Bronze coin from Syracuse, struck during the reign of Dionysius I of Syracuse (c. 405–367 BC), belonging to issues produced during the height of Syracuse’s power as one of the most important centers of the Greek western world. The coinage of this period is characterized by high artistic quality and strong civic symbolism.
The obverse features a left-facing head of Athena wearing a Corinthian helmet. Athena, as the goddess of wisdom and warfare, symbolized both strategic strength and protection of the city, making her one of the key iconographic motifs of Syracuse.
The reverse depicts two dolphins with a star between them. The dolphins directly refer to the maritime character of the city and its naval and commercial power in the Mediterranean. The star may be interpreted as a symbol of divine protection or as a control mark.
Greece
Sicily, Syracuse, time of Dionisius I (ca. 405-367 BC), AE
Obverse: helmeted head of Athena left
Reverse: star between two dolphins
Diameter 30 mm, weight 30.7 g
