MYSIA. Pergamum. Valerian I, 253-260. Medallion (Bronze, 39 mm, 27.81 g, 7 h), Aurelios Damas, strategos. AYT•K•Π•ΛIK•OYAΛЄPIANOC• Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Valerian I to right. Rev. ЄΠI C AYP•ΔAMA•ΠЄPΓAMHNΩN / ΠΡΩTΩN•Γ• / NЄΩKOPΩ/N Table with feet in the form of lion's paws; on the table, wreath enclosing ΟΛ/YMΠ/IA between two prize urns containing palm fronds; above wreath, A; below table, amphora between two purses. SNG Copenhagen 511 (same dies). SNG von Aulock 1422 and 7518 (same dies). Very rare and in exceptional condition, arguably the finest known. A beautiful medallion of excellent style with a very interesting reverse. Very slightly smoothed, otherwise, about extremely fine.
This beautiful medallion was struck in commemoration of Olympic games held in Pergamum under the rule of Valerian I. The prizes shown on the reverse - a wreath, prize urns with palm fronds, an amphora and purses - would be handed out to the winners in the various disciplines, earning them wealth and fame throughout the province.