMETER | 39.8 |
|---|
| GREECE PROVINCE | Sicily |
|---|
| WEIGHT (G) | 37.84 |
|---|
|
- Conformity
This item is certified authentic following the expertise of two recognized numismatic experts.
Our team carries out nearly 100,000 numismatic expertises each year for private individuals, professionals and administrations.
Our company was founded in 1977 and we are members of the main international numismatic organisations (ANS n°11680, ANA n°3175551, ANS, IBNS n°11418, PMG n°3721, PCGS n°1048758, NGC n°3721) - Proof of purchase
This item will be supplied to you with a named and dated invoice, established by a professional seller (Siret: 41389368600019).
To secure your numismatic purchases, always ask for an invoice and keep the document.
|