The next highlight for our upcoming May Collectors Choice Online Auction
is a wonderful Ancient coin from one of the farthest corners of the Hellenistic
world. In the wake of Alexander the Great’s death his generals warred over the
right to rule his empire. Though no individual would claim total dominion over
the Hellenistic empire, successor states would arise and last for centuries. One
of these was the Seleucid Dynasty founded by Seleucos I in the present day
Middle East and Central Asia. The far eastern portion of the Seleucid Kingdom
changed hands multiple times and was eventually taken from the Euthydemid
Dynasty by Eucratides (the Great). Like the Diadochi and Alexander, Eucratides
set off on a series of conquests of neighboring kingdoms, specifically the
Indo-Greeks. The vast issue of coinage for Eucratides is a testament to his
influence.
The obverse features a prominent visage of the Bactrian ruler, Eucratides.
Sporting an impressive helmet (adorned with bull’s horn and ear), the king of
Bactria looks ready to ride into battle. The reverse displays the twins Castor
and Pollux, known collectively as the Dioscuri and commonly pictured on
horseback. The Greek legend found above and below translates to: “Of Great King
Eucratides.” This example presents a great strike from fine-style dies and displays
exceptional luster. It is sure to hold a place of prominence in the next
collection it enters.
We are still accepting consignments for our May 2017 Collectors Choice
Online Auction through mid-April. We are also accepting consignments of Chinese
and other Asian coins and currency for our August 2017 Hong Kong Showcase
Auction. In addition to this, we are taking consignments of world and ancient
coins as well as world paper money for our August 2017 ANA Auction. Time is
running short, so if you are interested in consigning your coins and paper
currency (whether a whole collection or a single rarity) be sure to contact one
of our consignment directors.
