Watch List notes:

CILICIA. Mopsouestia-Mopsos. Valerian I, 253-260. Hexassarion (Bronze, 33 mm, 21.33 g, 7 h), CY 323 = 255/6 AD. ΑYΤ•Κ•ΟYΑΛЄΡΙΑ[ΟC•CЄΒ] Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust of Valerian I to right. Rev. ΑΔΡ ΜΟ[ΨЄAΤΩΝ] / Δ–Ω–Ρ–Є–Α / ΠYPΑΜΟC / ЄΤ Γ / ΚΤ The river-god Pyramos reclining left on bridge over flowing river with five arches, ending in a triumphal arch to the left. SNG Levante 1359. SNG Paris 2998. Rare and with an interesting reverse type. Flan flaw, otherwise, very fine.


This coin commemorates the erection of a new bridge over the Pyramos, which was gifted by the Roman state to Mopsouestia-Mopsos. The city was situated along the important military road from Asia Minor to Antiochia and the bridge was most likely built during the preparations for Valerian's Persian campaign. The impressive bridge was renovated under Justinian I and in medieval times and is still in use today.