Diassarion - Antoninus Pius ϹΥΝΝΑΔΕΩΝ ΔΩΡΙΕΩΝ

Historical Context: This bronze diassarion from Synnada, issued 138-161 CE, falls within the reign of Antoninus Pius, the apex of the Pax Romana. His rule brought immense stability and prosperity to the Roman Empire. Synnada, a significant Phrygian city, utilized its right to strike local bronze coinage. The inscription ϹΥΝΝΑΔΕΩΝ ΔΩΡΙΕΩΝ (Synnadeon Dorion) likely denotes a specific local community or tribal affiliation within Synnada, highlighting the coexistence of imperial authority and local identities through essential daily currency.

Artistry: The anonymous engraver, typical for provincial issues, produced a coin reflecting common Roman provincial artistic styles. The obverse would feature a dignified, laureate bust of Antoninus Pius, capturing idealized imperial portraiture emphasizing stability. The reverse design, specific to Synnada, typically depicted a local deity, civic personification, or architectural landmark, reflecting the city's unique cultural identity. The inscription ϹΥΝΝΑΔΕΩΝ ΔΩΡΙΕΩΝ clearly identifies the issuing authority, usually encircling the central motif.

Technical/Grading: This 7.58-gram, 25-millimeter bronze diassarion exhibits characteristics typical of provincial issues. High points for wear on the obverse include the emperor's hair, ear, and drapery. On the reverse, prominent features of the central design, like a deity's face or architectural details, would show earliest wear. Technical strike qualities often vary, with provincial mints sometimes showing less precise centering or strike pressure than imperial issues. Flan quality, including smoothness and minor cracks, contributes to the overall technical assessment.