The Legacy of the Tigranes: Examination of Armenian History and Numismatics

The history of Armenia during the late Hellenistic and early Roman periods was marked by the reigns of several kings named Tigranes. The first of these, Tigranes I, ascended to the throne in 121 BC, marking the beginning of a new era in Armenia. However, specific details about his rule remain limited, and his reign is often overshadowed by his more famous successor.

Tigranes II, also known as Tigranes the Great, began his rule in 95 BC. His reign is considered the zenith of Armenia's power in antiquity. He expanded the Kingdom of Armenia to its greatest extent, stretching from the Caspian Sea to the Mediterranean Sea. His rule over multiple kingdoms, including parts of the Parthian and Seleucid Empires, earned him the title "King of Kings". His coinage, which often featured dramatic and unique iconography, reflected his expansive empire and his lofty titles. 

In the twentieth year of his reign, around 77/76 BC, Tigranes the Great elevated his son, Tigranes the Younger, to the position of co-regent. The younger Tigranes had already distinguished himself as a field commander, and his father's decision to share power with him was likely a strategic move to ensure the continuity of his dynasty. However, this decision would later lead to a dramatic turn of events. The younger Tigranes, hoping to become the sole ruler of Armenia, betrayed his father to the Romans. Despite his betrayal, he was given only a small kingdom by Pompey.

The reigns of Tigranes III and Tigranes IV, who ruled from 20-8 BC and 8-5 BC respectively, are less well-documented. However, their reigns marked a period of transition for Armenia, as the kingdom's power waned and Roman influence grew.

Tigranes V, who began his rule around 6 AD, faced a similar fate. His reign was marked by instability and conflict with Rome. Despite these challenges, he managed to maintain his rule until around 12 AD.

The last king of Armenia under Roman rule was Tigranes VI. His first reign, from 60 AD to 62 AD, was marked by further instability and conflict with Rome. Despite being a Roman vassal king, he found himself having little in common with his new subjects, whose culture shared more affinities with the Iranian world. His reign ended when he relinquished the throne in 62 AD. However, historical records suggest that Tigranes VI had a second short reign around 66/67 AD. This marked the end of the era of the Tigranes kings.

Throughout their reigns, the Tigranes kings issued a variety of coins, reflecting the changing political and cultural landscape of their kingdom. These coins, which ranged from small bronze issues to large silver tetradrachms, provide a valuable window into the history of Armenia during this period. They often featured the portraits of the kings themselves, along with a variety of reverse designs that included traditional Armenian symbols, Greek and Roman iconography, and images reflecting the kings' military victories and territorial expansions. As such, they are a key focus of numismatic studies of this period.

In conclusion, the reigns of the Tigranes kings represent a dynamic and complex period in Armenia's history. From the expansive empire of Tigranes the Great to the troubled reign of Tigranes VI, these kings navigated a changing political landscape, leaving behind a rich numismatic legacy that continues to inform our understanding of this period.