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Image search results - "Mithradates"
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Amisos, Pontos, c. 85 - 65 B.C. Mithradates VI Eupator. Obv. aegis with facing head of Medusa (gorgoneion) in center; Rev. AMI−ΣOY, Nike advancing right, holding palm frond across shoulders behind, A∆T monogram lower left.
19.7mm, 8.4 grams.
References: Sear 3642, BMC 72.
2 commentsCanaan
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Mithradates IIParthian Kingdom, Mithradates II 123-88 BC, Drachm, 4.16g: Obv: Diademed bust of Mithradates left Rev: Archer seated right, legend around. Sellwood 27.1. Rhagae mint1 commentsecoli
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Parthian empire. AR drachmSellwood 28.3 Ekbatana mint. 122-91 BC
obv:Mithradates II dia. bust l. wearing tiara
rev: BASILEWS BASI-LEWN MEGALOU ARSAKOU EPIFANDS
Arsakes seated R.on throne holding bow
1 commentshill132
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000a. L. Sulla and L. Manlius ToruatusL. Sulla and L. Manlius Torquatus. 82 BC. AR Denarius (18mm, 3.89 g, 7h). Military mint moving with Sulla. Helmeted head of Roma right / Sulla driving triumphal quadriga right, holding branch and reins, being crowned by Victory flying left. Crawford 367/5; Sydenham 757 or 757a; Manlia 4 or 5. Near VF, toned, a few light scratches on the obverse.

From the Elwood Rafn Collection.

As consul for the year 88 BC, Sulla was awarded the coveted assignment of suppressing the revolt of Mithradates VI of Pontus, but political maneuvers resulted in this assignment being transferred to Marius. In response, Sulla turned his army on Rome, captured it, and reclaimed his command against Mithradates. His prosecution of the first Mithradatic War was successful, but he spared the Pontic king for personal gain. In 83 BC, Sulla returned to Italy as an outlaw, but he was able to win the support of many of the leading Romans. Within a year, he fought his way to Rome, where he was elected dictator. It was during this campaign to Rome that this denarius was struck. The obverse type represents Sulla's claim to be acting in Rome's best interest. The reverse shows Sulla enjoying the highest honor to which a Roman could aspire: the celebration of a triumph at Rome.
ecoli
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03.- Pontos AE18 (125-100 BC)Pontos. Amisos. Time of Mithradates VI Eupator, circa 125-100 BC. (Bronze, 20.33-18.67 mm., 8.36 g). Diademed head of Artemis to right; at her shoulder, bow and quiver. Rev. ΑΜΙ - ΣΟΥ Tripod. Black patina. VF.
Purchased at Jesus Vico online auction in 2019.
Oscar D
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367/5 L. Manlius Torquatus.L. Manlius Torquatus. AR Denarius. 82 BC. Military mint moving with Sulla. Obv: L·MANLI -I – PRO Q. Helmeted head of Roma right. Rev: Sulla driving triumphal quadriga right, crowned by Victory flying left; in exergue, L·SVLLA·IMP.
Syd 757; Manlia 4;Crawford 367/5

I had no idea that this was related to Sulla when I bought it. I do now. Military mint!

As consul for the year 88 BC, Sulla was awarded the coveted assignment of suppressing the revolt of Mithradates VI of Pontus, but political maneuvers resulted in this assignment being transferred to Marius. In response, Sulla turned his army on Rome, captured it, and reclaimed his command against Mithradates. His prosecution of the first Mithradatic War was successful, but he spared the Pontic king for personal gain. In 83 BC, Sulla returned to Italy as an outlaw, but he was able to win the support of many of the leading Romans. Within a year he fought his way to Rome, where he was elected dictator. It was during this campaign to Rome that this (....) was struck. The obverse type represents Sulla's claim to be acting in Rome's best interest. The reverse shows Sulla enjoying the highest honor to which a Roman could aspire, the celebration of a triumph at Rome.






Paddy
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501. Constantine I Cyzicus GLORIA EXERCITVSCyzicus

Cyzicus was an ancient town of Mysia in Asia Minor, situated on the shoreward side of the present peninsula of Kapu-Dagh (Arctonnesus), which is said to have been originally an island in the Sea of Marmara, and to have been artificially connected with the mainland in historic times.

It was, according to tradition, occupied by Thessalian settlers at the coming of the Argonauts, and in 756 BC the town was founded by Greeks from Miletus.

Owing to its advantageous position it speedily acquired commercial importance, and the gold staters of Cyzicus were a staple currency in the ancient world till they were superseded by those of Philip of Macedon. (For more information on ancient coinage click here) During the Peloponnesian War (431-404 BC) Cyzicus was subject to the Athenians and Lacedaemonians alternately, and at the peace of Antalcidas (387 BC), like the other Greek cities in Asia, it was made over to Persia.

The history of the town in Hellenistic times is closely connected with that of the Attalids of Pergamon, with whose extinction it came into direct relations with Rome. Cyzicus was held for the Romans against Mithradates in 74 BC till the siege was raised by Lucullus: the loyalty of the city was rewarded by an extension of territory and other privileges. Still a flourishing centre in Imperial times, the place appears to have been ruined by a series of earthquakes —the last in AD 1063— and the population was transferred to Artaki at least as early as the 13th century, when the peninsula was occupied by the Crusaders.

The site is now known as Bal-Kiz and entirely uninhabited, though under cultivation. The principal extant ruins are the walls, which are traceable for nearly their whole extent, a picturesque amphitheatre intersected by a stream, and the substructures of the temple of Hadrian. Of this magnificent building, sometimes ranked among the seven wonders of the ancient world, thirty-one immense columns still stood erect in 1444. These have since been carried away piecemeal for building purposes.

RIC VII Cyzicus 110 R5

Ex-Varangian

ecoli
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7276 Nikomedes IV, Philopator, 94-74 BCSilver tetradrachm, 34.4mm, 15.61g, EF
Diademed head right / BAΣIΛEΩΣ EΠIΦANOYΣ NIKOMHΔOY, Zeus standing left holding wreath and sceptre, eagle on thunderbolt over monogram and date EΣ (year 205 or 94 BC) in inner left field.
Ex: Forvm Ancient Coins
Sear 7276; BMC Pontus, page 215, #1; SNG von Aulock 265; SNG Cop 650
My personal favourite of this small collection because of the finely detailed portrait, 'perfect' toning, and minor imperfections like small die breaks that for me, add 'character.'
Note (courtesy Joe Sermarini): During the first year of his reign, Mithradates, king of Pontus, expelled him and placed his younger brother Socrates on the throne. The next year he was restored by the Roman army under Aquilius. Aquilius was later defeated and killed and in 88 BC, Mithradates destroyed Nikomedes' army forcing him to flee to Italy. Nikomedes' throne was again restored when Rome defeated Mithradates in 84 BC. He died childless and his will left his kingdom to Rome.
Lawrence W
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7276 Nikomedes IV, Philopator, 94-74 BCSilver tetradrachm, 36.4mm, 15.51g, Nice VF
Diademed head of Nikomedes II right / BAΣIΛEΩΣ EΠIΦANOYΣ NIKOMHΔOY, Zeus standing left, crowning King's name with wreath in right, and holding sceptre in left hand. Eagle on thunderbolt inner left field, monogram and date (BIΣ =year 212 or 87/6 BC) below. Extremely rare date.
Ex: Forvm Ancient Coins; Wayne G. Sayles
Sear 7276; BMC Pontus, pg 213, 6v; SNG Cop 651v; SNG Von Aulock 266v
Note (courtesy Joe Sermarini): In 88 BC, Mithradates destroyed Nikomedes' army forcing him to flee to Italy. His throne was not restored until Rome defeated Mithradates in 84 BC Waddington, [RG], pp. 217-8, notes, "it is difficult to explain the very rare coins that bear the dates IC, AIC, BIC. These dates correspond to 89/8 to 87/6 BC...; but between mid-88 and the end of 83, the whole of Bithynia was in the hands of Mithradates Eupator. We are forced to conjecture (no text says so) that during this period several fortified places in Bithynia remained faithful to the legitimate king and continued to strike coins in his name."
Lawrence W
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88 BC - In Celebration of the Slaughter of 80,000 Romans in Asia Minor Ionia, Smyrna, 88-85 BC, AE 25
Diademed head of Mithradates VI of Pontos right.
ZMYPNAIΩN right, EPMOΓENHΣ/ΦPIΞOΣ to left of Nike standing right, palm frond over one shoulder while crowning the city’s ethnic with wreath.
Milne, Autonomous Smyrna 340; Callataÿ pl. LI, P-Q; SNG Copenhagen 1206.
(25 mm, 14.86 g, 12h)

