This authentic bronze AE unit was struck in the Kingdom of Pontos during the ambitious reign of Mithridates VI Eupator (120–63 BC). Known as Rome’s most persistent and formidable adversary in the East, Mithridates VI styled himself as a new Alexander the Great. The iconography of this coinage—featuring the aegis of Athena and the silhouette of Nike—served as potent military propaganda during the Mithridatic Wars, symbolizing the King’s divine protection and his quest for victory against the encroaching Roman Republic.
Design & Detail
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Obverse: Features a beautifully rendered Aegis, the protective buckler of Athena, adorned with the central image of a Gorgoneion. The intricate scalloped edges and textured surface of the shield reflect the high artistic standards of the Pontic mints.
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Reverse: Depicts Nike, the goddess of Victory, advancing right. She is typically shown draped and carrying a palm branch over her shoulder, a classic Hellenistic representation of triumph and divine favor.
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Condition & Patina: This specimen displays a rich, stable “river” or “earth” patina that beautifully highlights the transition between the deep bronze metal and the raised devices. The strike is well-centered, preserving the ferocity of the Gorgon’s expression on the obverse.
Authenticity & Provenance As a primary artifact of the Hellenistic resistance to Rome, this Pontos Mithridates VI AE has been meticulously inspected for authenticity. It represents a vital chapter of ancient
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