★ Antinoüs, favorite of Hadrian ★

Cilicia. Tarsos. Antinoüs, favorite of Hadrian AD 130.
Bronze Æ

33 mm, 18,99 g

[ΑΝΤΙΝ]ΟΟϹ [ΗΡΩϹ], bust left, drapery on far shoulder, wearing small uraeus crown / [ΑΔΡΙΑΝΗ]Ϲ Τ[ΑΡϹΟ]Υ ΜΗ[ΤΡ]Ο[ΠΟΛΕΩϹ ΝΕΟΚΟΡΟΥ ΚΥΔΝΟC, Antinoüs as river god Kydnos, crowned with sedge, reclining left, leaning on vase, holding cornucopia and reed.

Nearly Very Fine

RPC III 3295 (listing 3 specimens).

Antinous was a young man of Greek origin who gained fame during the reign of the Roman Emperor Hadrian AD 117-138. He was born in Bithynia in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) and became a favorite and companion of Emperor Hadrian. The nature of their relationship is a subject of historical debate, but it's widely acknowledged that Antinous held a special place in Hadrian's life. Tragically, Antinous died under mysterious circumstances in the Nile River in Egypt in AD 130, at the age of around 19. Following his death, Hadrian was deeply affected and initiated a widespread cult of worship, elevating Antinous to the status of a divine figure. The city of Antinopolis was founded in his honor in Egypt, and his likeness appeared on coins, statues, and other artworks across the Roman Empire. The cult of Antinous faded over time, but his image and story continue to captivate historians, art enthusiasts, and those interested in the complex relationship between ancient rulers and their favored companions.