Harpasa, Caria
time of Antoninus Pius 138-161 CE
AE 20mm 4.18g
Youthful head of Demos, right /
Athena advancing, right, brandishing spear, holding shield
RPC Online Volume IV.2, 2723(temporary); See Roma Numismatics E-Sale 54, lot 228; See Savoca Blue Auction 169, lot 664
ex W.B. and R.E. Montgomery Collection
Not much is known about ancient Harpasa save a “rocking stone” that Pliny described. Supposedly it could start rocking with the slightest finger’s touch, but all one’s strength could not move it. Today, rocking stones can be found across the world. With many such stones, especially if they’re popular, the bases are eventually worn down to the point they no longer rock. That is likely what occurred with the one near Harps.
According to Stephanus of Byzantium, the city was named for the Harpasa River. Little else about the city is known.