This coin was struck in the First Mithradatic War, at a time when Mithradates VI had all but expelled the Romans from Asia Minor. A civic issue from Smyrna, it was an overt statement of the city’s support for Mithradates in his campaign against Rome as well as a celebration of Mithradates success in freeing most of Asia Minor from the Roman yoke. The issue probably commenced shortly after Mithradates had organised the murder of 80,000 Roman citizens in a single night across the cities of Asia Minor in the Spring of 88 BC. The issue was short lived, as the tide of military fortune quickly turned against Mithradates when he had to face Sulla. Ultimately, he was forced to negotiate a truce (the Treaty of Dardanos) with the Romans in 85 BC, bringing Asia Minor firmly back into the Roman Empire. This brought this coinage to an end. However, the peace was short lived and hostilities between Rome and Mithradates resumed two years later, continuing intermittently for the next twenty years until Mithradates death in 66 BC following a succession of military defeats at the hands of Pompey the Great.
1 comments
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Adramyteion, Mysia, C. 120–63 BC (Time of Mithradates VI) AE 22mm.Adramyteion, Mysia, C. 120–63 BC (Time of Mithradates VI)
Obv. Laureate head of Apollo left, quiver at shoulder
Rev.TH-NWN, Cornucopiae between caps of the Dioskuroi.
Ref. Sear 3807
Lee S
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AE 28; Radiate head of Helios right/ R-O; Hibiscus flower with helmet and thunderbolt as budsCaria, Rhodos, Helios / Rose, AE28. 28mm, 12.26. Ca. 88-87 B.C. Obv: radiate head of Helios right. Rev: P - O, hibiscus flower ("rose"), helmet in left, thunderbolt in right field as buds. BMC 320. SNG München 661. SNG Cop. 856. Ashton, Coinage 97 (A30/P96); SNG Keckman -. This coinage was struck during Mithradates VI's failed six-month siege of Rhodes in 88 B.C. Unable to produce enough silver for military expenditures, the Rhodians resorted to a fiduciary bronze coinage. Ex Numismatik Lanz & areich3 commentsPodiceps
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Amaseia - AEc. 100-85 BC
times of Mithradates VI Eupator
draped bust of Perseus right wearing winged headband
cornucopia, star above pileus on either side
AMAΣ_ΣEIAΣ
SNG BM Black Sea 1046-7; SNG Stancomb 655; HGC 7, 225
4,0g 15,5mm
ex Naumann
J. B.
Amisos_SNG_BM1200.jpg
Amisos SNG BM 1200Obv: head of Dionysos right (with features of Mithradates VI), wearing ivy-wreath
Rev: AMIΣOY, cista mystica, on which rests panther skin and thyrsos, no monograms
Mint: Amisos (Samsun, Turkey) mint, c. 85 - 65 B.C.
Size: 8.097 g, 19.8 mm, die axis 0o
Ids: SNG BM 1200; BMC Pontus, p. 17, 52; Rec Gen p. 65, 24; SGCV II 3640; HGC 7 243
ickster
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Amisos, Pontos90 - 80 B.C.
Bronze Denomination D
8.5 gm, 20.9 mm
Obv.: Head of Dionysos right, wearing mitra and wreathed with ivy
Rev.: Thyros leaning against cista mystica draped with panther skin wth fillet and bell. Monograms to left and right; AMIΣOY across lower field.
HGC vol. 7, 243
SNG Black Sea 1200-1209;
BMC 13, p.17, 51-58;
Sear 3640

Struck under Mithradates VI

Jaimelai
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Amisos, Pontos, AE 19; Ares/ sword in sheath with strapPontos, Amisos, under Mithradates VI, AE19. Mithradates VI Eupator 120-63 B.C. 19mm, 7.6g. Obverse: helmeted head of Ares right. Reverse: sword in sheath with strap, monograms. Attribution: BMC p.17, #46. Ex areich, photo credit areich1 commentsPodiceps
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Amisos, Pontos, AE21; Zeus/ EagleAmisos, Pontos, Mithradates VI, c. 120 - 63 B.C. Bronze AE 21, SGCV II 3636, SNG Cop 134, gVF, Amisos mint, 6.705g, 21.0mm, 0o, obverse laureate head of Zeus right; reverse, eagle standing on thunderbolt, head turned back, open wings, monogram left; green patina, edge chips. Ex FORVMPodiceps
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Amisos, Pontus, Time of Mithradates VI, ca. 80 BC.Obverse : Gorgonian head on shield facing.
Reverse : AMI-SOU, Nike advancing right, holding palm over shoulder, monograms above and below. Minted in Amisos of Pontos. Struck 85-655 BC. Ref: SNGBMC 1189.


EX ; Andreas Reich

From the Sam Mansourati Collection.
Sam
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Ancient Greek Coin Collection From Sixth to First Centuries B.C.Here are the coins I started collecting from 2012 to present. As Aristotle wrote two millennia ago that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, there is no better way to present a collection of Greeks than to put them all together in a single shot. (Please click on picture for bigger resolution and to show greater details on coins).

Top row from left to right: AEOLIS, MYRINA. AR "Stephanophoric" Tetradrachm. Circa 150 BC**ILLYRIA, DYRRHACHION. AR Stater. Circa 340-280 BC**IONIA, SMYRNA. AR “Stephanophoric” Tetradrachm. Circa 150-145 BC** PELOPONNESOS, SIKYON. AR Stater. Circa 335-330 BC**ATTICA, ATHENS. “New style” Tetradrachm. Circa 169 BC.

Fifth row: BACTRIA, Antialkidas. AR Drachm. Circa 145-135 BC**CAPPADOCIA. Ariobarzanes I AR Drachm. Circa 96-63 BC**THRACE, ABDERA. AR Tetrobol. Circa 360-350 BC**THRACE, CHERSONESSOS. AR Hemidrachm. Circa 386-338 BC.

Fourth row: LUCANIA, METAPONTION. AR Stater. Circa 510-480 BC**THESSALIAN LEAGUE. AR Stater. Circa 196-146 BC**MACEDONIA. Kassander AR Tetradrachm. Circa 317-315 BC**AKARNANIA, LEUKAS. AR Stater. Circa 320-280 BC**PAMPHYLIA, ASPENDOS. AR Stater. Circa 330-300 BC.

Third row: SELEUKID SYRIA. Antiochos VI AR Drachm. Circa 144-143 BC**LUCANIA, METAPONTION. AR Stater. Circa 340-330 BC**LUCANIA, VELIA. AR Stater. Circa 280 BC**PARTHIA. Mithradates II AR Drachm. Circa 121-91 BC.

Second row: MYSIA, PERGAMMON. Eumenes I AR Tetradrachm. Circa 263-241 BC**CILICIA, TARSOS. Mazaios AR Stater. Circa 361-334 BC**THRACE. Lysimachos AR Tetradrachm. Circa 297-281 BC**CILICIA, TARSOS. Pharnabazos AR Stater. Circa 380-374 BC**THRACE, MARONEIA. AR Tetradrachm. Mid 2nd cent. BC.

