Stater - Mithridates VI Eupator Tomis

Emisor Kings of Pontos
Año 88 BC - 86 BC
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valor Gold Stater (20)
Moneda Drachm
Composición Gold
Peso 8.16 g
Diámetro 20 mm
Grosor
Forma Round (irregular)
Técnica Hammered
Orientación Variable alignment ↺
Grabador(es)
En circulación hasta
Referencia(s) HGC 7#1931 I-I#2481 Fitzwilliam#1599
Descripción del anverso Diademed head of the deified Alexander right, with horn of Ammon.
Escritura del anverso
Leyenda del anverso
Descripción del reverso Athena Nikephoros seated left; ΘEO to inner left, TO on throne; in exergue, ornate trident left.
Escritura del reverso Greek
Leyenda del reverso BAΣIΛEΩΣ ΛYΣIMAXOY ΘEO TO
(Translation: King Lysimachos)
Canto
Casa de moneda
Tirada ND (88 BC - 86 BC) - -
ID de Numisquare 9303869320
Información adicional

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.

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