CARIA. Antiochia ad Maeandrum. Gallienus, 253-268. Hexassarion (Bronze, 35 mm, 19.56 g, 6 h), Aphrodisias, archon. AY K ΠΟ ΓAΛΛIHNOC Radiate, helmeted, draped and cuirassed bust of Gallienus to left, holding spear and shield. Rev. ЄΠΙ ΑΡΧ ΑΦΡΟΔΙCΙΟΥ ANTIOXЄΩN Bridge of six arches spanning the Maeander, with monumental gateway to left, on which stork is perched, and river-god Maeander reclining left on bridge, holding reed in his right hand and cornucopiae in his left; to right, male figure standing left, holding walking stick (?). BMC -. SNG Copenhagen -. SNG Leypold -. SNG München -. SNG von Aulock 2431 (same dies). A very rare variety. Minor area of weakness on the reverse, otherwise, good very fine.


The monumental bridge shown on the reverse of this coin is probably the Antiochian bridge mentioned, en passant, by Strabo, before he goes on to praise the famous dried figs of the city (Strabo XIII 4,15).