Tigranes II Bronze (Artaxiad Armenia)
Name/Title
Tigranes II Bronze (Artaxiad Armenia)Description
The Dichalkon bronze coin of Tigranes II, also known as Tigranes the Great, dates back to his reign from 95 to 55 BC in the Kingdom of Armenia. This coin is a fascinating example of the Hellenistic influence on Armenian numismatics during a time when Armenia was a significant regional power under Tigranes' rule. On the obverse side, the coin prominently features a draped bust of Tigranes II facing right. He is depicted wearing a distinctive five-pointed tiara, an emblem of royal authority. The tiara is decorated with a star placed between two eagles, symbolizing both divine favor and the king’s supreme power. The diadem securing the tiara further emphasizes his royal status and grandeur. The reverse side of the coin portrays Herakles (known as Hercules in Roman mythology), a figure synonymous with strength and heroism. Herakles is shown standing to the left, draped in the lion's skin—a reference to his first labor of slaying the Nemean lion. He holds a club in his right hand, another iconic attribute of the mythological hero. Encircling this image is a Greek inscription reading "ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΝ ΤΙΓΡΑΝΟΥ" (Basileōs Basileōn Tigranou), which translates to "King of Kings Tigranes." This title underscores Tigranes’ assertion of supremacy and his claim to being a ruler of unparalleled stature. The coin itself is made of bronze, with a weight of around 4.48 grams and a diameter of 18.66 mm. It was produced using a hammered technique, which often results in irregular shapes, adding to the uniqueness of individual coins. The alignment is in a medal style, meaning both sides of the coin are aligned in the same direction. Tigranes II was one of the most powerful rulers of his time, and his reign marked the zenith of the Armenian kingdom. His expansionist policies and successful campaigns earned him the title of "King of Kings." The Dichalkon reflects this era of dominance, blending Armenian traditions with the prevailing Hellenistic cultural and artistic influences. The inclusion of Herakles on the coin aligns with the Hellenistic practice of associating rulers with heroic or divine figures, reinforcing their legitimacy and valor. Today, the Dichalkon of Tigranes II is considered rare and highly collectible. Numismatic catalogs often rate its rarity very high, making it a prized artifact for collectors and historians. Its scarcity and the rich history it represents make it a significant piece for understanding the political and cultural dynamics of ancient Armenia during Tigranes’ reign.Category
Coins and Banknotes