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Home ▸ Catalog ▸ |Themes & Provenance| ▸ |Quality| ▸ |Patina||View Options:   | | | In this section we include the most attractively patinated bronze coins of our selection, as well as uncleaned hoard and fine cabinet toned silver. |
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;
Domitian, 13 September 81 - 18 September 96 A.D., Ascalon, Philistia, Judaea
The Philistines conquered Canaanite Ashkelon about 1150 B.C. and it became one of the five Philistine cities that were constantly warring with the Israelites and the Kingdom of Judah. The last of the Philistine cities to hold out against Nebuchadnezzar, it finally fell in 604 B.C.; burned and destroyed, its people exiled, the Philistine era ended. Ashkelon was rebuilt, dominated by Persian culture. After the Alexander's conquest, Ashkelon was an important Hellenistic seaport. The Jews drove the Greeks out of the region during the Maccabean Revolt, which lasted from 167 to 160 B.C. In 63 B.C. the area was incorporated into the Roman Republic. Cleopatra VII used Ashkelon as her refuge when her brother and sister exiled her in 49 B.C. The city remained loyal to Rome during the First Jewish Revolt.JD111092. Bronze AE 18, RPC Online II 2216; SNG Cop 36; SNG ANS 700; SNG Righetti 2460; BMC Palestine p. 123, 132; Lindgren 2458; Rosenberger 118; Sofaer 85, Choice F, green patina, highlighting earthen deposits, weight 5.622 g, maximum diameter 18.3 mm, die axis 0o, Askalon (Ashqelon, Israel) mint, 94 - 95 A.D.; obverse CEBAC (caesar) downward before, laureate head left; reverse Phanebal (war god of Ascalon) standing facing, wearing military dress, raising sword above head in right hand, shield and palm frond in left hand, H
P (year 198 of the Ascalon Era) downward on left, AC (Ascalon) upward on right; scarce; Nero, 13 October 54 - 9 June 68 A.D., Thyatira, Lydia
Thyateira (also Thyatira) is the ancient name of the modern Turkish city of Akhisar ("white castle"). In Revelation, Thyatira is the church that had a false prophetess (Revelation 2:20).RP111831. Bronze AE 17, GRPC Lydia IV 139; RPC I 2382; BMC Lydia p. 302, 62; SNG Cop 597; SNG Mun 613; SNG Lewis 1365; Lindgren I 834; McClean 8720; SNGvA -, VF, green patina, nice portrait, earthen deposits, obv. off center, weight 2.292 g, maximum diameter 17.0 mm, die axis 0o, Thyatira (Akhisar, Turkey) mint, first issue, c. 55 A.D.; obverse NEPΩN KΛAYΔI-OC KAICAP CEBA, bare-headed, draped bust of Nero right, wearing light beard (indicating mourning, for the death of Claudius); reverse labrys (double-axe), ΘYAT-ΕIPΗ/NΩ-N in two two lines across field divided by axe handle;
Judaea, Coponius, Roman Prefect Under Augustus, 6 - 9 A.D.
In 6 A.D., Herod Archelaus, son of Herod the Great, was deposed and banished to Gaul by Augustus. Archelaus' part of his father's kingdom (including Judaea, Samaria, Idumea and Archelais) was (except for Archelais) organized as a Roman procuratorial province.JD113597. Bronze prutah, Hendin 6357; RIC I 4954; Meshorer TJC 311; Sofaer, pl. 219, 1; BMC Palestine p. 248, 1, F, green patina, highlighting earthen deposits, rev. off center, weight 1.700 g, maximum diameter 16.1 mm, die axis 315o, Jerusalem mint, 6 A.D.; obverse KAICAPOC (of Caesar), barley head curved right; reverse eight branched date palm tree bearing two bunches of dates, L - Λς (year 36 of Augustus) flanking tree trunk;
Elagabalus, 16 May 218 - 11 March 222 A.D., Antioch, Seleucis and Pieria, Syria
McAlee notes that ΔE probably abbreviates Δ EΠAPCEIΩN, meaning "of the four eparchies.RY114963. Bronze as, BMC Galatia p. 203, 440; McAlee group 1, 777(c); Lindgren I 2004; SNG Righetti 2001; Waage 583; RPC Online VI T8037, Choice VF, near centered, nice portrait, dark patina, attractive contrasting earthen deposits (Syrian patina), weight 4.411 g, maximum diameter 18.9 mm, die axis 135o, Antioch (Antakya, Turkey) mint, 16 May 218 - 11 Mar 222 A.D.; obverse AVT K M AVP ANTΩNINOC C, laureate head right; reverse S C, Δ above, E (lunate) below, all within laurel wreath, fastened at the top with a star;
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;
Byzantine Empire, Constantine VII and Romanus I Lecapenus, 17 December 920 - 16 December 944 A.D.
Constantine VII became sole emperor while he was a minor. He was dominated by his regents and was not allowed to take part in government. His regent Romanus I was made co-emperor in 920. In 945 Romanus I was deposed by his sons who wanted the throne. Instead Constantine VII took control. Finally, when he was 40 years old, he had sole rule and real power.BZ113980. Bronze follis, DOC III-2 25, Sommer 36.16, Morrisson BnF 37/Cp/AE/31, Wroth BMC 19, Ratto 1886, SBCV 1760, aVF, dark green patina, weight 6.759 g, maximum diameter 26.8 mm, die axis 180o, Constantinople (Istanbul, Turkey) mint, 931 - 944 A.D.; obverse + RWmAn' bASILEVS RWM' (or similar), Romanus I facing, bearded, wearing jeweled chlamys and crown with cross, globus cruciger in left, transverse labarum in right; reverse + RWMA/n' En ΘEW bA/SILEVS RW/mAIWn in four lines;
Seleukid Kingdom, Alexander I Balas, 152 - 145 B.C.
