CNG 93, Lot: 889. Estimate $500. Sold for $525. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

CILICIA, Seleucia ad Calycadnum. Gordian III. AD 238-244. Æ (30mm, 13.53 g, 6h). Radiate and draped bust right; c/m: ΔO monogram within triangular incuse and K / Infant Zeus seated facing on throne, head left, raising right hand; around him, three Curetes, each wearing military outfit, striking shields with swords. For coin: cf. SNG Levante 1033 (for obv. die); cf. SNG France 1004 (Severus Alexander); for c/ms: Howgego 670 and 618. VF, earthen green patina. A rare reverse type for this city and emperor.

The Curetes share some of the attributes of the Corybantes, dancing divinities associated with the worship of Cybele, but their specific role in Greek mythology was to serve as the protectors of the infant Zeus while he was hidden away on Crete, safe from his murderous father Cronus. Their militant dancing, accompanied by the clashing of swords on shields, drowned out the cries of the infant. The Curetes’ dance was later re-enacted by young men at Greek festivals and games.