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Home ▸ Catalog ▸ |Themes & Provenance| ▸ |Denominations| ▸ |Big Bronze||View Options:   | | | Large bronze provided the finest canvas for ancient master celators to illustrate their artistry. Superb sestertius and medallions often obtain higher prices than even rare gold coins. |
Ptolemais is today Acre, Israel. It was at Ptolemais that the Jews met Petronius, sent to set up statues of the emperor in the Temple, and persuaded him to turn back. St. Paul spent a day in Ptolemais (Acts 21:7). -- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AkkoGP113579. Bronze diobol, Lorber CPE B338; Svoronos 790 (5 spec.); Rosenberger I p.20, 16; Sofaer pl. 3, 36; Weiser 42; SNG Cop -; Noeske –, Choice VF, green patina, earthen deposits, areas of weaker strike, marks, obv. edge beveled, weight 19.353 g, maximum diameter 31.7 mm, die axis 0o, Galilee, Ake Ptolemais (Acre, Israel) mint, 261 - 246 B.C.; obverse diademed head of Zeus Ammon right; reverse ΠTOΛEMAIOY BAΣIΛEΩΣ, eagle standing half left atop fulmen (thunderbolt), head left, wings closed, double cornucopia bound with diadem over shoulder, Pi-Tau ligate inside Omicron (PTO - Ptolemais mintmark) in field; scarce; $800.00 (€752.00)
Judaea, Bar Kochba Revolt, 132 - 135 A.D., Irregular Issue
The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon bar Kokhba, was the last of the major Jewish–Roman wars. The Roman army suffered heavy losses. It took six full legions, auxiliaries, and elements from as many as six more legions three years to crush the revolt. The Romans annihilated much of the Judean population. In 134, the they captured Jerusalem and Simon bar Kokhba was killed in 135. Legio VI Ferrata rebuilt the legionary fortress in Jerusalem and constructed a Roman temple at Golgotha. An altar to Jupiter was erected on the site of the Temple. The Jewish diaspora began as Hadrian barred Jews from Jerusalem and had survivors of the massacre dispersed across the Roman Empire. Many were sold into slavery. The Jewish people remained scattered without a homeland for close to two millennia.JD111382. Bronze AE 27, Hendin 6464a, cf. Mildenberg 187, Sofaer 96 - 97, Meshorer TJC 259, aVF, well centered, crude irregular style and epigraphy, weight 12.017 g, maximum diameter 27.5 mm, die axis 180o, undated, year 3, 134 - 135 A.D.; obverse paleo-Hebrew inscription: "for the freedom of Jerusalem", three-lobed grape leaf on a tendril; reverse seven branched palm tree with two bunches of dates, paleo-Hebrew inscription "Shimon" (Simon) divided by trunk; $540.00 (€507.60)
Hadrian, 11 August 117 - 10 July 138 A.D.
Felicitas was the goddess or personification of happiness, good fortune, and success. She played an important role in Rome's state religion during the empire and was frequently portrayed on coins. She became a prominent symbol of the wealth and prosperity of the Roman Empire. RB114510. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC II 563b, BMCRE III 1153, Cohen II 1192, SRCV II 3623, aVF, dark patina, rough areas of corrosion, weight 24.169 g, maximum diameter 34.4 mm, die axis 180o, Rome mint, 119 A.D.; obverse IMP CAESAR TRAIANVS HADRIANVS AVG, laureate bust right, bare chest, slight drapery on far shoulder; reverse PONT MAX TR POT COS III (high priest, holder of Tribunitian power, consul for the 3rd time), Felicitas standing slightly left, caduceus in right hand, cornucopia in left hand, S - C (senatus consulto) flanking across field; $300.00 (€282.00)
Marcus Aurelius, 7 March 161 - 17 March 180 A.D., Mostene, Lydia
Mostene, in ancient Lydia, prospered in Roman and Byzantine eras. There is debate, based on a line in Tacitus, over whether Mostene was a Macedonian colony or a native Lydian city. In 17 A.D. the city was hit by an earthquake and was assisted by relief from Tiberius.RP113182. Bronze AE 35, Apparently unpublished; GRPC Lydia -, RPC Online IV -, F, dark green patina, earthen deposits, marks, pit lower right, weight 21.592 g, maximum diameter 35.3 mm, die axis 180o, Mostene (Kepecik, Turkey) mint, c. 161 - 162 A.D.; obverse AVT K M AVPH ANTΩNEINOC, laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind; reverse EΠI AΛEΞANΔPOY APX ΛYΔ MOCTHNΩN (authority of Alexandros, archon, Mostene), Demeter, holding grain and torch?; from the Michael Arslan Collection, ex Solidus auction 123 (25 Jul 2023), lot 359 (part of); the only known specimen; extremely rare; $250.00 (€235.00)
Lot of 3 Roman Imperial Sestertii, 1st Century A.D.
The following list was provided by the consignor and has not been verified by FORVM:
1) Galba, sestertius, legend in wreath.
2) Vespasian, sestertius, Fortuna.
3) Nero Claudius Drusus, sestertius, two TIAV countermarks, Pangerl 54, rare countermarks.
LT113402. Orichalcum Lot, 3 Roman imperial sestertii, 1st century A.D.; $210.00 (€197.40)
Gordian III, 29 July 238 - 25 February 244 A.D., Antiocheia, Pisidia
| Antiochia in Pisidia, also know as Antiochia in Phrygia, and under the Roman Empire as Antiochia Caesareia or Antiochia Colonia Caesarea, was on the border of Pisidia and Phrygia, at the crossroads of the Mediterranean, Aegean and Central Anatolian regions. After the death of Alexander the Great, Seleucus I Nicator, founder of the Seleucid Dynasty, took control of Pisidia. Captured places were Hellenized and, in order to protect the population, nearly 60 fortified cities were founded at strategically important places, usually on an acropolis. Seleucus gave 16 of them the name of his father Antiochos. Colonists were brought from Magnesia on the Maeander to found Antiochia in Pisidia. |  |
Valerian I, October 253 - c. June 260 A.D.
Liberalitas coin types attest to occasions when the emperor has displayed his generosity towards the people by a distribution to them, in money, provisions, or both. The first mention of Liberalitas was on coins of Hadrian. It was a type frequently repeated by the succeeding emperors. Indeed these instances of imperial generosity are more carefully recorded on coins than they are by history. This coin advertises that Elagabalus has made his third distribution to the people. Liberality is personified by the image of a woman, holding in one hand a counting board, or square tablet with a handle on which are cut a certain number of holes. These boards were used to quickly count the proper number of coins or other items for distribution to each person. In the other hand she holds a cornucopia.RB110380. Orichalcum sestertius, Göbl MIR 66h, RIC V-1 J165 (S), Hunter IV J45; SRCV III 10468, Cohen V 110, VF/F, nice green patina, nice portrait, tight round flan, most of legends off flan, weight 17.182 g, maximum diameter 25.7 mm, die axis 0o, Rome mint, 2nd issue, 255 - 256 A.D.; obverse IMP C P LIC VALERIANVS P F AVG, laureate, cuirassed and slightly draped, bust right; reverse LIBERALITAS AVGG, Liberalitas standing slightly left, wearing long chiton, counting board in right hand, cornucopiae in left hand, S - C (senatus consulto) flanking across field below center; this is the first specimen of this type handled by FORVM; ex Degani Venizia (Plaza San Marco, Venice, Italy); scarce; $180.00 (€169.20)
Severus Alexander, 13 March 222 - March 235 A.D.
