IONIA. Ephesus. Antoninus Pius, 138-161. Tetrassarion (Bronze, 29 mm, 19.89 g, 6 h), circa 138-140. Τ ΑΙΛΙΟϹ ΚΑΙϹΑΡ ΑΝΤΩΝЄΙΝΟϹ Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Antoninus Pius to right. Rev. ΑΠΟΛΛΩΝ ΙΚЄϹΙΟϹ ЄΦЄϹΙΩΝ Artemis, on the left, standing right, holding bow in her right hand and presenting olive-branch with her left; facing Apollo Hikesios, on the right, standing left, nude except for chlamys draped around his arm, holding bow in his left arm and receiving olive-branch from Artemis. Karwiese 223. RPC IV.2 online 1116. Extremely rare. About very fine.



The epithet 'Hikesios' (Ἱκέσιος) derives from the Greek word 'hikesia' (ἱκεσία), meaning 'supplication' or 'petition,' often in the context of seeking protection or refuge. In this role, Apollo was venerated as a deity who granted protection and safety, particularly to those traveling or fleeing. Apollo Hikesios was especially revered as the guardian of wanderers, travelers, and pilgrims.