The Impact of the Bithynian Provincial Coins on Thracian Mints during the Roman Era

Abstract

The strong historical relationship between Thrace and Bithynia is evident throughout antiquity. In Aegean Thrace, this connection is confirmed through coin circulation and various other forms of material culture, including sculptures and reliefs. While Bithynian coins are relatively scarce and primarily originate from Nicaea, coins from other cities are also found in the region. Their presence is more likely attributed to the movements of traders, craftsmen, and other non-military individuals, as Aegean Thrace was not situated within the limes and the Via Egnatia was not a route commonly used by soldiers, at least during the 1st to the first half of the 3rd century AD. Therefore, this article aims to explore the connection between these two neighbouring regions through the circulation of coins and the shared iconography found in them. Of particular interest is, of course, the adoption of a significant number of iconographic types by Thracian mints, serving as a focal point for our investigation.