In 232, Severus Alexander launched a counterattack against the Persian forces of King Ardashir I, who had invaded Mesopotamia. Alexander gave the order to march to the capital at Ctesiphon, but was defeated and withdrew to Syria. After heavy losses on both sides, a truce was signed.RB112558. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC IV 648d, BMCRE VI 906, Hunter III 180, Cohen IV 549, SRCV II 8019 var. (sl. dr.), aVF, excellent portrait, nice green patina, well centered, scratches, scattered light corrosion, flan cracks, weight 20.231 g, maximum diameter 30.4 mm, die axis 0o, Rome mint, 232 A.D.; obverse IMP ALEXANDER PIVS AVG, laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from the front; reverse SPES PVBLICA (the hope of the public), Spes advancing left, flower in right hand, raising skirt with left hand, S - C (senatus consulto) flanking across field; $170.00 (€159.80)
Severus Alexander and Julia Maesa, 222 - 235 A.D., Ninica-Claudiopolis, Cilicia
Ammianus mentions Silifke and Claudiopolis as cities of Cilicia, or of the country drained by the Calycadnus; and Claudiopolis was a colony of Claudius Caesar. It is described by Theophanes of Byzantium as situated in a plain between the two Taurus Mountains, a description which exactly, corresponds to the position of the basin of the Calycadnus. Claudiopolis may therefore be represented by Mut, which is higher up the valley than Seleucia, and near the junction of the northern and western branches of the Calycadnus. It is also the place to which the pass over the northern Taurus leads from Laranda. The city received the Roman colony name Colonia Iulia Felix Augusta Ninica.RB91011. Bronze AE 36, cf. asiaminorcoins.com 6551 (same obv. die & c/m), SNG Levante -, RPC Online -, SNG BnF -, SNG Cop -, BMC Cilicia -, c/m: Howgego 262, F, weak legends, porosity, edge cracks, weight 17.901 g, maximum diameter 35.8 mm, die axis 180o, Ninica-Claudiopolis (Mut, Mersin, Turkey) mint, 222 - 235 A.D.; obverse IMP C SEVERUS ALEXANΔER AVΓ (or similar), laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind; c/m: Nike right in c. 5 x 8 mm oval punch (3 times); reverse IVL MAECA COL IVL FEL NINIO CLAUΔIOPOLI (or similar), draped bust of Julia Maesa right; huge 35.8 mm!; ex Forum (2015); extremely rare; $160.00 (€150.40)
Caracalla, 28 January 198 - 8 April 217 A.D., Antiocheia, Pisidia
Paul of Tarsus gave his first sermon to the Gentiles (Acts 13:13-52) at Antiochia in Pisidia, and visited the city once on each of his missionary journeys, helping to make Antioch a center of early Christianity in Anatolia. Antioch in Pisidia is also known as Antiochia Caesareia and Antiochia in Phrygia. RP113937. Bronze AE 33, RPC Online V.3 (to be published; 4 spec.); Kryzanowska -; cf. BMC Lycia p. 182, 38 (diff. bust style); SNGvA 4933 (same), Choice F, large heavy flan, dark green - near black patina, mild porosity, weight 20.767 g, maximum diameter 33.1 mm, die axis 135o, Antioch in Pisidia (Yalvac, Turkey) mint, c. 209/210 A.D., Issue 3 (only "sestertii"); obverse IMP•CAES•M•AVR• - ANTONINVS AVG, laureate and cuirassed bust right, seen from the front and wearing aegis; reverse •COL CAES• - •ANTIOCH, the god Mên standing facing with head right, left foot on bucranium, column supporting left arm, upright staff in right hand, and Nike in outstretched left carrying a trophy over her shoulder; cock to left; S - R in inner fields; the present specimen of this unpublished variety will be included in the upcoming volume V.3 of RPC!; rare bust style; $150.00 (€141.00)
Antoninus Pius, August 138 - 7 March 161 A.D., Roman Egypt
"ALEXANDRIA (31°13'N, 29°55'E), was founded on the site of a fishing village at the mouth of the Nile in Egypt by Alexander the Great in 331 BC and after his death in 323 BC it was ruled by the Ptolemaic dynasty until Octavian seized it for Rome in 30 BC. Famous as an intellectual and trading center, it was the second largest city in the Roman Empire with a population of 500,000 at the time of Christ. It had long struck coins for Egyptian circulation, and briefly struck Imperial denarii (192-194) before Diocletian in 294 commenced normal imperial issues, continuing until 421 (and briefly under Leo I 457-474)." - from Moneta Historical Research by Tom SchroerRX111023. Bronze drachm, RPC Online 13749/36 (this coin); Dattari-Savio 8855; Geissen 1672; SNG Milan 1299; BMC Alexandria p. 143, 1201; Emmett 1449, aVF, well centered, some corrosion/pitting, edge splits, obv. edge beveled, weight 27.079 g, maximum diameter 34.4 mm, die axis 0o, Alexandria mint, 151 - 152 A.D.; obverse AVT K T AIΛ AΔP ANTWNINOC CEB EVC, laureate bust right, with aegis on far shoulder; reverse Peristyle altar of Agathodaemon, with four columns and garlanded entablature, female figure sacrificing within, burning pyre and acroteria in form of aphlasta above; L in exergue, I-E (year 15) across fields; ex Naville Numismatics 40 (27 May 2018), lot 298; ex Roma Numismatics e-auction 41 (2 Dec 2017), lot 491; $125.00 (€117.50)
Byzantine Anonymous Follis of Christ, Class D, Constantine IX, 12 June 1042 - 11 January 1055 A.D.
The emperor's name and portrait are not part of the design on the Byzantine types referred to as anonymous folles. Instead of the earthly king, these coins depict Jesus Christ, King of Kings.BZ113972. Bronze anonymous follis, Anonymous follis of Christ, DOC III-2, class D, pp. 685 - 687; Wroth BMC 10; Ratto 2015; SBCV 1836; Sommer 40.6, VF, well centered, green patina, overstruck, weight 6.449 g, maximum diameter 30.3 mm, die axis 180o, Constantinople (Istanbul, Turkey) mint, c. 1050 - 1055 A.D.; obverse Christ seated facing on throne with back, wearing nimbus cruciger, pallium, and colobium, and Gospels in both hands, IC - XC (Greek abbreviation: Ihsoús Xristós - Jesus Christ) across field; reverse IS XS / bASILE / bASIL (Greek: Jesus Christ, King of Kings) in three lines, ornamental lines and cross above, ornamental lines and crescent below; $120.00 (€112.80)
Philip II, July or August 247 - late 249 A.D., Side, Pamphylia
| The great ruins of Side are among the most notable in Asia Minor. They cover a large promontory which a wall and a moat separate from the mainland. There are colossal ruins of a theater complex, the largest in Pamphylia, built in the 2nd century A.D. Following Roman design it relies on arches to support the sheer verticals. The Roman style was adopted because Side lacked a convenient hillside that could be hollowed out in the usual Greek fashion more typical of Asia Minor. The stage building was ornately adorned but the decorations and the theater are damaged, in part due to a strong earthquake. The theater was converted into an open-air sanctuary with two chapels during the 5th or 6th century (Byzantine times). |  |
Byzantine Empire, Justinian I, 4 April 527 - 14 November 565 A.D.
