SICILY. Syracuse. Timoleon and Third Democracy, circa 344–317 BC. AR Dilitron

SICILY. Syracuse. Timoleon and Third Democracy, circa 344–317 BC. AR Dilitron (13.19 mm, 1.47 g). ΣΥΡΑΚΟΣΙΩΝ, janiform female head wearing polos; dolphin to right and left. Rev. Horse galloping right; grain ear above, N below. HGC 2, 1373; SNG ANS 518; SNG München 1126; SNG Copenhagen 717.

Struck during the period of Timoleon’s leadership, when Syracuse emerged from decades of tyranny into a revived democratic era, this charming small silver issue reflects the city’s renewed civic pride. The janiform female head, possibly representing the dual aspects of Arethusa and Persephone, is flanked by dolphins alluding to Syracuse’s maritime strength. The reverse’s spirited horse, paired with the grain ear above, evokes the island’s famed cavalry and fertile plains. Well centered with attractive tone and clear detail.