Tarsos (AD 238-244) AE 38 - Gordian III

Gordian III, 238-244 AD. AE38 - Medallion (20.64g, 7h). Radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust right / Double Ciliarch crowns set on prize table: the inner crown consisting of a diadem decorated with seven imperial busts right and joined to the outer crown by columns; the outer crown also consisting of a diadem decorated with seven imperial busts right; letters A M K between and two Nikai flanking uppermost bust. Good VF, dark green patina, minor pits.

The Ciliarch or Cilicarch was the name for the High Priest of Cilicia who presided over provincial temples dedicated to certain emperors. The different busts which decorate the crown represent the various emperors who were honored at each respective temple.