The obverse legend is blundered nonsense, which David Sear notes is typical after regnal year 35. BZ114456. Bronze follis, DOC I 234, Ratto 671, Morrisson BnF 4/An/AE/59, Sommer 4.92, Hahn MIB 150, SBCV 223, Wroth BMC -, Tolstoi - , F, broad flan, green patina, weight 17.696 g, maximum diameter 35.3 mm, die axis 180o, 3rd officina, Theoupolis-Antioch (Antakya, Turkey) mint, 564 - 565 A.D.; obverse helmeted and cuirassed bust facing, globus cruciger in right hand, shield on left shoulder with horseman ornamentation, cross right, blundered nonsense obverse legend; reverse large M (40 nummi), between A/N/N/O (year) in column left and X/X/X/ςII (38) in column right, cross above, Γ (3rd officina) below, THEYP (Theoupolis) in exergue; big 35mm bronze!; $110.00 (€103.40)
Domitian, 13 September 81 - 18 September 96 A.D., Anazarbus, Cilicia
Anazarbus was founded by Assyrians. Under the early Roman Empire it was known as Kaicare?n (Caesarea), and was the Metropolis (capital) of the late Roman province Cilicia Secunda. It was the home of the poet Oppian. Rebuilt by the Byzantine emperor Justin I after an earthquake in the 6th century, it became Justinopolis (525); but the old native name persisted, and when Thoros I, king of Lesser Armenia, made it his capital early in the 12th century, it was known as Anazarva.RP113540. Bronze tetrassarion, Ziegler 94 (Vs2/Rs5), RPC Online II 1753 (6 spec.), SNG Levante 1373, SNGvA 5473, SNG BnF -, aF, nice patina, weight 16.348 g, maximum diameter 30.9 mm, die axis 0o, Anazarbus (Anavarza, Turkey) mint, 94 - 95 A.D.; obverse AYTO KAI ΘE YIOΣ ΔOMITIANOΣ ΣE ΓEP (clockwise from upper right), laureate head right, fillet border; reverse KAIΣAPEΩN ΠP ANAZAPBΩ (ΠP ligate), Athena standing front, helmeted head left, spear in her right hand, left on grounded shield, ET-OYΣ / IΓP (year 113) in two lines divided across fields; $100.00 (€94.00)
Herennia Etruscilla, Augusta July 249 - April/August 253 A.D.
In 250 the Plague of Cyprian, a pandemic probably smallpox, began. It was still raging in 270 when it claimed the life of emperor Claudius II Gothicus. At the height of the outbreak, 5,000 people a day were said to be dying in Rome. The plague caused widespread manpower shortages in agriculture and the Roman army.RB114728. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC IV 136b, Cohen V 22, Hunter III 16, SRCV III 9505, aVF/gF, nice green patina, mild porosity, small squared flan, edge irregular with crack, weight 14.005 g, maximum diameter 26.2 mm, die axis 0o, Rome mint, 249 - 251 A.D.; obverse HERENNIA ETRVSCILLA AVG, draped bust right, wearing stephane, hair in horizontal ridges, plait looped at the back of neck; reverse PVDICITIA AVG (modesty of the Empress), Pudicitia (modesty) seated left, drawing veil with right hand, transverse scepter in left hand, S C (senatus consulto) in exergue; $100.00 (€94.00)
Gordian III, 29 July 238 - 25 February 244 A.D., Nikopolis ad Istrum, Moesia Inferior
Struck under Sabinus Modestus, legatus Augusti pro praetore at Nikopolis, 241 - 244 A.D.RP113327. Bronze tetrassarion, H-H-J Nikopolis 8.36.32.1 (R5); RPC Online VII.2 1297; SNG Budapest III 489; AMNG I 2069; Varbanov 4220, aVF, struck on a broad flan, green-brown patina, deposits, minor roughness, flan crack, central depressions, weight 13.375 g, maximum diameter 29.8 mm, die axis 180o, Nicopolis ad Istrum (Nikyup, Bulgaria) mint, 241 - 244 A.D.; obverse AVT K M ANT ΓOPΔIANOC AVG (VΓ ligate), laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind; reverse VΠ CAB MOΔECTOV NIKOΠOΛEITΩN (ΩN ΠP ligate), River-god Istros reclining left, bearded, nude to waist, himation around hips and legs, reed in right hand, resting elbow on urn behind from which water flows, ΠPOC ICTPO/N (ΠP ligate, N in second line) in exergue; ex CNG e-sale 537 (26 Apr 2023), lot 276; ex Dr. Michael Slavin Collection; $90.00 (€84.60)
Gordian III, 29 July 238 - 25 February 244 A.D., Ococlea, Phrygia
Ococlea was a city of southern Phrygia, believed to have been in the neighborhood of ancient Metropolis (site near Yenikoy, Turkey). The location of the site is uncertain.RP110428. Bronze AE 28, RPC Online VII-1 730/2 (same dies); SNG Leypold II 1699; Waddington 6363; VA Phryg I 717, Choice F, well centered, green patina, highlighting earthen deposits, minor edge splits, weight 10.226 g, maximum diameter 28.0 mm, die axis 180o, Ococlea (near Yenikoy, Turkey) mint, 29 Jul 238 - 25 Feb 244 A.D.; obverse AYT K M AN ΓORΔIANO-C (Imperator Caesar Marcus Antonius Gordianus), laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from the front; reverse OKOKΛIEΩN (N reversed), Zeus seated left on throne, himation around hips and legs and over left shoulder, patera in right hand, long scepter vertical in left hand; this is the first coin from Ococlea handled by FORVM; rare; $80.00 (€75.20)
Augustus, 16 January 27 B.C. - 19 August 14 A.D., Moneyer P. Licinius Stolo
The abbreviated Latin reverse legend identifies the moneyer who struck this issue, P. Licinius Stolo, as a Triumvir Auro, Argento, Aere, Flando, Feriundo - one of three magistrates for casting and striking gold, silver, and bronze.RB114201. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC I 345 (S), SRCV I 1652, BMCRE I 175, BnF I 302, Cohen I 441, aF, broad flan, weight 24.857 g, maximum diameter 36.2 mm, die axis 180o, Rome mint, P. Licinius Stolo, 17 B.C.; obverse inscription in three lines: OB above, CIVIS within, and SERVATOS below oak wreath, between two laurel branches; reverse P LICINIVS STOLO III VIR A A A F F, legend around large S C; big 36mm sestertius!; ex Priapus Numismatics e-auction 1 (5 Nov 2023), lot 696; scarce; $78.33 (€73.63)
Byzantine Empire, Justin II, 15 November 565 - 5 October 578 A.D.
