Kings of Armenia, Tigranes III, AE Chalkous (?), Artaxata mint, Circa 20-8 BC – RRRRR

$680.00

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SKU: G15.15 Categories: ,

Description

Kings of Armenia, Tigranes III, 20-8 BC, Artaxata mint, AE Chalkous (?) (bronze, 4.44g, 16.1mm)
Obv: Diademed and draped bust of Tigranes II to right, wearing five-pointed tiara decorated with a star between two eagles, A left field
Rev: Palm
Ref: M&D 128; cf. CNG E-Auction 217 Lot 146 (2009) Rarity/Choice: Extremely Rare, aVF (rim cracks, otherwise, exhibit nice details on earthen green patina)
Note: Armenia, located in the mountainous Caucasus region between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, was an ancient kingdom that played a significant role in the geopolitics of the ancient Near East. It often found itself at the crossroads of major empires, including the Roman and Parthian Empires. Artaxata was one of the most important cities in ancient Armenia and served as the capital during the reign of Tigranes III. The mint in Artaxata produced various coins during Tigranes III’s rule. The obverse of the coin features a right-facing bust of Tigranes III, the king of Armenia. He is depicted wearing a five-pointed Armenian tiara, a distinct type of crown or headdress worn by Armenian kings. This tiara is decorated with a star, symbolizing celestial power or divine favor. The letter A is often used as a mintmark to denote the Artaxata mint. he reverse side of the coin depicts a palm branch, a common symbol of victory, peace, and prosperity in the ancient Near East. It is likely that this palm branch represents the stability and prosperity of Tigranes III’s reign. Overall, this coin provides valuable historical and numismatic evidence of Tigranes III’s rule in Armenia. It reflects the king’s portrayal of power and authority through his depiction on the coin, as well as the prosperity and stability associated with his reign, symbolized by the palm branch on the reverse.