CAPPADOCIAN KINGDOM. Ariarathes V (ca. 163-130 BC). AR drachm (19mm, 4.19 gm, 11h). NGC AU 5/5 - 3/5, Fine Style. Dated Regnal Year 31 (132/1 BC). Diademed head of Ariarathes V right / ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ-ΑΡΙΑΡΑΘΟΥ-ΕΥΣΕΒΟΥΣ, Athena standing facing, head left, Nike standing left in right hand, resting left hand on grounded shield, spear leaning against left arm; AΔ monogram in outer left field, ΠΑΙΩ monogram in inner left, ΠΑΔP monogram in outer right, AΛ (date) in exergue. Simonetta 8c (Ariarathes IV). HGC 7, 811 var. (same, ΛA date configuration). Note the holder says that this type is also attributed to Ariarathes IV. Flashy and satiny flan graced with lovely toning. Ex Heritage Auctions, Auction 231626 (30 June 2016), lot 65016. Ariarathes V, a member of the Ariarathid dynasty, became the ruler of Cappadocia around 36 BCE. His reign was characterized by both internal and external challenges. Seeking to protect his kingdom from external threats, Ariarathes V pursued an alliance with the Roman Republic, a common strategy among Hellenistic rulers at the time. One of the primary external challenges he faced was the presence of Mithridates VI of Pontus, a formidable adversary with ambitions to expand his influence into Cappadocia. This led to conflicts and political instability in the region. At one point, Mithridates VI even succeeded in driving Ariarathes V out of his kingdom, forcing him to seek refuge in Rome. With Roman military support, Ariarathes V was eventually able to retake his throne and resume his rule in Cappadocia. Ariarathes V's reign was significant because it reflects the complex and shifting political dynamics of the late Hellenistic period in Asia Mino, and illustrates the increasing influence of Rome in the region. HID09801242017 © 2023 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

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