This record is provided by CoinArchives, a database of numismatic auction catalogs.
Important copyright information:
The data below is presented by permission of the copyright holder(s). Reproduction is allowed only by authorization from Leu Numismatik AG.
Leu Numismatik AG > Auction 7Auction date: 24 October 2020
Lot number: 1354

Lot description:


KINGS OF ARMENIA MINOR. Aristobulus, 54-71/2. Oktachalkon (Bronze, 26 mm, 11.72 g, 12 h), with Nero (54-68). Chalcis (?), RY 13 = 66/7. BACIΛEΩC APICTOBOYΛOY ET IΓ Diademed and draped bust of Aristobulus to left. Rev. NEPΩ/NI KΛAY/ΔIΩ KAIΣA/PI / ΣEBAΣTΩ / ΓEPMANI/KΩ within laurel wreath. Kovacs 299. RPC I 3839 corr. (date). Very rare and undoubtedly among the finest known examples. A magnificent, very well struck and beautifully patinated piece with a splendid portrait. Good very fine.


From an important collection of Armenian coins.

Aristobulus is certainly among the most fascinating of the numerous 1st century Roman client kings. Born the son of Herod of Chalcis and the great-grandson of Herod the Great, and appointed by Nero to King of Armenia Minor in 54, his life is closely entwined with Roman, Jewish and Armenian history. The most famous event in his life, however, revolves around the infamous Jewish princess Salome, whom Aristobulus married in 34 (for a longer note on Salome, see below, lot 1355).

Estimate: 20000 CHF