Catalogue
| Émetteur | Kings of Cappadokia |
|---|---|
| Année | 160 BC - 156 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Devise | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Poids | 16.53 g |
| Diamètre | |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | Kraay&Hirm#768, EHC#655 |
| Description de l’avers | Diademed head right. |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | |
| Légende de l’avers | |
| Description du revers | Nike standing left, crowning royal name with right hand and holding palm branch in her left; in inner left field, owl standing three-quarters left on altar above monogram. |
| Écriture du revers | Greek |
| Légende du revers | ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΟΡΟΦΕΡΝΟΥ ΝΙΚΗΦΟΡΟΥ |
| Tranche | |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
ND (160 BC - 156 BC) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 5915611620 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
Historical Context: The Tetradrachm of Orophernes Nicephorus, struck 160-156 BC, marks a turbulent interlude in the Hellenistic Kingdom of Cappadocia. Orophernes, a pretender, briefly usurped his brother, Ariarathes V, with Syrian aid. His reign was unstable and financially distressed, ending in his overthrow. The epithet "Nicephorus," meaning "bearer of victory," ironically contrasts with his unsuccessful rule, making this coinage a tangible artifact of a usurper's fleeting power.
Artistry: The artistic execution reflects sophisticated Hellenistic numismatic tradition. Engravers were anonymous, but the style emanates from skilled local workshops, likely influenced by Syrian mints. The obverse features a finely rendered, diademed portrait of Orophernes, depicting a regal yet stern expression, characteristic of royal iconography projecting authority. The reverse typically displays Athena Nikephoros standing left, holding Nike and a spear, symbolizing victory and divine patronage, often with monograms.
Technical/Grading: This silver tetradrachm, weighing 16.53 grams, conforms to the Attic standard. For optimal grading, collectors seek a strong strike, evident in the high-points of the obverse portrait: hair, eye, and diadem. On the reverse, clarity in Athena's helmet crest, drapery folds, and the figure of Nike are crucial. Well-centered examples with minimal die wear and a lustrous flan are highly prized. Irregular flan shapes or minor strike adjustments are not uncommon.