Cilician Coinage
The following are a series of images taken from various locations within Cilicia associated with key numismatic mints.
 Author in Ephesus standing in front of the Stadium  Temple of Aphrodite at Aphrodisias  Mosaic of Thetis in the backyard of Kurdish family at Anazarbus 
Fairy Chimneys at Cappadoccia
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 Author with Kurdish family under entry archway; Anazarbus acropolis on rocky crag above  Antioch's first church (Apostles Peter and Paul's grotto)  Istanbul's Blue Mosque 
The Library of Celsus at Ephesus
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The following coins come from several of my favorite mint locations within Cilicia: Adana, Corycus, Elauissa-Sebaste, and Tarsus.
Goddess "Cilicia" - personification of the province (often synonymous with Tyche, the city goddess); mosaic tile from museum in Antioch (Antakya)
Author in Cilicia (seated with 400 year-old olive tree)
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Adana
Adana is located near the center of an agricultural region relying on the cotton and textile industries for its local economy. In terms of ancient resources the area has much to offer the tourist or explorer. The remains of early Mesopotamian civilizations are ever present. The fertile plains are speckled with ancient Hittite and Assyrian mounds known in Turkey as “huyuks.” In fact, there are so many huyuks in this area that the majority have not been excavated or archeologically mapped only numbered. Strolling around these mounds of collapsed mud-brick and debris, stacks of pottery shards and pot handles, and occasionally beads or pottery whorls litter the surface. However, with heavy rains and some luck, that isn’t all that is revealed. Of course one must balance any possible disturbance of an abandoned site with natural curiosity and a zeal for exploration. During one trip to a large huyuk just outside of the city, I came upon several large white marble pillars jutting up beyond the grass and dirt surface along with hundreds of pieces of broken Roman glass. Such a finding speaks to the fact that although typically assigned to the Hittites and Assyrians, huyuks have been attributed to overlapping Greek and Roman fortifications, temples and burial sites. In addition to such remains of early civilizations, Adana and the area around the city contain several Roman structures in varying states of preservation. Perhaps the best preserved is a Roman bridge built by Hadrian and later repaired by Justinian (Tas Kopru) that continues to support the present-day traffic of Turkey’s fourth largest populace. Provincial coins minted in Adana typically date from the Roman Imperial era and are relatively diverse. The local archeological museum contains a small selection of these pieces and is well worth a visit. One phenomenon I found to be true at all the ancient sites in Turkey was when there are Americans or Europeans around, the locals will have something to sell. With the common salutation, “Merhaba abi” (hello brother) a small bag of ancient artifacts, coins, or similar items was frequently produced for viewing. At huyuk mounds these items most often consisted of pottery shards, stamped pot handles, and Byzantine, Roman Provincial, or Armenian and Ottoman coins found while planting or plowing the fields surrounding the mounds.  CILICIA, Adana
ca. after 164 B.C.
Æ 26mm
Obv.: Veiled head of Demeter
Rev.: Zeus seated
Ref: SNG Levante 1201 (this coin; Author's collection) 
Cilicia, Adana, c. 164-27 BC. Æ 21.64 mm, 8.94 g). Diodotos, magistrate. Athena with Aegis. Victory. SNG Levante 1221 var. (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Adana
Caracalla 198-217 AD
Æ 37mm, 25.91g, 6h
Obv: [AVT KAIC M] AVP
ANTΩ[NЄINOC] CЄB, radiate,
draped, and cuirassed bust to right
Rev: [AΔP CЄV ANTΩNINIANΩN]
AΔANЄ[ΩN], Zeus Nicephorus
seated to left, holding sceptre; [eagle
standing left at feet, head right].
Ref: Levante, Adana -; SNG Levante -;
SNG France -; SNG von Aulock -;
SNG Pfälzer -; SNG Leypold -;
ex. Roma 78; see Triton XVIII, lot 882 for type
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Adana.
Septimius Severus, 193-211 AD
Æ Hexassarion 34 mm, 25.18g, 4h
Obv: AYT K Λ CЄΠ CEYHPOC [...]
Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of
Septimius Severus to right.
Rev: CЄΥΗΡΗΝⲰΝ ΑΔΑΝ[ΕΩΝ]
Caracalla on horseback galloping to right,
about to spear a lion running to left below.
Ref: Unpublished; Leu 19 lot#2274
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Adana. AE (41mm, 34.12g) Plautilla (Augusta, 202-205)
Obv: ΦOYΛOYIAN ΠΛAYTIΛΛAN CЄBACTHN, Draped bust right; star to left; crescent above star to right; c/m: Victory in circular incuse
Rev: AΔPIANѠN AΔANЄѠN, Caracalla on horseback right, preparing to spear lion below, running left.
Ref: For coin: SNG Levante 1228; SNG France –; for c/m: Howgego 257.
(Author's collection)
 CILICIA, Adana
Trajan Decius
251 – 253 A.D. Æ 32 (22.02g)
Obv.: Laur. bust of emperor
Crown countermark
Rev.: Zeus seated with eagle below
Ref: SNG Levante Supl 298 (this coin; Author's collection)  CILICIA, Adana
CILICIA. Adana. Valerian I (253-260). Æ 30mm, 15.02g
Obv: AV KAI ΠOΛ ΛIK OVAΛЄPIANOC CB
Laureate and cuirassed bust right.
Rev: AΔPIANΩN AΔANЄωN
Zeus (with features of Valerian) seated left on throne, holding patera and sceptre.
SNG BN 1889-90; SNG Levante 1236.
(Author's collection) - one of the finest examples known Anazarbus (cont.)
Author with mother goat and new-born lamb within the city plain of Anazarbus (citadel above)
CILICIA, Anazarbus. 198-217 AD. AE 36mm (22.27g). Dated CY 218 (199-200 AD). Tetrastyle Temple. Unpublished (2nd known); cf 288 for Sept Sev in Ziegler; see CNG 395 lot 290 (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Anazarbus
Lucius Verus, 161-169 AD
Æ Tetrassarion 30mm, 21.79g, 1h
CY 182 = 163/4.
Obv: ΑYΤ Κ Λ ΑYΡΗΛΙΟϹ ΟYΗΡΟϹ
ϹЄΒ YC[...] Bare head of Lucius Verus
to right, with slight drapery on his
left shoulder.
Rev: ΚΑΙϹ ΤΩΝ ΠΡΟϹ ΤΩ
ΑΝΑΖΑΡΒΩ / ЄΤ ΒΠΡ Temple
with ten columns.
Ref: RPC IV.3 online 3649;
Ziegler 201-203.
(Author's collection) NN 116 lot 653
CILICIA, Anazarbus
Severus Alexander
222-235 AD CY 48 = 229/30
Æ Hexassarion 34mm, 24.44g
Obv: ΑΥΤ Κ Μ Α СЄ ΑΛЄΞΑΝΔΡΟС
Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of
Severus Alexander to right, seen from behind.
Rev: ΑΝΑΖ ЄNΔOΣ ΜΗ ΤΡΟ / ЄT ΗΜ С B
Two tetrastyle temples seen in
three-quarters perspective.
Ref: RPC VI online 7339.
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Anazarbus. Severus Alexander. AD 222-235. Æ Hexassarion (35mm, 26.40 g, 6h). Dated CY 248 (AD 229/30). Laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind / Two tetrastyle temples, seen in perspective; ЄT HMC (date) in exergue. Ziegler 542.4 (Vs1/Rs8) = RPC VI Online 7339.14 (this coin); SNG BN –; SNG Levante 1461 (same obv. die). ex W. Toliver Besson Collection (Classical Numismatic Group Electronic Auction 475, 26 August 2020), lot 474; VAuctions 321/London Coin Galleries 3 (10 November 2016), lot 102; Münzen und Medaillen AG 41 (18 June 1970), lot 548. (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Anazarbus
Severus Alexander
222-235 AD CY 48 = 229/30
Æ Hexassarion 34mm
Obv: ΑΥΤ Κ Μ Α СЄ ΑΛЄΞΑΝΔΡΟС
Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of
Severus Alexander to right, seen from behind.
Rev: ΑΝΑΖ ЄNΔOΣ ΜΗ ΤΡΟ / ЄT ΗΜ С B
Two tetrastyle temples seen in
three-quarters perspective.
Ref: RPC VI online 7339.
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Anazarbus. Julia Mamaea. Augusta, AD 222-235. Æ Tetrassarion (24mm, 11.71 g, 12h). Dated CY 249 (AD 230-1). SNG Levante 1478 ex Righetti coll (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Anazarbus.
Julia Mamaea (Augusta, 222-235).
Æ 23mm, 8.97g Dated CY 248 (229-30 AD).
Obv: ΙΟΥΛΙΑ ΜΑΜЄΑ.
Diademed and draped bust right.
Rev: ΑΝΑΖ ЄΝΔΟΞ Μ / Β - Γ / ЄΤ ΗΜϹ.
Winged caduceus.
Ref: RPC VI online 7360 (4 spec.); Ziegler 495.
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Anazarbus
Philip I the Arab 244-249 AD
Dated RY 263 (244/5 AD).
Æ 33mm, 16.93g
Obv: ΑΥΤ Κ Μ ΙΟΥΛ ΦΙΛΙΠΠΟϹ
ϹƐΒΑϹ; Radiate, draped and cuirassed
bust right.
Rev: ΑΝΑΖΑΡΒΟΥ ΜΗΤΡΟΠ ƐΤ,
ΓΞϹ, ƐΛƐΥΘƐΡΟΝ ΚΟΙΝΟΒΟΥ
Female figure (Koinoboulion) seated
left, holding cornucopia and casting
vote in vase; to left tree.
Ref: RPC 21751; Ziegler, Anazarbos, 736–41
(Author's collection)
Aegeae
CILICIA. Aegeae. Severus Alexander, 222-235. Diassarion (Bronze, 24 mm, 12.32 g, 12 h). Sandled foot. (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Aigeai
Valerian I 253-260 AD CY 14=AD 253/254
Æ 25mm, 8.65 g
Obv: AY KA ΠOY ΛIK OYAΛЄPIANOC
CB, radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right
Rev: AIΓAIωN NЄ[ωKOPO] / ЄT T,
eagle with spread wings standing in distyle temple.
