KINGS of CAPPADOCIA.Archelaos.(36 BC-17 AD).Drachm.

Obv : Diademed head right within filleted border.

Rev : ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΑΡΧΕΛΑΟΥ ΦΙΛΟΠΑΤΡΙΔΟΣ ΚΑΙ ΚΤΙΣΤΟΥ.
Club downward; M - B across field.
RPC I online 3606; Simonetta 5; HGC 7, 857.

Condition : Good very fine.

Weight : 3.22 gr
Diameter : 18 mm

Archelaos was a king of Cappadocia who reigned from approximately 36 BCE until his death in 17 CE. He was born into a prominent family and was of Greek heritage. Archelaos gained his throne through his alliance with the Roman Empire, which had conquered Cappadocia and placed a pro-Roman puppet king on the throne. Over time, Archelaos consolidated his power and became more independent from Rome.

Archelaos was known for his lavish lifestyle and his love of the arts. He sponsored a number of buildings and public works, including the construction of a new capital at Caesarea (modern-day Kayseri) and the building of a massive temple to the goddess Ma. Archelaos also patronized Greek poets and intellectuals, including Strabo, who wrote a famous account of Cappadocia during Archelaos's reign.

Despite his wealth and power, Archelaos faced a number of challenges during his reign. He was frequently threatened by neighboring states, including the Parthians and the Roman-supported Galatians. He also faced rebellions from within his own kingdom, particularly from the priestly class of Comana who resented his patronage of the Ma cult.

Archelaos died in 17 CE, and his kingdom was ultimately absorbed into the Roman Empire. Despite his relative obscurity in modern times, Archelaos was a significant figure in the history of Cappadocia and played an important role in the region's transition from a Hellenistic kingdom to a Roman province.