The archaic tetradrachms of Gela were the types that initially sparked my interest in the man-faced bull, so it is truly surprising that this is my first one. Specifically, the 160-189 varieties are my absolute favorites. I remember when I first started collecting that I doubted I would ever spend so much on a coin, but now that I've spent nearly double this on bronze types I figured it was time. My photos, like the CNG ones, don't do the coin justice. Sure, it is a little rough from cleaning, but it is a beauty to hold. I'm in love Jenkins 163, c. 480-470 BC, quadriga/ Acheloios Gelas. Probably issued by Gelo, the warrior-priest turned tyrant who was well schooled in the Kypris-Acheloios tradition! Post your CNG eAuction 389 wins!
Thanks for all the comments. Apparently Gelo was at Syracuse when this was struck, so it was issued under Hieron.
awesome coin! I see its signed by the great Die-Engraver COPY I think its pronounced Koh-Re? I believe he was an apprentice of Evainetos and Kimon
Wow, @Nicholas Molinari , that is a gorgeous MFB Tet! I only have one Gela MFB / Acheloios... Sicily, Gela. AR Litra, 0.63g, 13mm, 8h; 465-450 BC Obv: Bridled horse advancing right; wreath above. Rev: ΓEΛA; Forepart of man-headed bull right. Reference: HGC 2, 373. Ex: El Sicko, trying to recover from the flu: @John Anthony
