PHOENICIA. Byblus. Macrinus, 217-218. Tetrassarion (Bronze, 30 mm, 21.88 g, 6 h). ΑΥΤ ΚΑΙC ΜΑΚΡΙΝΟC CЄB Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Macrinus to right, seen from behind. Rev. IEPAC / BYB/ΛΟΥ Temple precinct of Aphrodite viewed in aerial perspective, containing conical baetyl within colonnaded court, with stairway below leading to entrance; to left, lighted altar within distyle temple open to left and with stairway below. McClean 9484. Price-Trell 713 and fig. 271. Rouvier 697. RPC V.3 online ID 69455. Rare and with a wonderful depiction of the Temple of Aphrodite. Slightly rough, otherwise, very fine.


The magnificent sanctuary complex depicted on the reverse of this coin is both intricate and fascinating. On the left, four steps lead to a distyle temple entrance, shown in perspective, housing an altar beneath a roof adorned with what appears to be a floral or vegetative motif. On the right, six steps ascend to a columned enclosure - or perhaps an altar - featuring a large baetyl, a sacred stone, above or behind it. In the background, an enclosed courtyard is visible, likely surrounded by a colonnade with adjoining rooms or structures.

The legend IEPAC BYBΛΟΥ appears above and below the design, identifying the site as the sacred sanctuary of Byblos, most likely the temple of Aphrodite mentioned by Lucian.