Civilization: Kingdom of Bithynia
Ruler: Prusias II Kynegos
Mint: Nicomedia
Year: 182 - 149 BC
Composition: Bronze
Denomination: Chalkon
Diameter: 20.7mm
Weight: 5.57g
Reference:

Obverse
Head of Dionysos to right, wearing wreath of ivy and fruit

Reverse
BAΣIΛEΩΣ - ΠΡΟYΣIOY. Centaur advancing right, playing lyre; monogram to lower right

Prusias II, known as Prusias II of Bithynia or Prusias the Hunter, reigned over the Kingdom of Bithynia in northwestern Asia Minor from around 182 to 149 BCE. He was the son of Prusias I and continued his father’s policies of maintaining Bithynia’s autonomy while navigating the turbulent politics of the Hellenistic world, especially the power struggles between the Roman Republic, the Seleucid Empire, and the Kingdom of Pergamon.

Initially, Prusias II allied himself with Rome, following a diplomatic path that kept Bithynia relatively stable. However, he soon became entangled in regional conflicts, particularly against Eumenes II of Pergamon, whose growing power threatened Bithynia. The hostilities led Prusias to seek Roman arbitration, which favored Pergamon and strained Prusias’s relations with Rome.

Facing setbacks, Prusias became increasingly unpopular and imposed harsh taxes to fund his wars, leading to discontent within his kingdom. His son, Nicomedes II, eventually revolted against him with Pergamon’s support, forcing Prusias II to abdicate around 149 BCE. Prusias was subsequently killed, likely on his son’s orders, marking the end of his troubled rule.

Prusias II’s reign reflects the difficulties small Hellenistic states faced in navigating alliances with Rome and neighboring kingdoms, with his legacy overshadowed by military failures and a bitter end brought about by familial betrayal.