Bottom row: SELEUKID SYRIA. Antiochos Euergetes VII AR Tetradrachm. Circa 138-129 BC**MACEDON. Alexander III AR Tetradrachm. Circa 325-315 BC**CILICIA, AIGEAI. AR Tetradrachm. Circa 30 BC**PAIONIA. Patraos AR Tetradrachm. Circa 335-315 BC**PAMPHYLIA, SIDE. AR Tetradrachm. Circa 155-36 BC.
10 commentsJason T
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Antiochus IV Epiphanes 175 - 164 BCAntiochus IV Epiphanes "God Manifest" c. 215 BC – 164 BC) ruled the Seleucid Empire from 175 BC until his death in 164 BC. He was a son of King Antiochus III the Great. His original name was Mithradates (alternative form Mithridates); he assumed the name Antiochus after he ascended the throne.
Antiochos IV Epiphanes. Seleukid Kingdom AE 12mm, 2,88gr. Veiled bust of Laodike IV right / ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ANTIOXOY, elephant's head left. No symbols in fields. Hoover 685; SC 1421-1422.
ddwau
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AR Drachm of Mithradates I (171-138 BC)Obverse: Bearded bust left wearing diadem with circular reel and pellet border.
Reverse: Beardless archer sitting right on omphalos wearing cloak and bashlyk, 3 line Greek inscription BASILEWS MEGALOY ARSAKOY

A nice portrait of the king done in realistic style probably near the end of his long reign

Sellwood 11.1
daverino
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Ariarathes IX Eusebes Philopator Drachm HGC 7, 845Ariarathes IX Eusebes Philopator AR drachm

3.74g, 17.0mm, 0 degrees, Kingdom of Cappadocia. Eusebeia under Mount Argaios Mint A, Regnal year 13 (88-87 BCE)

Attribution: HGC 7, 845. Simonetta 9a.

O: Diademed head right, with the features of Mithradates VI of Pontos.

R: BAΣIΛEΩΣ AΡIAΡAΘOY EYΣEBOYΣ, Athena Nikephoros standing left; to inner left, AN monogram; in exergue, IΓ.

Ex-London Ancient Coins
Ron C2
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Ariobarzanes III DrachmAR Drachm
Size: 17mm, Weight: 3.53 grams, Die Axis: 12h

Cappadocian Kingdom, Ariobarzanes III Eusebes
Circa 52 – 42 BCE

Obverse: Anepigraphic.
Diademed bust to right.

Reverse: BAΣIΛEΩΣ APIOBAPZANOY EYΣEBOYΣ KAI ΦIΛOPΩMAIOY (of King Ariobarzanes, pious and friend of the Romans)
Athena Nikephoros standing left, spear and grounded shield to right. Star in crescent monogram to left, monogram to right, and IA date in exergue (year 11, 42 BCE).

References: HGC 7, 853

Notes:
-Ariobarzanes III was the grandson of Mithradates VI of Pontos, and adopted the Pontic royal symbol of a star in crescent.
-Ariobarzanes III was allied with Pompey, but was allowed to keep his position under Julius Caesar. Following Caesar's assassination, he refused to aid Cassius. Cappadocia was invaded, and Ariobarzanes III was executed.

Purchased from Forvm Ancient Coins, 2016
Pharsalos
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Asia Minor, Pontos, Amisos?, Cap, Head of Pan, StarPontos, Amisos?
AE18, Time of Mithradates VI (Circa 130-100 BC).
Obv.: Phrygian cap with facing bust of Pan ; bow to left.
Rev.: Star; bow
AE, 4.57g, 17.9mm
Ref.: SNG BM Black Sea 980; SNG Stancomb 645
Ex Pecunem Gitbud&Naumann auction 35, Lot 137
shanxi
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Athens AE2 Star & 2 Crescents Chalkous 87/6 BCObv: Athena in Corinthian helmet
Rev: Grounded fulminating Zeus advancing right about to hurl thunderbolt
ΑΘΕ
ethnic surrounding Zeus
Symbol RF: Pontic Star & 2 Crescents
AE2 (18mm) 9.05gm
Kroll 97 Mithradatic war issue King Mithradates & Aristion as magistrates
cicerokid
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Athens, Mithradatic War Issue, 87-86 B.C."In 87 B.C., Mithridates moved his forces into Greece and established Aristion as a tyrant in Athens. Sulla landed in Epirus and marched through Boeotia into Attica. Most cities declared their allegiance to Rome, foremost among them Thebes. Athens, however, remained loyal to Mithridates. After a long and brutal siege, Sulla's rough battle hardened legions, veterans of the Social War, took Athens on the Kalends of March 86 B.C. They looted and burned temples and structures built in the city by various Hellenistic kings to honor themselves and gain prestige. Months later, only after they ran out of water, Aristion surrendered the Akropolis. Athens was looted and punished severely. Roman vengeance ensured Greece would remain docile during later civil wars and Mithridatic wars."

Bronze chalkous, SNG Cop 307, BMC Attica p. 81, 554; Kroll 97; Svoronos Athens pl. 84, 45 - 48, F, thick flan, 9.775g, 19.7mm, 45o, Athens mint, Mithradates VI of Pontos & Aristion, 87 - 86 B.C.; obverse head of Athena right, wearing crested Corinthian helmet; reverse Zeus advancing right, nude, hurling thunderbolt with right, left extended, A/Q-E flanking below arms, star between two crescents (one above and one below) in lower right field;
Platon
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Attica, Athens. 87/86 BC. AE18.Obv: Head of Athena, wearing Corinthian helmet.
Rev: Zeus standing, hurling thunderbolt; star between crescents to right.
18mm., 8.7 gm.
Mithradatic war issue w/ King Mithradates & Aristion as magistrates.
Kroll 97
1 commentsancientone
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Attica, Athens. 87/86 BC. AE18.Obv: Head of Athena, wearing Corinthian helmet.
Rev: Zeus standing, hurling thunderbolt; star between crescents to right.
18mm., 8.7 gm.
Struck under Mithradates VI of Pontos, c. 105-85 BC.
Mithradatic war issue w/ King Mithradates & Aristion as magistrates.
Kroll 97
1 commentsancientone
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Chabakta - AEc. 100-85 BC
times of Mithradates VI Eupator
head of Perseus right wearing Phrygian helmet
drinking pegasos left
XABAKTΩN / (AΦP) / ?
SNG Stancomb 714; SNG Cop 204; SNG BM 1258; Rec Gen p. 77, 1
12,3g 23mm
J. B.
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Crawford 359/2, ROMAN REPUBLIC, L. Cornelius Sulla, AR DenariusRome, The Republic.
L. Cornelius Sulla, 84-83 BCE.
AR Denarius (3.88g; 21mm).
Military Mint.

Obverse: L·SVLLA; diademed head of Venus facing right; before, Cupid holding palm to left.

Reverse: IMPER – ITERV; two trophies with jug and lituus between them.

References: Crawford 359/2; Sydenham 761a; BMCRR East 3; Cornelia 30.

Provenance: Ex Nomisma 58 (6 Nov 2018) Lot 76.

These coins were struck in the east, just before Sulla’s march on Rome. The fabric and style of these coins are certainly different from other Roman Republican denarii of the era, more eastern than Roman. Perhaps not obvious from my photo, the obverse is struck in very high relief and the reverse has pronounced cupping (from a convex reverse die, which more efficiently drives the metal into the high relief obverse die). The obverse honors Venus, whom Sulla considered his protectress. The jug and lituus on the reverse are suggestive of the office of Augur, but Crawford did not think Sulla was an Augur at the time these coins were produced. The implements may refer to an ancestor of Sulla that was an Augur, or, as Crawford surmises, to Sulla’s imperium. The trophies on the reverse refer to Sulla’s victories in the east against Mithradates. Two trophies were also used by Sulla in an issue of tetradrachms in the Athenian “New Style” form.

