Cappadocia, Ariarathes III or Ariarathes IV, AE Circa 230-163 BC – RRRRR

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SKU: G15.22 Categories: ,
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Description

Greek, Cappadocia, Ariarathes III or Ariarathes IV, AE (bronze, 4.44g, 19.3mm), Circa 230-163 BC 
Obv:  Draped bust head to left, wearing upright bashlyk
Rev: Athena standing left, holding Nike in her right hand and spear in her left
Ref: cf. Elsen Auction 94 lot 594 (2007) (Ariarathes III); cf. Leu Numismatic web Auction 17 Lot 1232 (2021) (Ariarathes IV, head left and seated Athena) Rarity/Choice: Extremely Rare, VF (somewhat porous otherwise, nicely centered exhibiting beautiful reverse and nice portrait)
Note: Ariarathes III, ruled Cappadocia from approximately 262 to 220 BC, engaged in military campaigns against neighboring kingdoms like Pontus and the Seleucid Empire. He maintained a close alliance with Antiochus III of the Seleucid Empire, which helped him secure his position against rival claimants. Ariarathes III was known for his patronage of the arts and culture, supporting Greek cities in Cappadocia and fostering cultural exchange. His coinage often featured his portrait wearing a bashlik, a distinctive Cappadocian headgear, on the obverse. He died around 220 BC, leaving the throne to his son, Ariarathes IV.
Ariarathes IV succeeded his father, Ariarathes III, and ruled Cappadocia from around 220 to 163 BC. Early in his reign, he faced challenges from Antiochus III, who sought to exert control over Cappadocia. However, Ariarathes IV managed to maintain his independence with the help of Pergamon and forged alliances with Rome as a counterbalance to Seleucid influence. He continued his father’s policies of cultural patronage and economic development, promoting trade and urbanization in Cappadocia. His coinage often depicted his portrait on the obverse and various symbols or deities on the reverse. Ariarathes IV’s reign was marked by dynastic intrigues and conflicts over succession among his sons. He died around 163 BC, leaving a legacy of stability and turmoil in Cappadocia.

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