Alexander Balas, of humble origin, claimed to be Antiochus IV's son and heir to the Seleukid throne. Rome and Egypt accepted his claims. He married Cleopatra Thea, daughter of King Ptolemy Philometor of Egypt. With his father-in-law's help, he defeated Demetrius Soter and became the Seleukid king. After he abandoned himself to debauchery, his father-in-law shifted his support to Demetrius II, the son of Demetrius Soter. Balas was defeated and fled to Nabataea where he was murdered.GY114960. Bronze AE 18, Houghton-Lorber II 1790(4), SNG Spaer 1473, Babelon Rois 856, HGC 9 899 (R2), aVF, dark green patina, highlighting reddish earthen deposits (Syrian patina), central depression on rev., small edge splits, weight 4.099 g, maximum diameter 18.1 mm, die axis 45o, Antioch (Antakya, Turkey) mint, 150 - 145 B.C.; obverse head of Alexander right in crested Boeotian helmet, one diadem end flying up behind, one falling forward over shoulder; reverse Nike standing left, extending wreath in right to crown king's name, palm frond over shoulder in left, BAΣIΛEΩΣ (king) downward on right, AΛEΞANΔPOY downward on left, head of grain (control) outer left, symbol (control) inner left, nothing in exergue; rare;
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;
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;
Pergamon, Mysia, c. 2nd Century B.C.
Pergamon, Mysia was located to the northwest of the modern city of Bergama, Turkey, 16 miles (26 km) from the Aegean Sea on a promontory on the north side of the Caicus (Bakircay) River. It was the capital of the Kingdom of Pergamon under the Attalid dynasty, 281-133 B.C. Pergamon is cited in the book of Revelation as one of the seven churches of Asia.GB112986. Bronze AE 20, SNG BnF 1875; SNGvA 1374; SNG Cop 396; BMC Mysia p. 131, 172, VF, nice green patina, old scrapes, die damage, weight 8.689 g, maximum diameter 20.0 mm, die axis 0o, Pergamon (Bergama, Turkey) mint, c. 2nd century B.C.; obverse head of Athena right wearing crested Corinthian helmet; reverse trophy of captured arms, NIKHΦOPOY (Victorious) downward on left, AΘHNAΣ (Athena) downward on right, Pergamon monogram lower right;
Judean Kingdom, Alexander Jannaeus (Yehonatan), 104 - 76 B.C.
Unpopular, Jannaeus was pelted with citrons on Sukkot. Enraged, he killed some 6,000 citizens. A revolt erupted and rebels called on the Seleucid King Demetrius III for aid. Demetrius forced him into the mountains but then withdrew. Back in power, Jannaeus crucified 800 rebels forcing them to watch the slaughter of their wives and children from their crosses.JD111358. Bronze prutah, Hendin 6181, Meshorer TJC P, Meshorer AJC E, Sofaer 274 ff., HGC 10 638, VF, dark green patina, highlighting earthen deposits, off center, small flan casting void, weight 1.435 g, maximum diameter 12.4 mm, die axis 0o, Jerusalem mint, 104 - 76 B.C.; obverse classical style Paleo-Hebrew inscription within wreath: Yehonatan the High Priest and the Council of the Jews; reverse two cornucopias splayed outward, adorned with ribbons, pomegranate or poppy between the horns;
Antoninus Pius, August 138 - 7 March 161 A.D., Iconium, Lycaonia
Iconium, Lycaonia, is modern Konya, Turkey.
Lycaonia was bounded on the west by Pisidia, on the north by Galatia, on the east by Cappadocia, and on the south by the mountainous country of Isauria or Cilicia Tracheia.RP97770. Bronze AE 17, RPC Online IV.3 T7259; vA Lykao 308; SNGvA 8648; SNG Hunterian I 2150; BMC Lycaonia p. 5, 7; Imhoof-Blumer KM p. 418, 7, VF, green patina, centered on a tight flan, porosity, scattered pits, edge flaw, weight 3.931 g, maximum diameter 19.3 mm, die axis 180o, Iconium (Konya, Turkey) mint, Aug 138 - 7 Mar 161 A.D.; obverse ANTONINVS AVG PIVS, laureate and draped bust right; reverse COL ICO, helmeted head of Athena right;
Galerius, 1 March 305 - 5 May 311 A.D.
The Sisak Hoard of more than 2000 silver argentei, most of them mint-state, plus silver vessels, was found in 1953 near Siscia (Croatia). Still today, nearly all the high grade early argentei of the early tetrarchy on the market came from this hoard. The deposition of the hoard can be placed in the year 295/296.SH53596. Silver argenteus, Sisak Hoard 31, RIC VI 17b, RSC V 208C, FDC, weight 3.007 g, maximum diameter 20.5 mm, die axis 0o, Ticinum (Pavia, Italy) mint, c. 295 A.D.; obverse MAXIMIAN-VS CAESAR, laureate head right; reverse VICTORIA SARMAT, the four tetrarchs sacrificing over tripod in front of turreted enclosure with gate; ex H. S. Perlin Co., 1988; magnificent rainbow iridescent toning on blazing lustrous fields, perfect centering on a large flan, sharp portrait of fine style, from the 1953 Sisak hoard; rare (RIC R3); SOLD
Didius Julianus, 28 March - 2 June 193 A.D.
