We are going to look at yet another top 10 pick today in our blog series following along with Whitman Publishing’s 100 Greatest Ancient Coins. We are also going to learn about yet another coin created by Kimon, an artist referenced in the last two of our blogs covering this compilation. As always, author Harlan J. Berk will be leading the charge as we dissect the importance of Kimon’s design. We remind you that this top 100 list features coins from the earliest onward despite their ranking.
#7 – Arethusa Facing Head Tetradrachm by Kimon
“Simply a masterpiece” is the way Berk describes this coin design by artist Kimon. He even goes as far to imply that perhaps Kimon was in love with a beautiful girl when he created the die for the image of Arethusa. The obverse depicts the facing head of the water nymph wearing an earring, necklace, and a ribbon (ampyx) holding up her hair. Four dolphins surround her with ARETHUSA engraved at the top.
The reverse features a charioteer in a fight with the reins to control his horses. Nike (personification of victory) flies above to crown the victorious team. The heads of the horses are turned in different ways, and the clothes of Nike are filled with movement in the design. Below the exergue (or small space below the main design) is an ear of barley and the name of the city. Kimon also features his signature on the reverse die but on the exergue line.
Referring to the “masterpiece,” Berk notes that the beauty of Arethusa combined with her “soulful gaze” is perfect. Details like her flowing hair are another example of this “exquisite” art created by Kimon. There were two dies produced for this coin, the second less superior but known the most to collectors.