Sicily, Decadrachm 260 BC, Carthago

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Description

Sicily. Siculo-Punic Decadrachm ca. 260 BC, Carthago. Silver 37.84 g.; 39.8 mm.
Obverse: Head of Tanit/Persephone on the left, crowned with ears of corn and wearing a pendant earring //
Reverse: Pegasus prancing on the right, wings spread. Reverse caption: BARZTH in Punic characters. This legend means "in the lands" or "on the territory", to be understood and developed into "(currency minted) in the territories (of Carthage)".

An exceptional coin, as much for its absolute rarity as for the incredible finesse of its engraving, this Decadrachm with spectacular dimensions of more than 37 g and a diameter of almost 4 cm (!) can only fascinate.

The example we offer is superbly preserved, well centred, struck with great force and extreme precision on a meticulously prepared flan. A beautiful cabinet patina has formed in the fields and reliefs, alternating between golden reflections and iridescent tones, particularly on the reverse. The details of Pegasus' wing or Tanit-Persephone's hair never cease to amaze, this is truly a spectacular object!
Almost uncirculated AU 55-58

Provenance Details

This Decadrachm was sold in the Vinchon sale of the P M collection, 7 November 1966, lot no. 24.
It is supplied with the collector's labels. Head 880; Coll. de Luynes 3757; M. 127; Jenkins & Lewis, pl. 27-2.

Comment

The island of Sicily, first occupied by the Punic colonies, then by Carthage itself, minted these decuples to facilitate regional trade, inspired by the engraving models of their influential Greek neighbours. The result is simply stunning, on a module that never ceases to impress.

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