Æ28 - Valerian and Gallienus ΑΠΗΝΗ ΙΕΡΑ / ΕΦΕϹΙΩΝ

Ephesus retained the right to strike civic bronze well into the joint reign of Valerian and Gallienus, a privilege jealously maintained by the city through its status as seat of the conventus juridicus — the Roman assize district that made it the administrative capital of Asia. The legend ΑΠΗΝΗ ΙΕΡΑ, referring to the sacred wagon or carriage associated with the cult procession, ties this piece directly to the ceremonial life of the Artemision rather than to imperial politics.

The joint reign ended abruptly in 260 when Valerian was captured by Shapur I at the Battle of Edessa — the only Roman emperor taken prisoner in battle.