This coin was minted in Antioch, Syria, during the late Roman Republic era in 53/52 BC, corresponding to Year 14 of the local civic dating system. At the time, Syria was a Roman province, having been annexed in 64 BC by Pompey the Great. Antioch, one of the largest and most influential cities in the eastern Mediterranean, played a key role in trade, governance, and military operations.
 
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.
 
This Antioch AE coin from the Roman Republic (53/52 BC) 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.