SYRIA. Seleukid Kingdom. Antiochos IV Epiphanes, 175-164 B.C. AR Tetradrachm (16.41 gms), "Antiocheia on the Persian Gulf" Mint. NGC Ch EF, Strike: 5/5 Surface: 3/5.HGC-9, 617; SC-1519.1 var. (Unlisted exergual monogram). Obverse: Radiate head right; Reverse: Apollo seated left on omphalos, testing arrow and resting hand upon bow; monogram to outer left and in exergue. An EXTREMELY RARE issue from an obscure eastern mint. The radiate portrait, stylistically distinct from those of the western mints, rises in very high relief. Struck on a broad, round flan, the coin presents a full obverse filleted border and an entirely complete reverse, including both control marks. Lightly toned with lovely underlying brilliance, this is a wonderful piece that should not be overlooked by Seleukid specialists.<p><p><em>Antiochos IV, best known historically for his role in the Maccabean Revolt, is numismatically significant for advancing the deliberate association of the ruler with godlike symbolism and titulature. Unlike their Ptolemaic counterparts in Egypt, the Seleukid rulers had presented a more austere image of themselves. It was under Antiochos IV that titles such as </em>Theos Epiphanes<em> ("God Manifest") and </em>Nikephoros<em> ("Victory-bringer") first appeared on coinage. Unique in silver to the issues of this uncertain eastern mint, Antiochos went a step further by depicting himself with a radiate crown, a move clearly meant to associate the king with celestial divinity.</em><p><p>
