Syracuse 16 Litrai
This striking Hellenistic depiction of Zeus, created during the final years of Syracuse’s independence, stands as a testament to the city’s numismatic artistry over three centuries. The coin was minted amidst the political chaos following the death of King Hieron II in 215 BC, whose successor, the fifteen-year-old Hieronymos, aligned Syracuse with Carthage after Rome’s defeat at Cannae. This decision incited conflict with Rome, culminating in a siege led by Marcus Claudius Marcellus in 214 BC. Hieronymos’ assassination after a brief thirteen-month reign led to the restoration of democratic rule (the Fifth Democracy), but Syracuse retained its Carthaginian allegiance, prolonging the Roman siege.
Under immense political and military pressure, Syracuse produced some of its most exquisite coinage, including the rare 16-litrai piece. The obverse features an elegant portrait of Zeus, displaying a vitality and sophistication that parallels the artistry of the Brettian League issues, another ally of Carthage. Despite the city’s turmoil, the mint’s engravers demonstrated extraordinary skill, reflecting the resilience of Syracusan culture even as it faced Roman aggression.
The reverse of this coin portrays Nike in a galloping four-horse chariot, symbolizing the Sicilian Greeks' desperate hope of resisting Roman forces. This image serves as a poignant reminder of the city’s struggle and determination during its final stand. Although Syracuse ultimately fell to the Romans in 212 BC after a protracted siege, these coins remain enduring artifacts of its artistic and cultural legacy during a period of profound upheaval.
Sicily, Syracuse. Fifth Democracy, 214-212 BC. AR 16 Litrai (13.54g). Laureate, bearded head of Zeus left. Reverse: ΣYPAKOΣIΩN. Nike (Victory) driving fast quadriga right, holding reins in both hands and kentron in left; below horses' forelegs, ΞI. Burnett, SNR 62, pl. 8, D3 = Gulbenkian 358 (same dies)
Ex NFA sale XII, 1983, 30; Ex. McLendon Collection, Christie's June 12, 1993, lot 24; Ira & Larry Goldberg sale 72, 2013, 4033