Sulla’s seizure of dictatorial power following his march on Rome (leading an army that was loyal to him, rather than to the state) became a paradigm for Roman political struggles thereafter. Julius Caesar would initiate similar consequences when he crossed the Rubicon at the head of his army 30+ years later. Unlike Sulla, Caesar showed no interest in resigning his power. Also unlike Sulla, Caesar would strike coins bearing his own likeness. Sulla’s portrait did not appear on a Roman coin until 25 years after Sulla’s death (See, Crawford 434/1).
1 commentsCarausius
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Datames, Satrap of Cilicia and Cappadocia, StaterCILICIA, Tarsos. Datames, Satrap of Cilicia and Cappadocia. 384-362 BC. AR Stater (21.3 x 25.6mm, 9.89 gm). Struck 378-372 BC.
O: Baaltars seated right, torso facing, holding grain ear and grape-bunch in left hand, eagle-tipped sceptre in right arm; 'BLTRZ' in Aramaic to left, thymiaterion to right; all within crenellated wall
R: Ana, nude, and Datames standing facing each other, both have their right arms raised; thymiaterion and 'TRDMW' (Datames) in Aramaic between them; all within square dotted border within linear border.
- SNG Levante 83; SNG France 292; BMC Lycaonia pg. 168, 35; SNG Copenhagen 300; SNG von Aulock 5943.

Datames, the son of Kamisares and a Scythian mother, served as a member of the Persian king's bodyguard before he became satrap of Cilicia and Cappadocia upon his father's death in 384 BC. Throughout his early career, he put down a revolt in Lydia, defeated the rebel governor Thyos in Paphlagonia, and briefly occupied the city of Sinope. Because of these successes, the Persian king placed him in charge of the second war against Egypt, along with Pharnabazos and Tithraustes, satrap of Caria.
When Datames' enemies in Artaxerxes' court accused him, perhaps falsely, of intending to revolt against the Great King, he then became, in fact, the first of the Satraps to revolt. His initial success in this endeavor prompted the revolt of other satraps across the empire. Datames' success, however, was short-lived. Distrust among the satraps disintegrated their rebellion and his own son's desertion to Artaxerxes was the beginning of the end. Datames himself was assassinated by Mithradates, the son of Ariobarzanes, satrap of Phrygia, in 362 BC.
1 commentsNemonater
2140_Dia.jpg
Dia - AE85-65 BC
times of Mithradates VI Eupator
laureate head of Zeus right
eagle standing on thunderbolt left, head turned right
(ΓXP)
ΔIAΣ
SNG BM Black Sea 1562; SNG Copenhagen 404; Lindgren and Kovacs 115
9,4g 20mm
ex NBS
J. B.
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DionysosPontos, Amisos. temp. Mithradates VI, c. 105-85 or 85-65 BC. Æ (16mm, 3.98g, 12h). Struck under Mithradates VI.
Obverse..Ivy wreathed head of Dionysos right.
Reverse..Filleted thyrsos, bell attached with fillet, AMI-ΣOY flanking across field, monogram lower right.
Mint..Amisos (Samsun, Turkey)
SNG Black Sea 1192-5; HGC 7, 251. Good VF
Paul R3
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Dioskourias - AEtimes of Mithradates VI Eupator
105-90 BC
caps of the Dioskouroi (pilei) surmounted by stars
thyrsos
ΔI_OΣ / KOV_PIA / Δ_OΣ
SNG BM 1021
4,4g 15mm
ex Solidus
J. B.
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EB0114 Mithradates VI / StagKingdom of Pontos. Mithradates VI Eupator AR Drachm. May-August 95 BC.
Obverse: Diademed head of Mithradates to right.
Reverse: ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ EYΠATOPOΣ above and below Stag feeding to left; star within crescent to left, date and monogram in exergue; all within wreath.
References: Callataÿ D2/R1e; SNG von Aulock 6684. Extremely Rare, see this article by Roma Numismatics: http://romanumismatics.com/articles/article/kingdom-of-pontos-one-of-eleven-known-drachms-of-mithradates-vi.
Diameter: 19mm, Weight: 3.855g.
Ex: JSD Ancient Coins.
EB
EB0116b_scaled.JPG
EB0116 Mithradates II / ArcherMithradates II 123-88 BC, PARTHIAN KINGDOM, Ecbatana mint, AR Drachm.
Obverse: Medium bearded bust left wearing diadem, pellet-ended torque; behind bust, monogram [~~]; circular border of pellets.
Reverse: ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΜΕΓΑΛΟΥ ΑΡΣΑΚΟΥ ΕΠΙΦΑΝΟΥΣ, beardless archer wearing bashlyk and cloak seated right on omphalos, holding bow in right hand; no border.
References: Shore 76, Sell. 24.30.
Diameter: 22mm, Weight: 3.684g.
EB
EB0117b_scaled.JPG
EB0117 Mithradates II / ArcherEB0117 Mithradates II
Mithradates II 123-88 BC, PARTHIAN KINGDOM, AR Drachm, Rhagae mint.
Obverse: Diademed bust left.
Reverse: ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΝ ΜΕΓΑΛΟΥ ΑΡΣΑΚΟΥ ΕΠΙΦΑΝΟΥΣ, 5-line legend around archer.
References: Shore 87, Sell. 27.1.
Diameter: 23mm, Weight: 3.936g.
EB
EB0118b_scaled.JPG
EB0118 Mithradates II / ArcherMithradates II 123-88 BC, PARTHIAN KINGDOM, AR Drachm, Ekbatana mint.
Obverse: Bust, left, w/tiara and diadem, knot and 2 ribbons; mustache, long tapering beard; tiara w/earflap and 3 rows of pellets enclosing a six-pointed star; [earring], multi-turn torque w/2-pellet finial; cuirass.
Reverse: Archer, right, on throne, w/bow in 1 hand; exergual line; 5-line legend forming a square: BAΣIΛEΩΣ BAΣIΛEΩN MEΓAΛoY APΣAKoY EΠIΦANoYΣ.
References: Shore 97, Sell. 28.3, Seaby 7372.
Diameter: 19mm, Weight: 4.014g.
See Best of Type:http://www.forumancientcoins.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-142418
EB
EB0119b_scaled.JPG
EB0119 Mithradates II / ArcherMithradates II 123-88 BC, PARTHIAN KINGDOM, AR Drachm, Ekbatana mint.
Obverse: Bust, left, w/tiara and diadem, knot and 2 ribbons; mustache, long tapering beard; tiara w/earflap and 3 rows of pellets enclosing a six-pointed star; earring, multi-turn torque w/2-pellet finial; cuirass.
Reverse: Archer, right, on throne, w/bow in 1 hand; exergual line; 5-line legend forming a square: BAΣIΛEΩΣ BAΣIΛEΩN MEΓAΛoY APΣAKoY EΠIΦANoYΣ.
References: Shore 97, Sell. 28.3, Seaby 7372.
Diameter: 21mm, Weight: 4.131g.
Ex: Alex G. Malloy.
EB
EB0120b_scaled.JPG
EB0120 Mithradates II / ArcherMithradates II 123-88 BC, PARTHIAN KINGDOM, AR Drachm.
Obverse: Bust, left, w/tiara and diadem.
Reverse: 5-line legend around archer.
References: Shore 99?, Sell. 28.7?
Diameter: 19mm, Weight: 3.600g.
EB
EB0121b_scaled.JPG
EB0121 Mithradates II / ArcherMithradates II 123-88 BC, PARTHIAN KINGDOM, AR Drachm.
Obverse: Bust of king left.
Reverse: 5-line legend around archer.
References: -.
Diameter: 21mm, Weight: 3.86g.
EB
EB0206b_scaled.JPG
EB0206 Perseus / PegasosMithradates VI, Amisos, PONTOS, AE 25, 120-63 BC.
Obverse: Head of Mithradates VI, as Perseus, right.
Reverse: Pegasos standing left, drinking; ΑΜΙΣΟΥ in exergue.
References: SG 2639; Waddington, RG 32; SNG BM Black Sea 1217; SNG Cop. 158.
Diameter: 25.5mm, Weight: 11.081g.
EB
EB0210_1d_scaled.JPG
EB0210.1 Perseus / CornucopiaeAmisos, PONTOS, AE 17, time of Mithradates VI, 120-63 BC.
Obverse: Draped bust of Mithradates as Perseus right, wing at his temple.
Reverse: AMIΣOY, Cornucopiae between two pilei (caps of the Dioskuri) each surmounted by a star.
References: SNG vA 70; SNG Stockholm 1848; SNG Cop. 161; BMC 65; Waddington 32.
Diameter: 17.5mm, Weight: 4.182g.
EB
EB0210_3b_scaled.JPG
EB0210.3 Dionysos / Cista MysticaAmisos, PONTOS, AE21, 88-65 BC.
Obverse: Head of Mithradates VI as Dionysos right wreathed with ivy.
Reverse: AMIΣOY below Cista Mystica covered with a panther's skin, thyrsos and bell behind. HTΡK monogram in upper left field.
References: BMC 51; Malloy 26c; RecGen 24.6; BMC Black Sea 1205-1206.
Diameter: 21mm, Weight: 8.006g.
EB
EB0229b_scaled.JPG
EB0229 Mithradates II / Horse headMithradates II, PARTHIAN KINGDOM, AE 18 (dichalkon), 123-88 BC.
Obverse: Bearded bust left wearing diadem; behind bust, monogram ??; circular border of pellets.
Reverse: Horse head right; no border; square four-line Greek inscription with guide lines = ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΜΕΓΑΛΟΥ ΑΡΣΑΚΟΥ ΕΠΙΦΑΝΟΥΣ.
References: Cf. Shore 92, Sell. 26.28, 24.39; see Seaby 7376.
Diameter: 18mm, Weight: 4.412g.
EB
EB0313b_scaled.JPG
EB0313 Mithradates II / Horse headMithradates II, Parthia, AE Dichalkon, 123-88 BC.
Obverse: Bust left.
Reverse: Horse head right within 5-line legend.
References: Sell 27/6 or 7.
Diameter: 17mm, Weight: 3.026g.
EB
Kam2drcombo1.jpg
Elymais - Kamnaskires II. Nikephoros (?), ca. 145 -139 BCAr dr., 4,7gr, 18,09mm,
Alram 433, pl. 14 , Van’t H. 2.1.2-1b, J. Dilmaghani, “Parthian Coins from Mithradates II. to Orodes II.” in Num. Chron. 1986, p. 217, and plate 24.2;
Mint: Susa (?), axis: 08:00h;
Obv.: bare headed floating bust, right, w/diadem and 2 ribbons; short Greek style hair, no beard or mustache; large ear; reed and pellet border 6:00 - 15:00;
Rev.: Apollo, left, on omphalos, holding bow and arrow; BAΣIΛEΩΣ on the right side, (K)AMN(retrograde)AΣKI(POY) on the left side, exergual line, in exergue: HΣ; whether this is a date is uncertain.
1 commentsSchatz
FH-G-051_(0s).jpg
FH-G-051
Pontos, Amisos; Mithradates VI; 120-63 BC; Bronze AE20

