2021-02-13 Sat

Eukratides I was one of the most important Indo-Greek Kings. He was the last and most powerful Graco Bactrian King. He sat on the throne of Greco-Bactrian after overthrowing Euthydemus I in Bactria. For most of his reign, he spent in wars against pretenders to the throne and neighbouring rulers. He fought against Indo-Greek King, the easternmost Hellenistic ruler in north-western India, temporarily holding territory as far as the Indus until he was finally defeated and pushed back to Bactria. Eucratides had a vast and prestigious coinage, suggesting a rule of considerable importance.

This square Copper coin which weighs around 4.95 was issued by Eukratides I during his rule. The obverse of this coin depicts ‘Helmeted bust of king facing right, Greek legend “BACILEOC MEGALOU EUKRATIDOU” around. The reverse of this coin depicts ‘Dioskuroides on horseback, Kharosthi legend above and below’.

Image Courtesy: Todywalla Auction