One of the most fascinating figures of the Hellenistic Age, Ariarathes played the game of political intrigue with unusual skill. Through marriage and treaty, he allied himself with all the great powers of the time. It is fitting then that his coinage should be decorated on the reverse with the image of Athena, goddess of both wisdom and war. Just like Ariarathes himself, the person who wears this splendid pendant should triumph over all of life’s obstacles. - (FJ.1515)