Justin II was the nephew of Justinian, a son of Vigilantia and Dulcidio, Justinian's sister and brother-in-law. His siblings included Marcellus and Praejecta. With Sophia he had a daughter Arabia and possibly a son, Justus, who died young. He also had a niece named Helena.BZ99040. Bronze follis, DOC I 97a, Morrisson BnF 5/Ni/AE/17, Wroth BMC 137, Hahn MIB 46b, Sommer 5.27, SBCV 369, Tolstoi -, Ratto -, gVF, nice green patina, uneven strike, edge ragged with small edge splits, weight 12.801 g, maximum diameter 29.8 mm, die axis 180o, 1st officina, Nicomedia (Izmit, Turkey) mint, 571 - 572 A.D.; obverse D N IVSTI-NVS P P AV, Justin and Sophia, nimbate, enthroned facing, globus cruciger in his right, cruciform scepter in her right, cross between heads; reverse large M (40 nummi) between ANNO and ΣI (regnal year 7), cross above, A (officina 1) below, NIKO in exergue; $70.00 (€65.80)
Hadrian, 11 August 117 - 10 July 138 A.D.
Felicitas was the goddess or personification of happiness, good fortune, and success. She played an important role in Rome's state religion during the empire and was frequently portrayed on coins. She became a prominent symbol of the wealth and prosperity of the Roman Empire.RB110108. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC II-3 2255, BMCRE III 1497, Cohen II 620, SRCV II 3595, Strack II 663, Hunter II 517 var. (slight drapery), aF, porosity/light corrosion, weight 24.130 g, maximum diameter 33.1 mm, die axis 180o, Rome mint, 134 - 138 A.D.; obverse HADRIANVS AVG COS III P P, laureate head right; reverse FELICITAS AVG (the good fortune of the Emperor), Felicitas standing slightly left, head left, olive branch in right hand, long caduceus in left hand, S - C (senatus consulto) flanking across the field; from Shawn Caza former diplomat, author of A Handbook of Late Roman Coins (Spink, 2021), collection assembled during postings and international travel; ex Anciennes Collections (Clermont Ferrand, France); $70.00 (€65.80)
Byzantine Empire, Justinian I, 4 April 527 - 14 November 565 A.D.
Justinian's sole rule lasted almost four decades during which he re-conquered N. Africa, Italy, and parts of Spain, codified the legal system, and built St. Sophia. Unfortunately, he depleted the treasure built by Anastasius and most of his territory gains were lost shortly after his death.BZ112765. Bronze follis, DOC I 225a, SBCV 221,Tolstoi 276, Morrisson BnF I 4/An/AE/51 var. (officina), Hahn MIB I 146a var. (same), SBCV 221, Sommer 4.87 var. (same), Wroth-, VF, both sides off center, hard green deposits, corrosion, flan crack, weight 19.560 g, maximum diameter 35.4 mm, die axis 165o, 1st officina, Antioch as Theoupolis (Antakya, Turkey) mint, 555 - 556 A.D.; obverse D N IVSTINIANVS P P AVG, helmeted and cuirassed bust facing holding globus cruciger in right, shield decorated with horseman on left shoulder, cross in right field; reverse Large mark of value M, between A/N/N/O left and X/X/G / III right (regnal year 19), cross above, A (1st officina) below, THYΠ in exergue; big 35 mm bronze; scarce; $70.00 (€65.80)
Caracalla, 28 January 198 - 8 April 217 A.D., Caesarea, Cappadocia
Mount Erciyes (Argaios to the Greeks, Argaeus to the Romans) is a massive stratovolcano 25 km to the south of Kayseri (ancient Caesarea) in Turkey. The highest mountain in central Anatolia, with its summit reaching 3,916 meters (12,848 ft). It may have erupted as recently as 253 B.C. Strabo wrote that the summit was never free from snow and that those few who ascended it reported seeing both the Black Sea to the north and the Mediterranean Sea to the south in days with a clear sky.RP112994. Bronze AE 29, Ganschow 543e; Hensler 887; Sydenham Caesarea 484; BMC Galatia p. 81, 274; SNGvA -; SNG Cop VII -, F, dark brown tone, a little off center, scattered small pits, weight 16.021 g, maximum diameter 29.0 mm, die axis 0o, Cappadocia, Caesarea (Kayseri, Turkey) mint, 205 - 206 A.D.; obverse AV KAI M AVPH ANTWNINOC, laureate head right, beardless; reverse MHTPOΠ KAICAPE, model of Mount Argaeus on garlanded altar, star above summit, ET IΓ (year 13 [of Septimius Severus]) in exergue; ex Leu Numismatik AG Web Auction 24 (3 Dec 2022), lot 4995 part of; $70.00 (€65.80)
Geta, 209 - c. 26 December 211 A.D., Amasia, Pontos
According to Strabo the Greek name Amaseia comes from Amasis, the queen of the Amazons, who were said to have lived here. The name has changed little throughout history: Amaseia, Amassia, and Amasia are all found on ancient Greek and Roman coinage and continue to be used in modern Greek. Modern Turkish Amasya represents the same pronunciation. Amaseia was captured by the Roman Lucullus in 70 B.C. from Armenia. Pompey designated it a free city and the administrative center of the new province of Bithynia and Pontus. Amaseia was a thriving city, the home of thinkers, writers, and poets. Strabo left a full description of Amaseia as it was between 60 B.C. and 19 A.D.RP113375. Bronze tetrassaria, Dalaison p. 126, type 4, - (D137/R279); Rec Gen I p. 40, 93 var. (legends); BMC Pontus p. 11, 36 var. (same); SNG Cop -; SNGvA -, VF, well centered, legends and date weakly struck, edge cracks, weight 15.030 g, maximum diameter 30.6 mm, die axis 0o, Amaseia (Amasya, Turkey) mint, as caesar, 205 - 206 A.D.; obverse Π CEΠTI ΓETAC KECAP CEB, bare-headed, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind; reverse AΔP CE ANT AMACIAC MH NE (NT, MH, and NE ligate), Tyche standing slightly left, head left, wearing polos, chiton, and peplos, rudder in right hand, cornucopia in left hand, E-T / C-H (year 208) in two divided lines across fields; first specimen of the type handled by FORVM, Coin Archives records only four specimens of the type at auction in the last two decades; rare; $70.00 (€65.80)
Claudius, 25 January 41 - 13 October 54 A.D.