193 A.D. - The Year of Five Emperors. On 1 January, the Senate selected Pertinax, against his will, to succeed the late Commodus as Emperor. The Praetorian Guard assassinated him on 28 March and auctioned the throne to the highest bidder, Didius Julianus, who offered 300 million sesterces. Outraged by the Praetorians, legions in Illyricum selected Septimius Severus as emperor; in Britannia the legions selected their governor Clodius Albinus, and in Syria the legions selected their governor Pescennius Niger. On 1 June Septimius Severus entered the capital, had Julianus put to death and replaced the Praetorian Guard with his own troops. Clodius Albinus allied with Severus and accepted the title of Caesar. Pescennius Niger was defeated, killed and his head displayed in RomeSH89752. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC IV 14a; Woodward, Didius, p. 79 (dies 11/E); Banti 1, Nice F, excellent portrait, attractive dark brown patina, typical tight flan, weight 18.230 g, maximum diameter 27.6 mm, die axis 0o, Rome mint, 28 Mar - 2 Jun 193 A.D.; obverse IMP CAES M DID SEVER IVLIAN AVG, laureate head right; reverse CONCORD MILIT (harmony with the soldiers), Concordia Militum standing half left, head left, legionary aquila (eagle) standard in right hand, signum standard in left hand, S - C (senatus consulto) flanking across field below center; ex CNG e-auction 276 (21 Mar 2012), lot 420 (sold for $2520 including buyer's fees); rare; SOLD
Diocletian, 20 November 284 - 1 May 305 A.D.
The Sisak Hoard of more than 2000 silver argentei, most of them mint-state, plus silver vessels, was found in 1953 near Siscia (Croatia). Still today, nearly all the high grade early argentei of the early tetrarchy on the market came from this hoard. The deposition of the hoard can be placed in the year 295/296.SH53598. Silver argenteus, Sisak Hoard 41c, RIC VI Siscia 19a, RSC V 488e, Superb EF, weight 2.969 g, maximum diameter 18.2 mm, die axis 180o, Rome mint, 295 A.D.; obverse DIOCLETI-ANVS AVG, laureate head right; reverse VICTORI-A SARMAT, the four princes sacrificing over tripod before archway of six-turreted enclosure; ex H. S. Perlin Co., 1988; sharp high-relief masterpiece portrait, exceptional strike, beautiful rainbow iridescent toning, from the 1953 Sisak hoard; SOLD
Constantius I, May 305 - 25 July 306 A.D.
The Sisak Hoard of more than 2000 silver argentei, most of them mint-state, plus silver vessels, was found in 1953 near Siscia (Croatia). Still today, nearly all the high grade early argentei of the early tetrarchy on the market came from this hoard. The deposition of the hoard can be placed in the year 295/296.SH53597. Silver argenteus, Sisak Hoard 73, RIC VI 42a, RSC V 314a, Choice EF, weight 3.417 g, maximum diameter 18.5 mm, die axis 180o, Rome mint, as caesar, 295 A.D.; obverse CONSTANTIVS CAES, laureate head right; reverse VIRTVS MILITVM (courage of the soldiers), the four tetrarchs sacrificing in front of six-turreted enclosure (city or castrum), Z in exergue; ex H. S. Perlin Co., 1988; high relief portrait, beautiful rainbow iridescent toning, from the 1953 Sisak hoard; 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
Byzantion, Thrace, 2nd - 1st Century B.C., Restoration of Lysimachos' Type, Portrait of Alexander the Great
SH53582. Silver tetradrachm, Müller 200, SNG Cop 1141 var. (monogram), Choice gVF, weight 16.850 g, maximum diameter 33.8 mm, die axis 0o, Byzantium (Istanbul, Turkey) mint, 2nd - 1st Centuries B.C.; obverse diademed head of Alexander the Great wearing the horn of Ammon; reverse BAΣIΛEΩΣ ΛYΣIMAXOY, Athena enthroned left, rests arm on shield, transverse spear against right side, holds Nike crowning name in right, monogram inner left, BY on throne, trident in exergue; uncleaned with dark hoard toning!; 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
Messana, Sicily, c. 330 - 325 B.C.
Founded in the 8th century B.C., until the 5th century Messina was called Zancle, meaning "scythe" because of the shape of its harbor. Carthage sacked the city in 397 B.C. and then Dionysius I of Syracuse conquered it. In 288 B.C. the Mamertine mercenaries seized the city by treachery, killing all the men and taking the women as their wives. The city became a base from which they ravaged the countryside, leading to conflict with Syracuse. Initially Carthage assisted the Mamertines. When Syracuse attacked a second time, the Mamertines asked Rome for help. Rome was initially reluctant, but allied with the Mamertines to limit Carthaginian power. In 264 B.C., Roman troops were deployed to Sicily, the first time a Roman army acted outside the Italian Peninsula. At the end of the First Punic War, Messana was a free city allied with Rome.SH70588. Bronze tetras, HGC 2 840 (R1, same dies); Caltabiano 751 - 752 (D20/-); Calciati I p. 52, 16; SNG Cop 421; SNG Munchen 674; SNG ANS -; BMC Sicily -, Choice VF, nice style, nice strike, nice patina, weight 5.033 g, maximum diameter 16.1 mm, die axis 135o, Messana (Messina, Sicily, Italy) mint, c. 330 - 325 B.C.; obverse ΠOΣEIΔANTN, laureate head of Poseidon left, Δ (mark of value) behind; reverse M-E-Σ-Σ-A-NI-ON, ornate trident head, flanked on each side by a dolphin with head down; rare; SOLD
Hannibalianus, Rex Regum, 337 A.D.
