Numismatic

Cappadocian Kingdom AR Drachm Ariobarzanes I (96-63 BC) VF NGC

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This ancient silver drachm originates from the Kingdom of Cappadocia, minted during the turbulent era of 96 to 63 BC. The obverse of the coin features a right-facing portrait of King Ariobarzanes I, a ruler who originally gained his throne through a vote of the citizenry. His reign was heavily supported by the Roman consul Lucius Cornelius Sulla, positioning the kingdom as a protectorate of Rome. On the reverse side, the design depicts the goddess Athena holding Nike, the personification of victory. This imagery stands in contrast to the immense political instability Ariobarzanes I faced. Over the course of his rule, he was forced from power on three separate occasions by King Mithridates. Despite these setbacks, he managed to expand his territory under the Roman general Pompey during the Third Mithridatic War. Ariobarzanes I was married to the noblewoman Queen Athenais Philostorgos I. Together, they had two children, including their successor Ariobarzanes II and a daughter, Isias Philostorgos, who later married King Antiochus I Theos of Commagene. The long, dramatic reign of Ariobarzanes I finally concluded when he abdicated his throne around 63 to 62 BC, passing the leadership of Cappadocia to his son. This particular specimen has survived the millennia and is certified in Very Fine condition.