Catalog
| Issuer | Katane (Sicily) |
|---|---|
| Year | 412 BC - 410 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Drachm (5) |
| Currency | Litra |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 4.01 g |
| Diameter | 19 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered, Incuse |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | Euainetos |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) |
| Obverse description | Charioteer driving quadriga galloping to right, holding kentron in his right hand and reins in his left; above, Nike flying left, crowning the charioteer with a wreath. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Greek |
| Obverse lettering | KATANAIΩ N |
| Reverse description | Horned head of the young river-god Amenanos to left, wearing tainia; three fish around; in field to left, EYAI in tiny letters; all within shallow circular incuse. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering | AMENANOΣ EYAI |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (412 BC - 410 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 8393731710 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver drachm from Katane, a significant Greek city-state in Sicily, was issued between 412 and 410 BC. This period immediately followed the catastrophic Athenian Expedition to Sicily, a time of profound political upheaval and intense inter-polis rivalries. Katane, an Athenian ally, navigated a complex geopolitical landscape dominated by Syracusan power. This coinage reflects Katane's continued economic activity and assertion of civic identity and autonomy amidst the volatile late Classical era, crucial for military and civic funding.
Artistry: This drachm exemplifies the pinnacle of Sicilian numismatic artistry from the late 5th century BC, renowned for its sculptural realism and dynamic compositions. While a specific engraver is not universally attributed, the work belongs to the 'Fine Style' school prevalent in Magna Graecia. The obverse typically features a finely rendered head of Apollo, often laureate, with intricate hair and expressive features. The reverse commonly depicts a majestic quadriga, the charioteer guiding four horses, often crowned by a flying Nike, embodying speed and victory.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, weighing 4.01 grams and measuring 19 millimeters, this drachm is a standard issue. For optimal grading, one assesses strike sharpness, particularly on high-points: Apollo's hair, eye, and wreath on the obverse, and the horses' musculature, manes, and charioteer's drapery on the reverse. A well-centered strike with full details on both sides, minimal die wear, and an even flan commands a premium. Minor off-centering or slight weakness on high-relief areas are common for hand-struck ancient coinage.