The mint mark CONS on this coin is only listed with the obverse legend FL ANNNIBALIANO REGI.SH07625. Billon reduced centenionalis, LRBC I 1035, RIC VII Constantinople 145 (R4) var. (ANNABLIANO), SRCV IV 16904 var. (same), Cohen VII 2 var. (CONSS), VF, beautiful desert patina, weight 1.520 g, maximum diameter 17.0 mm, die axis 135o, Constantinople (Istanbul, Turkey) mint, 337 A.D.; obverse FL HANNIBALLIANO REGI, bare headed, draped and cuirassed bust right; reverse SE-CVRITAS PVBLICE, Euphrates reclining right leaning on scepter, urn at his side, reed behind, CONS in exergue; an extremely rare variant of an R4 type, from the Scott Collection; SOLD
Romulus, Son of Maxentius, Died 309 or 310 A.D.
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. SH41430. Billon follis, RIC VI Ostia 34, Cohen VII 6, SRCV IV 15050, Hunter V 7 - 8 var. (officina), VF, weight 5.758 g, maximum diameter 23.8 mm, die axis 0o, 1st officina, Ostia (port of Rome) mint, late 309 - 310 A.D.; obverse DIVO ROMVLO N V BIS CONS, bare head right; reverse AETERNAE MEMORIA, Sepulcher of Divus Romulus, brick facade, dome-shaped roof, no columns, right door open, surmounted by eagle with spread wings, MOSTP in exergue; from the Prof. Henry H. Armstrong collection, handwritten envelope notes, "Purchase, 1909 - 1910"; SOLD
Agrippina Junior, Augusta 50 - March 59 A.D., Philadelphia, Lydia
Philadelphia was an important and wealthy trade center in ancient Lydia that retained its importance until late Byzantine times. In 17 A.D., the city suffered greatly in an earthquake. After Tiberius aided in rebuilding, it took the new name of Neocaesarea. Under Vespasian, it was titled Flavia. Saint Paul and Saint John the Theologian, visited, and established the first Christian churches. St. Ignatius of Antioch visited on his trip to his martyrdom in Rome. Philadelphia is among the Seven Churches named in John's Book of Revelation. But in the 6th century, paganism still held on in the face of a Christianizing Empire, and the city became known as "little Athens" for its dedication to deities. Today the modern city is called Alasehir.RP76961. Bronze AE 15, RPC I 3042; BMC Lydia p. 196, 59; SNG Cop 375; SNGvA -, Choice VF, well centered and struck, nice patina with highlighting earthen fill, weight 3.923 g, maximum diameter 15.1 mm, die axis 90o, Philadelphia (Alasehir, Turkey) mint, magistrate Ti. Neikanor, c. 54 - 59 A.D.; obverse AΓPIΠΠINA ΣEBAΣTH, draped bust right, hair in long plait down back of neck and looped at end, long loosely curled lock down side of neck; reverse cornucopia overflowing with fruit and grain, ΦIΛA-ΔΕΛΦΕ/ΩN N-ΕIKA/NΩ-P across field in three divided lines; ex Pecunem, Gitbud & Naumann auction 34 (2 Aug 2015), lot 696; SOLD
Romano-British Empire, Carausius, Mid 286 - Spring or Early Summer 293 A.D.
This reverse legend is not listed in RIC without mint marks.RA04161. Billon antoninianus, RIC V-2 977 var., VF+, weight 4.44 g, maximum diameter 25.8 mm, die axis 195o, unofficial mint, obverse IMP CARAVSIVS P F AVG, radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust right; reverse SAECVLI FELICITA, prince standing right holding transverse spear in right and extending left, no mark; from the Aiello Collection; very rare; SOLD
Sabina, Augusta 128 - c. 136 A.D., Kestros (Cestrus), Cilicia
Very rare city. Only one coin in the BMC (a Faustina) and one in SNG Copenhagen (Aelius). No coins in SNG von Aulock (the supplement included), Weber, and others. SH46490. Bronze AE 19, Levante, Cilician Coinage, 2 - Kestros, NC 1991, 208, 3; SNG Levante, Supplement I, 93; SNG Cop -; BMC Lycaonia -; SNGvA -, VF, bold, weight 2.866 g, maximum diameter 18.8 mm, die axis 0o, Kestros (Cestrus) mint, obverse CEBACTH CABEINA, draped bust bust right; reverse KECTPHNwN, star within crescent; attractive dark patina, ex Sternberg 23 (2000) lot 530; very rare; SOLD
Kamarina, Sicily, 413 - 405 B.C.
Kamarina was suffering a plague. A marsh north of the city was the suspected source. The town oracle advised them not to drain the marsh, but in 405 B.C., the leaders ignored the advice. Once the marsh was dry, there was nothing to stop the Carthaginian army. They marched across the newly drained marsh, razed the city, and killed every last inhabitant.GI76938. Bronze tetras, Westermark-Jenkins 200; Calciati III pp. 63 - 65, 33; BMC Sicily p. 40; 40; SNG Munchen 415; SNG ANS 1228; SNG Cop 169; HGC 2 548, gVF, nice green patina, tight flan, weight 3.242 g, maximum diameter 14.5 mm, die axis 90o, Kamarina (near Scoglitti, Sicily, Italy) mint, 413 - 405 B.C.; obverse head of Athena left, wearing crested Attic helmet decorated with wing, dot border; reverse KAMA (downward on right), owl standing left on left leg, head facing, lizard in right talon, three pellets (mark of value) in exergue; SOLD
Gela, Sicily, 420 - 405 B.C.
