A remarkable discovery has been made in the realm of numismatics: a rare Armenian coin, the earliest known example featuring an inscription in Armenian. This coin dates back to the reign of King Kyurike I (979-989) of the Armenian Tashir-Dzoraget Kingdom of Lori.
Historical Significance
This coin is not only a testament to the rich history of Armenian coinage but also a symbol of the cultural and political landscape of the time. The obverse side of the coin features a bust of Christ with a cross, accompanied by the inscriptions “I [SOU] S” and “K [RISDO] S” in Armenian letters. On the reverse side, an Armenian inscription in five lines reads: “May God help Kyurike Kyurikid.”
The Kyurikid Dynasty
The Kyurikid dynasty, named after King Kyurike I, was one of the most prominent local dynasties on the edge of the Byzantine Empire. The name Kyurikid signified favor and recognition by the Byzantine court, highlighting the dynasty’s importance and influence.
Expert Insights
David M. Lang, in his 1954 description at the Museum of Monuments of the Academy of Sciences, eloquently highlighted the significance of this coin: “… this is the earliest issue of a monetary coin in Armenia with an Armenian inscription, and also the only such type of inscription applied in Greater Armenia before the transfer of the kingdom to Lesser Armenia – Cilicia.”
A Glimpse into the Past
This unique piece of Armenian medieval coinage offers a fascinating glimpse into the historical and cultural heritage of Armenia, underscoring the nation’s rich and diverse history.
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NGC Ancients Grades Armenian Rarity
