SELEUKID KINGS OF SYRIA. Seleukos I Nikator (?), 312-281 BC. Obol (Silver, 8 mm, 0.40 g, 1 h), perhaps Seleukeia on the Tigris I, circa 296/5 or later. Head of Herakles to right, wearing lion skin headdress. Rev. ΣΑ Nike advancing right, holding wreath in her right hand. SC Ad76 var. (A to right). Apparently unpublished. Somewhat porous and with minor deposits, otherwise, very fine.


This coin appears to be a new variety of the rare issue tentatively published as a an issue of Seleukos I in SC. It is remarkable, not only for the differing legend (abbreviating the names of Seleukos I and Antiochos I?), but for the different style in the treatment of Herakles and especially Nike. On SC Ad76 she is shown with pointed, open wings as if in flight, whereas here they are closed. Perhaps the coins were issued in different mints, explaining their stylistic differences.