PHRYGIA. Hierapolis. Pseudo-autonomous issue. Assarion (Bronze, 21 mm, 5.82 g, 6 h), circa 2nd to early 3rd century AD. ΔΗΜΟϹ Draped and bearded bust of Demos to left. Rev. ΙЄΡΑΠOΛЄΙΤΩΝ - ΧΡΥCO/ΡΟAC River-god Chrysoroas reclining left, holding grain ear and poppy in his right hand and resting his left arm on urn from which water flows. BMC 44-5. Martin, Hierapolis, 7a. RPC IV.2 online 9989. SNG München 224. Rare and of fine style, with a beautiful rendering of the Demos. Minor deposits and with a small spot of corrosion on the obverse, otherwise, good very fine.



The personification of the Demos is almost always depicted as youthful on Roman provincial coins. However, on this piece, he is shown with pronounced facial features, flowing hair, and a long beard, giving him a much older appearance and making him resemble depictions of Zeus or Jupiter.