Catalog
| Issuer | Bosporan Kingdom (Bosporos) |
|---|---|
| Year | 98-102 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Sestertius (48) |
| Currency | Bosporan Units |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 12.97 g |
| Diameter | 25 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Anokhin#1557 , MacDonald#418 III#841 Bosporos#428 |
| Obverse description | King Sauromates seated, right, on curule chair, holding sceptre with king’s head at top. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Greek |
| Obverse lettering |
ΤΙΒΕΡΙΟϹ ΙΟΥΛΙΟϹ ΒΑϹΙΛΕΥϹ ϹΑΥΡΟΜΑΤΗϹ (Translation: Tiberius Julius King Sauromates) |
| Reverse description | Curule chair upon which wreath; shield at left, sceptre with emperor’s head at right. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering |
ΤΕΙΜΑΙ ΒΑϹΙΛΕωϹ ϹΑΥΡΟΜΑΤΟΥ ΜΗ (Translation: the honours of King Sauromates 48 [units]) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (98-102) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 6378229890 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Sauromates I, King of the Bosporan Kingdom (c. 93/94–123/124 CE), issued this copper Sestertius between 98 and 102 CE. As a vital Roman client state, Bosporos controlled Black Sea trade and buffered northern tribes. The Roman Sestertius denomination highlights significant Roman influence on Bosporan economy and administration, though these coins circulated locally. This period marks a stable and prosperous phase early in Sauromates I's impactful reign.
Artistry: The anonymous engraver's work reflects the Graeco-Roman provincial style common in the Bosporan Kingdom. The obverse typically presents a diademed portrait of Sauromates I, blending Hellenistic idealism with local interpretations to project royal authority. The reverse frequently features a deity or royal symbol, like Poseidon or Nike, reinforcing divine favor and legitimacy. While often less refined than metropolitan Roman issues, the artistic execution effectively conveyed the intended imperial and local messages.
Technical/Grading: This copper Sestertius, weighing 12.97 grams and measuring 25 mm, aligns with the denomination's Bosporan standards. Critical high-points for assessing wear and strike include the king's nose, cheekbone, and diadem on the obverse, and the highest relief elements of the reverse design. Technical strike qualities vary; off-centring or uneven pressure is common. Planchet irregularities like minor cracks are also typical for base metal issues. A well-struck example exhibits clear portrait details and legible legends.