SICILY. Katane. Circa 415/3-404 BC. Litra (Silver, 12 mm, 0.84 g, 6 h). Head of Silenos to left, wearing ivy wreath. Rev. ΚΑΤΑΝΑΙΩΝ Winged thunderbolt between two shields. Boehringer, Kataneische Li 6-7. Rizzo pl. XIV, 18 var. SNG ANS 1266. A remarkably attractive example, nicely toned. Some minor striking weakness, otherwise, extremely fine.
From the Spina Collection, Nomos 7, 15 May 2013, 9 and ex Triton VII, 13 January 2004, 55.
The superlative quality of the die engraving for this coin has impelled some cataloguers to attribute it to a known engraver like Euainetos (or Kimon, why not?). In any case, it is yet another example of how the minters of the Sicilian cities lavished great care on even the smallest silver pieces. This coin amply proves that it was surely a matter of prestige and pride for local citizens to have even minor denominations made with outstanding artistry.
Price realized | 1'400 CHF |
Starting price | 1'000 CHF |
Estimate | 1'250 CHF |