Classical Numismatic Group, LLC
Electronic Auction 413 31 Jan 2018
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PTOLEMAIC KINGS of EGYPT. Ptolemy VI Philometor. Second sole reign, 163-145 BC. AR Didrachm (21mm, 6.28 g, 11h). Uncertain mint in Cyprus. Dated year 109 of an uncertain era (154/3 BC). Diademed head of Ptolemy I right, wearing aegis around neck / Eagle standing left on thunderbolt; P Θ (date) across field, [Є on thunderbolt]. Svoronos 1216; Mørkholm, Ptolemaic 258–64 (obv. die A21 [Arados]); SNG Copenhagen 556; DCA 76. VF, lightly toned, some die rust and light scratches.
The mint and era of this enigmatic coinage has been much debated. For the most recent discussion, see C. Lorber, "The Ptolemaic era coinage revisited," NC (2007), pp. 105–17. Although this issue is traditionally assigned to Arados, Lorber argues for a Cypriot mint, perhaps Arsinoe near Salamis. Although the era is uncertain, a starting date of 262/1 BC has been accepted by Lorber and most scholars.
The mint and era of this enigmatic coinage has been much debated. For the most recent discussion, see C. Lorber, "The Ptolemaic era coinage revisited," NC (2007), pp. 105–17. Although this issue is traditionally assigned to Arados, Lorber argues for a Cypriot mint, perhaps Arsinoe near Salamis. Although the era is uncertain, a starting date of 262/1 BC has been accepted by Lorber and most scholars.