Ref: SNG Paris 2386.
ex Leu Numismatik 3, Lot 631
(Author's collection)
Theater at Elaussa-Sebaste
Elaussa-Sebaste
Approximately 100 miles west of Adana (15 miles east of Silifke along highway E-24) one cames to Kizkalesi, a resort town of sorts with the central feature of dual Armenian castles. However, to focus on these castles is to miss the miles and miles of ancient Greek and Roman ruins that line the drive and coast toward the city. The area is dotted with necropoli, abandoned and dilapidated temples and the remains of over 10 miles of Roman aqueducts (most date between the 3rd and 7th century AD). One of the first destinations along this way is Elaeussa-Sebaste whose remains consisted of a small amphitheater, temple, bath and cistern as well as fortification walls and other less-defined structures (under excavation by an Italian team of archeologists since 1995). Finding coins from the area is not difficult and again the diversity of material that local farmers and merchants bring is surprising. Bronzes minted in the local areas were naturally the most plentiful. Examples from the 1st century BC such as SNG France 1150 (Laureate head of Zeus/Nike advancing with wreath), BMC 21.184,134; Sear 5771 (Zeus enthroned/Club within oak-wreath), and SNG France 1086 (Tyche/Hermes carrying caduceus) are commonly produced for tourists interested in a keepsake from their travels. 
ISLANDS off CILICIA, Elaioussa Sebaste. Circa 95-94 BC. AR Tetradrachm 15.60g Turreted, veiled, and draped bust of Tyche right / Female (Aphrodite?) standing left, holding tiller; monogram and aplustre to outer left, AN to inner left; all within laurel wreath. Callataÿ, Production, unlisted dies; Houghton & Bendall Group 1, 1-2 (unlisted dies); SNG France 1152; SNG Levante -. Extremely rare, the tenth known tetradrachm of Elaioussa Sebaste. (Author's collection)
ISLANDS off CILICIA, Elaioussa Sebaste. Circa 95-94 BC. AR Tetradrachm 15.74g, 1h Turreted, veiled, and draped bust of Tyche right / Female (Aphrodite?) standing left, holding tiller; monogram and aplustre to outer left, AN to inner left; all within laurel wreath. Callataÿ, Production, unlisted dies; Houghton & Bendall Group 1, 1-2 (unlisted dies); SNG France 1152; SNG Levante -. Extremely rare, the ninth known tetradrachm of Elaioussa Sebaste. (Author's collection)
 CILICIA, Elaeussa-Sebaste
Ca. 1st cent. B.C. Æ 21 (5.52g)
Obv.: Laur. hd. of Zeus r., E
Rev.: Nike flying l.
ELAIOUSSIWN (monogram)
Ref: SNG Levante 824 (this coin; Author's collection)  CILICIA, Elaeussa-Sebaste
Ca. 1st cent. B.C. Æ 21 (5.52g)
Obv.: Laur. hd. of Zeus r., E
Rev.: Nike flying l.
ELAIOUSSIWN (monogram)
Ref: SNG Levante 823 var. (Author's collection)  CILICIA, Elaeussa-Sebaste
Ca. 1st cent. B.C. Æ 21 (5.93g)
Obv.: Laur. hd. of Zeus r., E
Rev.: Nike flying l.
ELAIOUSSIWN (monogram)
Ref: SNG Levante 830 (this coin; Author's collection) 
CILICIA, Elaeussa-Sebaste
Ca. 1st cent. B.C. Æ 21mm (7.74g)
Obv.: Laur. hd. of Zeus r., E
Rev.: Nike flying l.
ELAIOUSSIWN (monogram)
Ref: SNG Levante 830 (Author's collection)
 CILICIA, Elaeussa-Sebaste
Ca. 1st cent. B.C. Æ 18
Obv.: Bust of Tyche,
monogram
Rev.: Hermes holding phiale
and caduceus
ELAIOUSIWN
Ref: SNG Levante 834 (this coin; Author's collection)  CILICIA, Elaeussa-Sebaste
Ca. 1st cent. B.C. Æ 18
Obv.: Bust of Tyche,
monogram
Rev.: Hermes holding phiale
and caduceus
ELAIOUSIWN
Ref: SNG Levante 832-836 (Author's collection)  CILICIA, Elaeussa-Sebaste
Ca. 1st cent. B.C. Æ 18
Obv.: Bust of Tyche,
monogram
Rev.: Hermes holding phiale
and caduceus
ELAIOUSIWN
Ref: SNG Levante 832-836 (Author's collection)  Cilicia, Elaeussa-Sebaste
1st cent. B.C. Æ 28 (14.67g)
Obv.: Hd. of City-goddess, r.
Indistinct monogram
Rev.: Nike holding
wreath & palm-branch
ΕΛΑΙΟΥΣΙΩΝ CΡ & lituus?
Ref: Levante 838 (this coin; Author's collection)  Cilicia, Elaeussa-Sebaste
1st cent. B.C. Æ 25
Obv.: Hd. of Athena
Rev.: Aphrodite
ΕΛΑΙΟΥΣΙΩΝ CΡ & lituus?
Ref: Levante 839 (this coin; Author's collection)  Cilicia, Elaeussa-Sebaste
1st cent. B.C. Æ 23 (9.30g)
Obv.: Hd. of Athena
Rev.: Aphrodite
ΕΛΑΙΟΥΣΙΩΝ CΡ & lituus?
Ref: Levante 840 (this coin; Author's collection)  Cilicia, Elaeussa-Sebaste
1st cent. B.C. Æ 23 (9.30g)
Obv.: Hd. of Athena
Rev.: Aphrodite
ΕΛΑΙΟΥΣΙΩΝ CΡ & lituus?
Ref: Levante 840 (Author's collection)  CILICIA, Elaussa-Sebaste
Anonymous c. 1st cent. B.C.
Æ 16 (3.67g)
Obv.: Head of Athena
Rev.: Nike
CΕΒΑCΤ ΗΝωΝ
Ref: SNG Levante 841 (Author's collection  Cilicia, Elaeussa-Sebaste
1st cent. B.C. Æ 20
Obv.: Hd. of Athena
Rev.: Poseidon
ΕΛΑΙΟΥΣΙΩΝ CΡ & lituus?
Ref: Levante Supl 224 (this coin; Author's collection)  Cilicia, Elaiussa Sebaste
Ca. 1st cent. B.C. Æ 20mm 3.18g Obv.: Dolphin
ΜΗΤΙΟΠΟΑ ΠΑΡΔΛΙΟ
Rev.: Winged caduceus
CΕΒΑCΤ ΗΝωΝ
Ref: SNG Levante unpublished; Busso Peus 366 lot 1022 (Oct 2000) ex Marcel Burstein collection (Author's collection)  CILICIA, Elaussa-Sebaste
Anonymous c. 1st cent. B.C.
Æ 18 (6.13g)
Obv.: Head of Athena
Rev.: Nike
CΕΒΑCΤ ΗΝωΝ
Ref: SNG PFPS 455 (Author's collection) 
KINGS of COMMAGENE. Antiochos IV Epiphanes, with Iotape. ca. 38-72 AD. Æ 22mm, 9.93g RPC I 3721 - only one of two cited. (Author's collection)
CILICIA. Elaeusa-Sebaste. Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus (161-180 AD). Ae 20mm 6.41g Confronting busts and Athena standing. Ziegler 571 (Author's collection)
CILICIA. Elaeusa-Sebaste. Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus (161-169). Ae. 3gr. 16.9mm
Obv: ΑVΤΟΚΡΑΤ СЄΒΑСΤωΝ.
Bare heads of Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus facing one another.
Rev: СЄΒΑСΤΗ ΜΗΤ / ΠΑΡΑΛIΟΥ.
Facing herm on base.
RPC IV online 4923.2 = SNG Levante 847
(Author's collection)
 CILICIA, Elaeussa-Sebaste
Lucius Verus
177 - 198 A.D. Æ 35 (18.76g)
Obv.: Bust of emp., r.
Rev.: Cebele
Ref: Unpublished (Author's collection)  CILICIA, Elaeussa-Sebaste
Julia Domna
193 - 211 A.D. Æ 24
Obv.: Bust of emp., r.
Rev.: Nike
Ref: SNG Levante 848 supl 230 (this coin; Author's collection)  CILICIA, Elaeussa-Sebaste
Julia Domna
193 - 211 A.D. Æ 22 (12.25g)
Obv.: Bust of emp., r.
IOUDO MNA CEBAC.
Rev.: Artemis Epheisa
beneath archway
CΕΒΑΙΑ ΝΑΥΑΡ
Ref: SNG Levante 848 (Author's collection) 
CILICIA, Elaussa-Sebaste
Gordian III
238 – 244 A.D. Æ 28mm
Obv.: Laureate bust of emperor, r.
ΑΥΚΜΑΝΤΩΓΟΡΔΙΑΝΟC
Rev.: Aesclepius standing
CΕΒΑCΤΗΝωΝ ............
Ref: SNG Levante Supplement 231 (Author's collection)
 CILICIA, Elaussa-Sebaste
Gordian III
238 – 244 A.D. Æ 31mm (9.61g)
Obv.: Laureate bust of emperor, r.
ΑΥΚΜΑΝΤΩΓΟΡΔΙΑΝΟC
Rev.: Eagle
CΕΒΑCΤ ΗΝωΝ ............
Ref: SNG Levante 852 (Author's collection) 
CILICIA, Elaussa-Sebaste
Gordian III
238 – 244 A.D. Æ 37mm
Obv.: Laureate bust of emperor, r.
ΑΥΚΜΑΝΤΩ ΓΟΡΔΙΑΝΟC
Rev.: Zeus standing with staff
CΕΒΑCΤ ΗΝωΝ ............
Ref: SNG France 1175 (Author's collection)
CILICA, Elaussa-Sebaste. Gordianus III 238-244 AD. 35mm 20.94g, Zeus seated holding lightning bolt. SNG BN 1174 (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Elaeusa-Sebaste.
Tranquillina. 241-244 AD.
Æ 29mm, 12.17g
Obv: ϹΑΒΙΝΙΑ ΤΡΑΝΚΥΛΛΙΝΑ ΑΥΓ;
diademed and draped bust of Tranquillina, r.
