Lot 2178
Baktrian Kingdom. Eukratides I. Silver Tetradrachm (16.97 g), ca. 171-145 BC. Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust of Eukratides I right, wearing crested helmet adorned with bull's horn and ear. Reverse: BAΣIΛEΩΣ MEΓAΛOY EYKPATIΔOY, the Dioskouroi, each holding palm branch and couched lance, on horses rearing right; in lower right field, monogram. Bopearachchi 6E; SNG ANS 465. Lightly toned and lustrous. This is the finest example we have seen! NGC grade Ch MS; Strike: 5/5, Surface: 5/5. Estimate Value $4,000 - UP
Ex Jonathan K. Kern Collection.
Eukratides I is notable as one of the very few Graeco-Baktrian and Indo-Greek kings for whom we have historical evidence outside of coins. He revolted against the reigning Demetrios II in ca. 171 BC, but soon found himself besieged by Demetrios at the head of a 60,000-strong army. According to Justin, through repeated sorties, Eukratides used his small force of 300 men to raise the siege and gain victory after four months. He then crossed the Hindu Kush, conquering parts of western India. Unfortunately, his dramatic reign came to a violent end when his son murdered him, reportedly coldly driving his chariot through his blood. The enduring popularity of Eukratides' Dioskouroi reverse type may be gauged by its continued use by several of his Indo-Greek successors, its imitation by non-Greek peoples in Sogdiana and Baktria, and its incorporation into the seal of the modern Da Afghanistan Bank (founded 1939).
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