Æ35 - Sabinia Tranquilliana ΠΟΔΑΛΙωΤωΝ

Historical Context: This substantial Æ35 coin, issued by the Lycian city of Podalia between 241 and 244 CE, honors Sabinia Tranquilliana, wife of Emperor Gordian III. Her depiction on municipal coinage across the Roman Empire demonstrated cities' loyalty to the ruling dynasty. During the mid-3rd century, a period of increasing instability, such provincial issues underscored allegiance and sought imperial favor, reflecting the widespread practice of honoring the empress even amidst growing imperial pressures.

Artistry: The anonymous engraver from Podalia worked within the provincial Roman stylistic tradition, blending local Hellenistic influences with imperial portraiture conventions. The obverse would feature a dignified bust of Tranquilliana, conveying imperial gravitas. The reverse, identified by the "ΠΟΔΑΛΙωΤωΝ" inscription, typically depicted a local deity, civic personification, or emblem of Podalia, reflecting the city's unique identity. These provincial designs offer crucial insights into local artistic interpretations of imperial authority.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a substantial 35mm flan weighing 27.80 grams, this bronze coin represents a significant local emission. High-points for the obverse portrait typically include the empress's hair, nose, and drapery folds. For the reverse, high-points depend on the specific design, usually the head or prominent attributes. Provincial strikes of this era often exhibit varying quality, with potential for minor off-centering, areas of flatness from insufficient pressure, or die wear, though a well-preserved example would show strong detail on central motifs.