How to Identify the Syracuse Decadrachm

What Is the Coin

The Syracuse decadrachm is a large silver coin struck by the Greek city of Syracuse in Sicily, most famously around 400 BC, in commemoration of Syracusan military victories. It is considered one of the artistic high points of ancient Greek coinage, largely because several dies were signed by renowned engravers Kimon and Euainetos.

Obverse Design

The obverse shows the head of the nymph Arethusa, associated with a freshwater spring in Syracuse, facing left or right depending on the die, with flowing hair and surrounded by four swimming dolphins. On signed examples, the engraver's name (KIMON or EYAINETOY) appears in tiny letters, often on a headband or below the truncation of the neck.

Reverse Design

The reverse depicts a charioteer driving a four-horse chariot (quadriga) at speed, with the goddess Nike flying above crowning the horses or driver with a wreath. Many examples include a small panel below (in the exergue) showing a suit of armor, symbolizing a military prize or victory being commemorated.

Size, Weight, Metal & Edge

The coin is struck in silver, weighs approximately 42-43 g, and measures roughly 35-36 mm in diameter, considerably larger and heavier than the standard tetradrachm, reflecting its status as a special commemorative or prestige issue.

Identifying Marks and Attribution

Beyond the signed engraver names, small symbols and letter combinations in the exergue or field help distinguish the various die pairs used across the coin's production, which numismatists have carefully catalogued given the coin's importance and the number of known dies.

Telling It Apart From Similar Coins

The Syracuse decadrachm should not be confused with the more common Syracusan tetradrachm, which shares the Arethusa-and-dolphins theme but is smaller, lighter, and generally not signed by name. Because this type has long been one of the most copied and reproduced ancient coin designs (in both deceptive forgeries and openly marketed replicas), the size and weight are essential first checks, along with the fine engraving quality expected of genuine dies.

Grading and Condition at a Glance

Because dies for this type were cut with exceptional artistic care, collectors pay close attention to strike quality and centering as much as wear; a well-centered strike showing Arethusa's full hair detail and a complete chariot scene is especially prized. Light wear on Arethusa's cheek and the horses' backs is typical even on well-preserved genuine examples.

Authenticity Red Flags

Given the decadrachm's fame and value, incorrect weight or diameter, soft or "mushy" hair and drapery detail, an engraver's signature that appears crudely added rather than integrated into the original die, or unnaturally uniform surfaces are all signs of a modern forgery. Because this is one of the most frequently faked ancient coin types, provenance and specialist authentication are especially important.