Lot 424
Mithradates IV (58/7-55 BC), Silver Drachm, 3.94g, 1h. Mithradates IV (58/7-55 BC), Silver Drachm, 3.94g, 1h. Minted by Court at Rhagae c. 55 BC. Short bearded bust left, wearing double banded diadem and segmented necklet, crescent above star behind head, dotted border. Rev. Archer enthroned right, monogram below bow, eight-line inscription ??C???OC ??C???ON ??C???Y ?IO? (probably YIOY) ?Y??G???Y FPAATOY ??IF?NOYC E?IKA?OYMENOY F????????C G[…] stylised and partly blundered (S 41.17). About very fine, dark tone. Extremely rare. The inscription on this extremely rare issue, minted about the end of the reign of Mithradates IV when his brother, Orodes II, mounted a challenge for the Arsacid throne, was probably intended to read ??C???OC ??C???ON ??C???Y E?IKA?OYMENOY YIOY FPAATOY ?Y??G???Y ??IF?NOYC F????????C, "(the coin of) King of King Arsaces, who is called son of Phraates, the Beneficent, Illustrious (and) Philhellene". It clearly shows political uncertainty and mint officials’ lack of commitment to either party.
Estimated Value $4,000-UP.
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| Realized $5,558 |
