Catalog
| Issuer | Kings of Cappadokia |
|---|---|
| Year | 130 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Drachm |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.9 g |
| Diameter | 18.0 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | SNG von Aulock#6269, HGC 7#811 |
| Obverse description | Diademed head of Ariarathes V, right |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Athena Nikephoros standing left, holding spear and round shield set on ground. Monograms to inner left and outer right. ΓΛ (date) in exergue |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering |
ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΑΡΙΑΡΑΘΟΥ ΕΥΣΕΒΟΥΣ ΓΛ (Translation: King Ariarathes V Eusebes (Philopator)) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (-130) - ΓΛ - |
| Numisquare ID | 6046658900 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver drachm, dated to 130 BC, was issued under Ariarathes V Eusebes, King of Cappadocia. His extensive reign (c. 163-130 BC) was marked by strong pro-Roman policies and cultural patronage, earning him the epithet "Eusebes" (Pious). He skillfully maintained Cappadocian autonomy amidst the decline of the Seleucid Empire and rising Roman influence. This coin reflects the kingdom's stable economic footing and continued assertion of sovereignty near his reign's end.
Artistry: The coin exemplifies Hellenistic numismatic artistry, featuring realistic portraiture. While the engraver is anonymous, the obverse typically presents a finely rendered, diademed portrait of Ariarathes V, capturing his distinctive features. The reverse commonly depicts Athena Nikephoros standing left, holding Nike and a spear, with a shield at her feet. The inscription "BASILEWS ARIARAQOU EUSEBOUS" accompanies this, highlighting Athena's protective role and symbolizing the king's piety and military strength.
Technical/Grading: This drachm, weighing 3.9 grams and measuring 18.0 millimeters, conforms to the Cappadocian weight standard. For grading, key high-points include the king's diadem, hair, nose, and chin on the obverse, and Athena's head, drapery folds, and attributes on the reverse. A well-struck example will show sharp detail, good centering, and full legends, indicating strong die pressure and careful flan preparation. Minor off-centering or weak strikes are common, yet a strong strike on central motifs is highly desirable.