Assarion - Caracalla (ΓЄΡMANIKOΠOΛIC - ЄT C/ΔI) (208-209) front Assarion - Caracalla (ΓЄΡMANIKOΠOΛIC - ЄT C/ΔI) (208-209) back
Assarion - Caracalla (ΓЄΡMANIKOΠOΛIC - ЄT C/ΔI) (208-209) photo
© Leu Numismatik

Assarion - Caracalla ΓЄΡMANIKOΠOΛIC - ЄT C/ΔI

 
Orichalcum 3.88 g 20 mm
Description
Issuer
Germanicopolis (Cilicia)
Emperor
Caracalla (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Caracalla) (198-217)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
208-209
Value
Assarion (0.1)
Currency
Drachm
Composition
Orichalcum
Weight
3.88 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#403992
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Caracalla on hoseback to right, holding spear in his right hand.

Script: Greek

Lettering:
ΓЄΡMANIKOΠOΛIC - ЄT C
ΔI

Comment

What makes this coin particularly interesting is the use of the nominative singular ΓЄΡMANIKOΠOΛIC (= 'Germanicopolis') in the ethnic rather than the usual genitive plural ΓЄΡMANIKOΠOΛЄITΩN (= '[coin] of the people of Germanicopolis')

 

Apparently unpublished.

Interesting fact

The Assarion - Caracalla coin is made of a rare and valuable metal called Orichalcum. Orichalcum was a metal that was highly prized in ancient times for its durability and resistance to corrosion. It was often used to make high-quality coins, weapons, and other objects that required strength and durability. The fact that this coin is made of Orichalcum makes it particularly interesting and valuable to collectors and historians.