Judea. Herodian Dynasty. Aristobulus King of Lesser Armenia, AE Oktachalkon (23 mm. (9.14 g). Probably struck at Chalcis. Struck Year 17 = AD 70/1. BACIΛEΩC APICTOBOYΛOYET IZ (of King Aristobulus, year 17) , diademed bust of Aristobulus facing left. Reverse: TITΩ O YECΠA CIANΩ AY TOKPATΩP CEBACT Ω (for Titus Vespasian Emperor Augustus) within a wreath. Hendin 1258; Kovacs 301; RPC II 1692. An exceptional specimen and very rare. A superb portrait with lovely olive green patina and a candidate for finest known! Virtually as struck. Superb Extremely Fine. Estimated Value $7,500 - UP
Aristobulus was the great grandson of Herod the Great and was married to the infamous Salome. In Salome's previous marriage to her uncle Herod Philip, a son of Herod the Great, she danced before Herod Antipas and demanded the head of John the Baptist. For additional historical information, see David Hendin's Guide to Biblical Coins 5th addition, pp. 274-5.
An incredible example from Aristobulus's sole coinage as King of Armenia, struck at the end of the Jewish War.
From the Tareq Hani Collection.
Price realized | 9'250 USD |
Starting price | 3'750 USD |
Estimate | 7'500 USD |