Sicily, Akragas, c. 465 - 440 BC
Sicily, Akragas, c. 465 - 440 BC
AR Tetradrachm, 17.53g. Eagle standing l. / Crab, human features displayed on shell
Pedigree: Ex Hess-Leu 11, 24 March, Luzern 1959, Lot 51. Ex NAC 138, Zürich 2023, Lot 47.
References: Westermark, Akragas 349 a.1 (this coin), Hoover 77.
Grade: A coin with beautiful strike and detail. Some flan irregularity on obverse with the feathers of the eagle appearing to be off the flan. The coin is nonetheless complete with full legends. The reverse is slightly off center which results in the left legs partially off flan. The face on the body of the crab is clearly visible and impressive. Bold EF
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Akragas, known today as Agrigento, was a very important Greek city at the time this coinage was struck. It was founded in 582 BC by settlers from another Greek city state, Gela. Being strategically placed geographically, Akragas quickly grew wealthy from its trade in grain, olive oil and wine. It reached its zenith under the tyrant Theron (488-472 BC) who helped further the strength of the state through successful battles with Carthage and Himera.
The coinage of Akragas are rich in wildlife, specifically eagles and crabs. In Westermark's study on the coinage of Akragas, she comments on the identification of the crabs from the coinage. This particular die is associated with a marine crab which is typical for the Mediterranean area. An unusual and noteworthy feature of the crab is the almost human like features on the shell resembling a human face.
This coin comes from a 1959 Hess-Leu auction.