FORVM`s Classical Numismatics Discussion Board
Numismatic and History Discussion Forums => Coin of the Day => Topic started by: traveler on March 20, 2017, 09:55:46 pm
-
Hi all,
Certainly not a pretty coin but it took some time to find. A toned "bargain bin" example of Pompey the Great's denarius. Crawford 447/1a, Sear CRI 8, Sydenham 1033. gF/gF, banker's marks, edge flaw. Military mint moving with Pompey, 49 BCE, 3.4. 17mm. Die axis 2h. Obverse: VARRO PRO Q. Diademed bust of Jupiter (Terminalis) right. Reverse: MAGN PRO COS in two lines in exergue. Sceptre between dolphin and eagle.
This is the "right" style of the denarius as compared to the relatively Dacian (?) imitations. The eagle, dolphin and sceptre all refer to Pompey's past military successes during his long career. I particularly like the eagle on the reverse. Although the coin is worn and battered the eagle was struck in high relief. Just wish it still had it's proud head!
The edge break also allows us to see the interior of the coin: this was struck from pure silver apparently.