EPIRUS. Nicopolis. Hadrian, 117-138. Assarion (Bronze, 22 mm, 5.20 g, 6 h), commemorative issue for Augustus (died 14 AD). [ΚΤ]ΙϹΜΑ ϹΕΒΑ[ϹΤΟΥ] Bare head of Augustus to right. Rev. ΝΕΙΚΟΠΟΛЄⲰϹ Nike driving fast biga to right, holding reins with both hands. Calomino 90. RPC III online 560.3 (this coin). Very rare. Minor traces of corrosion, otherwise, very fine.


This interesting issue was struck by Hadrian to commemorate the foundation of Nicopolis by Augustus on the site of the first emperor's greatest victory, the defeat of Marc Antony in the Battle of Actium in 31 BC. The legend 'KTICMA CЄBACTOY / NЄIKOΠΟΛЄⲰC' literally translates as 'Foundation of Augustus / Victory city'.