Ceres' known mythology is indistinguishable from Demeter's. Her virgin daughter Proserpina (Persephone) was abducted by Hades to be his wife in the underworld. Ceres searched for her endlessly lighting her way through the earth with torches. While Ceres (Demeter) searched, she was preoccupied with her loss and her grief. The seasons halted; living things ceased their growth, then began to die. Some say that in her anger she laid a curse on the world that caused plants to wither and die, and the land to become desolate. Faced with the extinction of all life on earth, Zeus sent his messenger Hermes to the underworld to bring Proserpina back. However, because she had eaten while in the underworld, Hades had a claim on her. Therefore, it was decreed that she would spend four months each year in the underworld. During these months Ceres grieves for her daughter's absence, withdrawing her gifts from the world, creating winter. Proserpina's return brings the spring.MA114413. Orichalcum dupondius, RIC I 110, BMCRE I 197, BnF II 222, Hunter I 84, Cohen I 1, SRCV I 1856, Fine/Fair, green patina, broad flan, pitting, weight 15.538 g, maximum diameter 31.6 mm, die axis 0o, Rome mint, 50 - 54 A.D.; obverse TI CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG P M TR P IMP P P, bare head left; reverse CERES AVGVSTA, Ceres seated left on ornamented throne, veiled, two stalks grain in right hand, torch across lap cradled in left hand and arm, feet on footstool, S C (senatus consulto) in exergue; big 32mm bronze!; $70.00 (€65.80)
Gordian III, 29 July 238 - 25 February 244 A.D., Edessa, Mesopotamia
Tyche (Greek for luck; the Roman equivalent was Fortuna) was the presiding tutelary deity that governed the fortune and prosperity of a city, its destiny. Increasingly during the Hellenistic period, cities had their own specific iconic version of Tyche, wearing a mural crown (a crown like the walls of the city). RP113161. Bronze AE 30, RPC Online VII.2 3427; SNG Cop 220; BMC Arabia p. 111, 128 ff.; Babelon 86; McClean 9553; SNG Hunt 2565, F, tight flan, weight 15.691 g, maximum diameter 30.1 mm, die axis 180o, Mesopotamia, Edessa (Urfa, Sanliurfa, Turkey) mint, 242 - 244 A.D.; obverse AYTOK K M ANT ΓOPΔIANOC CEB, laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind; reverse MHT KOΛ EΔECCHNΩN, draped, veiled and turreted bust of Tyche left, altar before her, to left of altar, Marsyas (?) standing right on short column, carrying wineskin over shoulder; ex Numismatik Naumann auction 130 (2 Jul 2023), lot 1244 (part of); $60.00 (€56.40)
Byzantine Empire, Anastasius I, 11 April 491 - 1 July 518 A.D.
Half folles and folles of this period can be dated before or after 512 A.D. because a larger flan was introduced that year. This coin is a large module type dated after 512 A.D.BZ112946. Bronze half follis, DOC I 24a, Wroth BMC 50, Tolstoi 38, Hahn MIB I 33, SBCV 25, Morrisson BnF I 1/Cp/AE/42 var. (no 1st officina), Sommer 1.22 var. (same), Ratto -, F, well centered on a broad flan, porosity, weight 8.368 g, maximum diameter 28.7 mm, die axis 180o, 1st officina, Constantinople (Istanbul, Turkey) mint, 512 - 517 A.D.; obverse D N ANASTASIVS P P AVC, diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust right; reverse large K (20 nummi), cross left, A (1st officina) right; $50.00 (€47.00)
Septimius Severus, 9 April 193 - 4 February 211 A.D.
Three Monetae are depicted, one for each metal: gold, silver and copper.MA114208. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC IV 670; BMCRE V p. 128, 508; SRCV II 6416; Cohen IV 335, F, attractive portrait, attractive highlighting earthen deposits, potentially active corrosion, weight 20.182 g, maximum diameter 29.6 mm, die axis 0o, Rome mint, 194 A.D.; obverse L SEPT SEV PERT AVG IMP III, laureate head right; reverse MONET AVG COS II P P S C, three Monetae standing facing, each with head left, scales in right hand, cornucopia in left; ex Priapus Numismatics e-auction 1 (5 Nov 2023), lot 830; scarce; $47.00 (€44.18)
Byzantine Empire, Constantine X Ducas, 25 December 1059 - 21 May 1067 A.D.
Constantine X seems to have been a weak, ineffective leader. His wife, Eudocia, had great power within the empire, and was thought by some to be "the power behind the throne." Upon the death of Constantine X, his eldest son, Michael VII was still a child, so Eudocia took over as regent.MA114384. Bronze follis, DOC III-2 8, Wroth BMC 18, Morrisson BnF 51/Cp/AE/1, Ratto 2021, SBCV 1853, Sommer 52.6, F, green patina, overstruck with strong undertype effects, weight 6.384 g, maximum diameter 29.5 mm, die axis 180o, Constantinople (Istanbul, Turkey) mint, 25 Dec 1059 - 21 May 1067 A.D.; obverse +EMMA-NOVHΛ, Christ standing facing on footstool, wears nimbus cruciger, pallium and colobium, Gospels in left, IC - XC (Greek abbreviation: Jesus Christ) across field; reverse + KWNT ΔK - EVΔK AVΓO (or similar, from upper right), Eudocia on left, Constantine on right both stand facing crowned, wearing loros, holding between labarum with cross on shaft on three steps;
Byzantine Anonymous Follis of Christ, Class F, Constantine X, 25 December 1059 - 21 May 1067 A.D.
