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florianus_portrait_forum.jpg
Roman, Florian. 276 AD.1 comments
fond2.jpg
Roman, Galba's "scareface"Master's portrait of the emperor Galba on sestertius.

2 comments
g01b_2.jpg
Roman, Geta Caesar of RomeRIC 34a. Mint of Rome, 202-209 AD.
Very authentic features!
3 comments
GAE062~0.jpg
Greek, Antiochus IV Epiphanes - Antioch on Orontes (as 'Daphne') - 175/164BCAntiochus IV Epiphanes - Antioch on Orontes (as 'Daphne') - 175/164BC
AE 20.1-21.2mm : 9.016gm
OBV - Radiate diademed head facing right with diadem extending down to neck
REV - Zeus standing facing, head turned left, arm extended to left holding wreath, ANTIOXEON at right, TON PROS DAPHNEN at left with monogram at far left and far right. Quasi-municipal type struck in or after 169/8 BC. Actual location: Antioch on Orontes (For some reason Antiochus IV chose to identify it as Antioch near Daphne).
REF - SNGSpaer 1008 (8.73gm same monograms)
1 commentsPtolemAE
GAE404_O.jpg
Greek, Zeus, Syracusan Imitation Ptolemaic Diobol of Hieron II ca. 265BCPtolemy II Philadelphos - Syracuse Issue of Hieron II - Diobol - 285/246BC
AE 26.9-28.4mm : 14.736gm : 2h
OBV - Laureate Zeus facing right
REV - Eagle standing on thunderbolt facing left, wing open, head facing left, no leg monogram, shield in left field, N control letter behind eagle tail at right. BASILEOS right, PTOLEMAIOY left
REF - Svoronos 619
NOTE - This type actually struck in Syracuse by Hieron II ca. 265BC. New research just published on this subject (2007). The paper that presents this new attribution is available online at www.ptolemybronze.com.
1 commentsPtolemAE
GAE898a_O.jpg
Greek, Alexander Ptolemaic BronzeBronze Hemiobol of Ptolemy I ca. 290BC
Portrait of Alexander the Great with Ammon horn
Svoronos 172. 17.4mm 4.58gm 11.5h (345deg)
Stylistic elegance on early Ptolemaic bronze.
PtolemAE
galba-obv+rev-sest.jpg
Roman, GALBA SESTERTIUS.Galba 68-69 AD Bronze Sesterce. A true classic head of Galba, powerful and Roman with all the Republican virtues. Beatifull natural patina. Purchased Leu 1980. Ex Sartige 1938 and dating back to the beginning of 1900's

Coins to fall in love with www.petitioncrown.com
11 comments
GallienusUNC.JPG
Roman, Gallienus, AE AntoninianusNo reverse but a superior portrait of Gallienus for these crummy issues. Anyone with a better portrait?1 commentswhitetd49
GetaTrophy1a~0.jpg
Roman, GetaGeta, as Caesar, Denarius. 200-202 AD. P SEPT GETA CAES PONT, draped bust right / PRINC IVVENTVTIS, Geta, in military dress, standing left with baton & scepter, trophy behind. RSC 157awl
geta~0.JPG
Roman, GetaHappy childhood ?

Ecoli

2 commentsecoli
Gordian-III-Providentia-238-n-Chr-K.jpg
ROMAN, GORDIAN IIIThis early Antoninianus Gordian III still shows the young emperor with the facial features of Balbianus. Bust of Gordian III radiate, draped and cuirased right. Legend: IMP. CAES. M. ANT. GORDIANVS AVG.
The reverse shows Providentia standing left, holding globe in extended right hand with transverse sceptre in left hand. Legend: PROVIDENTIA AVG.
The reverse die of this coin was made using the same tooling as the reverse die of BMC specimen #1037,0406.253.
The BMC specimen #1037,0406.253 is from the Dorchester Hoard, discovered 1936.
Wight: 3,84 g, condition: good xf.
Hans-Wilhelm T
GordianIII-master portrait.jpg
Roman, Gordian III - 238-244 ADMARCVS ANTONIVS GORDIANVS was born in 225. His grandfather was Gordian I and his uncle was Gordian II. After their failed revolt in 238, Gordian was raised (April, 238) to Caesar under the Senate's co-Augusti, Balbinus and Pupienus. When they were killed in July, 238, Gordian became sole Augustus. His rule was generally thought to be mild and wise, guided by his Praetorian Praefect, Timesitheus. Gordian III married Timesitheus's daughter Tranquillina in 241. Unfortunately, both Timesitheus and Gordian died on campaign against the Sassanians in 243-244. His mysterious death on February 25, 244 possibly was plotted by his successor, Philip I.