- Head of young Ares right, wearing helmet.

- ΑΜΙ-ΣΟϒ
- AMI-SOY
- Sword in sheath with strap. IB Monogram in upper right, star and crescent in upper left, ΠΛK-K monogram in lower left.

7.60gm / 20.70mm / Axis: 0

References:
SNG BMC Black Sea 1162
BMC Pontus, 48

Notes: Jan 6, 16 - Coin is thoroughly pitted but reverse legends and monograms are all at least partially recognizable in hand. – compare to similar coin found here: http://www.wildwinds.com/coins/greece/pontos/amisos/t.html
Jonathan P
GEPAEPYRIS.jpg
Gepaepyris, wife of Aspurgus, with stepson, Mithradates.Bosphorus Kingdom. Æ 12 nummia (24 mm).
Obv: BACILEWC MIQRADATOU, Diad. hd. of Mithradates, r.
Rev: BACILLICCHC GHPAPUREWC, Diad., dr. bust of Queen Gepaepyris, r.; before IB. SNG XI 968. Similar to
Anokhin Bosphorus 331; SGI 5433; BMC 13.51, 5.
Delos_-_Temple_of_Issis.jpg
Greece, Delos - Temple of IssisThe Cycladic island of Delos was revered in antiquity as the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. During the early Classical era it was a sacred religious precinct dedicated to the worship of these gods. In the late fifth century BC, at the peak of its role as a religious sanctuary, neither birth nor death was permitted to occur on the island. However, commercial imperatives were soon to over ride this religious taboo. Delos occupied a central position with respect to the trade routes of the Mediterranean, so that by the late 3rd century BC commercial activity overtook its role as a religious sanctuary. The sacred character of the island dissipated, displaced by a cosmopolitan trading centre. By the 2nd century BC it had evolved to become the centre of the Mediterranean slave trade. Strabo recorded that up to 10,000 people per day were trafficked through its slave market. This role continued into the early Roman era, until in 88 BC Mithradates VI, King of Pontus, decimated the population in an attack on the island. In 69 BC the pirates of Athenodoros destroyed what remained of the commercial centre of Delos and it fell into decline, to be effectively abandoned by the 6th century AD.
935293~0.jpg
Greek, Ariobarzanes I Philoromaios. Cappadocian Kingdom. AR Drachm.Circa 96-63 B.C. AR Drachm (17mm, 3.92g, 1h). Simmoneta 9a. Obverse diademed head of Ariobarzanes to right. Reverse BASILEUS ARIOBARZANOU PHILOROMAIOU Athena standing left, holding Nike and spear and shield; to left monogram; to right, A; in exergue, gamma. Extremely Fine, beautifully toned. Ex Nomos AG 6th Price List Sale, lot 44.
Ariobarzanes I, nicknamed Philoromaios or “Lover of Rome” in the literal sense but should be translated as “Friend of Rome,” was a client king of Cappadocia during Roman expansion and hegemony in Asia Minor. He was elected by his people with the backing of Lucius Cornelius Sulla. He was removed several times by either Mithradates IV of Pontus or Tigranes II of Armenia but reinstated by the Roman Senate each time. He eventually abdicated and was replaced by his son, Ariobarzanes II.

The detail and artistry is surprisingly elegant on this small coin with a diameter of only 17mm. It is a masterpiece of miniature numismatic portraiture: most of Ariobarzanes’ coins are of inferior quality and finding one with fine portraiture of good style, such as this, is rarely encountered.

2 commentsJason T
Ariarathes_VII_-_Antiochos_VII_imitative.jpg
GREEK, Cappadocian Kingdom, Ariarathes VII ca 110-99 BC, AR Tetradrachm in the name of Antiochos VII (138-129 BC)Diademed head of Antiochos VII right, fillet border. / ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΑΝΤΙΟΧΟΥ ΕΥΕΡΓΕΤΟΥ Athena standing half-left in crested helmet on short ground line, confronting Nike held in right hand and with left arm balancing a spear while holding a grounded shield decorated with a Gorgoneion head, primary controls ΔI (in ligature) over A in outer left field, secondary controls O-Λ in inner fields, laurel crown around.
Lorber and Houghton, NC 2006, ser. 1, iss. 3 (A1/P1 - coin 12 - this coin); HGC 9 1069; SC 2148; SMA 298; SNG Spaer 1873 (same obverse die).
Uncertain Cappadocian mint, probably Ariaratheia or Eusebeia-Tyana.
From the same obverse die as the first issue to bear a reverse legend in the name of Ariarthes VII with the same O-Λ mint controls.
(28 mm, 16.63 gm, 12h)
ex- Commerce (‘Antiochus VII Posthumous’ Hoard) 2005

Ariarathes VII was the nephew of Mithradates VI Eupator of Pontus and a hapless pawn in the developing power struggle of his uncle with Bithynia and later Rome to control Asia Minor. After rebuffing Mithradates VI's 'advice and assistance' the armies of Mithradates and Ariarathes met prepared for battle. At this point Mithradates called for an unarmed discussion meeting with Ariarathes in the middle ground of the battlefield. In front of the two assembled armies, Mithradates drew a concealed blade and slit his nephew's throat, thus avoiding battle and clearing the way for a new puppet, his stepson, to be appointed ultimately as King Ariarathes IX.
8 comments
mithra~0.jpg
Greek, Mithradates I (171-138 BC), AR DrachmAn exceptional portrait of an aging but still formidable ruler. Most Parthian coin portraits are fairly pedestrian but this artist captures the tangled beard and wrinkled eyes and brow of Mithridates I in what must be the last years of his reign.

