Bronze litra, 20mm, 6.65gm, issued c. 240-215 BC
Obv: Head of Poseidon left wearing tainia.
Rev: IEPΩNOΣ, Ornamented trident head between two dolphins.
References: Sear 1223, HGC 1550.
Hieron II, reputedly a descendant of the tyrant Gelon, took power in Syracuse around 275 BC and reigned for some 60 years. His war with the Mamertines led to the First Punic War. A staunch ally of Rome, he consolidated his power in Syracuse and over much of Sicily.