Rev: ϹƐΒΑϹΤΗ ΑΥΤ ΝΑΥΑΡΧΙϹ;
cult statue of Artemis standing facing,
wearing calathus, with supports, between two stags
Ref: RPC Online VII.2, only one known coin
(Author's collection)
 CILICIA, Elaussa-Sebaste
Tranquillina
238 – 244 A.D. Æ 35mm
Obv.: Bust of empress
Rev.: Bust of Tyche
Ref: SNG Levante Supl 233 (this coin; Author's collection) 
CILICIA, Elaiussa-Sebaste
Tranquillina 241-244 AD
Æ 34mm, 21.72g
Obv: Diad. bust of Empress r.;
CABINIA TPANKVAAINAN AVG
Rev: Helmeted bust of Tyche l.;
CEBACTH IEPAC AVT
NAVAPXIC EAEVOEPAC
Ref: SNG France 1176;
SNG Levante Supl 233
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Elaiussa-Sebaste
Tranquillina 241-244 AD
Æ 32mm, 20.71g
Obv: Diad. bust of Empress r.;
CABINIA TPANKVAAINAN AVG
Rev: Helmeted bust of Athena l.;
CEBACTH IEPA AVTON
NAVAPXIC
Ref: SNG France 1177
ex CNG 43, 24 Sept 1997, lot 1009
(Author's collection)
Cilicia, Elaiussa-Sebaste, Tranquillina (241-244 AD), AE 33.7 mm, 20.89g. distyle aedicula shrine or temple. Ziegler 574 (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Elaussa-Sebaste. Valerianus I., 253 - 260 A.D. AE 26mm 11,56g Poseidon with Trident holding dolphin. Lindgren 1655 (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Elaiousa-Sebaste
Valerianus I (253-260 AD).
Æ 27mm, 8.9g
Obv: Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right
Rev: CEBACT-H-IEPA NAYAP/ XIC;
Eagle with open wings standing left; wreath in beak.
Ref: SNG Levante 855
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Elausa-Sebaste. Valerian I 253-260 AD Æ 24mm, 5.41g, 7h. ΠΟ ΛΙΚ ΟΥΑΛЄΡΙΑΝOC, laureate, draped and cuirassed bust to right / ϹЄΒΑϹΤΗ ΝΑΥΑΡΧΙϹ, draped bust of Sarapis to left. RPC X Online unassigned ID 60353 corr. (reverse legend); SNG BnF 1181. Roma 115, lot 699 (Author's collection)
 Aerial view of Elaussa-Sebaste  Theater  Cilicia, Elaeusa-Sebaste temple terrazzo  Cilicia, Elaeusa-Sebaste temple remains 
Elaussa-Sebaste aquaduct
 Coin hoard found in pot at Elaussa-Sebaste site  Cilicia, Elaeusa-Sebaste bascillica tiles Other Cilician Mints:Anemurion Marcus Aurelius
& Lucius Verus
Cilicia, Anemurion
161 – 180 A.D. Æ 31
Obv.: Facing laur. busts of emp.
…..ΑΝΤΩΝΙΝΟCCE
ΚΑΙLOΑΥΚ…
Rev.: Tyche in Distyle temple
[ΟΥΡΙ] ΕΩΝ ΕTΖ ΑΝΕΜ
Ref: Unpublished (Author's collection) Diocaesarea
 Septimius Severus
Cilicia, Dioceasarea
193 - 211 A.D. Æ 29 (18.40g)
Obv.: Bust of emp., r.
ΑΥΤΟΚΡΚΑΙCΛCΕΠΤΙ
CΕΟΥΗΡΟCΠΕΡCΕΒ
Rev.: Hexastyle temple
ΑΔΡΔΙΟΚΑΙCΑΡΕΩΝ
Ref: Levante Suppl. 178
Howgego marks 469 / 337 (Author's collection)  Remains of the Temple of Zeus depicted on coin above 
CILICIA, Diocaesarea. Otacilia Severa 28mm, 13.67g Archway into the city. SNG Levante Supp. 180; SNG France 8856 (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Diocaesarea. Otacilia Severa, wife of Philip I. Augusta, 244-249 AD. Æ 29mm, 11.30g Arch of Diocaesarea SNG Levante supplement 180 (Author's collection)
 Otacilia Severa
Cilicia, Diocaesarea
244 – 249 A.D. Æ 32 (11.91g)
Obv.: Diad. drap. bust, right
ΩΤΑΚΙΛCΕΥΗΡΑΝΕΥCCΕΒ
Rev.: Arched gateway
surmounted by 4 statues
ΑΔΡΙΑΝΩΝΔΙΟΚΑΙCΑΡΕΩΝ
ΜΗΤΡΚΕΝΝ
Ref: Levante 679 (this coin; Author's collection) 
Otacilia Severa
Cilicia, Diocaesarea
244 – 249 A.D. Æ 32 (12.31g)
Obv.: Diad. drap. bust, right
ΩΤΑΚΙΛCΕΥΗΡΑΝΕΥCCΕΒ
Rev.: Arched gateway
surmounted by 4 statues
ΑΔΡΙΑΝΩΝΔΙΟΚΑΙCΑΡΕΩΝ
ΜΗΤΡΚΕΝΝ
Ref: Levante 679 (Author's collection)
 Triumphal Archway at Diocaesarea (Uzuncaburc) depicted on coin above Mallos
CILICIA. Mallos.
Circa 440-390 BC.
AR Stater (20 mm, 10.73 g, 11 h).
Obv: Deity in kneeling-running stance to left,
holding solar disc with both hands.
Rev: MAP Swan, with wings extended, standing
right; before, flower; all within incuse circle.
Ref: SNG Levante 149 var. (legend). SNG Paris -.
SNG von Aulock - among the finest known
(Author's collection)
 Diadumenian
Cilicia, Mallos
217 A.D. Æ 29 (15.19g)
Obv.: Rad. bust r. of emp.
AUTOKAIMAOPEL
DIADOUMENIANOC
Rev.: Athena Megarsis in
tetrastyle temple
MALIERPOLQEOU
AMFILOCO ETDPC
Ref: SNG Levante 1285 var.
Unpublished legend variant (Author's collection) 
CILICIA. Mallus
Philip I the Arab (244-249 AD)
Æ 32mm, 16.00g, 6h
Obv: Radiate draped and
cuirassed bust of Philip right
Rev: Draped bust of Otacillia
Severa wearing stephane right.
Ref: SNG France 1930;
Lindgren III 870
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Mallus
Pseudo-autonomous, time of
Trajan Decius 249-251 AD
Æ 32mm, 17.60g
Obv: SACRA SINATVS, veiled, draped
bust of the Senate right, seen from front
Rev: MAL-LO-C-OLONIA, Tyche
seated left on rocks, grain ears in right
hand, between legionary standards marked
S and C; two river gods at feet swimming
outward in either direction.
Ref: RPC IX 1437. Ziegler 918-21.
(Author's collection)
Kelenderis
CILICIA. Kelenderis.
Circa 430-420 BC.
AR Stater (20 mm, 10.84 g, 1 h).
Obv: Youthful nude rider seated sideways on horse
prancing to left, holding whip in his left hand and
preparing to jump off.
Rev: KEΛ Goat kneeling left, head turned back to
right; above, ivy branch with berries and leaf; all
within shallow round incuse.
Ref: SNG Paris 48 var. (Π below). SNG vAulock 5624.
(Author's collection)
CILICIA. Kelenderis.
Circa 410-375 BC.
AR Stater (22 mm, 10.52 g, 7 h).
Obv: Nude ephebe, holding goad in his right hand and
reins in his left, seated sideways on horse prancing right,
preparing to jump off.
Rev: KEΛ Goat kneeling right, its head turned back to left.
Ref: SNG Paris 69 var. (KEΛEN); Casabonne Type 4.
(Author's collection)
Seleucia ad Calycadnum
 CILICIA, Seleucia ad Calycadnum. Severus Alexander. 222-235 AD. Æ 29mm (11.63 gm, 6h). Obv.: Rad. bust of emp., r.
ΑΥΚΜΑΥΡCΕΟΥΗΡ
ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟC
Δ Κ countermarks
Rev.: Distyle shrine with
city-goddess, river god below
CΕΛΕΥΚΕΩΝΚΑΛΥΚ
Ref: SNG Levante supl 196 (this coin) CNG 69 lot 1120 (2005) Author's collection 
CILICIA, Seleucia ad Calycadnum.
Gordian III (238-244). Æ 34mm, 23.89g
Obv: ΑΝΤΩΝΙΟϹ ΓΟΡΔΙΑΝΟϹ ϹЄΒΑϹ.
Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right; c/m:
annulet within Δ within triangular incuse.
Rev: ϹЄΛЄΥΚЄΩΝ ΤΩ ΠΡΟϹ ΤΩ
ΚΑΛΥΚΑΔΝ / ЄΛЄΥΘЄΡΑϹ.
Nike advancing right, holding wreath and palm.
Ref: RPC VII.2 2904; SNG BN 1019; SNG
Levante Supp. 206; for c/m: Howgego 670
(Author's collection)
CILICIA. Seleucia ad Calycadnum. Antoninus Pius (138-161). Ae 9.3gr. 24mm (Author's collection)
Olba
 Cilicia, Olba
Ajax, High Priest & Toparch
(time of Augustus)
10 – 15 A.D. Æ 21 (7.95g)
Obv.: Hd. of Ajax as Hermes
ΑΙΑΝΤΟΣΤΕΥΚΡΟΥ
Rev.: Triskeles
ΑΡΧΙΕΡΕΩΣΤΟΠΑΡΧΟΥ
ΚΕΝΝΑΤΛΑΛΑΣΑ – yr. 1, 10/11
Ref: SNG Levante 630 (this coin; Author's collection)  Cilicia, Olba
Ajax, High Priest & Toparch
(time of Augustus)
10 – 15 A.D. Æ 15 (4.06g)
Obv.: Thunderbolt
ΑΡΧΙΕΡ ΑΙΑΝΤΟΣΤΕΥΚΡΟΥ
Rev.: Legend ΤΟΠΑΡΧ
ΚΕΝΝΑΤΛΑΛΑΣΒ – yr. 2, 11/12
Ref: SNG Levante 634 (this coin; Author's collection)  Cilicia, Olba
M. Antonius Polemo III, high priest
41 – 69 A.D. Æ 16 (2.41g)
Obv.: Club
ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣΜΑΝΤ
ΠΟΛΕΜΩΝΟΣ
Rev.: Harpa on Globe
ΟΙΝΟΝΛΑΛΑΣΣΕΩΝ
ΚΑΙΚΕΝΝΑΤΩΝ
Ref: Levante 644 (this coin; Author's collection)  Cilicia, Olba
Ca. 1st cent. A.D. Æ 24 (7.84g)
Obv.: Empty throne of Zeus Olbius
ΕΡ
Rev.: Thunderbolt, NI above
ΟΛΒΕΩΝΝΙ
Ref: Levante 645 (this coin; Author's collection)  Olba fortress walls (as depicted above on coin) 
CILICIA, Olba
Pseudo-autonomous issue,
time of Vespasian, 69-79 AD
Æ 18 mm, 3.86g, 7h
Obv: Club tied with fillet.
