KINGS OF BOSPORUS. Sauromates II, with Septimius Severus, circa 174/5-210/1. 2 Denarii (Orichalcum, 26 mm, 10.36 g, 6 h). BACIΛЄⲰC CAYPOMATOY Diademed and draped bust of Sauromates II to right. Rev. Aphrodite seated left, holding golden apple in her right hand and long scepter in her left; in fields, B - ✱ (mark of value); above to left, laureate head of Septimius Severus to right. Anokhin 623. MacDonald 547. Minor smoothing and the obverse struck slightly off center, otherwise, very fine.



The might of the Bosporan Kingdom reached its peak under Sauromates II, who defeated the dreaded Scythians and Tauri with the help of Roman troops. What makes the present coin particularly interesting is the denomination mark B - ✱ = 2 denarii. Given the significantly lower metal value, this overvaluation may indicate an increased financial burden imposed on the Kingdom during times of war. Conversely, the style and craftsmanship demonstrate great care in the production process, surpassing most other Bosporan emissions from Roman times.