AR Tetradrachm, 17.08g (25mm, 3h).

MEΣ-ΣANA (retrograde) Messana, holding the reins with r. hand and kentron with l., driving a biga of mules to r.; in exergue, two confronted dolphins. / MEΣ-ΣA-N-I-O N Hare leaping to r.; below, dolphin swimming to r.

Pedigree: Acquired privately from Tradart. Ex. Hirsch 150, 1986, lot 112; Ars Classica 14, 1929, lot 97; Sambon & Canessa, 1927 (27 June) lot 820; Naville & Cie 1, 1921, lot 490. From the Spencer-Churchill (1876-1964), Duke of Caianello and Marquis of Campodisola (1859-1936), and Samuel Jean Pozzi (1846-1918) collections.

References: Boutin 1093 = Caltabiano 533.1 (this coin)

Grade: Impeccable pedigree dating back to 1921. Plate coin in the primary reference. Some edge splits. Lovely toning and strike. Near Mint State

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