NGC VF Mysia, Pergamum AR Tetradrachm. 133-67BC. Cista Mystica

Description

MYSIA. Pergamum. Roman Rule (ca. 133-67 BC). AR cistophorus (28mm, 11h). NGC VF.
Serpent arising from cista mystica; all within ivy wreath / Bow in bow case decorated with aphlaston, flanked by two serpents; ΔI above, ΠEPΓ monogram to left, serpent twined around thyrsus to right. SNG France 5, 1719.
Pergamum had a distinct monetary system marked by the minting of cistophori, a large silver coin native to the region. The coin was introduced in Pergamum prior to Roman rule but continued to be minted throughout, with portraits of Roman emperors appearing on later issues. The cistophorus, literally translating to "cista-bearer," was named after the cista, or box, often appearing in the coin's design. This notable coin typically bore the emblem of a snake emerging from a cista mystica (a sacred basket), a nod to the local religious ritual associated with the Dionysian Mysteries.