Description
House of Emirates is extremely proud to offer its elite clientele this incredible and majestic piece of Roman History. This incredible treasure will make an ideal gift for someone special.
A billon Tetradrachm from SYRIA, Seleucis and Pieria.
Emperor Philip I The Arab
Date: 244-249 AD
Diameter: 27 mm
Weight: 11.65 g
Mint: Antioch
Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right. Rev. Eagle standing right, with wings displayed, holding wreath in beak; S C in exergue.
Nearly very fine coin
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Seleucis and Pieria was a historical region in ancient Syria during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. It was one of the administrative districts of the Seleucid Empire, later incorporated into the Roman Empire, and part of the broader province of Syria. The region’s name reflects its dual nature:
- Seleucis: Named after Seleucus I Nicator, the founder of the Seleucid Empire.
- Pieria: Likely a reference to a fertile plain or a region associated with the name in Greek tradition.
The region stretched between the Orontes River and the Amanus Mountains, making it a vital crossroads for trade and military campaigns.
Historical Importance
- Seleucid Era: Seleucis and Pieria formed the administrative and cultural heart of the Seleucid Empire. Antioch, its capital, was a center for Greek culture and governance.
- Roman Era: After the Roman annexation of Syria in 64 BC by Pompey, Seleucis and Pieria became a flourishing Roman province. Antioch continued to be a critical city for administration, commerce, and culture.
Legacy
The region’s legacy lives on through its contributions to Hellenistic art, architecture, and culture. Today, remnants of its grandeur can be found in the archaeological sites scattered across Syria and southern Turkey, bearing testimony to its historical significance.