Rev: ΟΛΒΕ/ΩΝ Tall crenellated tower
Ref: RPC II 1721A. SNG Levante 646
Staffieri 40; ex. Staffieri Collection,
ex Van der Dussen 23, April 1995 #560
Nomos 27 #499
(Author's collection)
Cilicia, Olba
Ca. 1st cent. A.D. Æ 20mm, 4.12g
Obv.: Crenellated tower
Rev.: Club tied with fillets
ΟΛΒΕΩΝ
Ref: Levante 646 (Author's collection)
 Galba
Cilicia, Olba
68 – 69 A.D. Æ 23 (11.06g)
Obv.: Hd. of emp. r.
CΕΒΑCΤΟΝΚΑΙCΑΡΑ
ΑΥΤΟΚΡCΕΡΓΙΟΝ
ΓΑΛΒΑΝΤΟΝΕΥΕΡΓ
Rev.: Harpa on Globe
ΒΑCΙΛΕΥCΜΑΝΤ
ΠΟΛΕΜΩΝ
Ref: Levante 650 (this coin; Author's collection) Tarsus (cont.)
Cleopatra's gate in Tarsus
CILICIA. Tarsos.
Circa 420-400 BC.
AR Stater (19 mm, 10.26 g, 6 h).
Obv: Satrap on horseback riding left, wearing kyrbasia
and with gorytos at his hip, holding flower in his right
hand and reins in his left; behind, eagle standing left on
branch; below horse, ankh-like symbol.
Rev: Archer kneeling right, drawing bow; behind,
ankh-like symbol; all within dotted border within incuse square.
Ref: Müseler 9.6.5c. Roma E-Auction 69 (2020), 517.
SNG Copenhagen -. SNG Levante -. SNG Paris -. SNG von Aulock -.
(Author's collection)
 Antoninus Pius
Cilicia, Tarsus
138 – 161 A.D. Æ 31 (18.95g)
Obv.: Laur., drap., cuir. bust, right
AUTKAΙΤΙΑΙΑΔΡΙΑΝΤΩΝΙΝΟC
CΕΒ ΕΥ Π Π
Rev.: Decastyle temple with
wreath in pediment, on architrave
ΚΟΙΝΟCΚΙΛΙΚΙΑC, ΑΔΡΙΑΝΩΝ
TARCΕΩΝMHTROPOLΕΩC
Ref: Levante 1014 (this coin; Author's collection) 
CILICIA. Tarsus. Antoninus Pius, 138-161. Tetrassarion (Bronze, 25 mm, 15.10 g, 12 h). ΑΥΤ ΚΑΙ ΤΙ ΑΙ ΑΔΡ[ΙΑ] ΑΝΤΩΝΙΝΟС СЄΒ ЄY / Π - Π Laureate head of Antoninus Pius to right. Rev. AΔPIANΩN TAPCЄΩN / MHTPOΠOΛЄ/ΩC Decastyle temple with ΚΟΙΝΟC ΚΙΛΙΚΙΑC on architrave. SNG Paris 1447 (Author's collection)
Author in Tarsus at excavation site
CILICIA, Tarsus
Lucius Verus (161-169 AD)
Æ 31mm, 19.11g, h 12
Obv: ΑΥΤ ΚΑΙC ΜΑΡ ΑΥΡΗΛΙO
ΑΝΤΩΝEΙΝΟC CEΒ, Laureate,
draped and cuirassed bust r.
Rev: ΟΜΟΝΟΙΑ ϹEΒΑCΤΩΝ
ΑΔΡΙΑΝΗC ΤΑΡCΟΥ
ΜΗΤΡΟΠΟΛEΩC, Lucius Verus and
Marcus Aurelius standing facing
each other, clasping hands and holding rolls.
Ref: RPC IV.3 online 5034 (temporary);
SNG BnF 1458; SNG Levante -.
ex Bertolami 92 #1348; ex Gorny & Mosch 191 #1829
(Author's collection)
 Cilicia, Tarsus
Caracalla
193 - 217 A.D. Æ 38 (19.77g)
Obv.: Crowned of Demiourgos
head of emperor right
AUTKΑΙΜΑΥΡ.CЄUΗΡΟC
ANTΩNEIHOC P P in ex.
Rev.: Galley with sail
ANTΩNЄIΝЄΙΑΝΗC CЄUΗΑΔ
TARCOU AMK CЄIT in ex.
Ref: SNG Levante 1067 (Author's collection) 
CILICIA, Tarsus
Caracalla, 198-217 AD
Æ Pentassarion 32 mm, 13.88g, 7h
Obv: AΥT KAI M AΥΡ CЄΥHPOC
ANTⲰNЄINOC / Π - ΠP
Laureate draped and cuirassed bust of
Caracalla to right, seen from behind.
Rev: ANTⲰNIANHC CEYH AΔP
MHTR / TARCOY; She-wolf
standing right, head turned back,
suckling the twins Romulus and
Remus; above, ΔЄK.
Ref: SNG Levante -. SNG Paris 1503
Leu 28, lot 2406
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus
Caracalla, 198-217 AD
Æ Hexassarion 33mm, 15.83g, 7h
Obv: AYT KAI M AYP CЄYHPOC
ANTΩNЄINOC CЄB / Π - [Π]
Laureate and cuirassed bust of
Caracalla to right, seen from behind.
Rev: ΑΝΤΩΝΙΑΝΗC / CЄY/Η
ΑΔ/Ρ ΜΗΤ / Δ ЄΞ / [A] - M / K –
[TAPCOΥ] The Nymphaeum of Tarsus:
portico with a central arch and niche to
left and right, each containing a fountain;
above each niche, quadriga of horses;
within the arch, struggling figures; above
arch, quadriga of elephants facing below
a statue of Skylla.
Ref: SNG Levante 1045. SNG Levante
Supp. 265. SNG von Aulock 6016.
(Author's collection)
CILICIA. Tarsus
Caracalla, 198-217 AD
Æ Tetrassarion 33mm, 18.23 g, 7 h
Obv: AYT KAI M AVP CЄOYHPOC
ANTΩNЄINOC CЄB / Π - Π
Laureate and cuirassed bust of Caracalla r.
Rev. ΑΝΤΩΝΙΑΝΗC CЄYΗ ΑΔΡ ΜΗΤP /
TAPCOY / Є - Δ / K Herakles grasping
the giant Antaios around the waist and raising
him from the ground; to right, club.
Ref: SNG Levante 1057; SNG Paris 1520
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus. Caracalla 193-211 AD. AE 34mm Perseus and Hercules. Levante 1069 this coin (Author's collection)
CILICIA. Tarsus. Macrinus, 217-218. Hexassarion (33mm, 1 h). ΑΥΤ ΚΑ Μ ΟΠЄ ΜΑΚΡЄΙΝΟC Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Macrinus to right, seen from front. Rev. CЄYH ΜΑΚΡЄΙΝΙΑΝΗC ΤΑΡCΟY ΜΗ[ΤΡ] / Γ / Β Zeus seated left, holding Nike in his right hand and scepter in his left; to left (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus
Severus Alexander 222-235 AD
Æ Hexassarion 38mm, 24.89g, 1h
Obv: Α Κ Μ Α СЄΟY ΑΛЄΞΑΝΔΡΟС
СЄΒ / Π - Π Bust of Severus Alexander
to right, wearing crown and garments of
the demiourgos.
Rev: ΑΛΕΧΑΝΔP AN CЄO AΔ ΜΗT
TAPCOY / Α / Μ / Κ - Γ / Β Athena
standing front, head to left, holding patera
over altar in her right hand and shield and
spear in her left.
Ref: see CNG E-Auction 328 (2014), 356
SNG Levante -. SNG Paris -
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus
Maximinus Thrax, 235 - 238 AD
Æ 22.88g
Obv: ΑΥΤ Κ Γ ΙΟΥ ΜΑΞΙΜΕΙΝΟ /Σ
/ Π - Π, draped armor bust with rad. crown
Rev: ΤΑΡ / ΣΟΥ / ΜΗΤΡΟΠ / Ο /
Α / Μ - Κ / Γ - Β, cult image of the Tyche,
river god Kydnos at feet; within tetrastyle
aedicula with Syrian gable
Ref: SNG Levante -
ex. German Private Collection of E.L.
ex M & M Germany, Auction 19,
16 May 2006, No. 224
Gorny & Mosch 265 #1104
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus
Maximinus 235-238 AD
Æ 36mm, 17.63g, 6h
Obv: ΑΥΤ Κ Γ ΙΟΥ ΟΥΗ ΜΑΞΙΜЄΙΝΟϹ,
radiate, draped and cuirassed bust to right,
Π-Π across fields
Rev: ΤΑΡϹΟΥ ΤΗ[Ϲ ΜΗΤΡΟ]ΠΟΛЄѠ,
Apollo Lykeios standing facing, head to left,
holding bow and wolf, Α Μ Κ Γ Β across fields.
Ref: RPC VI 7104; SNG BnF 1591;
SNG Copenhagen 379
(Author's collection)
CILICIA. Tarsus. Maximinus I, 235-238. Hexassarion (36 mm, 28.16 g, 7 h). AYT•K•Γ IOY OYH MAΞIMЄINOC / Π - Π Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Maximinus I to right, seen from behind. Rev. ΤΑΡCΟΥ ΜΗΤΡΟΠΟΛЄωC / A / M / K / Γ / Β Apollo Lykeios standing front on omphalos, head to left, holding wolf by the forelegs in his right hand and bow and arrow in his left. SNG Levante -. SNG Paris 1591. from collection of Jean-Pierre Righetti (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus. Balbinus. AD 238. Æ (34mm, 26.81 g, 6h). Laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right / Balbinus on horseback right, wearing military attire, thrusting spear at lion below. RPC VII.2 3003; SNG BN 1630 (same dies); SNG Levante Suppl. 280 (same dies). From the W. Toliver Besson Collection. Ex Berk BBS 217 (30 November 2021), lot 431
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus. Balbinus. AD 238. 37mm 25.28g Hercules wrestling giant Antaeus. Voegtli, p. 67- SNG France 1629- RPC VII.2, 3006 (Author's collection)
CILICIA. Tarsus. Gordian III (238-244). Æ 35mm, 23.77g Emperor on horseback. SNG von Aulock 6040; BMC 282-3; SNG Leypold 2682 (Author's collection)
 Herennia Etruscilla
Cilicia, Tarsus
249 – 251 A.D. Æ 31 (13.69g)
Obv.: Diad. drap. bust, right on cresc
ΑΝΝΙΑΝΑΙΤΡΟΥCΚΙΛΛΑΝCΕ
Rev.: Cult statue of Apollo Lykeios
stg on omphalos holding wolves
ΤΑΡCΟΥΜΗΤΡΟΠΟΛΕΩC
ΓΒ ΑΜΚ
Ref: Levante 1171 (this coin; Author's collection) 
CILICIA, Tarsus
Trebonianus Gallus 251-253 AD
Æ 31mm, 17,09 g
Obv: ΑΥ ΚΑΙ Γ ΟΥΙΒΙΟΝ ΤΡΙΒΩ
ΓΑΛΛΟΝ Π Π, Radiate, draped and
cuirassed bust right
Rev: ΤΑΡϹΟΥ ΜΗΤΡΟΠΟΛƐΩϹ, Α Μ Κ
Γ Β, Gallus(?) standing right, holding
spear, extending right hand to Ares standing
left, helmeted, holding Nike and spear.
