MACEDON. Neapolis. Circa 500-480 BC. Hemistater or Drachm (Silver, 18 mm, 4.01 g). Facing gorgoneion with protruding tongue and savage teeth. Rev. Quadripartite incuse square. AMNG III/2, 7. SNG ANS 420-2 ( as a tetrobol ). Traite II, 1, 1741. Very rare. Well-struck and a most pleasing coin. Toned. Nearly extremely fine.

Acquired privately in 2003.

Interestingly enough, while the staters of Neapolis, and the late hemidrachms (as the piece in the following lot), are relatively easy to find, the drachms are much more uncommon. Why this should be the case is unclear: perhaps the local population had no need for them and used coins from other mints for small purchases?