The emperor's name and portrait are not part of the design on the Byzantine types referred to as anonymous folles. Instead of the earthly king, these coins depict Jesus Christ, King of Kings.MA114253. Bronze anonymous follis, Anonymous follis of Christ, DOC III-2, class F; SBCV 1856, F, green patina, weight 7.442 g, maximum diameter 29.0 mm, die axis 180o, Constantinople (Istanbul, Turkey) mint, 1059 - 1067 A.D.; obverse Christ seated facing on throne without back, wearing nimbus cruciger, pallium, and colobium, raising right in benediction; gospels in left hand, IC - XC (Greek abbreviation: Ihsoús Xristós - Jesus Christ) across field; reverse ISXS / bASILE / bASIL (Greek abbreviation: Jesus Christ King of Kings) in three lines, cross above and beneath; scarce; $25.00 (€23.50)
Elagabalus, 16 May 218 - 11 March 222 A.D., Caesarea, Cappadocia
Kayseri, originally called Mazaka or Mazaca, is in central Turkey on a low spur on the north side of Mount Erciyes (Mount Argaeus in ancient times). During Achaemenid Persian rule, it was the capital of a Satrapy on the crossroads of the Royal Road from Sardis to Susa and the trade route from Sinope to the Euphrates. It was conquered by Alexander's general Perdikkas, was ruled by Eumenes of Cardia, then passed to the Seleucid empire after the battle of Ipsus. It became the capital of the independent Cappadocian Kingdom under Ariarathes III, around 250 B.C. During Strabo's time it was also known as Eusebia, after the Cappadocian King Ariarathes V Eusebes, 163 – 130 B.C. The name was changed again to "Caesarea in Cappadocia" in honor of Caesar Augustus, upon his death in 14 A.D. The city passed under formal Roman rule in 17 A.D. In Roman times, it prospered on the route from Ephesus to the East. Caesarea was destroyed by the Sassanid King Shapur I after his victory over the Emperor Valerian I in 260 A.D. At the time it was recorded to have around 400,000 inhabitants. Arabic influence changed Caesarea to the modern name Kayseri. The city gradually recovered and has a population of around 1 million people today. Few traces of the ancient city survive.MA113941. Bronze AE 29, cf. RPC Online VI T6661, Henseler 1038, Ganschow -, aF, weight 8.850 g, maximum diameter 29.0 mm, die axis 0o, Cappadocia, Caesarea (Kayseri, Turkey) mint, 218 - 219 A.D.; obverse AY K M AYPHΛIOC - ANTWNEINOC CEB, laureate and draped bust right, seen from slightly behind right shoulder; reverse MHTPO-Π - K-AICAPI, agalma of Mount Argaeus on altar, three figures standing on peak, altar inscribed ET B (year 2) on altar, NEΩKO (neokoros) in exergue; ex Leu Numismatik web auction 24 (06 Dec 22), lot 4995 (part of); ex European collection formed before 2005; $5.00 (€4.70)
Numismatica ARS Classica, Auction, April 1995, Roman Imperial Sestertii, The Friedrich Collection
Special Auction, The Friedrich Collection, held on 2nd April 1995.BC18909. Numismatica ARS Classica, Auction, April 1995, Roman Imperial Sestertii, The Friedrich Collection, softcover, 36 pages, 961 lots, illustrations, good condition, small wear;
Galba, 3 April 68 - 15 January 69 A.D.
| Libertas (Latin for Liberty) was the Roman goddess and embodiment of liberty. The pileus liberatis was a soft felt cap worn by liberated slaves of Troy and Asia Minor. In late Republican Rome, the pileus was symbolically given to slaves upon manumission, granting them not only their personal liberty, but also freedom as citizens with the right to vote (if male). Following the assassination of Julius Caesar in 44 B.C., Brutus and his co-conspirators used the pileus to signify the end of Caesar's dictatorship and a return to a Republican system of government. The pileus was adopted as a popular symbol of freedom during the French Revolution and was also depicted on some U.S. coins. On the Seated Liberty dollar, Liberty raises up a pileus (freedom cap) on a rod (liberty pole). |  |
Balbinus, 22 April - 29 July 238 A.D.
Providentia is the personification of the ability to foresee and make provision. She was among the embodiments of virtues that were part of the Imperial cult of ancient Rome. Providentia apparently did not favor Balbinus. If he had a little foresight, he would have modified the chain of events that led to his murder after a reign of only 99 days.RB86318. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC IV 19, BMCRE VI 34, Cohen V 24 (12 fr.), Hunter III 19, SRCV III 8499, gVF, excellent portrait, tight flan, some marks and porosity, reverse slightly off center, edge cracks, weight 18.131 g, maximum diameter 29.5 mm, die axis 0o, Rome mint, 22 Apr - 29 Jul 238 A.D.; obverse IMP CAES D CAEL BALBINVS AVG, laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, from the front; reverse PROVIDENTIA DEORVM (to the foresight of the gods), Providentia standing half left, head left, wand downward over globe at feet in right hand, cornucopia in left hand, S - C (senatus consulto) flanking low across field; scarce; SOLD
Agrippina Senior, Died 33 A.D., Wife of Germanicus, Mother of Caligula and Agrippina Jr.
Wife of Germanicus, mother of Caligula and Agrippina Jr., mother-in-law and sister-in-law of Claudius, and grandmother of Nero. She was born in 14 B.C., daughter of Julia and Agrippa. She married Germanicus and accompanied her husband on all his military campaigns. She was banished by Tiberius in 29 A.D. and died of starvation four years later.SH04782. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC I Claudius 102; BMCRE I Claudius p. 194, 219; BnF II Claudius 236; Cohen I 3; von Kaenel Type 78; SRCV I 1906, VF, green patina, weight 27.92 g, maximum diameter 34.8 mm, die axis 180o, Rome mint, posthumous under Claudius, c. 42 A.D.; obverse AGRIPPINA M F GERMANICI CAESARIS, draped bust right; reverse TI CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG GERM P M TR P IMP P P, legend around large S C; SOLD
Pupienus, 22 April - 29 July 238 A.D.
A great story coin. This ironic reverse refers to the harmony and friendship of the emperors Balbinus and Pupienus. In reality, because they were quarreling they were unable to gain support or put up a joint defense against the praetorians and they were both murdered after a reign of only 99 days.SH21380. Bronze sestertius, RIC IV-1 20, Banti 1, Cohen V 7 (12 fr.), BMCRE VI 43, Hunter III 12, SRCV III 8530, VF, weight 23.502 g, maximum diameter 32.6 mm, die axis 0o, Rome mint, obverse IMP CAES M CLOD PVPIENVS AVG, laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right; reverse CONCORDIA AVGGG• (harmony among the three emperors), Concordia seated left, patera in extended right hand, double cornucopia in left hand, S C (senatus consulto) in exergue; ex CNG; scarce; SOLD
Julian II "the Apostate," February 360 - 26 June 363 A.D.
The common belief which identifies the bull with the Apis bull is probably wrong. An interesting passage from Dio Chrysostom compares a good ruler to a bull. Also, Julian was most likely born in May, in the sign of Taurus. The stars are probably the two important star clusters in Taurus, Pleiades and Hyades. Taurus or Apis, this bull is pagan and this coin was the last pagan coin type issued by the Empire.SH32850. Billon double maiorina, RIC VIII Constantinople 164 (S), SRCV V 19157, Cohen VIII 38, LRBC II 2059 var. (pellet at end of legend not noted), EF, weight 8.601 g, maximum diameter 28.7 mm, die axis 0o, 1st officina, Constantinople (Istanbul, Turkey) mint, 3 Nov 361 - 26 Jun 363 A.D.; obverse D N FL CL IVLIANVS P F AVG, pearl-diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust right; reverse SECVRITAS REIPVB• (security of the Republic), bull right, two stars above, CONSP flanked by branches in exergue; scarce; SOLD
Plotina, Wife of Trajan, Augusta 105 - 129 A.D.