Sellwood 11.1
daverino
Pontic_Kingdom,_Mithradates_Vi_ATG_Tetradrachm,_Odessos_.jpg
Greek, Mithridates VI (The Great) as HeraklesPontic Kingdom, Thrace, Odessos, Mithridates VI Megas, 120-63 BC, AR Tetradrachm in the name of Alexander the Great, struck ca. 88-86 BC.
Head of Mithridates VI (the Great) as Herakles, wearing lion's skin headdress / ΒΑΣIΛΕΩΣ ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡOΥ.
(Reverse is of Zeus seated left, legs draped, confronting eagle held on outstretched right arm and grasping lotus-tipped sceptre, ΛAK before, OΔΗ (Odessos ethnic) in exergue.)
Callataÿ Group 3; Price 1192. Odessos ca. 88-86 BC
(30 mm, 16.04 gm, 1h)

This is amongst the last of the coinages in the style of Alexander the Great to be minted. In this final incarnation the portrait of Herakles was adapted to the features of Mithridates VI the Great, to the extent that the image of Herakles is in fact a portrait of Mithridates. Comparison with his portrait on tetradrachms minted in Pontus proves this point.
1 comments
12093q00.jpg
GREEK, Pontic Kingdom, Mithradates VI, c. 120 - 63 B.C., Lysimachos Type, Gold staterSH12093. Gold stater, SNG Cop 1089 var. (monogram), Choice EF, weight 8.232 g, maximum diameter 23.0 mm, die axis 0o, Byzantium (Istanbul, Turkey) mint, c. 100 - 85 B.C; obverse diademed head of Alexander the Great (with the features of Mithradates VI), wearing the horn of Ammon; reverse BAΣIΛEΩΣ ΛYΣIMAXOY, Athena enthroned left, holding Nike and resting left arm on shield, transverse spear against her side, BY on throne, AP monogram under right arm, trident and two dolphins in exergue; fantastic style with superb portrait of Mithradates as Alexander the Great!Joe Sermarini
Amisos_AE27.jpg
GREEK, Pontos, Amisos, AE 27, ca. 120-95 BCMale head (youthful Mithradates VI?) wearing bashlyk (Persian leather cap) right.
AMI-ΣOY either side of quiver with strap.
HGC 7, 236; SNG BMC Black Sea 1135-8; SNG Stancomb 669; SNG Copenhagen 131; SNG von Aulock 57-58; Laffaille 414; Callataÿ p. 248, n. 19, pl. XLVIII, A–B.
Struck circa 120-111 or 100-95 BC.
(27 mm, 21.54 g, 12h)
1 comments
5.jpg
GREEK, Pontos, Amisos, Mithridates VIPontos, Amisos - Circa 125-100 BC. Æ (19mm, 8.63 g). Struck under Mithradates VI, circa 120-111 BC or 110-100.
Bust of Artemis right, wearing stephane; bow and quiver over shoulder / Tripod.
SNG BM Black Sea 1139-40; HGC 7, 240.
3 comments
020_17.jpg
Iran, BisitunAlong the path to the main attraction there are two badly preserved Parthian reliefs, most likely from the first cent. BC and the first cent. AD. They show king Mithradates II (ca. 123 - 90 BC) receiving a delegation of four dignitaries (to the left of the defacing 17. cent. AD Safavid plate). The inscription on top of the Mithradates’ relief is in Greek.
Schatz
025_22.jpg
Iran, Bisitun, Kermanshah ProvinceMithradates II depicted receiving dignitaries. The relief is partly erased by the 17th cent. Safavid addition.

Sorry, the Bisitun pics are in reverse order. The Herakles sculpture should be the first of the bunch.
Schatz
bosporus_asander_Anokhin224.jpg
Kingdom of Bosporos, Asander, Anokhin 224Asander as Archon, 47-43 BC
AE 26 (Obol), 13.12g, 25.81mm, 0°
obv. Head of Apoll (Asander?), diademed, r., below chin c/m 8-pointed star in circular incus, between 2 rays Delta
rev. [ARXONTOC] - [A]CANDR[OV]
Prora, [r. before Trident], below c/m 8-pointed star in circular incus, between 2 rays Delta
ref. Anokhin 224; cf. MacDonald 193 (ASANDROV with Sigma); RPC I, 1848; Natwoka 12-14; SNG Copenhagen (with
same c/m)
rare, F, brown patina, some corrosion

These are usually overstrucked on coins of Bosporos or Pontic bronzes from the time of Mithradates Eupator.
Jochen
bosporos_mithradatesIII_Anokhin330.jpg
Kingdom of Bosporus, Mithradates III, Anokhin 330Mithradates III, AD 39/40-44/45
AE 21, 4.26g, 20.87mm, 315°
obv. BACILEWC MIQRADATOV
diademed head r.
rev. Club with lion's skin between quiver with bow and trident
beneath IB (= 12, value mark)
ref. Anokhin 330; MacDonald 313; cf. SGI 5432
about VF
Jochen
GalatiaDeiotaros.jpg
Kingdom of Galatia, Deiotaros62 - 40 BC
AE 21 mm, 6.72 grams, 0 degrees
Denomination C, although a bit large, weight is correct
Pessinous mint, struck 63/2 - 59/8 BC

O: Laureate head of Zeus right.

R: Eagle with spread wings standing left, head reverted, AHTP monogram to left.

Ref: HGC 7 775; SG 5690; SNG von Aulock 6099-6100

Note: Deiotaros was a tetrarch of the Celtic Tolistobogioi tribe and supported the Romans against Pontos and Mithradates VI.
Virgil H
Screenshot_2015-01-19_01_01_01.png
Kingdom of Pontos: King Mithradates VI Eupator, AE20, Civic Issue.Amisos 85-65 B.C. 6.72gr - 20.9mm, Axis 2h.

Obv: Aegis with Gorgon's head at centre.

Rev: AMI-ΣOY - Nike advancing right carrying palm branch, monograms below.

Ref: SNG BM Black Sea 1177-1179.
Provenance: Chris Scarlioli Collection.
Christian Scarlioli
Screenshot_2016-03-30_09_35_56.png
Kingdom of Pontos: King Mithradates VI Eupator, AE22, Civic Issue.Amisos 105-85 B.C. 7.35g - 22.1mm, Axis 12h.

Obv: Aegis with facing Gorgon in the centre.

Rev: AMI-ΣOY - Nike advancing right, holding palm over shoulder with both hands, monograms to left and right.

Ref: SNG BM 1177-1191.
Provenance: Chris Scarlioli Collection.
Christian Scarlioli
Screenshot_2019-07-19_14_51_24.png
Kingdom of Pontos: Mithradates VI Eupator, AE19.Amisos 85-65 B.C. 8.56g - 19mm, Axis 12h.

Obv: Laureate head of Zeus right.

Rev: AMIΣOY - Eagle standing left on thunderbolt, head turned right; PA monogram left.

Ref: SNG Cop 134.
Provenance: Ex Simon Shipp. Chris Scarlioli Collection.
Christian Scarlioli
Screenshot_2015-01-20_15_15_10.png
Kingdom of Pontos: Mithradates VI Eupator, AE20, Civic-Issue. Amisos 100 B.C. 6.92g - 20.1mm, Axis 12h.

Obv: Aegis with facing Gorgon in the centre.

Rev: AMI-ΣOY - Nike advancing right, holding palm over shoulder with both hands, ΔAT monogram to left, Ω Σ monogram to right.

Ref: BMC 72; SNG BM Black Sea 1177-1179.
Provenance: Chris Scarlioli Collection.
Christian Scarlioli
Screenshot_2016-03-30_09_42_53.png
Kingdom of Pontos: Mithradates VI Eupator, AE22, Civic Issue.Amisos 85-65 B.C. 7.82gr - 22.5mm, Axis 12h.

