LYDIA. Philadelphia. Julia Domna, 193-217. (Bronze, 30 mm, 13.20 g, 5 h), struck under Claudius Kapitonos, archon, circa 214. IOYΛIΑ CEBACTH Draped bust of Julia Domna to right. Rev. EΠ K-Λ ΚΑΠ-ΙΤΩΝ-ΟC-ΑΡΧ ΦΛ // ΦΙΛAΔEΛΦEΩΝ / ΝEΩΚΟΡΩ/Ν Four legged table, shown in perspective, bearing two purses flanked by two prize crowns, each containing a palm branch; on ground below, vase containing palm branches between two aspergilla. BMC 80 = Burrell p. 129. Lindgren II, 784. Milavic 309 ( same dies ). SNG Tübingen 3757 var. (reverse legend). Dark brown patina with earthen deposits; particularly scarce. Very fine.

The city was given the honorary title ΦΛ(αβιων) - the Flavian Philadelphians during the reign of Vespasian. The aspergillum, familiar from the reverses of Caesar's elephant denarii, was used to sprinkle holy water or libations, thus emphasising the religious nature of the games symbolised by the prize crowns on this coin. Philadelphia received its neokorate from Caracalla on 18 or 19 November 214.