CARIAN ISLANDS. Rhodes. Ca. 125-88 BC. AV hemistater (14mm, 3.21 gm, 11h). NGC XF 4/5 - 2/5, marks. Attic standard. Timocrates, magistrate. Radiate head of Helios facing slightly right, hair parted in center and swept to either side / TIMOKPATHΣ, rose with single bud on tendril to left; P-O across fields, hand in right field. HGC 6, 1414 var. (unlisted magistrate). Extremely rare issue with the hallmarks of Rhodian coinage for the era minted in high quality metal. The distinctive coinage of Rhodes during the later part of the Hellenistic era is categorized as the plinthophoric coinage, deriving its name from the Greek term "plinthos", which translates to 'brick' or 'tile'. This nomenclature alludes to the characteristic shallow incuse square depicted on the reverse side of these coins​​. The practice of employing a reverse incuse, seen as a nostalgic nod to earlier times, was a hallmark of Rhodian coinage beginning around the late 2nd century BC, specifically post 190 BC, and saw its end near 84 BC​​​​. While the predominant currency during this epoch comprised silver drachms and their fractional equivalents, a relatively scarce series of gold coins, spanning denominations from staters to quarter-staters, emerged around 125 BC. The initiation of this elaborate gold coinage series is shrouded in ambiguity. It might have been a strategic response to a potential silver shortage or other economic exigencies. Alternatively, this gold issue could symbolize Rhodes' evolving geopolitical stature as a principal ally and fiscal adjudicator for Rome in the eastern Mediterranean, especially as the Roman Republic was on the cusp of establishing its dominion over provinces in Asia Minor. This conjecture aligns with the historical narrative of Rhodes as a significant maritime and mercantile power during that era, whose alliance with the Ptolemaic Kingdom and anti-piracy efforts were notable. The gold coinage could thus reflect an enhanced Rhodian autonomy and its pivotal role in the broader Hellenistic-Roman political and economic milieu​​. Moreover, the cessation of plinthophoric coinage coincided with the adversities of the First Mithridatic War around 88 BC, where the Roman survivors of the Vespers of 88 BC sought refuge in Rhodes, leading to a siege by the Pontic king. This historical juncture marked a shift in Rhodian coinage, potentially underscoring the fluctuating fortunes and external pressures faced by Rhodes during this tumultuous period​​. HID09801242017 © 2023 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

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