Classical Numismatic Group, LLC
Electronic Auction 410 29 Nov 2017
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KINGS of CAPPADOCIA. Ariobarzanes I Philoromaios. 96-63 BC. AR Drachm (17.5mm, 4.30 g, 1h). Mint A (Eusebeia). Dated RY 22 (74/3 BC). Diademed head right / Athena Nikephoros standing left, holding spear and round shield; monogram to inner left, KB (date) in exergue; all within fillet border. Simonetta 44; HGC 7, 847; DCA 460. VF, toned, slightly off center. Rare issue with fillet border on reverse.
The presence of the fillet border on the reverse of this issue, in this year, is a mystery. Some have speculated that it was in commemoration to Ariobarzanes' restoration by Lucullus in this year, after having fled from Mithradates Eupator in the prior year. However, as noted by Simonetta, the chronology of this period in Ariobarzanes' rule is questionable, and he was restored to his throne on numerous occasions, but none of the other times are commemorated by a special variety in his coinage. Nonetheless, the appearance on this issue must have had some significance.
The presence of the fillet border on the reverse of this issue, in this year, is a mystery. Some have speculated that it was in commemoration to Ariobarzanes' restoration by Lucullus in this year, after having fled from Mithradates Eupator in the prior year. However, as noted by Simonetta, the chronology of this period in Ariobarzanes' rule is questionable, and he was restored to his throne on numerous occasions, but none of the other times are commemorated by a special variety in his coinage. Nonetheless, the appearance on this issue must have had some significance.