Roma Numismatics Ltd
E-Sale 38 29 Jul 2017
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Antinous Æ33 of Aegeae, Cilicia. Year 180(?), AD 137/8. ANTINOOC HPΩC, bare-headed and draped bust right / ADRIANΩN AIΓE...(?), Amalthea standing facing, head right, wearing kalathos and holding cornucopiae and the infant Zeus, who presents her with a wreath. RPC III 3355 = SNG Levante 1723 = CNG MBS 66, 1094 (all same dies). 23.32g, 33mm, 2h.
Near Very Fine. Areas of corrosion. Extremely Rare, perhaps the second known example.
In AD 130 the emperor Hadrian travelled up the River Nile with the imperial entourage, including his companion Antinous, whilst on a tour of the provinces. It was during this trip that the young Antinous tragically drowned. The ancient sources are rife with speculation as to whether this occurrence was an accident, a suicide on the part of Antinous or a sacrifice to aid the health of the emperor, but what is clear is the strong bond between the two men (Scriptores Historiae Augustae Hadrian, 14, 5-7), which led to Hadrian's encouragement of a cult in honour of a deified Antinous and his appearance on the coinage. This coin was likely struck during Hadrian's second visit to Aegeae, which occurred between AD 131 and 133/4, bringing with him the news of the death of Antinous, which was commemorated on the coinage in honour.
Near Very Fine. Areas of corrosion. Extremely Rare, perhaps the second known example.
In AD 130 the emperor Hadrian travelled up the River Nile with the imperial entourage, including his companion Antinous, whilst on a tour of the provinces. It was during this trip that the young Antinous tragically drowned. The ancient sources are rife with speculation as to whether this occurrence was an accident, a suicide on the part of Antinous or a sacrifice to aid the health of the emperor, but what is clear is the strong bond between the two men (Scriptores Historiae Augustae Hadrian, 14, 5-7), which led to Hadrian's encouragement of a cult in honour of a deified Antinous and his appearance on the coinage. This coin was likely struck during Hadrian's second visit to Aegeae, which occurred between AD 131 and 133/4, bringing with him the news of the death of Antinous, which was commemorated on the coinage in honour.