Lot 2011

Description

Bithynia, Kingdom of, Nicomedes III Euergetes, (128-94 B.C.), silver tetradrachm, (16.64 grams), obv. diademed head of Nicomedes II to right, rev. Zeus standing to left holding wreath and sceptre, eagle to left on thunderbolt before, above monogram and date EPR (date 185 = 114-113 B.C.), to right BASILEWS and to left EPIFANOUS NIKOMHDOU (S.7274; cf.SNG Cop. 647 [same monogram, different date]; cf.BMC 7; Rec. Gen. 40 and Pl.XXXIII,2 for same date and monogram). Attractively toned with usual hammered flat surfaces near edge of coin, otherwise nearly extremely fine and a very rare variant.

From the reign of Nicomedes II all regal tetradrachms of Bithynia bear dates according to an era commencing in 298 B.C., those for the reign of Nicomedes III have dates ranging from years 171-204, but all issue carry the portrait of Nicomedes II.