12½ Litrai - Agathocles (317 BC - 289 BC) front 12½ Litrai - Agathocles (317 BC - 289 BC) back
12½ Litrai - Agathocles (317 BC - 289 BC) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

12½ Litrai - Agathocles 317 BC - 289 BC

 
Electrum 1.79 g 11 mm
Description
Issuer
Syracuse (Sicily)
Tyrant
Agathocles (317 BC - 304 BC)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
317 BC - 289 BC
Value
12.5 Litrai (25⁄2)
Currency
Litra
Composition
Electrum
Weight
1.79 g
Diameter
11 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-10
References
Numista
N#424592
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

ΣYPAKO-ΣIΩN, cithara with four strings.

Script: Greek

Lettering: ΣYPAKO ΣIΩN

Comment

There is some contention about the value of Syracuse electrum and they may be listed at double their value. Jenkins claims that the "the values usually stated for the Syracuse electrum are about twice the true ones" as they are about half the weight of Carthaginian electrums.

 

Jenkins, Electrum, Group A

Interesting fact

The 12½ Litrai coin featuring Agathocles (317 BC - 289 BC) from Syracuse (Sicily) is notable for its unique design. The obverse side of the coin features a portrait of Agathocles, while the reverse side depicts a quadriga, or a chariot pulled by four horses. This design was a departure from the traditional designs found on Greek coins of the time, which often featured gods or goddesses. The use of a quadriga on the coin may have been intended to highlight Agathocles' military prowess and his reputation as a skilled commander.

Price

Date Mintage VG F VF XF AU UNC
ND (317 BC - 289 BC)  - - - - - -

Values in the table are based on evaluations by sales realized on Internet platforms. They serve as an indication only for 12½ Litrai - Agathocles (317 BC - 289 BC) coin.