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Tetradrachm
| Issuer | Gela |
|---|---|
| Year | 465 BC - 450 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
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| Obverse description | Slow quadriga advancing to right, driven by a charioteer who holds the reins in his right hand and a kentron (goad) in his left; the horses are depicted at a measured pace characteristic of the early Classical Sicilian style. In the upper field behind the charioteer stands an Ionic column with a fluted shaft set upon a two-stepped plinth, a distinctive architectural reference unique to Gelan coinage of this period. The composition reflects the skilled die work of the Sicilian engraving tradition, with careful attention to the musculature of the horses and the drapery of the charioteer's garment. |
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| Reverse description | Forepart of the river-god Gelas rendered as a man-headed bull facing right, a common personification of fresh water deities in ancient Sicilian numismatics. The deity's human face is depicted with a full beard and curling hair, merging seamlessly into the powerful bovine body, conveying both divinity and natural force. The ethnic inscription ΓΕΛΑΣ appears in the field, identifying the issuing city. The reverse design is executed in high relief typical of early Classical Sicilian coinage, with fine engraving of the facial features and body musculature. This iconographic type served as the principal identifying emblem of the city of Gela. |
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| Edge | Plain |
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