Gela, named after the river Gela, was founded by colonists from Rhodos and Crete around 688 B.C. In 424 B.C., the Congress of Gela established a "Sicily for the Sicilians" platform and formed a league that pushed back the Athenian attempt to conquer the island. The city had a history of internal strife between its plebs and aristocrats. When the Carthaginians arrived in 311 BC, they easily captured the Gela with the help of its elites. In 282 B.C., Phintias of Agrigento ruthlessly destroyed Gela to crush its power forever. In Roman times it was only a small settlement.SH71354. Bronze tetras, Jenkins Gela 516; Calciati III p. 17, 32; SNG ANS 115; SNG Cop 283; SNG Munchen 314; BMC Sicily, p. 73, 66; HGC 2 379 (S), VF/gVF, green patina, weight 3.301 g, maximum diameter 16.4 mm, die axis 315o, Gela mint, 420 - 405 B.C.; obverse bull standing left, head lowered and turned slightly facing, barley kernel over ΓΕΛAΣ above, three pellets in exergue; reverse horned head of beardless young river-god Gela right, no diadem, floating hair, barley kernel behind; scarce; SOLD
Flavius Victor, c. 387 - 28 July 388 A.D.
"ARELATE (Arles, France - 43°41'N, 4°38'E), founded in or before the sixth century BC by colonists of Greek descent from Massalia (Marseille, France), was on the Rhone about 15 miles from the sea. After 104 BC when canals to the sea were cut around the silt-laden Rhone delta, it grew rapidly, with its fastest growth under Augustus as upstream Lugdunum grew. It became the capital of Narbonensis Secunda in the late third century, and an imperial mint opened in 313 operated until the city finally fell to the Visigoths in 476. In 328 its name was changed to 'Constantina', though 'Arelate' remained in use." - Moneta Historical Research by Tom SchroerSH00343. Copper half centenionalis, RIC IX Arelate 29(b)1 (S), LRBC II 561, SRCV V 20674, Cohen VIII 3, gVF, weight 1.00 g, maximum diameter 13.4 mm, die axis 180o, 1st officina, Constantina-Arelatum (Arles, France) mint, c. 387 - 28 Jul 388 A.D.; obverse D N LF (letters reversed, normally FL) VICTOR P F AVG, pearl diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust right; reverse SPES ROMANORVM, camp gate with star between two turrets, PCON (Constantina) in exergue; rare; SOLD
Katane, Sicily, c. 415 - 404 B.C.
Katane was captured by Dionysios of Syracuse in 403 B.C., who sold the population into slavery and resettled the city with Campanian mercenaries. The city submitted to Rome during the First Punic war. GI96877. Bronze tetras, Calciati III p. 91, 1; SNG ANS 1272; BMC Sicily p. 50, 51; HGC 2 607 (S); SNG Cop -; SNG Mun -, VF, nice green patina, attractive style, centered on a tight flan, light marks, scattered small pits, weight 1.668 g, maximum diameter 13.0 mm, die axis 270o, Katane (Catania, Sicily, Italy) mint, c. 415 - 404 B.C.; obverse AMENANOΣ (clockwise on left), young head of river-god Amenanos left, with horns and wavy hair; reverse winged thunderbolt, wings open, K-A flanking under wings, three small pellets around (two above wings, one right); scarce; SOLD
Decentius, Caesar, July or August 350 - 18 August 353 A.D.
A key coin for collecting a set of all Roman mints. The mint at Amiens was established by Magnentius in the middle of 350 A.D. Only one officina was established and all coins were billon. The mint was closed in 354 A.D. and never opened again.SH06936. Billon maiorina, RIC VIII Amiens 10 (R), Bastien MM 110, SRCV V 18876, Cohen VIII 33, LRBC II -, EF, sharp, beautiful patina, weight 4.77 g, maximum diameter 23.5 mm, die axis 45o, Ambianum (Amiens, France) mint, Jul/Aug 350 - 18 Aug 353 A.D.; obverse D N DECENTIVS NOB CAES, cuirassed bust right; reverse VICTORIAE DD NN AVG ET CAES (victories of our lords, Emperor and Caesar), two Victories holding shield inscribed VOT V MVLT X, AMB in exergue; from the Scott Collection; rare; 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
St. Helena, Augusta, 8 November 324 - c. 330 A.D., Mother of Constantine the Great
Constantine appointed his mother Helena as Augusta Imperatrix, and gave her unlimited access to the imperial treasury in order to locate the relics of Judeo-Christian tradition. In 326 - 328 Helena undertook a trip to the Holy Places in Palestine. According to Eusebius of Caesarea she was responsible for the construction or beautification of two churches, the Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem, and the Church on the Mount of Olives, sites of Christ's birth and ascension, respectively.RL77187. Billon centenionalis, RIC VII Heraclea 95 (R5), LRBC I 892, SRCV IV 16616, Cohen VII 12, Hunter V -, Choice EF, excellent centering and strike, green patina, traces of silvering, weight 3.217 g, maximum diameter 18.8 mm, die axis 180o, 5th officina, Heraclea (Marmara Ereglisi, Turkey) mint, 327 - 329 A.D.; obverse FL HELENA AVGVSTA, diademed and draped bust right; reverse SECVRITAS REIPVBLICE (security of the Republic), Securitas standing half left, veiled head left, branch pointed downward in right hand, raising pallium with left hand, •SMHE in exergue; rare; SOLD
Kolophon, Ionia, 190 - 30 B.C.
