© webexco (CC BY-SA)
© webexco (CC BY-SA)
Cistophorus - Hadrian
| Silver | 11 g | 28 mm |
| Issuer | Smyrna (Conventus of Smyrna) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Hadrian (Publius Aelius Hadrianus) (117-138) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 128-138 |
| Value | Cistophorus (4) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 11 g |
| Diameter | 28 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#375746 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
God Jupiter seated left, holding statuette of goddess Victory in right hand and long scepter in left hand. Eagle with open wings facing left, looking right, standing at the feet of Jupiter.
Script: Latin
Lettering: COS III
Unabridged legend: Consul tertius.
Translation: Consul for the third time.
Comment
The variety of types and the obvious interest taken in the representation of the old "xoana" of the province seem to suggest inspiration from above, possibly even from the emperor himself. It is well known that the emperor traveled extensively and twice visited Asia Minor. The title of "Pater Patriae" accepted by him in AD 128 appears on the bulk of his cistophori, and it is conceivable therefore that Hadrian on his second voyage in AD 129, impressed by the antiquities of the places he visited, fascinated as was his nature by all that was mysterious, local, and primitive, himself took the initiative in the institution of this coinage.Interesting fact
The Cistophorus - Hadrian coin from Smyrna (Conventus of Smyrna) is notable for its unique design, which features a portrait of the Roman Emperor Hadrian on one side and a stylized image of the goddess Cybele on the other. Cybele was an important deity in ancient Smyrna, and her depiction on the coin highlights the cultural and religious influences of the city during the Roman period.