Nicomedia held the title of "twice neokoros" — twice temple warden of the imperial cult — a distinction awarded by Rome and fiercely contested among rival Bithynian cities, particularly Nicaea. The designation ΔΙϹ ΝΕΩ inscribed on this issue is civic boasting in bronze: Nicomedia reminding its neighbors, and Rome, of its privileged standing during Severus's reign.
Nicomedia held the title of "twice neokoros" — twice temple warden of the imperial cult — a distinction awarded by Rome and fiercely contested among rival Bithynian cities, particularly Nicaea. The designation ΔΙϹ ΝΕΩ inscribed on this issue is civic boasting in bronze: Nicomedia reminding its neighbors, and Rome, of its privileged standing during Severus's reign.