Æ20 (30 BC - 19 BC) front Æ20 (30 BC - 19 BC) back
Æ20 (30 BC - 19 BC) photo
© Numismatica Ars Classica NAC AG

Æ20 30 BC - 19 BC

 
Bronze 6.5 g 20 mm
Description
Issuer
Apamea ad Orontes (Syria)
Period
Republic (509 BC - 27 BC)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
30 BC - 19 BC
Currency
Denarius (49 BC to AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
6.5 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#390567
Rarity index
94%

Reverse

Thyrsus (ceremonial staff topped with a pine cone) splitting legend

Script: Greek

Lettering:
ΑΠΑΜΕΩΝ
TΗΣ ΙΕΡΑΣ
[date] ΓϘΣ
ΚΑΙ ΑΣΥΛΟΥ

Translation: Apamea

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a rare image of a Seleucid king wearing a beard, which was not a common depiction in ancient Greek or Roman coinage. The beard is believed to symbolize the king's connection to the ancient Persian Empire, which had a tradition of bearded kings. This coin provides a unique insight into the cultural exchange and blending of traditions that occurred during the Hellenistic period.