★ A medallion of Valerian I from Perge ★

PAMPHYLIA. Perge. Valerian I , 253-260. '10 Assaria' (Bronze, 36 mm, 29.42 g, 6 h). AY K ΠOY ΛIK OYAΛЄPIANON Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Valerian I to right, seen from behind. Rev. ΠЄΡΓAIΩN ACYΛOC Artemis hurrying to right, carrying long torch with both hands. BMC -. SNG Paris 547 ( same dies ). SNG von Aulock -. Very rare and impressive. Attractive earthen highlights. Good very fine.

This coin is part of an impressive series of 10 assaria pieces that were struck under Valerian in some Pisidian and Pamphylian cities such as Perge and Sagalassos (see below, lot 612). Their unusual size and weight indicates that they were probably of commemorative nature and may have been struck as medallions during Valerian's stay in the region in the mid 250ies.