The details of this coin may be viewed at http://www.forumancientcoins.com/gallery/displayimage.php?album=102&pos=7
3 commentsjimwho523
GordianIII.jpg
Roman, Gordian III Superb PortraitGordian III AR Antoninianus, RIC 86, RSC 121

Gordian III AR Antoninianus. IMP GORDIANVS PIVS FEL AVG, radiate, draped & cuirassed bust right.
LAETITIA AVG N, Laetitia standing right with wreath & anchor. RSC 121.
Britanikus
gordian_AR-antoninianus_victoria-aeterna_5_10gr_obv_05~0.jpg
Roman, Gordian III AR Antoninianus - VICTORIA AETERNA - Beautiful strike, Large flanEmperor Gordian III (238 - 244 AD)
Silver Antoninianus, Rome Mint.

obv: IMP GORDIANVS PIVS FEL AVG - Radiate, draped & cuirassed bust of Emperor right.
rev: VICTORIA AETERNA - Victory standing left, holding palm & resting right hand on top of shield set atop a captive.

5.10 Grams, 25mm.
---------
RIC 156.
Amazingly well centered coin, struck on a large flan.
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*CLICK FOR FULL SIZE PHOTO*
2 commentsrexesq
Gordian_III.jpg
Roman, Gordian III Marcus Antonius Gordianus Pius / SILVER ANTONINIANUS

OBVERSE : IMP CAES M ANT GORDIANVS AVG - radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right.

REVERSE : VIRTVS AVG - Virtus in crested helmet standing left with branch & spear, sheild on ground before .
Max D : 23.8 MM AND 4.03 GRAMS. 
Ref., :RSC 383

Called Gordian III , ruled as a Roman Emperor FROM 238 – 244 AD. 
Gordian III is one of the most powerful men in the world.

Sam Mansourati Collection.
Sam
Gordian_III_antioch.jpg
Roman, Gordian IIIGordian III. A.D. 238-244. AR antoninianus (23 mm, 5.05 g, 6 h). Antioch, A.D. 238/9. IMP CAES M ANT GORDIANVS AVG, radiate, draped and cuirased bust of Gordian III right / LIBERALITAS AVG, Liberalitas standing facing, head left, holding pileus and scepter. RIC 186; RSC 127a. Superb EF, spectacular portrait nicely centered on a large flan with nearly full borders and excellent metal.
paul1888
Gordian_III_Bust.JPG
Roman, Gordian III AR Antoninianus Britanikus
Gordian_III_RIC_70_Portrait_Gallery.jpg
Roman, Gordian III - [RIC IV 70, RSC III 314, SRCV III 8658] Silver antoninianus, gVF, 3.481g, 20.8mm, 0 degree, Rome mint, 240 A.D.

Ovb. - IMP GORDIANVS PIVS FEL AVG, radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right from behind

Rev. - ROMAE AETERNAE, Roma seated left on shield, Victory in right, vertical spear in left
___________

Purchased from Forum Ancient Coins

Ex. FORVM Dealer Photo

renegade3220's Collection: http://www.forumancientcoins.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-56563

