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Dekadrachm - Hieron II
| Issuer | Syracuse |
|---|---|
| Year | 217 BC - 214 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
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|---|---|
| Obverse script | Greek |
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| Reverse description | Nike, winged and draped, stands erect in a fast-moving biga (two-horse chariot) drawn to the left, holding the reins in one hand and a kentron (goad) raised aloft in the other. The horses are depicted at full gallop with legs extended. The legend ΙΕΡΩΝΟΣ appears in the exergue below the horses, preceded by the letter E to the left in the field, identifying the coin as issued under the authority of Hieron II. The composition displays vigorous movement and fine engraving characteristic of the Syracusan mint. |
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| Additional information |
Hieron II ruled Syracuse for over half a century, navigating the competing pressures of Carthage and Rome with remarkable diplomatic agility. This issue falls within the final years of his reign, almost certainly connected to the financial strains of the Second Punic War, which had erupted in 218 BC. Hieron maintained his alliance with Rome throughout, contributing grain and funds to the Roman war effort — high-denomination gold issues from this period likely served that logistical and political relationship directly.
He died in 215 BC, after which Syracuse shifted allegiance to Carthage, a decision that ended in the city's sack by Marcellus in 212 BC.