PAMPHYLIA. Perge. Gallienus, 253-268. 10 Assaria (Bronze, 31 mm, 19.04 g, 12 h), 260-268. AYT KAI ΠΟ ΛΙ ΓAΛΛIHNO CЄB Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust of Gallienus to right, seen from behind; to right, I. Rev. ΠΕΡΓΑΙΑOϹ ΑΡΤΕΜΙΔΟϹ Cult image of Artemis of Perge, flanked by star and crescent, within distyle temple with entablature inscribed ΑϹΥΛΟΥ; in pediment, A. Price & Trell 594. RPC X online ID 62270. SNG Paris 570. SNG PFPS 439. SNG von Aulock 4732. Somewhat rough, otherwise, very fine.



The prominently displayed inscription on the temple highlights one of the essential functions of certain sanctuaries: their asylia. In ancient Greece, 'asylia' referred to the special protection granted to a sanctuary against violence or interference, a status rooted in religious authority and often politically recognized. Sanctuaries endowed with asylia served as refuges for the persecuted and were respected both locally and across the wider Greek world. This status elevated not only the cult itself but also the prestige and diplomatic significance of the site. By emphasizing the asylia of the sanctuary of Artemis Pergaia on its coins, Perge asserted its own importance - particularly within the competitive agonal context in which Greek cities vied for honorary titles.