Apollo's most important attribute is the tripod lebes, a cauldron in a three-legged stand used for religious rituals. The tripod lebes is symbolic of his prophetic powers. At his temple at Delphi, his priestess sat on his tripod chewing laurel leaves and inhaling hallucinating vapors from a fissure in the floor. After she mumbled her prophesy, a male priest would translate it for the supplicant.GB91175. Bronze half obol, Milne Kolophon 175 (6 spec.); Imhoof MG p. 285, 38; Waddington 1501; SNG Cop -; SNGvA -; SNG Mün -; SNG Tüb -; BMC Ionia -, gVF, beautiful facing head, nice dark green patina, reverse off center, light earthen deposits, weight 5.185 g, maximum diameter 18.7 mm, die axis 0o, Ionia, Kolophon (near Degirmendere Fev, Turkey) mint, Demetrios, magistrate, 190 - 30 B.C.; obverse laureate head of Apollo facing slightly left; reverse tripod lebes, ΔHMHTPIOΣ (magistrate) upward on left, KOΛOΦΩNIΩN (ethnic) upward on right; very rare; SOLD
Macrinus and Diadumenian, 11 April 217 - 8 June 218 A.D., Marcianopolis, Moesia Inferior
Renamed by Trajan after his sister, Ulpia Marciana, Marcianopolis was an important strategic center for centuries. The city was repeatedly destroyed by barbarian raids (Goths, Huns, Avars and others) but also was repeatedly rebuilt and prospered. During Valens' conflict with the Goths, Marcianopolis was a temporary capital of the empire and the largest city in Thrace. An Avar raid destroyed the city in 614 or 615.RP70334. Bronze pentassarion, H-J Marcianopolis 6.24.34.2, AMNG I/I 778, Varbanov I 1290, SNG Cop -, BMC Thrace -, VF, attractive green patina, a few minor scratches, flan crack, central cavities, weight 10.894 g, maximum diameter 27.4 mm, die axis 0o, Markianopolis (Devnya, Bulgaria) mint, consular legate Pontianus, 217 - 218 A.D.; obverse AYT K OΠEΛ CEYH MAKPKEINOC K M OΠEΛ ANTΩNEINOC, laureate head of Macrinus right confronted with bare-head of Diadumenian left; reverse YΠ ΠONTIANOY MAPKIANOΠOΛEITΩN, Macrinus standing left, laureate, wearing military garb, right foot on helmet, Victory on globe offering wreath in his right hand, reversed spear vertical in left hand, two oval shields at feet on left, E in left field; ex CNG e-auction 278, lot 179; SOLD
Magnentius, 18 January 350 - 10 August 353 A.D.
Magnus Magnentius was proclaimed emperor on 18 January 350 at Autun (Gaul) with support of the army on the Rhine frontier. Constans fled to Spain, where he was assassinated at Castrum Helenae. In the spring 351, Constans' brother Constantius marched West with 60,000 men to remove Magnus Magnentius but it would take more than two years to defeat him.SH32711. Billon heavy maiorina, RIC VIII Amiens 11, Bastien MM 111, LRBC II 8, SRCV V 18816, sharp EF, weight 4.351 g, maximum diameter 22.9 mm, die axis 0o, Ambianum (Amiens, France) mint, 30 Jun 350 - spring 351 A.D.; obverse D N MAGNENTIVS P F AVG, draped and cuirassed bust right, A behind; reverse VICTORIAE DD NN AVGG ET CAESS (victories of our lords, the two emperors and two caesars), two Victories holding shield inscribed VOT V MVLT X, AMB followed by a palm frond in exergue; 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.RB95775. Orichalcum sestertius, RIC IV Decius 171a (R), Cohen V 28, Banti 6, Hunter III 22, SRCV III 9534, aVF/F, excellent portrait, attractive mottled patina, porosity, rough areas, squared flan, reverse legend mostly obscure or off flan, weight 18.297 g, maximum diameter 27.9 mm, die axis 0o, Rome mint, as caesar, 250 - early 251 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; rare; SOLD
Kallatis, Moesia Inferior, 3rd - 2nd Century B.C.
Apollo's most important attribute is the tripod lebes, a cauldron in a three-legged stand used for religious rituals. The tripod lebes is symbolic of his prophetic powers. At his temple at Delphi, his priestess sat on his tripod chewing laurel leaves and inhaling hallucinating vapors from a fissure in the floor. After she mumbled her prophesy, a male priest would translate it for the supplicant.GB99660. Bronze AE 24, AMNG I/I 230, SNG Stancomb 69 ff. var. (magistrate), SNG BM 214 var. (same), SNG Cop -, BMC Thrace -, VF, well centered on a broad flan, nice green patina, closed flan crack, scratches, scattered slight porosity, obverse edge beveled, weight 8.841 g, maximum diameter 24.3 mm, die axis 0o, Kallatis (Mangalia, Romania) mint, 3rd - 2nd century B.C.; obverse laureate head of Apollo right; countermark: six-rayed pellet-star; reverse tripod lebes, stalk of grain outer left, KAΛΛA-TIANΩN in two downward lines, the first on the right, EΠIXA (magistrate) below; ex Classical Numismatic Group, ex Richard Baker collection; SOLD
Tralleis, Lydia, c. 2nd - 1st Century B.C.