Plotina, the wife of Trajan, was married to him before his succession. She was renowned for her virtue and simplicity. In 100, Trajan awarded her with title Augusta, but she did not accept the title until 105. Plotina did not appear on the coinage until 112. She was largely responsible for Hadrian's succession to the throne after Trajan's death. Plotina died in 129 A.D.RB04791. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC II Trajan 740 (R3), Cohen II 12, BMCRE III Trajan 1080, Woytek 7111, Strack 441, BnF IV 730, Banti 1, SRCV II 1060, aF, weight 21.59 g, maximum diameter 34.4 mm, die axis 180o, Rome mint, 112 - Aug 117 A.D.; obverse PLOTINA AVG IMP TRAIANI, draped bust right; reverse FIDES AVGVST, Fides standing right, two stalks of grain at side in right hand, raising basket of fruit in left hand, S - C (senatus consulto) flanking across field; rare; SOLD
Nero Claudius Drusus, Born 38 B.C., Died 9 B.C., Issued by his Son Claudius
The curule chair was for senior magistrates including dictators, masters of the horse, consuls, praetors, censors, and the curule aediles. As a form of a throne, it might be given as an honor to foreign kings recognized formally as a friend (amicus) by the Roman people or senate. Designed for use by commanders in the field, the curule chair could be folded for easy transport. It had no back, low arms, curved legs forming an X, and was traditionally made of or veneered with ivory.RB82695. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC I Claudius 93, BMCRE I Claudius 157, BnF II Claudius 198, Cohen I 8, SRCV I 1896, aVF, excellent portrait, attractive green patina, some legend weak, areas of corrosion, edge crack, weight 21.448 g, maximum diameter 35.4 mm, die axis 180o, Rome mint, posthumous, 41 - 42 A.D.; obverse NERO CLAVDIVS DRVSVS GERMANICVS IMP, bare head left; reverse TI CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG P M TR P IMP, Claudius seated left on curule chair, togate, branch in right hand, orb(?) under seat, surrounded by arms, armor, and shields, S C in exergue; ex CNG e-auction 315 (20 Nov 2013), lot 362; ex Dr. Robert A. Kilmarx Collection, CNG sale 45 (18 Mar 1998), lot 1871; scarce; SOLD
Knidos, Caria, c. 100 - 40 B.C.
This type struck by this magistrate appears to be unpublished and we do not know another example. The referenced similar type struck under the magistrate Apollonios is also extremely rare with only a few known examples. Similar countermarks are known on coins from Chalkis, Laodicea, Antioch, Selucia, and Damascus, cities under the control of Cleopatra. We believe it is her portrait. Cleopatra and Marc Antony spent considerable romantic time together around Knidos. It is said that Marc Antony sent ships to the Nile to retrieve sand for a beach, which is known today as Cleopatra's Beach.RP76800. Bronze AE 32, Apparently unpublished; cf. Mabbott 1715 (magistrate), RPC I suppl. 5436 (same); SNG Cop -, SNGvA -, SNG Munchen -, SNG Tüb -, SNG Keckman -, aF, porous, scratches, corrosion, weight 18.277 g, maximum diameter 31.6 mm, die axis 0o, Knidos (near Tekir, Turkey) mint, c. 100 - 40 B.C.; countermark: c. 36 - 30 B.C.; obverse veiled and diademed bust of Demeter right, poppy before her (covered by countermark), oval countermark: female head (Cleopatra VII?) right; reverse Nike advancing left, wreath in extended right hand, palm frond in left hand, MOΣXΩN (magistrate's name) downward on left, KNIΔIΩN downward on right; one of only two known, the other without the countermark!; SOLD
Caligula, 16 Mar 37 - 24 Jan 41 A.D., Nero and Drusus Caesars on Obverse
From the Prof. Henry H. Armstrong collection. In 1910, when he purchased this coin, Professor Armstrong lived in Rome working as a Research Associate of the Carnegie Institution in Archaeology teaching at the American School for Classical Studies. From 1918 until his death in 1935 he taught at Beloit College as head of the Department of Romance Languages. Nicknamed "Sparky" by the students, his death after a two-week illness came as a shock to the college. His coins, inherited by his son, sat in a cigar box for the next 74 years.SH41426. Orichalcum dupondius, RIC I Gaius 34 (S), BMCRE I Gaius 44, Cohen I Nero et Drusus 1, BnF I Gaius 52, Hunter I Gaius 18, SRCV I -, VF, encrustations, weight 16.649 g, maximum diameter 30.2 mm, die axis 180o, Rome mint, 37 - 38 A.D.; obverse NERO ET DRVSVS CAESARES (Nero and Drusus caesars), Nero and Drusus Caesar riding right, cloaks flying behind; reverse C CAESAR AVG GERMANICVS PON M TR POT (Gaius Caesar, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia Potestas), around large S C (senatus consulto); from the Prof. Henry H. Armstrong collection, handwritten envelope notes, "Purchase, Scalco(?), 1909 - 1910" and a value of 10 francs!; scarce; SOLD
Jovian, 27 June 363 - 17 February 364 A.D.
The labarum, was a type of Roman cavalry standard, a vexillum with a military ensign marked with the Christogram (Greek monogram of Christ). It was an object of religious veneration amongst the soldiers, who paid it divine honors.SH34261. Bronze double maiorina, RIC VIII Thessalonica 235 or 238, gVF, weight 8.038 g, maximum diameter 29.7 mm, die axis 180o, 1st officina, Thessalonica (Salonika, Greece) mint, 27 Jun 363 - 17 Feb 364 A.D.; obverse D N IOVIANVS P F AVG, laurel and rosette diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust right; reverse VICTORIA ROMANORVM (the Roman victory), Jovian standing facing, head right, holding Victory on globe and Chi-Rho standard, TESA in exergue; rare; SOLD
Lucilla, Augusta c. 164 - 182 A.D., Wife of Lucius Verus
For Roman wives, piety often meant accepting neglect. It was not considered adultery for a Roman husband to have sex with slaves or unmarried women. The historian Spartianus wrote that after Lucilla complained, Lucius Verus reproached her: "Uxor enim dignitatis nomen est, non voluptatis" (Wife is the name of dignity, not bliss).RB92463. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC III 1756, BMCRE IV 1161, Cohen III 54, Hunter II 27, SRCV II 5505, VF, nice portrait, flow lines, well centered on a squared flan, light bumps and scratches, weight 26.206 g, maximum diameter 30.2 mm, die axis 330o, Rome mint, 164 - 166 A.D.; obverse LVCILLAE AVG ANTONINI AVG F, draped bust right, hair waived and knotted in chignon low at back; reverse PIETAS, Pietas standing left, veiled, right hand extended over flaming altar at feet on left, incense box in left hand, S - C (senatus consulto) flanking across field; from the Errett Bishop Collection; SOLD
Judaean Kingdom, Herod Agrippa II, c. 49 - 95 A.D., for Vespasian
Herod Agrippa II was a teenager studying in Rome when his father died. He was too young to rule, so his father's kingdom was made a Roman province. In 49 A.D., he was given the kingdom of his uncle Herod of Chalcis as a tetrarchy, with the right to oversee the Temple in Jerusalem and appoint its high priest. In 53, Claudius made him king of areas previously ruled by Philip: Batanea, Trachonitis and Gaulonitis, and Lysanias in Abila. In 55, Nero added Galilee and Peraea. Paul the Apostle pleaded his case before Agrippa at Caesarea Maritima (Acts 26). Agrippa sided with Rome during the Jewish revolt. He ruled until at least 95 A.D. His territories were in Syria, Northern Palestine, and Galilee and excluded Jerusalem and Judaea.SH90326. Bronze AE 30, RPC Online II 2283; Meshorer Caesarea Paneas 166; Meshorer AJC II 38; Sofaer 240; SNG ANS 284; BMC Palestine p. 241, 13, F, weight 15.554 g, maximum diameter 29.5 mm, die axis 0o, Caesarea Paneas (Banias, Golan Heights) mint, 75 - 76 A.D.; obverse laureate head of Vespasian right; reverse Tyche-Demeter standing left, kalathos on head, two grain ears in extended right hand, cornucopia in left hand, star upper left, ETOY - KZ BA / AΓPI-ΠΠA (year 27, King Agrippa) flanking in two divided lines across field below center; ex CNG auction 233 (26 May 2010), lot 292 & auction 75 (23 May 2007), lot 863; SOLD
Mariniana, Died c. 253 A.D., Wife of Valerian I
Egnatia Mariniana was the wife of Emperor Valerian and mother of Gallienus. She died shortly before or shortly after her husband's accession to the throne.RB91454. Bronze sestertius, Göbl MIR 213d, RIC V-1 11 (R2), Hunter IV 6, Cohen V 10, SRCV III 10076, F, nice portrait and peacock, somewhat rectangular flan, edge cracks, weight 13.534 g, maximum diameter 28.8 mm, die axis 0o, Rome mint, posthumous, c. 256 A.D.; obverse DIVAE MARINIANAE, draped bust right, wearing veil and stephane; reverse CONSECRATIO, peacock facing in splendor, looking right, S - C (senatus consulto) flanking legs; from the Maxwell Hunt Collection, ex Pegasi Coins, ex George M. Beach (Owosso, MI); rare; SOLD
Severus II, 25 July 306 - Summer 307 A.D.