Obv: Aegis with Gorgon's head at centre.

Rev: AMI-ΣOY - Nike advancing right carrying palm tied with fillet over left shoulder. monograms to left and right.

Ref: SNG BMC Black Sea 1180-1182; SNG Stancomb 689; SNG Cop 171; SNG von Aulock 6725; Laffaille 412; RecGen 44.
Provenance: Chris Scarlioli Collection.
Christian Scarlioli
Ariobarzanes.jpg
Kings of Cappadocia. Ariobarzanes I Philoromaios. AR Drachma.Circa 96-63 B.C. AR Drachm (17mm, 3.92g, 1h). Simmoneta-9a. Obverse diademed head of Ariobarzanes to right. Reverse BASILEUS ARIOBARZANOU PHILOROMAIOU Athena standing left, holding Nike and spear and shield; to left monogram; to right, A; in exergue, gamma. Extremely Fine, beautifully toned.

Ex Nomos AG 6th Price List Sale, lot 44.

Ariobarzanes I (nicknamed Philoromaios or “Lover of Rome” in the literal sense but should be properly translated as “Friend of Rome”) was a client king of Cappadocia during Roman expansion and hegemony in Asia Minor. He was elected by his people with the backing of Lucius Cornelius Sulla. He was removed several times by either Mithradates IV of Pontus or Tigranes II of Armenia but reinstated by the Roman Senate each time. He eventually abdicated and was replaced by his son, Ariobarzanes II.

The detail and artistry is surprisingly elegant on this small coin with a diameter of only 17mm. It is a masterpiece of miniature numismatic portraiture: most of Ariobarzanes’ coins are of inferior quality and finding one with fine portraiture of good style, such as this, is rarely encountered.
3 commentsJason T
mithradaates_ii_parthia.jpg
KINGS OF PARTHIA--MITHRADATES II "The Great"Kings of Parthia. Mithradates II "the Great”
123 BC - 88 BC
AE Tetrachalkos 16.5 mm; 3.28 g
O: Bearded and diademed bust of Mithradates to left
R: Horse walking to right, left foreleg raised; Greek legends around.
Parthia, Ecbatana mint
laney
P1010047.JPG
Screenshot_2018-09-18_17_39_59.png
Kolchis: King Mithradates VI, AE16.Dioskourias 105-90 B.C. 3.25g - 16mm, Axis 12h.

Obv: Caps of the Dioscuri surmounted by stars.

Rev: ΔIOΣKOYPIAΔOΣ - Thyrsos.

Ref: SNG BM Black Sea 1021; SNG Stancomb 638; SNG Copenhagen 102-3.
Provenance: Chris Scarlioli Collection.
Christian Scarlioli
Screenshot_2018-09-18_15_39_02.png
Kolchis: Mithradates VI, AE16.Dioskourias 105-90 B.C. 4.50g - 16.4mm, Axis 12h.

Obv: Caps of the Dioscuri surmounted by stars, the 1st cap is off flan.

Rev :ΔIOΣKOYPIAΔOΣ - Thyrsos.

Ref: SNG BM Black Sea 1021; SNG Stancomb 638; SNG Copenhagen 102-3.
Provenance: Chris Scarlioli Collection.
Christian Scarlioli
farsuleius_mensor_Crawford392.1b.jpg
L. Farsuleius Mensor, Crawford 392/1bL. Farsuleius Mensor, gens Farsuleia
AR - denar, 18 mm, 3.96 gm.
Rome 75 BC
obv. Diademed and draped bust of Libertas r., wearing ear-rings and necklace.
S C and pileus behind
MENSOR before
rev. Armed and helmeted warrior, holding spear, takes togated person into his
biga, driving r.
CXV under horses
L. FARSVLEI in exergue.
Crawford 392/1b; Sydenham 789; Farsuleia 2
about VF, obv. slightly excentric
ex Lakeview coll.

The reverse depiction is heavily propagandistic. It could be related to the 'Lex Iulia de civitate sociis dandi', introduced by the consul L. Caesar (not Julius Caesar!) in 90 BC and offering Roman citizenship to all citizens of Italian municipia who had not raised arms against Rome in the Italian War (Social War).

Another possibilitiy is that it is related to to the recruitment of military troops needed for the wars in Spain (against Sertorius) and against Mithradates in Asia.

In the 1st case it is Roma taking the Roman allies in her biga, in the other case it could be Mars taking the Roman citizens in his war chariot.
2 commentsJochen
SullaTorquatusI.jpg
L. Manlius Torquatus and L. Cornelius SullaL. Manlius Torquatus and L. Cornelius Sulla (82 BC). AR denarius 3.99 g. Military military mint with Sulla.
O: Helmeted bust of Roma right, with peaked visor, cruciform earring and necklace, hair in three locks; L MANLI before; PRO•Q behind
R: Sulla, togate, driving triumphal quadriga right, holding branch and reins; above, Victory flying left crowning Sulla with laurel wreath; L•SVLLA•IM in exergue. - Crawford 367/5. Sydenham 757. Manlia 4.
Fine style, light golden toning.

As consul for the year 88 BC, Sulla was awarded the coveted assignment of suppressing the revolt of Mithradates VI of Pontus, but political maneuvers resulted in this assignment being transferred to Marius. In response, Sulla turned his army on Rome, captured it, and reclaimed his command against Mithradates. His prosecution of the first Mithradatic War was successful, but he spared the Pontic king for personal gain. In 83 BC, Sulla returned to Italy as an outlaw, but he was able to win the support of many of the leading Romans. Within a year, he fought his way to Rome, where he was elected dictator. It was during this campaign to Rome that this denarius was struck. The obverse type represents Sulla's claim to be acting in Rome's best interest. The reverse shows Sulla enjoying the highest honor to which a Roman could aspire: the celebration of a triumph at Rome.

We learn from Plutarch that L. Manlius Torquatus was one of Sulla’s generals. This type was struck during Sulla’s political campaign to be elected dictator, following his return to Rome after his victory against Mithridates. Prior to the Mithridatic Wars, L. Manlius Torquatus had been Sulla’s quaestor - a post he had resigned to assume his military role; hence on this issue he is proquaestor.
1 commentsNemonater
Lakonia,_Lakedaimon_(Sparta)_AR_Hemidrachm_85_BC.jpg
Lakonia, Lakedaimon (Sparta), ca. 85 BC, AR Hemidrachm - in the style of the Achaian League Laureate head of Zeus right.
Central AX monogram; pilei of the Dioskouri flanking, ΛAI monogram above and ΩΠMY monogram below, all within laurel wreath.

HGC 5, 643 (S); Clerk 319; BCD Peloponnesos 865.4; SNG Cop 320.

(13 mm, 2.36 g, 6h).
Classical Numismatic Group, August 2007; from BCD Collection (not in LHS sale); ex-Johan Christian Holm (Denmark) 1976.

