© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Drachm - Artaxias II Athena 34 BC - 20 BC
| Silver | 3.21 g | 21 mm |
| Issuer | Kingdom of Armenia (Greater Armenia) |
|---|---|
| King | Artaxias II (33 BC - 20 BC) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 34 BC - 20 BC |
| Value | Drachm (1) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.21 g |
| Diameter | 21 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#329217 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Athena advancing left, holding transverse spear and round shield; IΔ to right, monogram in exergue
Lettering: ΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΑΡΤΑΞΕ
Comment
The eldest son of Artavasdes II, Artaxias II ascended to the throne upon his father’s capture by Mark Antony. Further skirmishes with Rome forced Artaxias to flee to Parthia, only later to return and make war with Artavasdes I of Media-Atropatene. Losing the faith of his people, Artaxias was assassinated and replaced by his brother, Tigranes III, with full support in Rome from Augustus.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, on one side, and Artaxias II, the king of Armenia, on the other. This blending of Greek and Armenian cultural influences reflects the complex history and cultural exchange of the region during that time period.
