Kings of Armenia, Tigranes II ‘the Great’, Nisibis Mint, AE Circa 90-80 BC

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Description

Greek, Kings of Armenia, Tigranes II ‘the Great’, Nisibis Mint, AE (bronze, 4.2g, 16.8mm), Circa 90-80 BC
Obv: Head to left, wearing tiara tied with diadem
Rev: Traces BAΣΙΛEΩΣ MEΓAΛOY – TIΓPANOY ΦΙΛΕΛΛHNOC; king standing facing, head to right, holding long sceptre and eagle
Ref: Kovacs 66; ACV 20 Rarity/Choice: Common, VF (smoothened obverse)
Note: Tigranes II, known as ‘the Great’, was one of the most influential rulers of ancient Armenia. His reign marked a period of significant expansion and prosperity for the Armenian kingdom. Rising to power in 95 BC, Tigranes quickly established himself as a formidable leader, extending Armenian control over vast territories, including parts of modern-day Syria and Mesopotamia. He formed strategic alliances, notably marrying Cleopatra, daughter of Ptolemy IX of Egypt, strengthening ties with the powerful Ptolemaic dynasty. Tigranes’ military campaigns brought him into conflict with the Roman Republic, culminating in a disastrous defeat against Roman general Lucullus in 69 BC. Despite setbacks, Tigranes’ legacy as a visionary leader who elevated Armenia’s status in the ancient world endures. Tigranes is depicted facing left, wearing a distinctive four-pointed tiara adorned with a star and tied with a diadem, symbolizing his royal status and connection to celestial powers. On the reverse, the legend reads “BAΣΙΛEΩΣ MEΓAΛOY TIΓPANOY ΦΙΛΕΛΛHNOC,” which translates to “of the Great King Tigranes, Friend of the Greeks.” This highlights Tigranes II’s close relations with the Greek world and his acknowledgment of Greek culture and influence. The reverse design portrays Tigranes II standing facing, with his head turned to the right, holding a long scepter in his right hand and an eagle in his left. The scepter symbolizes his royal authority, while the eagle represents power and sovereignty. This depiction emphasizes Tigranes II’s position as a formidable ruler, known for his military conquests and territorial expansions.

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