Pontos, Amisos, Time of Mithradates VI Eupator, AE Circa 120-63 BC, Ares / Sword in Sheath

$70.00

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SKU: G10.7 Categories: ,

Description

Greek, Pontos, Amisos, Time of Mithradates VI Eupator, AE (bronze, 7.43g, 20.1mm), Circa 120-63 BC
Obv: Helmeted head of Ares right
Rev: Sword in sheath; AMIΣOY across fields
Ref: SNG BM Black Sea 1147; HGC 7, 241 Rarity/Choice: Common, aEF (lovely bust)
Note: Pontos, located on the southern coast of the Black Sea, was a thriving ancient kingdom in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Among its principal cities was Amisos, also known as Amisus, situated in the northeast of Pontos. Positioned strategically on the coast, Amisos was a bustling center for trade and commerce. Mithridates VI Eupator, known as Mithridates the Great, ruled Pontos from around 120 to 63 BC. He was a prominent figure in the Hellenistic era, renowned for his military skill and his attempts to challenge Roman dominance in Asia Minor. On the coin, Ares, the Greek god of war, is depicted with a helmet, symbolizing Pontos’ martial strength and its allegiance to war. The sword, a common symbol of authority in ancient coinage, represents military might. The inscription “AMIΣOY” (Amisos) identifies the city of origin. This coin offers insights into Pontos and Amisos’ political, military, and economic landscape. It reflects Pontos’ military ambitions and Amisos’ role as a hub of commerce and production. The imagery of Ares and the sword underscores Pontos’ military strength, while the inscription of Amisos highlights the city’s significance and its contribution to the region’s history. Overall, the coin serves as a tangible artifact of Pontic history and its lasting impact in the ancient world.