Sicily. Piakos (Piacus). c. 425-410 BC.
Sicily. Piakos (Piacus). c. 425-410 BC.
AE Tetras, 2.50g (16mm, 7h). Π Ι Α Κ Head of youthful river god to left, wearing a wreath of reeds and with a horn above his forehead; in field to left, three pellets / Dog springing right on the back of a doe collapsing to right; to right, and left, wheat grain.
Pedigree: Purchased privately from Ed Waddell
References: Calciati III, 197, 2
Grade: Beautiful specimen with sharp strike and full details present. Uncommonly good condition for such a small fractional coin. Mint State. (gk1549)
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There is little known about Piakos (Piacus) from the historical references. This small coin is the only known type from the Greek city state. Based on the style of the head, it has been suggested that the city was in close proximity to Catana. The river god closely resembles coins for that area. It is obvious that there was a skilled die cutter at the mint as the artistry of this piece suggests a much grander city than history now provides.