MYSIA, Pergamum. Caracalla. 198-217 AD. Æ Medallion (45mm, 47.49 gm, 6h). M. Caerelius Attalus, strategus. Struck 214-215 AD. AVT[O] KPAT K [MAP]KOC AVP ANT[
W]N[EINOC], laureate and cuirassed bust right, cuirass decorated with aegis; c/m: pellet within wreath; all in incuse / E
PI CTPA M [KAIPE]
L ATTA
LOV
PEP
GAM[HN
WN] PRO T
WN
G [NEOKOP]
WN, Caracalla standing left, holding sceptre in left hand, raising right hand toward serpent coiled around tree; a small figure of Telesphoros on basis between. For coin: cf. SNG France 2244 (same obverse die); BMC Mysia 326 var. (obv. legend); SNG Copenhagen -; SNG von Aulock -; for c/m: Howgego 480 Fine, dark brown patina with a few earthen patches.
From the Garth R. Drewry Collection.
Caracalla visited the temple of Pergamene Asclepius as he moved east to confront the Parthians in 214-215 AD. There, he participated in its rites, which included sleeping within the temple precinct and having the dreams incurred thereby interpreted. To commemorate this event, a number of huge medallic bronzes, including this coin, were issued.