260 – 230 BCE
AE 17mm 4.26g
Sphinx seated right /
ИANAΨAΣ ΠΡEIIAΣ; Artemis standing left, holding wreath and scepter.
Colin series 2.1; SNG France 355-61
Perge was among the most important cities in Pamphylia and has been occupied for at least 6000 years. It made its start in Greek history after being taken by settlers from Rhodes in the 7th century BCE. The city was later taken by the Persians, under whom it remained until Alexander the Great arrived.
Alexander himself visited the city in 334 BCE and when he died it came under Seleukid control.
I’ve actually visited the ruins while on a trip to Turkey. I stayed in Antalya and visited on a day trip, though little did I know at the time that I’d eventually own a coin from the city.
Strabo mentions that the ancient city had a temple of Artemis Pergaea, and a festival to her was celebrated each year. That would likely explain the image of Artemis on the reverse of this coin.
Alexander the Great captures Perge, then marches on to Aspendos. The inhabitants agree to taxes in exhange for being left alone, but as Alexander continues to Side and Sillyon, he learns that Aspendos did not ratify the taxes. Enraged, he turns his army around. Aspendos quickly surrenders, but this time Alexander gives them far harsher terms.