Cappadocia, Ariobarzanes I, AR Denarius

Ariobarzanes I Philorhomaios (95-63 BC), King of Cappadocia, Ancient ruler coinage.

Vs. Ariobarzanes I., diad.bb. r.
Rs. Athena standing l. with small Nike and spear, shield at her feet.
Year 30=66/65

Historical

Ariobarzanes I Philorhomaios was king of Cappadocia from 95 BC to 63 or 62 BC.

He came from a noble family and was elected the new king after the line of Ariarathes died out.

His reign was constantly challenged by Tigranes II of Armenia. He was supported by the Roman protecting power.

The portraits of Ariobarzanes I on coins (cf. Sear 7300ff.) show his ageing in a realistic style without recognisable idealisation and thus follow Hellenistic models.