Lot 37-332. Sicily, Messana. 412-408 B.C. PB tetradrachm. Obverse die signed by Simin-. BIFACE LEAD / ROSA OFF-METAL TRIAL STRIKE.

Sicily, Messana. 412-408 B.C. PB tetradrachm (26.2 mm, 16.79 g, 6 h). Obverse die signed by Simin-. BIFACE LEAD / ROSA OFF-METAL TRIAL STRIKE. Charioteer driving biga of mules left; above, Nike flying right, holding wreath and kerykeion; ΣIMIN on exergual line; in exergue, fish left / MEΣΣANIΩN, Hare springing left; below, eagle perched right on rock, devouring snake held in talon; BECKER BMC 56 on edge. cf. BMC 56; CD-101. EF. 

Peter Rosa (1926-1990) was the owner of Becker Manufacturing Company in New York City and an avid admirer of the artistry of ancient coins. Since purchasing coins was beyond his means, he ordered casts of coins from the British Museum from which he created high quality replicas. Although considered by some as one the great numismatic craftsmen of the 20th century, his copies were never intended to deceive, but to educate the public about ancient art.The Rosa off-metal trial strikes offered for sale at Agora Auctions are Rosa's innovative craftsmanship. They are not second or third generation cast copies commonly found on the market today. This collection was purchased by Wayne Sayles directly from the Rosa family after his death. The dies themselves were donated to the ANS museum.All Rosa test strikes are accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity from, and signed by, Wayne Sayles. A copy of Mr. Sayles book Classical Deception: Counterfeits, Forgeries and Reproductions of Ancient Coins will be offered to the winning bidder at no extra charge. Limit one book per person. Please notify Agora Auctions if you would like a copy of this important book.

 

Estimate:

$  200.00

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Bidding closed (Tuesday, 28 Jul 2015, 14:45:30)
Current time: Saturday, November 16th, 20:35:31