Nomos

Auction 14  –  17 May 2017

Nomos, Auction 14

Greek, Roman and Byzantine Coins

We, 17.05.2017, from 1:30 PM CEST
The auction is closed.

Description

PTOLEMAIC KINGS of EGYPT, Ptolemy II Philadelphos, with Arsinöe II, Ptolemy I, and Berenike I, 285-246 BC. Didrachm, or Quarter Mnaieia (Gold, 16mm, 6.96 g 12), Alexandria. ΑΔΕΛΦΩΝ Jugate busts of Ptolemy II, diademed and draped, and Arsinoe II, diademed and veiled, to right; behind, Gallic shield. Rev. ΘΕΩΝ Jugate busts of Ptolemy I, diademed and wearing aegis, and Berenike I, diademed and veiled, to right. Olivier & Lorber 395/6 (same dies). Svoronos 605. A coin of the greatest rarity, one of only seven known examples. Very attractive and well struck. Light scratch on the reverse, otherwise, extremely fine.

From the Chrysos Collection, acquired in Geneva in 1980.

While the larger pieces of this series, the octadrachms and tetradrachms (more correctly termed Mnaieia and Pentekontadrachmai/Half Mnaieia), are common enough, the smaller pieces, as the Quarter Mnaieia here (Sv. 605) or the Eighth (Sv. 606), are astoundingly rare. While the larger pieces must have had a recognized commercial function, the smaller ones must have had a more ceremonial character, perhaps primarily for donatives.

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Bidding

Price realized 7'000 CHF
Starting price 3'600 CHF
Estimate 4'500 CHF
The auction is closed.
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