Kings of Bithynia, Nikomedes I AR Tetradrachm. Nikomedia, circa 265-255 BC. Diademed head to right / Artemis-Bendis seated to left on rock, holding two spears and heavy sword in scabbard, round shield with rings or rivets resting by side; in background, stump of tree with spoils of war; ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ to right, [ΝΙ]ΚΟΜΗΔΟΥ to left, monograms in inner left field and exergue. De Luynes 2421 var. (monograms - same obv. die) = RG, pl. XXIX, 1 = EHC 414; SNG Copenhagen -; cf. HGC 7, 606; Roma XXV, 335 and preceding lot (same dies). 16.84g, 29mm, 12h.

Extremely Fine; featuring a stunning old cabinet tone and bold portrait struck in fine Hellenistic style. Exceedingly Rare; unpublished with these monograms, only two examples have come to auction in the last two decades.

From a private European collection.