Lot 2335
Parthian Kingdom. Mithradates II, c. 123-88 BC. AR Tetradrachm (15.43 g) minted at Seleucia on the Tigris. Diademed bust left of Mithradates II. Reverse: Archer seated right on omphalos; in exergue, monogram; upright palm to right of legend. Sellwood 24/4. Boldly struck, showing mint-made striations; exceptional portrait. Nearly Mint State.
There is great diversity in the numismatic portraits of Mithradates II of Parthia. It is these medallic tetradrachms, however, that have such an enthusiastic following, as their sculptures in silver, as represented by this coin, are such powerful statements of Hellenistic art. There were no gold coins struck in this kingdom; its early years gave rise to the finest celators using their artistry to realistically portray the magnificence of their greatest king on the silver issues. Later, the tetradrachms became more stylized and base, with a lower percentage of silver being used, as well as rather nondescript, standardized portraits.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,500.
Collecting Ancient Greek Coins (P. Rynearson) p. 192, 24a (this coin pictured).
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| Realized $1,323 |
