Aphrodisias held a uniquely privileged position among Carian cities — the city's claimed devotion to Aphrodite had earned it a string of immunities and honors from successive emperors, and its civic coinage under Severus Alexander reflects that confidence. The city was formally declared "free and autonomous" with tax exemptions confirmed repeatedly from Augustus onward, a status its magistrates were not shy about advertising.
At 31.82g, this is a heavy provincial bronze, likely produced for local prestige rather than everyday exchange.
Aphrodisias held a uniquely privileged position among Carian cities — the city's claimed devotion to Aphrodite had earned it a string of immunities and honors from successive emperors, and its civic coinage under Severus Alexander reflects that confidence. The city was formally declared "free and autonomous" with tax exemptions confirmed repeatedly from Augustus onward, a status its magistrates were not shy about advertising.
At 31.82g, this is a heavy provincial bronze, likely produced for local prestige rather than everyday exchange.