BITHYNIA. Prusa ad Olympum. Marcus Aurelius, 161-180. Assarion (Bronze, 21 mm, 5.11 g, 7 h). ΑΥΤ Κ Μ ΑΥ ΑΝΤΩΝΙ Bare-headed, draped and cuirassed bust of Marcus Aurelius to right, seen from behind. Rev. ΠΡΟΥϹΑΕⲰΝ Eagle standing front, wings spread and head turned to right. RG -. RPC IV.1 online -. Unpublished and unique. Somewhat rough and with minor deposits, otherwise, very fine.



The eagle reverse type was previously attested for Nero, Trajan, Commodus, Septimius Severus, Caracalla, Geta, Julia Mamaea, and Maximus Caesar. With this piece, it is now also confirmed for Marcus Aurelius, thereby expanding the long-standing series. The majestic bird alludes to Zeus, whose worship is well attested through other coins from Prusa.