ARABIA, Eastern. Tylos/Bahrain (?). Characenian-inspired series, circa 1st century CE. Tetradrachm (Silver, 24 mm, 15.65 g, 11 h). Bearded head of Herakles to right, wearing lion skin headdress; before, monogram of TP (?). Rev. [...]ΠAΣ[...] / ATTAΠ[...] Male figure seated left on low throne, holding long scepter in his left hand and forepart of a horse in his right; to left, palm frond. Unpublished save for its previous auction appearance. A highly interesting coin, one of only two known examples and the only one in private hands. Nicely toned and of vigorous style. Minor scratches and the obverse struck slightly off center, otherwise, very fine.


Previously unknown except for a single unpublished specimen in the Bahrain Museum, this hybrid series combines images from both Characenian and Arabian imitative Alexander coins in the name of Abi’el. Interestingly, the coins bear the names of several Characenian rulers (Attambelos, Abinergaos, and Theonesios), rendering a purely imitative issue unlikely. At the same time, Characenian coinage tends to be lighter and always bears Herakles with a club on the reverse. Since the rulers’ names provide a terminus post quem for these coins, they should not be dated earlier than the first century CE - a surprisingly late date for coins of such good silver, which may have implications for the dating of other Arabian Alexanders (see lot 2232 above).

In addition to this and lot 2234 below, two unidentified tetradrachms published in Potts 1991 (489, in the name of ABNI = Abinergaos) and 1994 (413, in the name of ΛTATΛ = Attambelos) also seem to belong to this fascinating group. Apart from the tetradrachms, some rare obols are known (see CNG 99 (2015), 374, and ANS 1991.34.1, both in the name of Attambelos).

Ancient Tylos/Bahrain is known to have been under Characenian rule and influence since the time of Hyspaosines in the late second century BCE and until the early second century CE, when it was ruled by a 'Satrap of Thilouanoi' in the service of king Meredat (circa 131-150/1 CE). These coins, which combine images from both Characene in the West and the Oman Peninsula in the East, thus attest to Characenian political and trade influence in the Gulf.