Ref: RPC IX 1402; Ziegler 816;
SNG von Aulock 6073.
(Author's collection / image courtesy of Savoca)
|
Anazarbus
Gate at Anazarbus (Citadel in view)
 Severus Alexander
Cilicia, Anazarbus
222 – 235 A.D. Æ 32 (25.11g)
Obv.: Laur. bust of emp., r.
ΑΥΤΚΑΜΑΥΡCΕΟΥ
ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟC
Rev.: Aqueduct or archway
ΑΝΑΖΑΡΒΟΥ.
Ref: SNG Levante 1450 (this coin; Author's collection) 
Anazarbus gate re-imagined
 Remains of the Triumphal Archway at Anazarbus depicted on coin above  Claudius
Cilicia, Anazarbos
41 – 54 A.D. Æ 30 (16.90g)
Year 67 = 48/9 A.D.
Obv.: Bare hd. bust of emp. r.
GЄRMANIKOCKAISAR
Rev.: fortress upon rocky crag
Head of Zeus Olybris
KAISARЄWN TWN
PROS TW ANAZARBW
Ref: RPC 4060; SNG Levante
1366; Ziegler 35.1-43.1 (Author's collection) 
Claudius Cilicia, Anazarbos 41 – 54 A.D. Æ 27mm (17.0g) Year 67 = 48/9 A.D. Obv.: Bare hd. bust of emp. r. GЄRMANIKOCKAISAR Rev.: fortress upon rocky crag Head of Zeus Olybris KAISARЄWN TWN PROS TW ANAZARBW Ref: RPC 4060; SNG Levante 1366; Ziegler 35.1-43.1 (Author's collection)
Claudius Cilicia, Anazarbos 41 – 54 A.D. Æ 29mm Year 67 = 48/9 A.D. Obv.: Bare hd. bust of emp. r. GЄRMANIKOCKAISAR Rev.: fortress upon rocky crag Head of Zeus Olybris KAISARЄWN TWN PROS TW ANAZARBW Ref: RPC 4060; SNG Levante 1366; Ziegler 35.1-43.1 (Author's collection)
Author with local Kurdish family - Anazarbus citadel resting on acropolis behind
CILICIA, Anazarbus Trajan 98-110 AD. AE 20mm; 7.17g; 12h Acropolis (Zeus' head super-imposed on rocky crag). SNG Levante 1377 (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Anazarbus.
Trajan 98-117 AD; CY 126 (107/8)
Æ 22mm, 8.5g Assarion.
Obv: ΑΥΤ ΚΑΙ ΝΕΡ ΤΡΑΙΑΝΟС СΕ ΓΕΡ ΔΑ.
Laureate head of Trajan right.
Rev: KAICAPEΩN ΠP ANAZAPBΩ / ET ςKP.
Laureate and draped bust of Zeus right; in background,
rocky crag surmounted by Acropolis.
Ref: RPC III 3366.12 = Ziegler, Anazarbos, 97.13
(Author's collection)
 Acropolis of Anazarbus (Anavarsa) depicted on the coin above 
CILICIA, Anazarbus. Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus temple Ziegler 185 Vs1Rs 5 11.49g Numis Lanz 117 lot 789 (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Anazarbus
Lucius Verus, 161-169 AD
Æ Tetrassarion 30mm, 17.79g, 1h
CY 182 = 163/4.
Obv: ΑYΤ Κ Λ ΑYΡΗΛΙΟϹ ΟYΗΡΟϹ
ϹЄΒ YC[...] Bare head of Lucius Verus
to right, with slight drapery on his
left shoulder.
Rev: ΚΑΙϹ ΤΩΝ ΠΡΟϹ ΤΩ
ΑΝΑΖΑΡΒΩ / ЄΤ ΒΠΡ Temple
with ten columns.
Ref: RPC IV.3 online 3649;
Ziegler 201-203.
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Anazarbus
Macrinus, 217-218 AD
Æ Triassarion, 28mm, 15.50g
CY 235 = 217
Obv: [AYT] K M OΠ CЄY
MAKPЄINOC CЄB Laureate
head of Macrinus to right
Rev ANAZ ЄNΔ MHT PΩM
TPOΠ KЄK / ЄT ЄΛC Two
temples: tetrastyle on the left and
octastyle on the right.
Ref: SNG Levante 1416
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Anazarbus.
Otacilia Severa. 244-249 AD.
Æ 31mm, 18.14g
Obv: ΩTAKЄIΛIA CЄOΥHPA CЄB;
Draped bust of Otacilia Severa
set on crescent to right, wearing stephane
Rev: ANAZAPBOΥ MHTPOΠO /
ЄT - ΓΞC Eirene seated left on throne,
holding branch in her right hand and
scepter in her left; in exergue, helmet, cuirass,
shield, greaves and spear
Ref: SNG Paris 2114
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Anazarbus
Herennius Etruscus 249-251 AD
Dated CY 269 (250/1).
Æ Triassarion 27mm, 11.71g
Obv: ΚVΙΝ ЄΡЄ ЄΤΡ ΜЄϹ ΔЄΚΚΙΟϹ
Κ; Laureate, draped cuirassed bust right.
Rev: ΑΝΑΖΑΡΒΟV ЄΝΔΟ ΜΗΤ / Γ Γ /
ЄΤ ΘΞϹ. Six stars above crescent.
Ref: RPC IX 1496.5; Ziegler 757;
Ziegler 1132; SNG BN 2124
(Author's collection/image courtesy of Savoca)
Alexandria ad Issum
CILICIA, Alexandria ad Issum.
Time of Hadrian (98-138 AD)
Æ 15mm, 2.71g.
Obv: AΛEΞANΔPEωN.
Laureate bust of Poseidon.
Rev: KAT ICCON.
Dolphin swimming right; trident above.
Ref: RPC III 3401 (3 spec.); SNG Lev. Suppl. 432.
(Author's collection)
Corycus (Korykos)
Traveling westward along the Mediterranean one comes to the remains of Korykos and the two enduring Armenian fortresses that remain the central feature of the site. The most stunning is Maiden’s castle or “Kizkalesi” (200 meters into the water), named after a legend about a 12th century Armenian king whose daughter had been prophesied to die by the poisonous bite of a snake. To protect his daughter the king placed her in the castle; however, a poisonous snake traveled to the castle in a basket of fruit and bit her, fulfilling the prophecy. The fortress in the sea has been known by many different names including Crambusa, described by Strabo as a refuge for pirates prior to Roman domination of the region. The current structure probably dates to the Byzantine Admiral Eugenius who in 1104 AD established it as a link in the chain of coastal fortifications used to defend the borders of Byzantium. The other castle, known simply as “castle by the sea” dates from a similar period although portions of its construction and building materials date from the 2nd through 5th century AD. The ruins surrounding these structures (the remains of Korykos) constitute the largest archeological site in the region. Historically, the city owes its namesake to a Cypriot prince (of the same name according to Herodotus). Adding to his Syrian kingdom, Antiochos III captured the area in 197 BC but it was later relinquished to the Romans in 67 BC. The present-day remains of many Byzantine and late Roman-style churches and basilicas are testament to the changes in belief systems from paganism to modern Christianity beginning with the reign of Theodosius I (391 AD). Coinage produced from the city is a reminder of its former importance and role in the local economy and regional industry. During my own travels to this area I was exposed to several coins found locally although only one from Corycos specifically, (SNG France 1086, Tyche/Hermes carrying caduceus). Hermes, the God of commerce and communication, as a reverse type for coins minted in Corycos is consistent with the assertion that he was considered the main deity worshipped by the city’s populace. Coins produced from the area typically date from the 1st century BC through the third century AD and demonstrate a substantial range in variety. 
Author among the ruins of the city
 CILICIA, Korykos
Anonymous c. 1st cent. B.C.
Æ 26
Obv.: Diademed head of Zeus, right
Monogram AΘΗ
Rev.: Thalassa?, standing left,
holding aphlaston and sceptre
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩΤΩΝ ΕAΝ
Ref: SNG Levante 790 (this coin; ex Waddell I lot #504 (1982), Author's collection)  CILICIA, Korykos
Anonymous c. 1st cent. B.C.
Æ 26 (13.09g)
Obv.: Diademed head of Zeus, right
Monogram AΘΗ
Rev.: Thalassa?, standing left,
holding aphlaston and sceptre
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩΤΩΝ ΕAΝ
Ref: SNG BN Cilicia 1072
(Levante 790 var.; Author's collection)  CILICIA, Korykos
Anonymous c. 1st cent. B.C.
Æ 22 (6.06g)
Obv.: Hd. of city-goddess, r.
ΑΚ behind
Rev.: Hermes holding
phiale & caduceus
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩΤΩΝ ΕΡ ΠΟ ΕΡ
Ref: Levante 792 (this coin; Author's collection)  CILICIA, Korykos
Anonymous c. 1st cent. B.C.
Æ 22
Obv.: Hd. of city-goddess, r.
ΑΚ behind
Rev.: Hermes holding
phiale & caduceus
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩΤΩΝ ΕΡ ΠΟ ΕΡ
Ref: Levante 794 (this coin; Author's collection)  CILICIA, Korykos
Anonymous c. 1st cent. B.C.
Æ 17
Obv.: Turreted hd of Tyche, right
ΟΥ behind
Rev.: Hermes standing left,
holding phiale and caduceus
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩΤΩΝ (+ monogram)
Ref: SNG Levante 791-795 (Author's collection)  CILICIA, Korykos
Anonymous c. 1st cent. B.C.
