Classical Numismatic Group, LLC
Electronic Auction 531 25-26 Jan 2023
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CARIA, Aphrodisias. Gordian III. AD 238-244. Æ Trissarion (34.5mm, 20.75 g, 6h). Radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust right / Centaur standing right, holding bow and arrow. MacDonald, Coinage, Type 184 (O232/R426); RPC VII.1 621.12 (this coin); SNG von Aulock 2462 (same obv. die). Earthen brown patina, some roughness, scratches on reverse. Good Fine. Rare.
From the Dr. Jay M. Galst Collection. Ex Roma E-Sale 53 (7 February 2019), lot 601.
The centaur represented on the reverse of this coin must be Chiron, a figure highly respected as an oracle, an astrologer, and a teacher of a number of Greek heroes; most notably, he was the athletic instructor of the hero Achilles. The appearance of Chiron on this coin may be an allegorical representation for the initiation of a local athletic event. A good possibility, according to MacDonald, is the institution of the Gordianea Attalea, games established by Gordian III and commemorated on contemporary issues from the city.
From the Dr. Jay M. Galst Collection. Ex Roma E-Sale 53 (7 February 2019), lot 601.
The centaur represented on the reverse of this coin must be Chiron, a figure highly respected as an oracle, an astrologer, and a teacher of a number of Greek heroes; most notably, he was the athletic instructor of the hero Achilles. The appearance of Chiron on this coin may be an allegorical representation for the initiation of a local athletic event. A good possibility, according to MacDonald, is the institution of the Gordianea Attalea, games established by Gordian III and commemorated on contemporary issues from the city.