Sicily. Syracuse. Philistis, wife of Hieron II 275-215 BC.
16 Litrai or Tetradrachm AR

26 mm, 13,09 g

Diademed and veiled bust of Philistis to left; behind, grain ear / ΒΑΣΙΛΙΣΣΑΣ ΦΙΛΙΣΤΙΔΟΣ, Nike driving slow quadriga to right, holding reins in both hands; above, Φ.

Very Fine

Caltabiano 165 (D10/R20); HGC 2, 1556.

Ex Gorny & Mosch Auction 134, Lot 1129. Philistis, the wife of Hieron II, was an important figure in ancient Syracuse, known primarily through her connection to her husband and the coins that bear her image. Despite the scarcity of detailed historical records about her life, Philistis' significance is underscored by her presence on these coins, which were minted during Hieron II's reign. Philistis is believed to have been a noblewoman, possibly of Greek or Sicilian origin. Marrying Hieron II, she became queen of Syracuse, playing a role in the city's political and cultural life. The coins featuring Philistis typically depict her with a serene and regal profile, a common style in Hellenistic portraiture, which aimed to emphasize the dignity and stature of the royal family. These coins are particularly notable because they represent one of the few instances in ancient history where a queen's likeness was prominently featured on currency, indicating her high status and the respect she commanded in Syracuse. Philistis' legacy, while not as well-documented as that of her husband, is preserved through these numismatic artifacts, which offer a glimpse into her role and the esteem in which she was held during Hieron II's reign. Her depiction on the coins also suggests that she may have had a significant public presence or at least played an important ceremonial role in the court of Syracuse.