On the defeat of Antiochus, 190 B.C., Tralles, with the rest of Lydia, was assigned to the kingdom of the Attalids, under whose gentle sway it enjoyed peace and prosperity, and was one of the chief mints of the Cistophori. When Attalus III died without an heir in 133 B.C., he bequeathed the whole of Pergamon to Rome in order to prevent a civil war.SH29098. Bronze AE 18, Kunker 67, 421 (same dies); Elsen 86, 124 (same), BMC Lydia -, SNG Cop -, SNGvA -, SNG Tübingen -, Weber -, Lindgren -, Mionnet -, aEF, nice green patina, weight 4.580 g, maximum diameter 17.6 mm, die axis 0o, Tralles (Aydın, Turkey) mint, c. 2nd - 1st century B.C.; obverse laureate head of Zeus right; reverse ΔIOΣ TPAΛ/ΛIANΩN and winged thunderbolt within wreath; rare; SOLD
Kallatis, Moesia Inferior, Under Roman Rule, 2nd - 3rd Century A.D.
The Dioscuri were Castor and Pollux (or Polydeuces), the twin sons of Leda and brothers of Helen of Troy. The twins shared the same mother but had different fathers. Pollux, the son of Zeus, was immortal but Castor was mortal. When Castor died, Pollux asked to let him share his own immortality with his twin to keep them together. They were transformed into the Gemini constellation and the two spend alternate days on Olympus (as gods) and in Hades (as deceased mortals). The pair were regarded as the patrons of sailors, to whom they appeared as St. Elmo's fire.RP26691. Bronze AE 20, SNG Stancomb 865 var. (no K or torch, Dioscuri right); BMC Thrace p. 22, 9 var. (same), gVF+, minor pitting, weight 5.643 g, maximum diameter 20.4 mm, die axis 0o, Kallatis (Mangalia, Romania) mint, obverse bust of Demeter right, veiled and wreathed in grain, torch right, K left, all in a circle of dots; reverse Dioscuri riding left, in circle of dots; rare; SOLD
Judean Kingdom, Judah Aristobulus I (Yehudah), 104 - 103 B.C.
 | The block style Paleo-Hebrew inscription reads, from right to left: YHWD/H (Judah) KHN (priest) GD/WL (high) W (and) (HH)BR (council) / H (the) YHWD/MY (Jews). See Reading Judean Coins in NumisWiki. |
Palmyrene-Roman Empire, Aurelian and Vabalathus, c. Nov 270 - Mar 272 A.D.
According to Zosimus, after his defeat, Vaballathus died on the way to Rome. Other sources imply Aurelian allowed Vaballathus and his mother Zenobia to live, but only after they had been marched through the streets of Rome in a triumphal procession. This would have been humiliating, but better than death. This theory is supported by Aurelian's similar treatment of the Tetrici, Tetricus I and Tetricus II of the Gallic Empire, long-time enemies of Rome whom the emperor allowed to retire following their defeat at the Battle of Châlons in 274.RA35037. Billon antoninianus, MER-RIC 3107, RIC V-2 381, BnF XII 1248, Hunter IV 7, Göbl MIR 353a5, Cohen VI 1, SRCV III 11718, Choice gVF, weight 3.646 g, maximum diameter 20.2 mm, die axis 135o, 5th officina, Antioch (Antakya, Turkey) mint, Nov 270 - Mar 272 A.D.; obverse IMP C AVRELIANVS AVG, radiate and cuirassed bust right, E below; reverse VABALATHVS V C R IM D R, laureate, diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right; SOLD
Julia Domna, Augusta 194 - 8 April 217 A.D., Stobi, Macedonia
Stobi was an ancient town of Paeonia, conquered by Macedonia, and later made the capital of the Roman province of Macedonia Salutaris. Stobi prospered under Rome and in 69 A.D. was designated a municipium. Citizens of Stobi enjoyed Ius Italicum and were citizens of Rome. Theodosius I stayed in Stobi in 388. In 479, Stobi was sacked by the Ostrogothic king Theodoric. The town was rebuilt, but in 518 was struck by a powerful earthquake. Avaro-Slavic invasions in the 6th century ruined the city's economy and infrastructure. Stobi is perhaps the most important archaeological site in the Republic of Macedonia.RP29521. Bronze AE 22, cf. Josifovski 157 (Josifovski specimen too obscure to verify dies), Varbanov 3908 (R3), SNG Cop 333, gVF, beautiful green patina, weight 6.780 g, maximum diameter 24.2 mm, die axis 0o, Stobi (Gradsko, Macedonia) mint, obverse IVLIA •A-VGVSTA, draped bust right; reverse MVNICIPI STOBEN, Victory walking left, palm extended in right, palm frond over shoulder in left; SOLD
Geta, 209 - c. 26 December 211 A.D., Anchialos, Thrace
When the Odrysian kingdom was abolished in 45 A.D., Anchialos (Pomorie, Bulgaria today) became part of the Roman province of Thrace. It was formally proclaimed a city under Trajan. Anchialos thrived in the 2nd and 3rd centuries serving as the most important import and export station of Thrace and acquired the appearance of a Roman city under the Severan Dynasty.RP68711. Bronze 4 assaria, Varbanov 464 (R5), AMNG II 555, SNG Cop -, BMC Thrace -, Lindgren -, aVF, glossy green patina, weight 14.534 g, maximum diameter 30.7 mm, die axis 45o, Anchialos (Pomorie, Bulgaria) mint, 209 - 212 A.D.; obverse AY K Π CEΠ ΓETAC, laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind; reverse OYΛΠIANΩN AΓ-C-IAΛEΩN, Demeter standing left, reaching with right toward serpent coiled around large torch before her, small torch cradled in her left, two small pellets over Δ in center field; rare; SOLD
Commodus, March or April 177 - 31 Dec 192 A.D., Philippopolis, Thrace
The Greeks and Romans did not view snakes as evil creatures but rather as symbols and tools for healing and fertility. Asclepius, the son of Apollo and Koronis, learned the secrets of keeping death at bay after observing one snake bringing another snake healing herbs. Woman seeking fertility, the sick, and the injured slept in his temples in chambers where non-poisonous snakes were left to crawl on the floor and provide healing.RP67767. Bronze assarion, RPC online 10621 (1 spec., Oxford), Varbanov 1104 ff. var. (obv leg), Mouchmov Philip 241 ff. var. (same), BMC Thrace -, SNG Cop -, Lindgren -, Choice gVF, nice green patina, weight 4.167 g, maximum diameter 18.3 mm, die axis 225o, Philippopolis (Plovdiv, Bulgaria) mint, obverse AY M AY KOMOΔOC, laureate head right; reverse ΦIΛIΠΠOΠOΛITΩN, tripod lebes, snake coiled around center leg, head above bowl; USA import restricted type, acquired by Forum from a Florida based dealer at NYINC 2014; very rare variety; SOLD
Constantine II, 22 May 337 - March or April 340 A.D.
