Rarity: While Seleucid bronze coins are relatively common, those from Sardes with clear symbols are less frequently encountered.
 
Condition Impact: A VF (Very Fine) example with sharp monograms and inscriptions is desirable.
 
Antiochos II Theos (B.C. 261-246), son and successor of Antiochos I Soter to the throne of the Seleukid Kindom. The Milesians gave him his surname of Theos because he delivered them from their tyrant, Timarchus. He carried on war with Ptolemy Philadelphus, king of Egypt, which was brought to a close by his putting away his wife Laodice, and marrying Berenice, the daughter of Ptolemy. After the death of Ptolemy, he recalled Laodice, but in revenge for the insults he had received, she caused Antiochos and Berenice to be murdered. During the reign of Antiochos, Arsaces founded the Parthian Empire (250 B.C.), and Theodotus established an independent kingdom in Baktria. He was succeeded by his son Seleukos Callinicus. His younger son Antiochos Hierax also assumed the crown, and carried on war some years with his brother.
 
Historical Significance:
Roman Influence: By 53/52 BC, Syria was firmly under Roman control, yet its coinage still reflected strong Hellenistic artistic traditions.
 
Political Context: This coin was minted just a year before the catastrophic Battle of Carrhae (53 BC), in which Crassus’ Roman army suffered a devastating defeat against the Parthians.
Civic Autonomy: The use of local dating (Year 14) and Greek inscriptions shows that Antioch retained a degree of administrative independence under Roman rule.
 
Collector's Note:
 
Rarity: Coins of this type are scarce, especially in well-centered condition with a clear patina.
 
Condition Impact: A VF (Very Fine) example with a well-centered strike is highly collectible.
 
Additional Information:
The serrated edge of the coin is an interesting feature, though its specific purpose—whether for anti-counterfeiting measures or aesthetic reasons—is a subject of scholarly debate.
 
This Antioch AE coin from the Roman Republic represents a fascinating transitional period when Roman power was solidifying in the East, yet local cities like Antioch maintained their Greek civic traditions. Featuring Zeus, the city's patron deity, it reflects Antioch’s enduring cultural and political significance in the Mediterranean world.