CVC & Collectables presents a Roman provincial bronze from Laodicea ad Lycum in Phrygia, struck during the peaceful reign of Antoninus Pius, showcasing deeply symbolic Dionysiac imagery rooted in local religious tradition.
Coin Highlights:
- Province: Asia
- Subprovince: Conventus of Cibyra
- City: Laodicea ad Lycum (Phrygia)
- Reign: Antoninus Pius (AD 138–161)
- Date: c. AD 139–146
- Magistrate: Publius Aelius Dionysios Sabinianus
- Denomination: AE21
- Metal: Copper-based alloy (bronze)
- Weight: 5.53 grams (average)
- Diameter: 21 mm
- Strike: Hammered
- Grade: NGC Choice Fine
- Certification: NGC Ancients
- Obverse Legend: ΛΑΟΔΙΚΕΩΝ
Translation: “Of the Laodiceans” - Obverse Design: Draped youthful bust of Dionysus right, wearing ivy wreath
- Reverse Legend: ΑΙΛ ΔΙΟΝΥϹΙΟϹ (retrograde possible)
Translation: “Aelius Dionysios” - Reverse Design: Bacchic mask of Silenus wearing ivy wreath resting on a cista mystica entwined by serpent; pedum and hanging cymbals at left
- References: RPC IV.2 2114; BMC 96; Cop 532; KM 268, no. 29
- Recorded Specimens: 28 known (12 in core collections)
Historical Significance:
This coin belongs to a distinctive group of Roman provincial issues that emphasize local religious identity rather than imperial portraiture. Although struck during the reign of Antoninus Pius, the obverse features Dionysus instead of the emperor—an intentional choice reflecting Laodicea’s cultural priorities and strong association with Dionysiac mystery cults.
The reverse is especially rich in symbolism. The cista mystica, serpent, Silenus mask, cymbals, and pedum were all ritual objects associated with initiatory rites, secrecy, and rebirth. Such imagery indicates that Dionysiac worship in Laodicea was not merely decorative but actively practiced, likely involving elite civic sponsors such as the named magistrate Publius Aelius Dionysios Sabinianus.
Emperor History – Antoninus Pius:
- Reigned AD 138–161 during the height of the Pax Romana
- Known for administrative stability, legal reform, and provincial prosperity
- Conducted no major military campaigns during his reign
- Allowed cities wide cultural autonomy, particularly in the Greek East
- Deified after death, later ruling Rome’s “Golden Age” memory
Historical fact:
Antoninus Pius granted unprecedented freedom to eastern cities to celebrate local gods on coinage. As a result, provincial mints under his reign produced some of the most religiously complex and symbol-rich coins of the entire Roman era, including this Dionysus type.
Collectibility:
Roman provincial bronzes featuring purely religious iconography are especially desirable, and this Dionysus/Silenus type stands out for its layered symbolism and named magistrate. With only 28 recorded specimens and strong documentation in RPC, this issue appeals to collectors of Roman religion, Asia Minor mints, and Antonine provincial coinage. NGC certification further enhances its desirability and long-term collectibility.
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