Pentassarion - Severus Alexander ΑΒΥΔΗΝΩΝ
| Bronze | 21.53 g | 32 mm |
| Issuer | Abydus (Conventus of Adramyteum) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Severus Alexander (Marcus Aurelius Severus Alexander) (222-235) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 222-235 |
| Value | Pentassaria (5⁄16) |
| Currency | Antoninianus, Reform of Caracalla (AD 215 – 301) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 21.53 g |
| Diameter | 32 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#402902 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Leander swimming, right, towards Hero standing on top of tower, left, holding lamp; above, Eros flying, right, holding torch; to left, rock with helmet, cloak, sword and shield.
Script: Greek
Lettering: ΑΒΥΔΗΝΩΝ
Comment
The tragic love-story between Hero, a priestess of Aphrodite from Sestos on the European side of the Hellespont, and Leander, a young man from Abydos on the opposite side of the strait, is one of the most popular Greek myths of all time. Leander's parents were against the relationship, but he would cross the dangerous narrows every night to visit his beloved, who would guide him through the night by lighting an oil lamp on a tall tower near the shore. One stormy night, however, the wind blew out Hero's light and Leander lost his way and drowned. When Hero realized her lover had died, she threw herself from the tower in despair
Interesting fact
The Pentassarion coin featuring Severus Alexander (ΑΒΥΔΗΝΩΝ) (222-235) from Abydus (Conventus of Adramyteum) is notable for its unique design. On one side, it features the image of Severus Alexander in military attire, while on the other side, it depicts the goddess Tyche standing on a prow, with a crescent moon and stars surrounding her. This design is significant because it represents the blending of Roman and Greek cultural influences, which was a hallmark of the Severan dynasty. The use of Tyche, who was a goddess of fortune and prosperity in Greek mythology, highlights the cultural exchange that occurred during this period. Additionally, the coin's bronze composition and weight of 21.53 grams also provide valuable insight into the economic and monetary policies of the Roman Empire during this time.
Price
| Date | Mintage | VG | F | VF | XF | AU | UNC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ND (222-235) | - | - | - | - | - | - |
Values in the table are based on evaluations by sales realized on Internet platforms. They serve as an indication only for Pentassarion - Severus Alexander (ΑΒΥΔΗΝΩΝ) (222-235) coin.