IMO, a great coin all around and, although common, bought for both the splendid and detailed obverse and reverse nicely centered on the flan.
3 commentsrenegade3220
Gratian_2~0.jpg
Roman, GratianGratian (Augustus)
Bronze AE3
DN GRATIANVS PF AVG - Pearl diademed bust draped and cuirassed bust right.
GLORIA RO-MANORVM - Emperor advancing right dragging captive and holding a military banner inscribed with a Chi-Rho
RIC IX Siscia 14c, type xvi, Minted in Siscia (367-375), 2.25g / 17mm /
This is the nicest bust of Gratian I have seen. Very pleased to have it!
2 commentsHolding_History
HADRIAN-BRITANICUS~0.jpg
Roman, HADRIAN, BRITANNICVSSestertius of Hadrian, AD 122. EXERC BRITANNICVS SC ("For the army of Britain, by order of the Senate") RIC 913. Coin currently in the British Museum Department of Coins and Medals (gallery 49, case 14).
Obv. HADRIANVS AVG COS 111 PP ("Hadrian Augustus, three times consul, father of his country")
5 comments
Hadrian_Sestertius.jpg
Roman, Hadrian SestertiusThis is one of my favourite coins because it has one of the best portraits of Hadrian that I have ever seen.4 comments
Hadrian_sestertius~0.jpg
Roman, Hadrian, sestertiusHadrian, 117-138 Sestertius circa 134-138, Æ 32mm., 26.08g. HADRIANVS AVG COS III PP Laureate and draped bust r. Rev. FELICITAS AVG Hadrian, togate, standing r with scroll, clasping r. hand with Felicitas standing l., holding caduceus. C 636. RIC 754. Nice untouched green patina and about extremely fine. Ex Glendining , April 1952, 2511. From the Ryan collection.2 commentsOctavianus
helena-2.jpg
Roman, Helena4 comments
heretr1~1.jpg
Roman, Herennia Etruscilla AR antoninianusA beautiful portrait.Ryan C
IM001004.JPG
Roman, GetaA very good, sensitive portrait especially for a provincial issue. The entire coin and description may be seen in whitetd49 Severan gallery.whitetd49
IMGP0122Unkntdrcombo.jpg
PARTHIA/PERSIA, Unknown King, 80 - 70 BCAR tdr., 15,65gr, 29,2mm; Sellwood 30.2, Shore --, Sunrise 311 (Arsakes XVI. 78/77-62/1);
Mint: Seleukia, axis: 12h;
obv.: bare-headed, left, w/ diadem, knot and 1 broad ribbon; mustache, medium-long hair in 3 waves; torque w/single pellet finial; cuirass; dotted border 8-15:30h;
rev.: archer, right, on throne, w/bow in right hand; composite monogram above bow; 7-line legend: BAΣIΛEΩΣ MEΓAΛOY APΣAKOY ΘEOΠATOPOΣ EYEPΓETOY EΠIΦANOYΣ ΦIΛEΛΛΗNOΣ; exergual line;
3 commentsSchatz
IMGP0190Sasscombo~0.jpg
PARTHIA/PERSIA, Sasanian Empire: Ardashir I, 224 - 242 ADAR dr., 4,56gr., 25mm;
Göbl type III/2/2, Sunrise 714; Sel. 10;
mint: C (Ktesiphon), axis 15h;
obv.: bust, right, w/diadem type G and korymbos over close fitting cap; long undulated hair and beard, mustache; Pahlavi legend on the inside of complete dotted border;
rev.: fire altar w/flames (type 3) and diadems (type G), flanked by 2 altar pillars; Pahlavi legend against the upper left and right complete dotted border;
Schatz
IMGP0361Got1combo2.jpg
PARTHIA/PERSIA, Mithradates II, ca. 123 - 88 BC, or Gotarzes I, 91 - 87 BCAR dr., 4,04gr, 20,6mm;
Sellw. 29.2, Shore 103, Sunrise - ;
mint: Ekbatana, axis: 12h;
obv.: floating bust, left, w/tiara, diadem, knot, and 2 ribbons; tiara w/3 rows of pellets and 1 row of ∼ enclosing an 8-point star, long earflap; mustache, long tapering beard; earring, multi-turn torque w/pellet finial; cuirass; dotted border 5:30 to 8h;
rev.: slight incuse left; archer w/bow, right, on throne; exergual line; 6-line legend: BΛΣIΛEΩΣ BΛΣIΛEΩN APΣAKoY ΔIKΛIoY EVEPΓEToY KΛIΦIΛEΛΛΗN.

