Golden Staters of Queen Dynamis and Her Rule over the Bosporan Kingdom

Abstract

This article discusses the significance of two gold staters issued by Queen Dynamis of the Bosporan Kingdom in 21/20 and 17/16 BC in the context of her potential independent rule. An analysis of the available source material, along with a comparison of the circumstances of their minting with similar coinage issued by Hellenistic queens, suggests that these coins do not demonstrate Dynamis’ sole rule but rather served as propaganda supporting the legitimacy of King Asander. Numerous inscriptions bearing pro-Roman titulature, as well as gold staters featuring the DYM monogram, should be dated to the period after 14 BC, when Dynamis, as the wife of Polemon I, effectively ruled the Bosporus independently. Moreover, an examination of the self-presentation and political strategies of Pharnaces II, Asander, Dynamis, and Aspurgus shows that these rulers deliberately crafted their public image by combining elements of local dynastic tradition with efforts to gain recognition from Rome.