GREEK. KINGS OF ARMENIA. Official Commagene imitation struck under Antiochos I of Commagene. Tigranes II the Great, 95-56 BC. Silver Tetradrachm (15.52g). Uncertain mint, possibly Samosata. Struck circa 69-56 BC. Diademed and draped bust of Tigranes right, wearing Armenian tiara decorated with star between two eagles / BASILEOS TIGRANOU, Tyche of Antioch seated right on rock, holding laurel branch; river-god Orontes swimming right below; TP monogram in inner right field; all within wreath. Kovacs 123; M&D 49; CAA 24-5 and 40-1; AC 35; SCADA Group 6, obverse die A48. Extremely rare. A magnificent specimen of this important official imitation issue, sharply struck and unusually well preserved, with a bold portrait, finely detailed reverse and amazing old grey cabinet toning. Among the many examples of this type seen and reviewed in recent years, this piece remains the finest known specimen. Notably, the coin had already been certified by NGC approximately five years before its appearance in Herakles Auction 2, a significant detail not recorded in that sale description. gEF. Acquired by the consignor, whose collection we are pleased to present, and regarded as one of the final major coins purchased during more than 50 years of collecting. Acquired from Herakles Auction 2, Germany, lot 55, hammered A$12,300.

Estimate: AUD 25000