Lycia, Olympus
circa 166-81 BCE
AE 17.00mm, 5.43g
Helmeted head of Athena r.
Rev: Thunderbolt
Imhoff KM 1
The fire-breathing monster, the Chimera, detailed in Homer’s Iliad, was from a crag near Olympos. The myth comes from a natural fire that may still be seen today – vents that emit abiogenic methane. The power is determined by groundwater discharge.
The city itself was founded no later than the 4th century BCE and took its name from nearby Mount Olympos. The city was a member of the Lycian League, though this coin may have been minted before it joined. It may also have been minted afterwards.
The city was briefly renamed to Hadrianopolis after the visit of Hadrian in 131 CE. A fair portion of the ruins still stand.
78 BCE
The Romans capture Olympos under Publius Servilius Isauricus, joined by a young Julius Caesar.
131 CE
Hadrian visits Olympos.