LYDIA. Saitta. Hadrian, 117-138. Tetrassarion (Orichalcum, 30 mm, 16.15 g, 7 h), Kl. Machairiôn, archon. [ΑΥΤ ΤΡΑ ΑΔΡ]ΙΑΝΟС ΚΑΙСΑΡ СΕΒΑС Laureate and cuirassed bust of Hadrian to right, seen from behind. Rev. ΕΠΙ ΚΛ ΜΑΧΑ[ΙΡΙΩΝΟС ΑΡΧ] СΑΙΤΤΗΝΩΝ Roma seated left with parazonium on shield, holding Victory in her right hand and spear in her left. RPC III online 2543.2 (this coin). Of the highest rarity, the second known example and the only one in private hands. Minor flan fault near the edge, otherwise, very fine.


This is the earliest coin issued by the mint of Saitta and it has been suggested that it was struck on the occasion of Hadrian's visit to the area in 124 AD. It is of the highest rarity: the printed version of RPC III only knew the piece in Winterthur, which makes our example the second known, and the only one in private hands.