CORINTHIA. Corinth. Julia Domna, Augusta, 193-217. Diassarion (Bronze, 23 mm, 6.54 g, 11 h). IVL CL DO[ ... ] Draped bust of Julia Domna to left, with cornucopiae over her shoulder. Rev. [C L I] COR Acrocorinth with temple of Aphrodite, small temple, shrines and trees at base. BCD Corinth -, cf. 907. BMC -. NCP -. SNG Copenhagen -. Cf. Price/Trell p. 79, fig. 135. Extremely rare and of great historical interest. Somewhat rough, otherwise, good fine.



The Acrocorinth in Corinth is a massive monolithic rock formation upon which the inhabitants of the ancient city built their Acropolis - a fortified refuge to which they could retreat in times of attack. It housed a temple dedicated to Aphrodite and served as a strategic defensive stronghold protecting the Peloponnese from invasion. Following the Macedonian conquest of Greece during the reign of Philip II (359-336 BC), the Acrocorinth, along with Chalkis and Demetrias, became one of the three famed 'fetters of Greece', providing the Macedonians with fortifications essential for maintaining control over the region.

Today, the imposing Greek, Crusader, and Venetian walls still crown its summit, standing as a testament to the fortress’s enduring military significance for more than two millennia. From this vantage point, visitors are treated to spectacular panoramic views across the Isthmus of Corinth, including the canal that links the Saronic and Corinthian Gulfs - a breathtaking landscape that continues to captivate all who ascend its heights.

The identification of the temple depicted on the reverse of this coin is uncertain but it most likely corresponds to famous The temple of Aphrodite that once stood on the summit, which was reputedly known for its practice of sacred temple prostitution - a custom that contributed to the temple’s notoriety in antiquity and adds a complex dimension to this remarkable site.