Vardanes II, 55-58, Tetradrachm

Vardanes II Tetradrachm, AR, reign 55-58 AD, minted in Seleukeia. Weight: 11.27g; typical diameter for tetradrachm: 26mm. The obverse features a diademed bust of Vardanes II facing left, exhibiting standard Parthian iconographic style. The reverse bears the inscription ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΑΡΣΑΚΟΥ ΕΥΕΡΓΕΤΟΥ ΕΠΙΦΑΝΟΥΣ ΦΙΛΕΛΗΝΟΣ, reflecting the regal titles and Greek influence. The strike is well-centered with moderate detail, consistent with circulation wear. References include Sellwood 69.1. Vardanes II was a Parthian prince and brief ruler during a turbulent period of the Parthian Empire, characterized by internal strife and power struggles. His reign is noted for attempts to consolidate power amidst contested succession, demonstrating the complexities of Parthian governance and the influence of Hellenistic culture, as seen in the extensive Greek inscriptions on his coinage.