| Heritage World Coin Auctions > CSNS Signature Sale 3115 | Auction date: 8 May 2024 |
| Lot number: 31008 Price realized: This lot is for sale in an upcoming auction - Bid on this lot  | Show similar lots on CoinArchives Find similar lots in upcoming auctions on  |
| Lot description: Ancients SICILY. Syracuse. Philistis, wife of Hieron II (275-215 BC). AR 16-litrai (26mm, 14.04 gm, 5h). NGC Choice XF 5/5 - 2/5, edge chips, marks. Ca. 240-216 BC. Veiled and diademed head of Queen Philistis left; star behind / ΒΑΣΙΛΙΣΣΑΣ / ΦΙΛΙΣΤΙΔΟΣ, Nike driving quadriga walking right, reins in both hands; palm branch right above, K in right field. Seemingly unlisted in standard references. SNG Copenhagen -, cf. 825 (star above). SNG ANS -, cf. 877-880 (same). HGC 2, 1554 var. (unlisted symbol). Extremely rare example with no other examples in sales archives. This lovely coin showcases a beautiful classical Greek portrait and a typically Syracusan theme on the reverse, set upon a cabinet-toned flan that boasts a subdued luster, creating an exquisite piece of numismatic art. From the Eardley and Ethel Madsen Collection. Philistis, known only though this coinage, is believed to be daughter of the influential Syracusan Leptines. She played a pivotal role in the political landscape of ancient Syracuse through her marriage to Hieron II. After Hieron, a former mercenary in Pyrrhos of Epirus' army, took control of Syracuse in 275 BC, he solidified his position by marrying Philistis, aligning himself with the city's elite. This union was further symbolized by the issuance of coinage in her name after Hieron was proclaimed king in 265 BC. These coins, influenced by Ptolemaic Egypt's artistic styles, depicted Philistis with a veiled head, reminiscent of Egyptian queens like Arsinoe II and Berenice II. This numismatic practice not only reflects the cultural intersections of the Hellenistic period but also underscores Philistis' elevated status in the realm of royal iconography, illustrating her significance in both Syracusan and broader Mediterranean politics. https://coins.ha.com/itm/ancients/greek/ancients-sicily-syracuse-philistis-wife-of-hieron-ii-275-215-bc-ar-16-litrai-26mm-1404-gm-5h-ngc-choice-x/a/3115-31008.s?type=DA-DMC-CoinArchives-WorldCoins-3115-05082024 HID02906262019 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved Estimate: 6000-8000 USD |  |
