Æ35 - Sabinia Tranquilliana ΠΟΔΑΛΙωΤωΝ

Historical Context: This Æ35 of Sabinia Tranquilliana, struck by the city of Podalia in Lycia between 241 and 244 CE, offers a fascinating glimpse into provincial Roman coinage during the mid-third century crisis. Tranquilliana, wife of Emperor Gordian III, frequently appeared on local issues, signifying the widespread recognition of the imperial family even in distant provinces. Podalia, a relatively minor Lycian city, demonstrates its civic pride and loyalty by issuing such a substantial bronze denomination (35mm, 27.80g), typical of larger provincial issues used for significant local transactions or as prestige pieces. This period saw the empire under increasing internal and external pressures, yet provincial mints continued to function, often serving as crucial propaganda tools for imperial legitimacy in the periphery.

Artistry: The artistic execution of this coin, while not attributable to a specific engraver, reflects the prevailing stylistic conventions of Lycian provincial mints during the Gordianic era. These issues typically exhibit a blend of Roman imperial portraiture, often derived from official metropolitan prototypes, and local Hellenistic artistic traditions. The large flan size of 35mm allowed for a detailed and imposing portrait of Tranquilliana on the obverse, likely emphasizing her imperial dignity and the elaborate coiffure fashionable for empresses of the period. While artistic quality could vary across provincial mints, the general trend in the mid-3rd century often saw a more stylized, less idealized approach compared to earlier periods, focusing on recognizable features rather than refined classicism. Engraver signatures are virtually unknown for this issuer and period.

Technical/Grading: For optimal grading, collectors should prioritize several key high-points on this Æ35. On the obverse portrait of Sabinia Tranquilliana, critical details include the intricate rendering of her coiffure, particularly the bun or braids at the back of the head, and the clarity of her facial features—eyes, nose, and mouth. The drapery folds of her mantle or stola should also be well-defined. For the reverse, the specific type (unspecified here) will dictate precise high-points, but generally, the head or prominent features of any deity, animal, or architectural elements, along with the distinctness of their attributes, are paramount. The legibility of the Podalian ethnic (ΠΟΔΑΛΙωΤωΝ) and any other legends is also crucial, as is the overall strike quality, which can often be variable on provincial bronzes.