1 commentsSchatz
IMGP1096Mith2_combo~0.jpg
PARTHIA/PERSIA, Mithradates II, ca.123-88 BCAR dr., 4,09gr, 21,2mm; Sellwood 24.10, Shore 70, Sunrise --;
mint: Ekbatana or Rhagai, axis 12h;
obv.: bare-headed, left, w/diadem, knot and 2 ribbons; short cap-like hair, mustache, medium-long beard; earring, torque w/griffin or horse finial; dotted border 9 to 14h;
rev.: archer, right, on omphalos, w/bow in right hand; 4-line legend beginning on left and forming square: BAΣIΛEΩΣ MEΓAΛoY APΣAKoY EΠIΦANoY(Σ); exergual line;
iridescent "rainbow" tone;
a portrait of the young king who was probably the greatest of the Parthian rulers.
3 commentsSchatz
IMGP3349Orod2combo~0.jpg
PARTHIA/PERSIA, Orodes II., 57 - 38 BCAR dr., 3,89gr, 19,8mm; Sellwood 45.19, Shore 229var., Sunrise - ;
mint: Susa; axis: 13h;
obv.: bare-headed, left, w/broad diadem, knot and 2 or 3 ribbons; medium-long hair in 4 waves, mustache, short beard in 3 rows of curls; multi-turn torque w/ single pellet finial; cuirass;
rev.: archer, right, on throne, w/bow in one hand, x above and monogram and dot below; 7-line legend: ΒΛCIΛΕΩC BΛCΙΛΕΩΝ ΛΡCΛKoV EVEPΓEToV ΔIKΛIoV EΠIΦΛNoVC ΦIΛEΛΛHN(o)C; almost uncirculated;
one of the most beautiful Parthian portraits of a young king.
1 commentsSchatz
IMGP4434Unkntdrcombo.jpg
PARTHIA/PERSIA, Unknown King, 80 - 70 BCAR tdr., 15,82gr., 28,2mm;
Sellw. 30.4, Sh --, Sunrise 312 (this coin; Arsakes XVI., 78/77 - 62/61 BC;
mint: Seleukia, axis: 12H;
obv.: bare-headed, left, w/diadem, knot, and ribbon; medium h-long hair in 4 waves, mustache, short beard; cuirass; dotted border 18:30 - 13h; young face;
rev: archer, right, on throne, w/bow; monogr. above bow; 7-line legend: BAΣIΛEΩΣ MEΓAΛOY APΣAKOY (ΘEO)ΠATOPOΣ (EY)EPΓETOY EΠIΦANOYΣ ΦIΛEΛΛHNO(Σ);

ex: The New York Sale, Baldwin Auction XXXvii (5. Jan. 2016),
ex: The Sunrise Collection, p.182, #312.

A Sunrise plate coin, also in: Parthika.fr, Les Différents Types.
2 commentsSchatz
IMG_0011.JPG
Roman, Septimius SeverusAe 26/27. Wt 13g. Die axis 180. Septimius Severus, laureate right. AVT.K.A.CEMT.CEOVHPOC.
Rev. Aeslepiad Triad (Hygieia, Telesphorus, Asclepius)
Von Aulock 6243 BMC. (struck from same 2 dies as same coin in BMC. but better).
Chris A
IMG_3543_2~1.jpeg
Byzantine, Romanus III Gold HistamenonRomanus III Argyrus (12 Nov 1028 - 11 Apr 1034 CE), Gold Histamenon Nomisma, DOC III-2 1d, Morrisson BnF 43/Cp/AV/01, Ratto 1972, Sommer 43.2.2, SBCV 1819, Wroth BMC 2, coronation issue, EF, plain edge, weight 4.45g (AGW 0.1401oz), composition 0.979 Au, diameter 25.0mm, thickness 1.0mm, die axis 180°, Constantinople (Istanbul, Turkey) mint, 12 Nov 1028 - 11 Apr 1034 CE; obverse + IҺS XIS RЄX-RЄϚNANTIҺm (Jesus Christ, King of Kings), Christ Pantokrator, bearded, enthroned facing on square-backed throne (Type IIa), with nimbus cruciger, wearing pallium and colobium, raising right hand in benediction and holding Book of Gospels by upper edge on left knee with left, pelleted double border surrounding; reverse ΘCЄ bOHΘ'-RωmAҺω (God-Bearer, help Romanus), MΘ (Mother of God) with macrons above centre, Virgin, nimbate, standing facing on right, wearing pallium and maphorium, raising left hand in benediction and crowning with right Romanus III, bearded, standing facing on left, wearing crown with cross and pendilia, sakkos and modified square pattern loros with four pellets on fold, holding right hand on breast and globus cruciger in left, pelleted double border surrounding; from the Roger Belmar Collection; ex Sovereign Rarities (1 Jan 2022); ex Roma Numismatics e-sale 90 (18 Nov 2021), lot 1497, acquired from European Collection; scarce; £1,200.00.