The eldest son of Constantine the Great and Fausta, after the death of his half-brother Crispus, Constantine II was born in Arles in February 316 and raised as a Christian. On 1 March 317, he was made Caesar. In 323, at the age of seven, he took part in his father's campaign against the Sarmatians. At age ten, he became commander of Gaul, following the death of Crispus. An inscription dating to 330 records the title of Alamannicus, so it is probable that his generals won a victory over the Alamanni. His military career continued when Constantine I made him field commander during the 332 campaign against the Goths.RL76942. Billon reduced follis, RIC VII Lyons 148 (R5), Hunter V 28, SRCV V -, Choice gVF, nice older looking portrait of the six year old Caesar, excellent centering and strike, detailed celestial sphere, weight 3.279 g, maximum diameter 19.5 mm, die axis 0o, 1st officina, Lugdunum (Lyon, France) mint, 321 A.D.; obverse CONSTANTINVS IVN N C, laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind; reverse BEATA TRANQVILLITAS (blessed tranquility), altar inscribed VO/TIS / XX in three lines, surmounted by celestial globe, three stars above, C left, R right, PLG in exergue; SOLD
Gordian III, 29 July 238 - 25 February 244 A.D., Viminacium, Moesia Superior
Viminacium was a Roman Colony founded by Gordian III in 239 A.D. The usual legend is P.M.S. COL. VIM., abbreviating Provinciae Moesiae Superioris Colonia Viminacium. The usual type is a female personification of Moesia standing between a lion and a bull. The bull and the lion were symbols of the Legions VII and IV, which were quartered in the province.SH63944. Bronze AE 29, H-J Viminacium 12 (R2); AMNG I/I 83; BMC Thrace p. 16, 12; SNG Cop 144; Varbanov I -, Nice VF, beautiful fern green patina, weight 17.726 g, maximum diameter 28.6 mm, die axis 0o, Viminacium (Stari Kostolac, Serbia) mint, 242 - 243 A.D.; obverse IMP GORDIANVS PIVS FEL AVG, laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind; reverse P M S COL VIM, Moesia standing facing, head left, extending hands over bull on left standing right and lion on right standing left, AN IIII (year 4 of the Viminacium colonial era) in exergue; SOLD
Philip I the Arab, February 244 - End of September 249 A.D., Viminacium, Moesia Superior
Viminacium was a Roman Colony founded by Gordian III in 239 A.D. The usual legend is P.M.S. COL. VIM., abbreviating Provinciae Moesiae Superioris Colonia Viminacium. The usual type is a female personification of Moesia standing between a lion and a bull. The bull and the lion were symbols of the Legions VII and IV, which were quartered in the province.RP86490. Orichalcum provincial sestertius, H-J Viminacium 29 (R2); Martin 2.14, AMNG I/I 103, Varbanov I 135; BMC Thrace p. 17, 21, Choice aEF, well centered, attractive patina, minor bumps and marks, spots of slight corrosion, weight 19.205 g, maximum diameter 31.1 mm, die axis 15o, Viminacium (Stari Kostolac, Serbia) mint, 245 - 246 A.D.; obverse IMP M IVL PHILIPPVS AVG, laureate and draped bust right; reverse P M S COL VIM, Moesia standing facing, head left, extending hands over bull on left standing right and lion on right standing left, AN VI (year 6 of the Viminacium colonial era) in exergue; SOLD
Fausta, Augusta, 8 November 324 - Autumn 326 A.D., Second Wife of Constantine the Great
Fausta is depicted as Spes, the Roman personification of hope. She holds her infant children, Constantine II and Constantius II, her hopeful promise for the future of the "Republic."RL70607. Billon centenionalis, RIC Heraclea VII p. 80; LRBC I 875; SRCV IV 16572; Cohen VII 17, aEF, green patina, well centered, slight porosity, weight 3.379 g, maximum diameter 19.1 mm, die axis 315o, 4th officina, Heraclea (Marmara Ereglisi, Turkey) mint, 325 - 326 A.D.; obverse FLAV MAX FAVSTA AVG, draped bust right, hair waved, bun at back, wearing pearl necklace; reverse SPES REIP-VBLICAE, Fausta standing facing, looking left, holding infants Constantine II and Constantius II, SMHΔ in exergue; rare; SOLD
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