Æ22 - Severus Alexander ΕΦΕϹΙΩΝ ΠΡΩΤΩΝ ΑϹΙΑϹ

The title ΠΡΩΤΩΝ ΑϹΙΑϹ — "first of Asia" — was not ceremonial decoration. Ephesus fought bitterly for primacy over Smyrna and Pergamon throughout the imperial period, and Roman governors periodically adjudicated these disputes. The inscription asserting that claim on civic coinage was a deliberate political act, broadcasting the city's status to anyone handling the bronze in daily commerce.

Under Severus Alexander, Ephesus was at the height of its provincial mint output.