Mars, the god of war, and Virtus, the personification of courage and valor, are sometimes confused in coin descriptions. Mars is male and usually nude. Virtus is female and is never nude. Mars was the god of war and also an agricultural guardian. He was the father of Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome. In early Rome, he was second in importance only to Jupiter, and the most prominent of the military gods in the religion of the Roman army. Most of his festivals were held in March, the month named for him (Latin Martius), and in October, which began and ended the season for military campaigning and farming.SH93194. Billon follis, RIC VI Ticinum 58a, SRCV IV 14641, Cohen VII 70, Hunter V 6 var. (1st officina), Choice aEF, well centered, sharp portrait, flow lines, weight 10.517 g, maximum diameter 28.1 mm, die axis 0o, 3rd officina, Ticinum (Pavia, Italy) mint, as caesar, c. 305 A.D.; obverse SEVERVS NOB CAESAR, laureate head right; reverse VIRTVS AVGG ET CAESS NN (the valor of our two emperors and two caesars), Mars advancing right, nude but for crested helmet and cloak tied in belt at waist and flying behind, transverse spear in right hand, trophy of captured arms over left shoulder in left hand, pellet in left field, TT in exergue; from the Errett Bishop Collection; SOLD
Severus II, 25 July 306 - Summer 307 A.D.
Severus II was raised to the rank of Caesar in the Tetrarchy, 1 May 305 A.D. Two years later he marched against Maxentius in Rome, but after many of his troops deserted, he was captured, imprisoned and later executed.SH66876. Billon follis, RIC VI Alexandria 56, SRCV IV 14637, Cohen VII 57, VF, slightly rough, weight 8.159 g, maximum diameter 29.8 mm, die axis 315o, 1st officina, Alexandria mint, as caesar, 1 May 305 - 25 Jul 306 A.D.; obverse FL VAL SEVERVS NOB CAESAR, laureate head right; reverse PERPETVITAS AVGG, Roman seated left, helmeted, shield against throne, Victory on globe offering wreath in right hand, long scepter vertical behind in left, A upper right, S - P flanking across field, ALE in exergue; scarce; SOLD
Geta, 209 - c. 26 December 211 A.D., Mylasa, Caria
The origin of the cult of the god of the double axe goes back to the worship of Tarhunt, the Hittite god of Heaven. The earliest evidence for the cult of Zeus Labraundos dates to the middle of the 7th century B.C. The cult statue of Zeus Labraundos was, according to a surviving inscription, a gift bestowed by Hecatomnus, the founder of the Hekatomnid dynasty of Karian satraps. This statue was a standing Zeus with a tall lotus-tipped scepter upright in his left hand and a double-headed axe, the labrys, over his right shoulder.SH14681. Bronze AE 35, SNGvA 2630; SNG Cop 437; BMC Caria p. 133, 38, VF, weight 17.190 g, maximum diameter 35.0 mm, die axis 180o, Mylasa (Milas, Turkey) mint, as caesar, 198 - 209 A.D.; obverse ΠO CEΠTI-MIOC ΓETAC KAIC, bare-headed, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind; reverse MULA - CEΩN, facing cult statue of Zeus Labraundos, wearing polos, labrys (double-axe) in right, spear in left, inside Ionian tetrastyle temple; large and interesting bronze; SOLD
Sabina, Augusta 128 - c. 136 A.D., Wife of Hadrian
Ceres a goddess of agriculture, grain crops, fertility and motherly relationships, was listed among the Di Consentes, Rome's equivalent to the Twelve Olympians of Greek mythology. The Romans saw her as the counterpart of the Greek goddess Demeter, whose mythology was reinterpreted for Ceres in Roman art and literature.RB57155. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC II Hadrian 1019, Cohen II 69, F, weight 27.366 g, maximum diameter 33.1 mm, die axis 180o, Rome mint, 128 - 134 A.D.; obverse SABINA AVGVSTA HADRAINI AVG P P, diademed and draped bust right; reverse S C, Ceres seated left, grain ears in right hand, torch in left hand; scarce; SOLD
Herennius Etruscus, Early 251 - First Half of June 251 A.D.
The reverse legend dedicates this coin to the Prince of Youth, Herennius Etruscus. When Augustus ruled Rome, he was not called emperor or king, he was the Princeps, the "first of men." In the empire, the designated successors to the emperor were named caesar and also given the title Princeps Juventutis, the "first of youths." This is the origin of the English word prince, meaning the son of a monarch.RB71297. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC IV Decius 171a, Cohen V 28, Banti 6, Hunter III 22, SRCV III 9534, VF, nice style, green patina, squared flan typical of the period, porous, weight 18.254 g, maximum diameter 30.6 mm, die axis 0o, Rome mint, as caesar, 250 A.D.; obverse Q HER ETR MES DECIVS NOB C, bare-headed, draped bust right, seen from behind; reverse PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS (to the Prince of Youth), Herennius standing left in military dress, rod downward in right, transverse spear in left, S - C (senatus consulto) flanking low across field; ex Heritage Long Beach Signature Sale 3020 (6 Sep 2012), lot 25767; ex Dale Sigler (Tarzana, CA) Collection; scarce; SOLD
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