Cilicia, Elaiussa-Sebaste, AE Circa 100-1 BC, Zeus / Nike – RRR

-Greek, Cilicia, Elaiussa-Sebaste, AE (bronze, 7.38g, 21.3mm), Circa 100-1 BC

-Obv: Bearded head of Zeus right, hair bound in a taenia, A in circle behind head

-Rev: EΛAIOYΣIΩ[N]; Nike walking left, holding wreath, Σ over AΡX monogram in left field

-Ref: BMC 5-6; Paris 1555; SNG Pfalz 440-442

-Rarity/Choice: Very Rare (reverse Σ over AΡX monogram), aEF (Slightly off-centered obverse, otherwise, lovely strike and beautiful relief)

-Note: Elaiussa-Sebaste was an ancient city located in the region of Cilicia, situated on the southern coast of modern-day Turkey. and its name reflects a combination of Greek and Roman influences: “Elaiussa” from the Greek word for olive, and “Sebaste” from the Greek title meaning “Augustus”, an honorific title bestowed upon cities in the Roman Empire. Elaiussa-Sebaste also had cultural and religious significance. Like many cities in the Hellenistic world, it had its own temples, theaters, and public spaces where religious and civic activities took place. This coin provides valuable insights into the cultural, political, and religious life of Elaiussa-Sebaste during the Hellenistic period. The depiction of Zeus on the obverse reflects the city’s reverence for Greek deities, while Nike on the reverse signifies the city’s aspirations for victory and success. Overall, this coin serves as a tangible artifact of Cilician history and its rich cultural heritage.