Catalog
| Issuer | Kings of Pontos |
|---|---|
| Year | 88 BC - 86 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Gold Stater (20) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 8.16 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | HGC 7#1931 I-I#2481 Fitzwilliam#1599 |
| Obverse description | Diademed head of the deified Alexander right, with horn of Ammon. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Athena Nikephoros seated left; ΘEO to inner left, TO on throne; in exergue, ornate trident left. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering |
BAΣIΛEΩΣ ΛYΣIMAXOY ΘEO TO (Translation: King Lysimachos) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (88 BC - 86 BC) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 9303869320 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context:This gold stater, minted 88-86 BC, hails from the First Mithridatic War, a period of intense conflict between the Kingdom of Pontos and the Roman Republic. Its issuer, Mithridates VI Eupator, was one of Rome's most formidable adversaries. Issuing such high-value gold coinage, particularly from Tomis, underscored Mithridates' immense wealth, strategic power, and his determination to project authority and fund extensive military campaigns.
Artistry:While the engraver is anonymous, this stater exemplifies refined Hellenistic artistic traditions. The obverse presents a masterful portrait of Mithridates VI, idealized yet individualized, often with flowing hair and a diadem, conveying divine authority and regal power. The reverse commonly features a grazing stag, a potent symbol associated with Artemis and the royal hunt, often accompanied by the distinctive star and crescent emblem of the Pontic dynasty.
Technical/Grading:Struck in gold (8.16 grams, 20 mm), this issue represents a significant monetary instrument. High-points for wear on the obverse include Mithridates' hair, nose, and diadem. On the reverse, attention focuses on the stag's head, antlers, and musculature. Well-preserved examples exhibit a sharp strike, good centering, and often retain original luster, reflecting high royal minting standards; variations in die quality and strike pressure are common.