Greco-Bactrian Kingdom, Eucratides I Megas, 170-145 BC, Tetradrachm ca. 170-145 BC, Balkh
URU4I
Sign InDescription
Bactria. Greco-Bactrian Kingdom. Eucratides I Megas, 170-145 BC. AR-Tetradrachm (33 mm, 16.96 g, ??h). Balkh mint, struck circa 170-145 BC.
Obverse: Diademed and draped bust of Eucratides to the right, wearing Macedonian helmet adorned with bull’s horn and ear; all within bead and reel border //
Reverse: ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΜΕΓΑΛΟΥ / ΕΥΚΡΑΤΙΔΟΥ. The Dioskouri prancing to right, each holding spear and palm branch; below right, monogram.
Mitchiner 177f; Bopearachchi série 6, W.40; SNG ANS 469.
A nice piece with a nice portrait and a light iridescent tone, minor marks, some minor deposits, otherwise extremely fine.
Provenance Details
Ex Bruun Rasmussen sale 856, 12 May 2015, lot 5026.
Ex NAC Auction 150, 2 September 2024, Lot 605. From a Scandinavian private collection.
Comment
The helmet is adorned with the ear and horns of a bull, symbolizing strength and royal authority. This imagery not only served to legitimize the rule of Eucratides, but also linked him to the divine. This was a common practice among Hellenistic rulers who wanted to elevate their status and justify their power.
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