ARMENIAN KINGDOM. Tigranes II the Great (95-56 BC). AR tetradrachm (26mm, 15.72 gm, 12h). NGC

Description

Armenian Kingdom, Tigranes II the Great: AR Tetradrachm

Date: Circa 83-70 BC
Grade: NGC Choice XF (Extremely Fine) 3/5 – 3/5, with flan flaws

Catalog References:

• Kovacs 74.1
• AC 30

Specifications:

• Diameter: 26mm
• Weight: 15.72 g
• Die Axis: 12h
• Mint: Tigranocerta

Obverse:

• Design: Diademed and draped bust of Tigranes II the Great facing right.
• Details: Tigranes is depicted wearing a distinctive Armenian tiara adorned with a starburst between eagles standing outward and looking inward. The border features a bead-and-reel design, adding a decorative element typical of the period.

Reverse:

• Design: Tyche seated right on a rock, palm in outstretched right hand.
• Details: The reverse shows Tyche, the personification of fortune and prosperity, seated on a rock with the river god Araxes swimming right before her. The monograms “AP” and “HΔ” are found in the right field and on the base of the rock, respectively. The laureate border complements the design, highlighting the artistry of the coin.

Historical Context:

Tigranes II the Great:

• Reign: Tigranes II, also known as Tigranes the Great, ruled from 95 to 56 BC. He expanded the Armenian Kingdom to its greatest territorial extent, creating a significant regional power that rivaled Rome and Parthia.
• Significance: His reign marked a period of cultural and economic flourishing for Armenia, with Tigranocerta as the capital symbolizing his power and achievements.

Coinage and Symbolism:

• Obverse Symbolism: The tiara with the starburst and eagles symbolizes Tigranes’ royal authority and divine favor. The eagles, often associated with Zeus, reflect the king’s connection to divine protection.
• Reverse Symbolism: Tyche represents the prosperity and good fortune of the kingdom under Tigranes’ rule. The river god Araxes underscores the importance of the region’s natural resources and geography to its prosperity.

Condition and Characteristics:

• Choice XF (Extremely Fine): This grade indicates the coin has a high level of detail with only minor wear, particularly on the high points of the design.
• Flan Flaws: The coin exhibits some flan flaws, which are common in ancient coinage and reflect the minting processes of the time. These flaws do not significantly detract from the overall aesthetic and historical value of the coin.

Collectibility:

• Historical Importance: Coins of Tigranes II are highly sought after due to their historical significance and the ruler’s notable impact on Armenian and regional history.
• Artistic Merit: The detailed and symbolic designs on both the obverse and reverse highlight the high level of artistry and craftsmanship in Armenian minting during this period.

For further information, please call 212 3191077.