CNG 88, Lot: 759. Estimate $3000. Sold for $5500. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

THRACE, Perinthus. Caracalla. AD 198-217. Æ Medallion (41mm, 39.28 g, 6h). Laureate and cuirassed bust right, holding spear over shoulder; breastplate decorated with gorgoneion / Serapis standing left, holding two boxer’s himantes (fist bindings) over lighted and garlanded altar, and scepter. Schönert, Perinthos 604; cf. Varbanov 271/272 (for obv./rev.). Good VF, green patina, hairline flan crack, minor roughness. Rare.

From Group CEM.

In ancient boxing, the opponents wrapped leather straps, often interspersed with lead plates, around their hands. Upon successful completion of the match, the tools would then be offered to the gods as a thank-offering. The competitions celebrated here were held in conjunction with Caracalla’s award of neocorate status to Perinthus during his march eastward to meet the Parthians.