The reverse of the coin presents the emblematic symbol that the ancient city of Syracuse chose for its numismatic coinage. Syracuse, a city in Sicily founded by ancient Greek Corinthians and Teneans, developed into an extremely powerful city-state. As an ally of Sparta and Corinth, it exercised considerable influence over the entire coastal areas of southern Italy. In the fifth century BC, Cicero described Syracuse as the largest and most beautiful Greek city, comparable to Athens.

The distinctive feature on the coin, the octopus, can probably be traced back to the city's geographical proximity to the sea, its thriving fishing industry or the busy trade in the port. This fascinating symbol reflects the unique history and importance of Syracuse in the ancient world.