Silver Tetradrachm of Syracuse (Replica/Copy)
Country of Origin: Kingdom of Macedon / Syracuse (Ancient Greek influence)
Year of Issue: Original design c. 300-280 BC; this item is a modern reproduction.
Denomination: Tetradrachm (replica)
Composition: Base metal with brass/bronze plating; the original would be high-purity silver.
Brief Description
A cast medal or replica designed to resemble an ancient Greek coin, showing a deified head and a chariot scene.
Historical Significance
The design is based on the famous coinage of Agathokles of Syracuse. The obverse depicts Alexander the Great as Zeus Ammon with ram's horns, a motif used by Lysimachos, while the reverse shows a quadriga (four-horse chariot) typical of Sicilian Greek coinage. This item is a modern tourist souvenir or educational replica.
Estimated Value
$1 - $10 (Nominal value as a curiosity/replica)
Care Instructions
Store in a dry place. Do not use abrasive cleaners as it will remove the metallic plating. As a replica, it does not require professional numismatic storage.
Mint Mark
None
Mintage & Rarity
Common; modern mass-produced item.
Weight & Diameter
Measured weight 6.68g (Original silver tetradrachms typically weigh ~16-17g). Diameter approx 25-30mm.
Edge
Plain / Cast
Apparent Grade
Good (as a reproduction); shows artificial aging, pitting, and 'soft' cast details.
Obverse (Front)
Head of Alexander the Great facing left, wearing the ram's horn of Zeus Ammon.
Reverse (Back)
Charioteer driving a quadriga (four-horse chariot) to the left; Nike flying above to crown the charioteer. Below, a signature or pseudo-Greek inscription.
What Drives This Coin's Value
This item has no silver content and is not an ancient artifact. Its value is only as a decorative piece or a teaching tool.
Similar Coins
Authentic silver Tetradrachms of Lysimachos (Thrace) or Agathokles (Syracuse). It is easily distinguished by the weight (6.68g is far too light for a tetradrachm) and cast surface texture.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Red flags include the weight (6.68g is less than half the weight of an authentic silver tetradrachm), the bubbly/pitted surface typical of casting, and the brassy color visible through the 'patina'. Inscribed 'COPY' is sometimes found on the rim of such items.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Standard tourist replica variety.
Created At: 2026-04-24T19:09:32.216627