Antoninus Pius, Ionian League Hand-Struck Extremely Rare Æ Medallion Roman Provincial 138-161 AD Copper Coin Aged with Oxidized Green Patina Museum Reproduction CRM0037

The League of Thirteen Cities of Ionia, like other provincial koina, was a federated commonwealth, whose members were allied to one another around a central administrative figure. Often, such leagues were rooted in political and defensive needs, or as in the case of the League of Thirteen Cities of Ionia, an amphictiony. This league can trace its origins back to mid-7th century BC, when it was formed following the Meliac War. Composed of the twelve Ionic Greek poleis, it was known as the Panionic League. After 650 BC, Smyrna joined, making the number of cities thirteen – an arrangement which remained until its final dissolution in the Roman period. As the League was amphictionc, its administration centered around a particular regional cult center; the League’s officer also acted as high priest of the temple. Following the absorption of Ionia into the Province of Asia under the Romans, the Asiarch also served as League’s main officer and high priest of the temple.
DESIGN:
Obverse side
Laureate and draped bust left
Legend:
AV KAI TI AI AΔPIANOC ANTΩNЄINOC CЄV

Reverse side
The Abduction of Persphone
Legend:
KOINON IΓ ΠOΛЄΩN ΠPO M KΛ ΦPONTΩN ACIAPX KAI APX IΓ ΠOΛЄΩN

A perfect choice for Numismatists, Historians, Military Veterans, Collectors.