Leontini Tetradrachm Replica (c. 465–450 BC) – Sicily: Apollo & Chariot

This replica reproduces a silver tetradrachm struck at Leontini in Sicily between 465 and 450 BC, during the height of Greek influence on the island. Leontini, a Chalcidian colony, was known for its fertile lands and strategic location, and its coinage reflects both local identity and pan-Hellenic culture.

Obverse (Front)

A charioteer driving a quadriga (four-horse chariot) to the right, crowned by the flying goddess Nike as a symbol of victory. Below the horses runs a lion, a reference to the city’s name (Leontini – “lion city”).

Reverse (Back)

A laureate head of Apollo facing right, framed by laurel leaves. Apollo was revered as a god of music, prophecy, and protection, and his presence on Leontini’s coinage underlined the city’s cultural and religious prestige. Around the head is the inscription ΛΕΟΝΤΙΝΟΝ (Leontinon), marking the issuing city.

Historical Background

• This coin was minted during the Classical Greek period, when Sicily was a major center of wealth, trade, and artistic achievement.
• Leontini’s coinage carried powerful civic symbols: the lion (wordplay on the city’s name) and Apollo, reflecting both identity and divine favor.
• Such tetradrachms circulated widely in the Mediterranean, demonstrating the importance of Sicilian Greek cities in regional trade and politics.