Although this coin is in the style of the Achaian League style, it was issued at a time when Sparta was not a member of the League. It is believed that the issue of this coin type was a “voluntary” contribution to the Roman campaign when Sulla was fighting Mithradates VI. This issue was struck the style of the coinage of the League, which was more acceptable to the Greek mercenaries who received it as pay while engaged by Rome. Sparta also issued autonomous silver coinage (example below) around the same time and for the following thirty years.
n.igma
1490_Maximinus_Victory.jpg
Maximinus I - AE SestertiusIII 235 - I 236 AD
Rome
laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right from behind
IMP MAXIMINVS PIVS AVG
Victory advancing right holding wreath and palm
VICTORIA AVG
S C
RIC IV 67
19,7g 28mm
J. B.
mith.jpg
Mithradates I (171-138 B.C.)AR Drachm
O: Bare-headed bust left with long beard wearing diadem, earring visible, reel and pellet border.
R:  Archer (Arsaces) seated right on omphalos wearing bashlyk and holding bow, legend ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΜΕΓΑΛΟΥ ΑΡΣΑΚΟΥ
Hekatompylos Mint
4.01g
20.5mm
Sellwood #11.1; Shore #24
5 commentsMat
1940_Mithradates_I.jpg
Mithradates I - AE chalkousHecatompylos
171-138 BC
bearded, diademed and draped bust left
horse walking right
ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΜΕΓΑΛΟΥ ΑΡΣΑΚΟΥ
Sellwood 11.6; ANS 1944.100.82072-4; 1973.56.1567

ex Aurea
ex Ladislav Skála collection
J. B.
Mith1tdrcombo2.jpg
Mithradates I. 165 - 132 BCAR tdr., 15,24gr, 28mm;
Sellw. 13.3, Shore 36, Sunrise 261;
mint: Seleukia, axis : 12h;
obv.: bare-headed, right, w/diadem and ribbon; medium long cap like hair, medium long curly beard, mustache; necklace, earring (?); reed and pellet border 12-16h;
rev.: young Herakles standing right w/ club (and lion’s skin ?) in left arm and skyphos in right hand; below exergual line date ΓOP = 140,39 BC; 4-line legend: BAΣIΛEΩΣ MEΓAΛOY APΣAKOY ΦIΛEΛΛHNOΣ; in left field monogram.
1 commentsSchatz
IMGP0140Mith1tdrcombo.jpg
Mithradates I., 165 - 132 BCFourrée dr., 3,63gr., 20,45mm;
mint: Rhagai ?, axis: 12h;
Sellw. 11.1 type, Shore 24 type, Sunrise -;
obv.: bare-headed bust, left, w/diadem, knot, and ribbon; med.-long, cap like hair, long beard tapering to a point; earring, one-turn torque w/pellet ends; scarf; complete reel and pellet border; outside left monogr. of Rhagai?; 2 large and 3 small areas w/o silver leaf;
rev.: archer, right, on omphalos, w/bow in extended hand; exergual line; 3-line legend: BAΣIΛEΩΣ MEΓAΛoY APΣAKoY; 3 large and 5 small areas w/o silver leaf;

ex: Baldwin’s Auction 100, lot 353 (3-coin lot); ex: D. Sellwood Collection.
Schatz
IMGP0142Mith1combo.jpg
Mithradates I., 165 - 132 BCAR dr., 3,40gr., 19mm;
mint: Nisa or Hekatomphylos, axis: 12h;
Sellw.: 11.1, Shore 24, Sunrise -;
obv.: bare-headed bust, left, w/diadem, knot, and 2 ribbons; med.-long cap like hair, mustache, and long beard tapering to a point; beaky nose; earring, one-turn torque ending in pellets, 2 more pellets in the center; complete reed and pellet border;
rev.: archer, right, on omphalos, w/bow in extended hand; exergual line; 3-line legend: B,inverted A,ΣIΛEΩΣ MEΓAΛo(Y) APΣAKoY;
dark cabinet tone;

ex: Baldwin’s Auction 100, lot 353 (3-coin lot), ex: D. Sellwood Collection.
1 commentsSchatz
IMGP0138Mith1combo.jpg
Mithradates I., 165 - 132 BCAR dr., 3,45gr., 19,45mm;
mint: Nisa or Hekatomphylos, axis 12h;
Sellw. 11.1, Shore 24, Sunrise -;
obv.: bare-headed bust, left, w/diadem, knot, and 2 ribbons; med.-long cap like hair, mustache, and long beard tapering to a point; earring, necklace; scarf; reel and pellet border 7 - 12h;
rev: archer, right, on omphalos w/bow in extended arm; exergual line; 3- line legend: BAΣIΛEΩΣ MEΓAΛoY APΣAKoY; double strike;

ex: Baldwin’s Auction 100, lot 353 (3-coin lot), ex D. Sellwood Collection..
Schatz
IMGP2987Mith1bzcombo.jpg
Mithradates I., 165 - 132 BC;AE tetrachalkous, 6,89gr, 17,7mm; Sellwood 12.10, Shore --, Sunrise --;
mint: Ekbatana, axis: 15h;
obv.: bare-headed bust, right, w/diadem and ribbons; helmet like short hair, long beard; in left field composite monogram; dotted border 6 to 14h;
rev.: Dioskuri galloping right; 2-line legend , one on top, one on bottom: BAΣIΛEΩ(Σ) APΣAK(OY);

ex: CNG eAuction 90; ex: Spink & Son;
1 commentsSchatz
IMGP0006Art1brcombo2.jpg
Mithradates I., 165 - 132 BCAE dichalkous, 3,08gr., 17mm;
Sellw. 11.6, Shore 28;
mint: Hekatomphylos, axis: 12h;
obv.: bare-headed bust, left, w/diadem, knot and 2 ribbons; medium-long cap-like hair, medium-long beard; 2-layer necklace; complete reed-and-pellet border;
rev.: horse, right, prancing; 3-line legend starting behind the horse: BAΣIΛEΩΣ BAΣIΛEΩN (APΣAKOY).

ex: Vienna Coin Show, Vienna, VA
Schatz
IMGP2964Mith1brcombo.jpg
Mithradates I., 165 - 132 BC,AE chalkos, 2,64gr, 17mm; Sellwood 8.2, Shore 22, Sunrise --;
mint: Hekatomphylos, axis: 12h;
obv.: beardless bust, left, in bashlyk w/chin strap and neck guard; 3 forelocks; earring;
rev.: horse, right, prancing; legend above head: (A)PΣAK (OY)in mirror image;

ex: J. Jencek
Schatz
IMGP0375Mith1combo_copy.jpg
Mithradates I., 165-132 BC,AR dr., 4,49gr, 20,4mm; Sellwood 10.1, Shore 12,13,
mint: Hekatopmhylos, axis: 12h;
obv.: beardless bust, left, w/bashlyk, diadem w/triangular loop and 2 ribbons, bashlyk w/2 neck straps and 3 in the back; hair fringe or ornamental cap edge; triangular eye socket; earring;
rev.: archer, right, on omphalos, w/bow; three line legend: BAΣIΛEΩΣ MEΓAΛOY
APΣAKOY; exergual line.

ex: Busso Peus Auction 386/387
Schatz
IMGP0369Mith1o_r.jpg
Mithradates I., 165-132 BC, AR dr., 4,04gr, 19,8mm; Sellwood 9.3, Shore: --, Sunrise: -- ;
mint: ?? , axis: 12h;
obv.: beardless bust, left, w/bashlyk, diadem and 2 ribbons; 3 forelocks, neck hair; earring and necklace; beaded border 12-16h;
rev.: archer, right, on omphalos, w/bow; 2-line legend: BAΣIΛEΩΣ APΣAKOY; exergual line below which the monogram Σ
Possibly a forgery. A second coin exists with identical flan shape and die positioning. Obv. and rev. dies most likely identical as well.

ex: Münzen und Medaillen Auktion 29, # 2583.
Schatz
IMGP0861copy.jpg
Mithradates I., 165-132 BC,AR dr., 3,78gr, 20mm , Sellwood 9.1, Shore 7, 8, Sunrise 251, 252;
mint: Hekatomphylos or Nisa, axis: 12h;
obv.: beardless bust, left, w/bashlyk, diadem w/knot and 2 ribbons; 3 forelocks; earring, necklace w/2 opposing pellet finials; beaded border 7-11:30h;
rev.: archer, right, on omphalos, w/bow; 2-line legend: BAΣIΛEΩΣ left, APΣAKOY right; exergual line.

ex: M&M Auction 29
Schatz
IMGP1423Mith1_combo.jpg
Mithradates I., 165-132 BC,AR dr., 3,92gr, 20,5mm; Sellwood 10.1, Shore 12,13, Sunrise 254;
mint: Hekatomphylos, axis: 12h;
obv.: beardless bust, left, w/bashlyk and diadem w/bow and 2 ribbons; fringe of hair on forehead; earring ?;
rev.: archer, right, on omphalos, w/bow; 3-line legend: (BA)ΣIΛEΩΣ MEΓAΛOY
APΣAKOY (2x retrograde Σ); exergual line.

ex: Triton XVI
Schatz
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