Seleucia ad Calycadnum was an important port city in Cilicia Tracheia (modern southern Turkey), founded in the Hellenistic period and thriving well into the Roman Imperial era. Situated near the mouth of the Calycadnus River, it controlled key trade routes between the Mediterranean and the rugged Cilician interior. During the late Hellenistic and early Roman periods, Seleucia produced a diverse range of bronze coinage, typically under the names of local magistrates rather than monarchs. This civic autonomy in coinage reflects both the influence of Rome, which allowed cities in Asia Minor to continue minting local bronzes, and the persistence of Greek civic traditions.

The presence of Athena on the obverse, shown helmeted and with her aegis, emphasizes Seleucia’s claim to cultural refinement and protection under one of the most recognizable Olympian deities. Athena’s spear, placed behind her, underscores her martial and protective qualities, likely appealing to the city’s need for defense in a region long plagued by piracy before Pompey’s campaign against the Cilicians in 67 BC.

The reverse with Nike advancing-carrying wreath and palm-commemorates victory and prosperity. In civic issues like this, Nike often symbolized not a single battle but the general fortune and stability of the community. The magistrate’s name, Demetrios, appears prominently, underlining the importance of local civic officials in Seleucid and Roman provincial administration.