Lot 2735

Description

Mesopotamia, Edessa, Gordian III and King Abgar X, (A.D. 238-244), AE 32, (21.95 g), issued 242-4, obv. radiate and partially draped bust of Gordian III to right, around AVTOK K M ANT **GORDIANO*C CEB, rev. Gordian holding sceptre seated on left to right, receiving Abgar X Phraates who stands left before him, he is bearded, wearing tiara, kandys and trousers, holding Nike in left hand before him, left hand on hilt of short sword, around AVTOK **GORDIANO*C AB**GA*ROC BACI**L*EVC, (S.5743, BMC 139 [p.113], Lindgren 2588, SNG Cop. 223, cf.CNG eSale 213 [lot 354] realised $900US, Noble Numismatics Sale 126 (lot 2787] realised $650). Legend and portions of the coin encrusted with hoard patina, otherwise good very fine and rare.

Ex Superior Stamp & Coin Auction, New York International Convention Auction, December 3 & 4, 1999 (lot 1843 part as one of several in that sale). ^The subject matter is the king of Osrhoene's audience with the emperor Gordian III. The restoration of the kingdom by Gordian III was short-lived, his successor made Edessa a colony once again.