Classical Numismatic Group, LLC
Triton XXV 11-12 Jan 2022
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BAKTRIA, Indo-Greek Kingdom. Apollodotos II Soter Philopator Megas. Circa 80-65 BC. AR Tetradrachm (27mm, 9.24 g, 12h). BAΣIΛEΩΣ MEΓAΛOY ΣΩTHPOΣ KAI ΦIΛOΠATOPOΣ AΠOΛΛOΔOTOY, diademed and draped bust right / maharajasa tratarasa apaladatasa in Kharosthi), Apollodotos right on horseback, holding whip, monogram to right. Bopearachchi 4A and pl. 61, J = HGC 12, 390 (same dies); Bopearachchi & Rahman –; SNG ANS –; MIG Type –. Find patina, a few light scratches and porosity under the patina. VF. Extremely rare, Bopearachchi records only one example, none in CoinArchives.
From the Melinda Collection.
Apollodotos II seems to be the rare instance of a Greek ruler recovering and ruling territory lost to the invading Skythians. Some of his coins are overstruck on issues of the Indo-Skythian King Maues, suggesting he succeeded that ruler or seized his throne. Two reverse types are recorded for his Indic silver tetradrachms: A striding Athena Promachos (similar to that of Menander), much rarer, the king on horseback to right, making a gesture of benediction, as seen here. The obverse inscription describing him as "Great Savior, Father-Loving" indicates his father was someone of stature, possibly another Indo-Greek king.
From the Melinda Collection.
Apollodotos II seems to be the rare instance of a Greek ruler recovering and ruling territory lost to the invading Skythians. Some of his coins are overstruck on issues of the Indo-Skythian King Maues, suggesting he succeeded that ruler or seized his throne. Two reverse types are recorded for his Indic silver tetradrachms: A striding Athena Promachos (similar to that of Menander), much rarer, the king on horseback to right, making a gesture of benediction, as seen here. The obverse inscription describing him as "Great Savior, Father-Loving" indicates his father was someone of stature, possibly another Indo-Greek king.