Æ 17
Obv.: Turreted hd of Tyche, right
ΟΥ behind
Rev.: Hermes standing left,
holding phiale and caduceus
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩΤΩΝ (+ monogram)
Ref: SNG Levante 791-795 (Author's collection)  CILICIA, Korykos
Anonymous c. 1st cent. B.C.
Æ 17
Obv.: Turreted hd of Tyche, right
ΟΥ behind
Rev.: Hermes standing left,
holding phiale and caduceus
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩΤΩΝ (+ monogram)
Ref: SNG Levante 791-795 (Author's collection)  CILICIA, Korykos
Anonymous c. 1st cent. B.C.
Æ 17
Obv.: Demeter hd. r.
Rev.: Hermes standing left,
holding phiale and caduceus
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩΤΩΝ (+ monogram)
Ref: SNG Levante 799  CILICIA, Korykos
Anonymous c. 1st cent. B.C.
Æ 17
Obv.: Demeter hd. r.
Rev.: Hermes standing left,
holding phiale and caduceus
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩΤΩΝ (+ monogram)
Ref: SNG Levante 800 (this coin; Author's collection)  CILICIA, Korykos
Anonymous c. 1st cent. B.C.
Æ 25 (9.15g)
Obv.: Head of Demeter r.
Rev.: Hermes
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩΤ
Ref: Levante 802 (this coin; Author's collection)  CILICIA, Korykos
Anonymous c. 1st cent. B.C.
Æ 25
Obv.: Head of Demeter r.
Rev.: Hermes
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩΤ
Ref: Levante 803 (this coin; Author's collection) 
CILICIA, Korykos
ca. 1st cent B.C.
Æ 15mm, 3.61g
Obv: KOPYKIΩTΩN.
Aphlaston.
Rev: ΔΩ – PI (magistrate)
Winged kerykeion
Ref: SNG BN 1104-5 (legends);
SNG Levante 804 (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Korykos
ca. 1st cent B.C.
Æ 19mm, 3.89g
Obv: KOPYKIΩTΩN.
Aphlaston.
Rev: ΔΩ – PI (magistrate)
Winged kerykeion
Ref: SNG BN 1104-5 (legends);
SNG Levante 804 (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Korykos.
1st century BC
Æ 19mm, 4.51g
Obv: KOPYKI;
Aphlaston.
Rev: AVTONOM;
Winged kerykeion.
Ref: SNG BN 1104-5;
SNG Levante 804.
NN 138, lot 223
(Author's collection)
 CILICIA, Corycus
Anonymous c. 1st cent. B.C.
(15mm, 4.11g)
Obv: Aplustre
ΤΟΝΟ Μ…
Rev: Winged cadeuceus
ΚΩΡΥ Κ Ω ΤΩΝ
Ref: SNG BN 1104-5 var.,
SNG Levante 804 (Author's collection) 
CILICIA, Corycus. Tiberius. AD 14-37. Æ 25mm, 9.51g. Hd of Aphrodite. RPC I 3711-2 and SNG Levante 807 this coin ex Waddell 4, 1982 (Author's collection)
 CILICIA, Corycus
Commodus
177 - 192 A.D. Æ 27
Obv.: Laur. bust of emp., r.
ΑΥΚΤΜΑΥΑΝΤ.
Rev.: Hermes with chlamys
over shoulder, holding
purse & caduceus
ΚΩΡΥΚΙ ΑΥΤΟΝ
Ref: SNG Levante 808 (this coin; Author's collection)  CILICIA, Corycus
Caracalla
193 - 217 A.D. Æ 22
Obv.: Laur. bust of emp., r.
ΑΥΚΤΜΑΥΑΝΤ.
Rev.: Hermes with chlamys
over shoulder, holding
purse & caduceus
ΚΩΡΥΚΙ ΑΥΤΟΝ
Ref: Levante supl 218 (Author's collection) 
CILICIA, Corycus. Julia Domna (Augusta, 193-211 AD). Æ 23mm, 9.21g, 12h. Draped bust r. R/ Aphrodite Euploia standing l., holding aphlaston and sceptre. SNG BnF -; SNG Levante -; SNG Copenhagen -; SNG von Aulock -; BMC -. Unpublished (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Corycus
Severus Alexander AD 222-235.
Æ 32 mm, 19.96 g
Obv: AΥ Κ Μ ΑΥΡ CЄVΗΡ
ΑΛΕΣΑΝΔΡΟC, laureate/draped,
cuirassed bust r.; aegis on breastplate
Rev: KΩΡYKIΩTΩN AYTONOMΩΝ,
Aphrodite Euploia standing l., holding
aphlaston & sceptre at feet, prow of galley l.
Ref: SNG France 1112;
SNG Levante Suppl. 219
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Corycus. Severus Alexander (222-235). Æ 32mm, 14.06g
Obv: ΑΥ Κ Μ ΑΥΡ ϹЄΟΥΗΡ ΑΛЄΞΑΝΔΡΟϹ.
Radiate and cuirassed bust right, with slight drapery.
Rev: ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩΤΩΝ ΑΥΤΟΝΟΜΩΝ.
Aphrodite Euploia standing left, holding aplustre and sceptre; prow at feet to left.
RPC VI online 7046 (3 specimens); BMC 14 (Author's collection)
 CILICIA, Corycus
Julia Mamaea
222 – 235 A.D. Æ 29mm (10.18g)
Obv.: Bust of emp., r.
Rev.: Hermes, ram at feet
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩ ΤΩΝ ...........
Ref: SNG Levante unpublished (Author's collection)  CILICIA, Corycus
Gordian III
238 – 244 A.D. Æ 32mm (14.17g)
Obv.: Bust of emp., r.
Rev.: Aphrodite, prow at feet
Ref: SNG Levante 811 (this coin);
vAulock 5682 (this coin; Author's collection)  CILICIA, Corycus
Gordian III
238 – 244 A.D. Æ 28mm (9.79g)
Obv.: Bust of emp., r.
Rev.: Poseidon holding dolphin
Ref: SNG Levante 812 (this coin; Author's collection) 
CILICIA, Corycus
Gordian III 238-244 AD
Æ 25mm, 6.47g
Obv: Laur, drap/cuir bust right.
Rev: KΩPVKIΩΤΩΝ AVTONOMOV
Poseidon standing r.
Ref: SNG Levante 812 var.;
SNG France 1113 var.
ex. WB & RE Montgomery coll.
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Corycus
Gordian III
238 – 244 A.D. Æ 26mm (9.17g)
Obv.: Bust of emp., r.
Rev.: Poseidon holding dolphin
Ref: SNG Levante 812 var. (Author's collection)
 CILICIA, Corycus
Gordian III
238 – 244 A.D. Æ 29mm
Obv.: Rad. bust of emp., r.
ΑΥΚΜΑΝΤΩΓΟΡΔΙΑΝΟC
Rev.: Hermes, ram at feet
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩ ΤΩΝ ΑΥΤΟΝΟΜΟ.
Ref: SNG France 1114 (Author's collection)  CILICIA, Corycus
Tranquillina
241 - 244 A.D. Æ 20 (7.11g)
Obv.: Diad. bust of emp., r.
CΑΒΙΝΙΑΝΤΡΑΝΚΥΛΛΙΝΑΝ.
Rev.: Aphrodite standing
ΚΩΡΥ…ΝΑΥΑΡ.
Ref: Levante 814 (this coin; Author's collection)  CILICIA, Corycus
Philip I, 244-249 A.D.
(Æ 29mm, 12.44g)
Obv: laur. draped & cuirassed bust r.
ΑΥΤ Κ Μ ΙΟΥΛΙΟC
ΦΙΛΙΠΠΟC CЄΒ
Rev: Aphrodite Euploia stdg l.,
holding scepter and aphlaston
ΚΟΡΥΚΙΩΤΩΝ ΑΥΤΟΝΟΜ
Ref: SNG Levante 815 (Author's collection)  CILICIA, Corycus
Philip I, 244-249 A.D.
(Æ 29mm)
Obv: laur. draped & cuirassed bust r.
ΑΥΤ Κ Μ ΙΟΥΛΙΟC
ΦΙΛΙΠΠΟC CЄΒ
Rev: Aphrodite Euploia stdg l.,
holding scepter and aphlaston
ΚΟΡΥΚΙΩΤΩΝ ΑΥΤΟΝΟΜ
Ref: SNG Levante 815 (Author's collection) 
CILICIA, Corycus
Philip I, 244-249 A.D.
(Æ 31mm; 15.60g, 6h)
Obv: laur. draped & cuirassed bust r.
ΑΥΤ Κ Μ ΙΟΥΛΙΟC
ΦΙΛΙΠΠΟC CЄΒ
Rev: Thalassa, wearing a headdress of crab claws, standing facing, her head slightly left, extending arm and holding rudder and aphlaston. ΚΟΡΥΚΙΩΤΩΝ ΑΥΤΟΝΟΜ Ref: SNG Levante 816; SNG Levante 1117 (Author's collection)
Cilicia, Corycus. Philip II, as Caesar. Æ 23mm, 5.1g, AD 244-247. Hermes unpublished (Author's collection)
 CILICIA, Corycus
Otacilia Severa, 244-249 A.D.
Æ 25mm
Obv: laur. draped & cuirassed bust r.
ΩΤΑΚΙΙΑΝ CEΟΥΗΡΛΝ
Rev: Aphrodite Euploia stdg l.,
holding scepter and aphlaston
ΚΟΡΥ ΝΑ ……
Ref: SNG Levante 817 (this coin; Author's collection)  CILICIA, Corycus
Otacilia Severa, 244-249 A.D.
Æ 25mm (14.31g)
Obv: laur. draped & cuirassed bust r.
ΩΤΑΚΙΙΑΝ CEΟΥΗΡΛΝ
Rev: Hermes
ΚΟΡΥ ΝΑ ……
Ref: SNG Levante 818 unpublished variant (Author's collection)  CILICIA, Corycus
Valerian
253 - 268 A.D. Æ 29 (18.90g)
Obv.: Rad. bust of emp., r.
Rev.: Dionysus with prize crown on tripod
ΚΩΡΥ ΚΙΩ ΤΩΝΑΥΤΟΝΟ ΜΟΥ.
