Kings of Bithynia, Nikomedeia, Prusias I or II, AE Circa 230-149 BC, Hermes / Lyre – RR

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SKU: G9.30 Categories: ,

Description

Greek, Kings of Bithynia, Nikomedeia, Prusias I or II, AE (bronze, 6.23g, 21.6mm), Circa 230-149 BC
Obv: Head of Hermes right, wearing petasos; countermark winged kerykeion within rectangular incuse; monograms below
Rev: Traces BAΣΙΛΕΩΣ / ΠΡΟΥΣΙΟΥ; Lyre
Ref: SNG Ashmolean 447-8; HGC 7, 628 Rarity/Choice: Scarce, Fine aVF (smooth surface especially reverse, but still exhibits good details)
Note: The Kings of Bithynia, rulers of the ancient kingdom of Bithynia located in northwestern Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), played a significant role in the political and cultural landscape of the Hellenistic period. Nikomedeia, also known as Nicomedia, was one of the major cities and an important royal center of Bithynia, renowned for its strategic location and economic prosperity. Prusias I and Prusias II were notable rulers of Bithynia during this era, known for their military campaigns and cultural patronage. Hermes, the Greek god of trade, travel, and communication, was often depicted on coins as a symbol of commerce and protection for travelers. Additionally, there is a countermark featuring a winged kerykeion (caduceus) within a rectangular incuse, likely serving as a mintmark or control mark. The inscription reading BAΣΙΛΕΩΣ / ΠΡΟΥΣΙΟΥ, meaning “of King Prusias.” In the center, there is a depiction of a lyre, a stringed musical instrument associated with Apollo, the Greek god of music and poetry. The lyre symbolizes artistic and cultural achievements and may also represent the patronage of the arts by the Bithynian kings.