1 Decadrachm, Syracuse, Sicily, Late 5th Century BCE

In the late 5th century in Syracuse, Greece, coin engraving was a master craft. This decadrachm was one of the largest denominations of silver coins minted in ancient Greece, which created more room for master engravers to display their artistic abilities. Engravers were very proud of the dies that they struck, and would often sign their coins just like artists sign their own works of art today. One such engraver during this time period, Kimon, is credited with designing this particular engraving. The reason that this specific coin is unsigned is unclear, though perhaps Kimon was dissatisfied with the end product, or the coin was struck by an apprentice closely copying the master engraver’s work.

The reverse of this decadrachm shows the head of the nymph Arethusa, daughter of Nereus, also known as “The Waterer.” In Greek mythology, Arethusa is said to have fled from her home in the mythical utopia of Arcadia through a below ground stream. In the myth, she emerges as a fresh water fountain on the Island of Ortygia in Syracuse, Sicily. Arethusa's head is surrounded by dolphins. The obverse of the coin shows a man driving a carriage of four horses. Above him, Nike, the goddess of victory, crowns him victor. One interpretation of this coin is that it commemorates a battle victory over Athens during the Peloponnesian War in 413 B.C.