★ The Macedonians in Blaundos ★

LYDIA. Blaundus. Antoninus Pius, 138-161. Tetrassarion (Bronze, 31 mm, 20.90 g, 6 h). ΑΥ ΚΑΙСΑΡ ΑΝΤΩΝЄΙΝΟС Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Antoninus Pius to right, seen from behind. Rev. ΒΛΑΥΝΔЄΩΝ ΜΑΚЄΔΟΝΩΝ Zeus Labraundos (?) riding on horseback to right, holding double-axe over his left shoulder. Imhoof-Blumer, LS 7 = RPC IV online 1186 ( same dies ). Of the highest rarity, the second and best known example. A beautifully patinated piece of excellent style. Minor cleaning scratches, otherwise, good very fine.

The reverse legend on this and related issues from Blaundos indicates that Macedonian veterans were settled in the city in Hellenistic times, most likely by the Attalid Kings of Pergamon.