Bithynia, Nikomedia, C. Papirius Carbo, Procurator, AE, Year 224 = 59/58 BC, Zeus / Roma Seated – RR

$170.00

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SKU: G12.20 Categories: ,

Description

Greek, Bithynia, Nikomedia, C. Papirius Carbo, Procurator, AE (bronze, 7.09g, 22.3mm), Year 224 = 59 BC
Obv: Laureate head of Zeus to right; [ΝΙΚ]ΟΜΗΔΕΩΝ behind
Rev: Roma seated to left on pile of shields, holding Nike in right hand, spear in left; ΕΠΙ ΓΑΙΟΥ to right, ΠΑΠΙΡΙΟΥ [Κ]ΑΡΒΩΝΟ[Σ] to outer left, monogram to inner left, ΔΚΣ (date) below shields
Ref: Stumpf 120; RG 2; SNG von Aulock 736; SNG Copenhagen 545 Rarity/Choice: Scarce, Good VF (very intresting bust)
Note: Bithynia, an ancient region in northwest Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), was under the control of Rome during the time of C. Papirius Carbo, the procurator.  The depiction of Zeus on the obverse of the coin holds significance in Bithynia due to the region’s strong ties to Greek mythology and culture. Zeus, the king of the gods in Greek mythology, was often associated with power, authority, and protection. By featuring Zeus on the coin, it symbolizes the authority of the Roman administration over Bithynia while also acknowledging the region’s Greek cultural heritage.
On the reverse, the portrayal of Roma, the personification of Rome, seated on a pile of shields, reflects the military strength and dominance of Rome over Bithynia. Roma holding Nike, the goddess of victory, represents the idea of victory and success brought by Roman rule. This imagery underscores the military and political influence of Rome in the region, emphasizing the subjugation of Bithynia under Roman control. The combination of Zeus and Roma on the coin highlights the dual influence of Greek and Roman cultures in Bithynia during this period. While the depiction of Zeus speaks to the region’s Greek heritage, the presence of Roma symbolizes the Roman authority and dominance. This blend of influences reflects the complex cultural and political landscape of Bithynia under Roman rule, where Greek traditions coexisted with Roman governance.