Stater - Mithridates VI Pergamon

Historical Context: This gold stater, issued by the Kings of Pontos between 89 BC and 88 BC, places it squarely within the tumultuous period of the First Mithridatic War. Mithridates VI Eupator, known as the Great, was a formidable adversary to Rome, challenging its hegemony in Asia Minor. The issuance of such substantial gold coinage from cities like Pergamon, which had recently sided with Mithridates against Roman rule, underscores his military and economic might. These staters were crucial for funding his extensive campaigns and maintaining his vast, albeit temporary, empire, symbolizing his claim to royal authority and regional dominance.

Artistry: While the specific engraver remains anonymous, the artistry of this stater exemplifies the zenith of Hellenistic numismatic portraiture. The obverse typically features a finely rendered, idealized portrait of Mithridates VI, often depicted with flowing hair, a diadem, or a heroic attribute, capturing the king's self-perception as a Hellenistic monarch and a worthy successor to Alexander the Great. The reverse often displays a powerful animal, such as a stag or Pegasus, symbolizing Pontic royal power or the king's personal attributes. The stylistic school is distinctly Hellenistic, characterized by its naturalism, emotional depth, and sophisticated three-dimensional rendering.

Technical/Grading: Struck on an 8.41 gram, 21 mm gold flan, this stater adheres to a high standard of precious metal coinage. For grading, key high-points on the obverse portrait would include the hair details, nose, and chin, while on the reverse, the musculature or wings of the animal motif. A well-struck example would exhibit sharp detail on both sides, good centering, and a full, even strike, often retaining some original luster. Minor flan imperfections or die wear are common for issues of this period, but a strong strike ensures the intricate details of the portrait and reverse design are fully present and well-defined.