Ref: SNG Levante 820 (Author's collection) 
CILICIA, Corycus
Valerian I (253-260 AD)
Æ 32mm, 14.09g
Obv:AV K ΠO ΛIK OVAΛЄPIANOC
Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right
Rev: KΩPVKIΩTΩN AV NAVAPXIC
/ ΘЄΜΙΑ Prize crown, containing palm
frond, caduceus and aplustre, and inscribed
ΘЄΜΙΑ, set upon table with ornate legs;
to right, Dionysos standing left, holding
cantharus and filleted thyrsus; between,
panther standing left, head right.
Ref: SNG BN 1122-5; SNG Levante 819
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Corycus
Valerian I (253-260 AD)
Æ 32mm, 15.06g
Obv:AV K ΠO ΛIK OVAΛЄPIANOC
Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right
Rev: KΩPVKIΩTΩN AV NAVAPXIC
/ ΘЄΜΙΑ Prize crown, containing palm
frond, caduceus and aplustre, and inscribed
ΘЄΜΙΑ, set upon table with ornate legs;
to right, Dionysos standing left, holding
cantharus and filleted thyrsus; between,
panther standing left, head right.
Ref: SNG BN 1122-5; SNG Levante 819
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Corycus
Valerian I (253-260 AD)
Æ 28mm, 11.67g
Obv: AY KA ΠOY ΛIK
OYAΛЄPIANOC
diademed and draped bust right
Rev: KΩPVKIΩ-TΩN AVT
NA/VAP-XIC,
Diana with bow and deer
Ref: McClean 9061
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Corycus
Valerian I (253-260 AD)
Æ 32mm, 15.06g
Obv: AY KA ΠOY ΛIK
OYAΛЄPIAN OC
diademed and draped bust right
Rev: KΩPV KIΩ-TΩN A
VNA [VA PX [IC]
Dionysus and panther with price
urn on tripod
Ref: SNG Levante 819
(Author's collection)
 CILICIA, Corycus
Gallienus
253 - 268 A.D. Æ 26 (12.44g)
Obv.: Laur. bust of emp., r.
ΑΥΚΠΟΛΙΚ ΓΑΛΛΙΕΝ ΟC
Rev.: Aphrodite holding
aplustre & sceptre
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩ
ΤΩΝΑΥΤΟΝΟ ΜΟΥ.
Ref: SNG Levante 821, France 2, 1126 (Author's collection)  CILICIA, Corycus
Gallienus
253 - 268 A.D. Æ 27 (13.09g)
Obv.: Laur. bust of emp., r.
ΑΥΚΠΟΛΙΚ ΓΑΛΛΙΕΝ ΟC
Rev.: Aphrodite holding
aplustre & sceptre
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩ
ΤΩΝΑΥΤΟΝΟ ΜΟΥ.
Ref: SNG Levante 821, France 2, 1126 (Author's collection)  CILICIA, Corycus
Gallienus
253 - 268 A.D. Æ 27
Obv.: Laur. bust of emp., r.
ΑΥΚΠΟΛΙΚ ΓΑΛΛΙΕΝ ΟC
Rev.: Aphrodite holding
aplustre & sceptre
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩ
ΤΩΝΑΥΤΟΝΟ ΜΟΥ.
Ref: SNG Levante 821, France 2, 1126 (Author's collection) 
CILICIA, Corycus
Gallienus
253 - 268 A.D. Æ 28mm, 16.1g
Obv.: Laur. bust of emp., r.
ΑΥΚΠΟΛΙΚ ΓΑΛΛΙΕΝ ΟC
Rev.: Aphrodite holding
aplustre & sceptre
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩ
ΤΩΝΑΥΤΟΝΟ ΜΟΥ.
Ref: SNG Levante 821, France 2, 1126 (Author's collection)
 CILICIA, Corycus
Gallienus
253 - 268 A.D. Æ 29 (14.89g)
Obv.: Laur. bust of emp., r.
ΑΥΚΠΟΛΙΚ ΓΑΛΛΙΕΝ ΟC
Rev.: Aphrodite holding
aplustre & sceptre
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩ
ΤΩΝΑΥΤΟΝΟ ΜΟΥ.
Ref: SNG Levante 821 (this coin; Author's collection)  CILICIA, Corycus
Salonina
253 - 268 A.D. Æ 24 (9.60g)
Obv.: Diad. bust of emp., r.
ΚΟΝΗΛΙΑ CΑΛΩΝΙ ΝΑ
Rev.: Hermes l., purse &
caduceus, ram at feet
ΚΩΡΥΚΙΩΤΩΝ
ΑΥΝΑΥ ΑΡ ΧΙ C?
Ref: SNG Levante 822 var.
ex. J.S. Wagner coll. (Author's collection) 
CILICIA, Corycus
Salonina, wife of Gallienus (253-268 AD)
Æ 25mm, 11.80g
Obv: KONNHΛ CAΛ[ΩNIN]/AN
diademed and draped bust right
Rev: KΩPVKIΩ-TΩN AVT NA/VAP-XIC,
Hermes standing facing, head left,
holding purse and caduceus; ram at his feet.
Ref: SNG BN 1129; SNG Levante 822
(Author's collection)
Author on the shores of Corycus' ruins overlooking the Maiden's castle
 Aerial of Korykos castle  Aerial view of Mersin Kizkalesi (island castle)  Korykos necropolis sarcophogus  Korykos fortress  Korykos fortress at sea Images of Elaeusa-Sebaste (cont.)
 Cilicia, Elaeusa-Sebaste reconstruction of temple  Basillica and Necropolis  Cilicia, Elaeusa-Sebaste thermae complex  Cilicia, Elaeusa-Sebaste thermae portico (close up)  Cilicia, Elaeusa-Sebaste archeological diagram-schematic of the site  Cilicia, Elaeusa-Sebaste agora and byzantine bascilica Flaviopolis
CILICIA, Flaviopolis. Domitian, 81 - 96 AD AE 25mm 6.6g .
Obverse: Laureate head of Domitian right. Reverse: Veiled Tyche seated right holding grain ears, river god Pyramus swimming to right at feet. RPC 1758 // SNG France 2168 // SNG Levante 1530
(Author's collection)
Mopsos
CILICIA. Mopsouestia-Mopsos. Macrinus, 217-218. Hexassarion (Bronze, 34 mm, 19.20 g, 1 h), CY 285 = 217/8. AYT K M OΠ CЄΥΗ MAKPЄINOC Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Macrinus to right. Rev. AΔP MOΨЄATΩN ЄΠC Nike advancing left, holding wreath in her right hand. SNG Levante -. SNG Paris -. SNG PFPS -. SNG von Aulock -. Ziegler -. Very rare. Ex Hirsch 284, 26 September 2012, 2953 (Author's Collection)
CILICIA, Mopsouestia-Mopsos
Macrinus Æ Hexassarion 15.97g, 35mm, 6h.
Dated CY 285 = AD 217/8.
Obv: AYT K M OΠ CЄ MAKPЄINOC, laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right
Rev: AΔP MOΨЄATΩN ЄΠC, Zeus seated left, holding Nike in right hand and long sceptre with left;eagle standing left, head right, at feet.
Ref: Imhoof-Blumer KM, p. 475, 9; SNG Copenhagen -; SNG Levante -; SNG Leypold -; SNG France -; SNG von Aulock -.
Ex Leu Numismatik AG, Web Auction 1, 25 June 2017, lot 802;
Ex Art Coins Roma, Auction 4, 5 December 2011, lot 232.
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Mopsus
Macrinus (217-218 AD)
Æ 29mm, 13.00g
Dated CY 285 (217/8)
Obv: AVT K M OΠ CЄV MAKPЄINOC
Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right.
Rev: AΔP ΜΟΨЄΑΤΩΝ ЄTO. Tyche
seated left on rocks, holding grain ears;
ЄΠ - C (date) across field; below, river
god Pyramos swimming left, head right.
Ref: SNG Levante 1348.
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Mopsouestia-Mopsos
Diadumenian 217-218 AD
Æ 27mm, 10.31g, 6h; CY 285 (217/8 AD).
Obv: Radiate, draped, cuirassed bust right
Rev: Lit altar on a table with feet in the
form of lion's paws; beneath, crab; CΠЄ
(date) around altar.
Ref: SNG Levante –; SNG Levante Suppl. –;
SNG BN 1993; Von Aulock, Mopsos 69a
(Author's collection / image courtesy of Savoca)
Tarsus
recently excavated Roman colonnaded road in Tarsus
CILICIA, Tarsus
Trajan 98-117 AD
AR Tetradrachm (ca. 103-111 AD)
27mm 13.69g 12h.
Obv: Bust of emperor right
Rev: Tyche seated right on rocky
outcropping holding pam frond,
river-god Cydnus swimming
TAP monogram
Ref: RPC IIrueyr 754; SNG Levante 991
ex. CNG Levante 991; ex. CNG 58
lot 951 (2001); Dr. Kelly J. Krizan coll.
(Author's collection)
CILICIA. Tarsus. Hadrian, 117-138. Tridrachm (Silver, 26 mm, 9.81 g, 12 h). ΑΥΤ ΚΑΙ ΘΕ ΤΡΑ ΠΑΡ ΥΙ ΘΕ ΝΕΡ ΥΙ ΤΡΑΙ ΑΔΡΙΑΝΟϹ ϹE Laureate head of Hadrian to right, with slight drapery on his left shoulder. Rev. ΤΑΡϹΕΩΝ ΜΗΤΡΟΠΟΛΕΩϹ Lion attacking bull kneeling left. Prieur 764. RPC III 3263 (Author's collection)
CILICIA. Tarsus. Hadrian, 117-138. Tridrachm (Silver, 24 mm, 10.00 g, 12 h). ΑΥΤ ΚΑΙ ΘΕ ΤΡΑ ΠΑΡ ΥΙ ΘΕ ΝΕΡ ΥΙ ΤΡΑΙ ΑΔΡΙΑΝΟϹ ϹE Laureate head of Hadrian to right, with slight drapery on his left shoulder. Rev. ΤΑΡϹΕΩΝ ΜΗΤΡΟΠΟΛΕΩϹ Rivergod. (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus
Hadrian, 117-138 AD
AR Tridrachm 25mm, 10.05g, 12h
Obv: ΑΥΤ ΚΑΙ ΘΕ ΤΡΑ ΠΑΡ ΥΙ
ΘΕ ΝΕΡ ΥΙ ΤΡΑΙ ΑΔΡΙΑΝΟϹ ϹE
Laureate head of Hadrian to
right, with slight drapery on his
left shoulder
Rev: ΤΑΡϹΕΩΝ ΜΗΤΡΟΠ
ΟΛΕΩϹ City goddess seated,
river-god Kydnos
Ref: Prieur 761; RPC III 3262
(Author's collection)
Author at lunch alongside the Cydnus river (site of Alexander the Great's near death chill after defeating Persians in 333 BC)
CILICIA, Tarsus
Hadrian (117-138 AD).
