Ancient Greece - 405-370 BCE Sicily, Syracuse (signed Euainetos) AR Decadrachm NGC AU in Fine Style

The Syrakusan dekadrachms produced at the close of the fifth century BC by masters such as Kimon and Euainetos have long been the icons of ancient Greek numismatics, earning as British archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans said "the admiration of the ancient and modern world." "Italian pottery cups," notes Kraay (ACGC, p.232), "have a facsimile [of the dekadrachm] set in the base, no doubt imitating silver vessels, which incorporated actual decadrachms." The treatment of Arethusa on these coins has become a definition of classical beauty, while the coins' medallic size and stately artistry have made them centerpieces of Greek collections.

Like Syrakusan gold fractions struck at about the same time, these high-value coins were issued for some extraordinary purpose. Most likely this would be war, issued to provide financial support for mercenary troops, ships and supplies to wage battle, especially during this period against Carthage. The coin's beauty and artistry, meanwhile, were bold symbols of the glory of Syrakuse, a message that would be broadcast to allies and enemies alike.