Melqart, Hercules Gaditanus and Híppos of Hadrian Aurei

Abstract

Worth highlighting among the depictions on the reverses of Hadrian aurei dedicated to different divinities are those of Hercules Gaditanus. These representations combining a victorious image of the Emperor depicted as a god with what was the fictitious limit of the known world are charged with potent symbolism. This study focuses on aurei (RIC II/3 572-578 and 555) bearing the image of Oceanus accompanied by a ship’s prow marked by a distinct adornment. Apart from the more basic reading of this detail that reinforces the well-known oceanic vocation of Gadir/Gades, this study delves into the possibility of interpreting the scene from a Hispano-Phoenician viewpoint linked to the key role played by the iconography of the ship. The ship/híppos represents a key element in the Phoenician-Punic imaginary with a bond to the god from Cadiz, whose likeness can be traced through this Roman coinage which was especially beloved by the emperors of Hispanic origin.