AR Tridrachm, 25mm, 10.05g
Obv: ΑΥΤ ΚΑΙ ΘΕ ΤΡA ΠΑΡ ΥΙ
ΘΕ ΝΕΡ ΥΙ ΤΡAI ΑΔΡΙΑΝΟС СΕB,
Laureate head right
Rev: ΤΑΡСΕΩΝ ΜΗΤΡΟΠΟΛEΩС
Tyche seated left on throne, holding
palm frond and cornucopia; to lower
left, river god Kydnos swimming left,
facing; all within wreath.
Ref: RPC I 3262; Prieur 761
ex Artemis Collection
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus
Marcus Aurelius, with Lucius Verus.
AD 161-169. Æ 31mm, 16.30g
Obv: AVT KAIC MAP AVPHΛIO
ANTΩNЄINOC CЄB,
laureate head of Marcus right
Rev: AΔPAINHC TAPCOY
MHTPOΠOΛЄΩC, Marcus, holding
volumen in left hand, and Lucius
standing facing one another, clasping
right hands; star above, OMO/NOIA/
CЄBACTΩN between emperors and
continuing into exergue.
Ref: SNG Levante 1017 (this coin);
SNG France 1452 var.
(Author's collection)
 Faustina Jr.
Cilicia, Tarsos
146 - 176 A.D Æ 32
Obv.: Bare hd. of emp. l.
FAUCTEINA CЄBACTH
Rev.: Apollo holding slain
wolves, bull below
ADRIANHC TARC
OU MHTROPOLΕΩC
Ref: SNG France 2, 1454;
Ziegler 682; Lindgren 1623 (this coin; Author's collection) 
CILICIA. Tarsus. Caracalla, 198-217. Hexassarion (Bronze, 33 mm, 18.37 g, 6 h), circa 214/5-217. [ΑΥ]Τ ΚΑΙ Μ ΑΥΡ CЄΥΗΡΟC ΑΝ[ΤΩΝЄΙΝΟC CЄΒ] / Π - Π Laureate and cuirassed bust of Caracalla to right, seen from behind. Rev. ΑΝΤΩΝΙΑΝΗC CЄ[Y ΑΔΡ ΜΗΤ] / ΤΑΡCΟΥ / Γ Β / Α / Μ Κ Lion walking right. SNG Paris 1516. from the Kelly J. Krizan Collection, Classical Numismatic Group E-Auction 304, 12 June 2013, 267 (author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus
Caracalla (198-217 AD)
Æ 33mm, 18.20g.
Obv: AVT KAI M AVP CEVHPOC
ANTΩNEINOS CEB / Π - Π.
Laureate head left.
Rev: ANTΩNIANHC CEVHP AΔP
/ TAPCOV / A - M / K.
Elephant advancing left; on back,
three ears of grain.
Ref: SNG Levante 1047;
Roma (May 2013, Lot 894)
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus
Caracalla 198-217 A.D.
Æ 32mm 16.34g
Obv.: AVT KAI M AVP
CЄVHPOC ANTΩNЄINOC
CЄB / Π - Π
Laureate head left.
Rev.: ANTΩNIANHC CЄV
MHTP / TAPCOV / A MK ΓΒ.
Hercules left, wrestling with
Antaeus; club and lion skin to left
Ref: SNG France 1521 (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus. Caracalla. 198-217 AD. Æ 33mm
Caracalla
193 - 217 A.D. Æ 33
Obv.: Laureate
bust of emperor right
AUTKΑΙΜΑΥΡ.CЄUΗΡΟC
ANTΩNEIHOC P P in ex.
Rev.: Sol holding globe
ANTΩNЄIΝЄΙΑΝΗC CЄUΗΑΔ
TARCOU AMK CЄIT in ex.
Ref: SNG Levante 1044, this coin (Author's collection)
CILICIA. Tarsus. Caracalla, 198-217. Hexassarion (Bronze, 35 mm, 19.70 g, 6 h). SNG Levante supl 264 (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus. Macrinus. AD 217-218. Æ (34mm, 12h). Laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right; small statue of Apollo Lykeios before / Tyche standing right, presenting wreath to Macrinus standing left, holding spear; altar between. SNG France 1549 (same obv. die); SNG Levante -; SNG Levante Suppl. 271 (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus.
Maximinus I, 235-238 AD
Æ Hexassarion 36 mm, 22.00g, 6h
Obv: AΥT•K•Γ•IOY•OYH•
MAΞIMEINOC Π - Π Radiate, draped
and cuirassed bust of Maximinus I to r.
Rev: TAPCOY•THC•MHTPOΠOΛЄⲰ
A / M / K - Γ / B Herakles advancing
left, extending his right hand and
holding club in his left.
Ref: RPC VI online 7108/6 (this coin).
SNG Levante 1097. SNG Paris 1588.
ex Naumann 88 #523& Leu 19 lot#2300
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus
Maximinus I Thrax 235-238 AD
Æ38mm, 23.73g
Obv: AVT K Γ IOV OVH MAXIMINOC; Π-Π,
radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right /
Rev: TAPCOV THC MHTPOΠOΛEΩΣ
A M K Γ B, draped and turreted bust of
Tyche right, ram leaping above.
Ref: SNG France 1592; cf. BMC 232
(Author collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus. Gordian III 238-244 AD Æ 35mm, 24.26g
Obv: AVT K M ANT ΓOPΔIANOC CЄB / Π - Π.
Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right, holding spear and shield decorated with gorgoneion.
Rev: TAPCOV MHTPOΠOΛЄ / A / M K B Γ.
Lion attacking bull right.
RPC VII.2 3085; SNG Levante 1141.
Ex Gilbert Steinberg Collection, Numismatica Ars Classica (1994), lot 884
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus
Gordian III 238-244 AD
Æ 34mm, 17.80g
Obv: AVT K M ANT ΓOPΔIANOC
CЄB / Π - Π.; Radiate, draped and
cuirassed bust of Gordian right,
holding shield and spear
Rev: TAPCOV MHTPOΠOΛЄΩC
A M K B Γ; Turreted and draped bust
of Tyche right.
Ref: SNG Levante 1145 var. (rev. legend);
SNG BN 1706 var
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus. Gordian III. 238-244 AD. Æ 26.1gr. 37.2mm
Radiate and cuirassed bust right, viewed from the front; Π-Π across field / T[AP]COV MHT-POΠOΛEΩC, Herakles standing right, strangling the Nemean lion; club in exergue; A/M/K-Γ/B in fields. SNG Levante 1127 (same dies); SNG France 1692 (same dies); Voegtli 2a.
(Author's collection)
CILICIA. Tarsus. Philip I the Arab (244-249). AE 36mm 24.44g
Obv: [...]Λ ΦΙΛIΠΠON [...].
Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right.
Rev: TAPSOV MHTPOΠO / A M K Γ B.
Selene, with crescent on head and billowing veil, driving biga of bulls right.
Cf. SNG France 1730/1729 (obv. die of 1730/rev. die of 1729); SNG Levante -; CNG E-282, lot 191 (same dies); Author's collection
CILICIA, Tarsus
Trajan Decius 249-251 AD
Æ 34mm, 23.09g
Obv: ΑΥ ΚΑΙ Γ ΜƐϹ ΚΥΙΝ ΔƐΚΙΟϹ
ΤΡΑΙΑΝΟϹ Π Π, radiate, draped and
cuirassed bust right
Rev: ΤΑΡϹΟΥ ΜΗΤΡΟΠΟΛƐΩϹ, Α Μ Κ
Γ Β, Artemis advancing left, head right,
drawing arrow from quiver and holding bow;
stag at side to left.
Ref: RPC IX 1346; SNG BnF 1763
(Author's collection / image courtesy of Savoca)
CILICIA, Tarsus
Valerian I 253-260 AD
Æ (31mm, 17.67 g, 6h)
Obv: Radiate, draped, and cuirassed
bust right, seen from the front
Rev: Tyche, turreted and veiled,
seated facing, head right, on rocks
above river-god Cydnus swimming
left; to right, Perseus standing left
crowing Tyche and holds harpa; to
left, Herakles stands right, holding
club, lion’s skin draped over his arm.
Ref: RPC X Online 60622 (this coin)
SNG Levante 1188 (this coin).
ex CNG 70 (Sept 2005), lot 587
(Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus.
Gordian III.238-244 AD.
Æ 36mm, 21.08g
Obv: ΑΥΤ ΚΑΙ Μ ΑΝΤΩΝΙΟϹ
ΓΟΡΔΙΑΝΟϹ ϹƐΒ, Π Π; radiate,
draped and cuirassed bust of Gordian III,
r., seen from rear
Rev: Α Μ Κ Γ Β, ΤΑΡϹΟΥ
ΜΗΤΡΟΠΟΛƐ; double crown of the
Cilicarch, decorated with two imperial
busts in the outer side, and five imperial
busts and two Nikai in the inner side, on
table with three straight legs
Ref: RPC VII.2, — (unassigned; ID 3241)
(Author's collection)
CILICIA. Tarsus. Otacilia Severa (Augusta, 244-249). AE 32mm, 15.97g
Obv: ΩTAKIΛ CЄVHPAN ЄVT ЄVC CЄ.
Draped bust right, wearing stephane.
Rev: TAPCOV THC MHTPOΠOΛЄ / A Γ M B K.
Elpis advancing left, holding flower and raising hem of skirt.
SNG France 1746 (Author's collection)
CILICIA, Tarsus
Gallienus 253 - 268 AD
Æ 17.52g
Obv: ΑΥ ΚΑΙ Π ΗΓ ΓΑΛΛΙΗΝΟΣ
ΣΕΒ / Π - Π, draped armor bust with
radiate crown
Rev: ΤΑΡΣΟΥ Μ-ΗΤΡΟΠΟΛΕΩΣ /
Α / Μ / Κ - Γ / Γ, the seer Amphilochos
in hunting clothes n. L. standing, in the
l. Holding arm upturned lance, in
outstretched branch bundle, l.
to his feet boar.
Ref: SNG PfSlg 1476
ex. German Private Collection of E.L.
ex Künker, Auction 136, No. 1191
(March 10, 2008)
Gorny & Mosch 265 #1106
(Author's collection)
Zephrion
CILICIA, Zephrion. 18mm, 4.364g Tyche, cross within wreath. (Author's collection)
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