Macedonians / Seleucids in Bactria. Sophytos (246/5-235 BC)
Sophytos is a somewhat enigmatic historical figure, known primarily through inscribed artifacts and coins found in Bactria (modern Afghanistan and surrounding regions). His exact identity is debated, but he appears to have been a local ruler or official with Hellenistic connections during the period of Greek influence in Central Asia (3rd–2nd century BC)
AR diobol, local standard (0.55 g)
Uncertain mint in the Oxus region
OBVERSE: Head of Sophytos to right, wearing helmet
REVERSE: Cockerel standing to right, with wings closed; kerykeion behind, ΣΩΦYΤΟΥ to right
Choice VF. RARE
It is a Hellenistic-Bactrian coin reflecting the Greek expansion into Central Asia, blending Seleucid artistic styles with emerging Greco-Bactrian independence. It serves as an important historical marker of early Greek rule in Bactria, predating the full development of the Greco-Bactrian Kingdom
References:
Z-338931 (this coin)
numisbids.com (similar coin sold)
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