The image of Christ Pantokrator was one of the first images of Christ developed in the Early Christian Church and remains a central icon of the Eastern Orthodox Church. In the half-length image, Christ holds the New Testament in his left hand and makes the gesture of teaching or of blessing with his right.
3 commentsSerendipity
IMG_3543~22.jpeg
Roman, Trajan Silver DenariusTrajan (25 Jan 98 - 8/9 Aug 117 CE), Silver Denarius, RIC II 315, RSC II 150a, BMCRE III 634, BnF IV 894, Hunter II 206, Strack I 257, Woytek 579v, SRCV II -, Choice gEF, excellent portrait, well-centred on a slightly ragged flan, sharply struck, radiating flow lines, minor marks, edge cracks, plain edge, weight 3.21g, composition Ag, diameter 20.0×18.0mm, thickness 2.85mm, die axis 210°, Rome mint, c.autumn 116 - Aug 117 CE; obverse IMP CAES NER TRAIAN OPTIM AVG GERM DAC, laureate and draped bust right, seen from behind; reverse PARTHICO P M TR P COS VI P P S P Q R, Fortuna, veiled and draped, seated left, holding rudder by tiller in right hand, cornucopia in left, FORT RED in exergue; from the Roger Belmar Collection; ex Sovereign Rarities (26 Feb 2021); ex Michael Kelly Collection, Spink auction 20120 (13 Feb 2020), lot 268; £425.00.

This sharply struck and amazingly lifelike Trajan silver denarius looks more like an exquisitely carved high relief cameo gemstone.
1 commentsSerendipity
Iulianus-Bste.JPG
Roman, Julian II. Apostata AE1Iulianus II. Apostata AE1, struck 361-363 AD at Antioch mint, 2. officinae.
Obv: D N FL CL IVLIANVS P F AVG, diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
(Rev: SECVRITAS REI PVB, bull standing right, two stars above.
Ex: ANTB(palm))
Ø 27-29 mm, 7.79 g.
Antioch RIC VIII 216

My favourite portrait in my collection...
9 commentsPscipio
JMaesa01_publish.jpg
Roman, Julia MaesaRIC 263 (3,1 gm, 20 mm).
Mint of Rome, 220 AD.
Wide & sharp specimen -
rare for this queen!
2 comments
julianbull.jpg
Roman, JULIAN IIAE 1 (maiorina). 361-363 AD. 8.75 g, 12h. Sirmium ,1st officina. Pearl-diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust right. D N FL CL IVLI-ANVS P F AVG. / Bull standing right, two stars above. SECVRITAS REIPVB . ASIRM between star and palm in exergue. RIC VIII 107 ; LRBC 1622.

1 commentsbenito
KINGS_of_PERGAMON__Attalos_I_to_Eumenes_II__241-159_BC.jpg
Greek, Philetairos, Kings of Pergamon, Attalos I to Eumenes II.KINGS of PERGAMON. Attalos I to Eumenes II. 241-159 BC. AR Tetradrachm (29mm, 16.70 g, 12h). Struck circa 225/15-189/8. Laureate head of Philetairos right / Athena seated left, with spear at side, supporting shield with right hand and resting left elbow on small statuette on sphinx; ivy leaf above knee, bow to outer right, A on throne. Westermark Group III, dies V.XXIX/R?; SNG France 1609 (same obv. die). XF, porous. CNG auction.

Photo and Description , courtesy of Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

Sam Mansourati Collection / EX CNG
7 commentsSam
lis2.jpg
Greek, Alexander the Great, Lysimachos tetradrachmMinted in Magnesia, this is one of the most beautiful portraits of Alexander the Great, a true Hellenistic masterpiece. He is looking to the sky, towards Olympus and he is sending a truly arogant smile to the Gods, as if containing the message "I was a true God on Earth!"vercingetorix
lu2l[1].jpg
Roman, Lucilla, RIC 1756Lucilla, wife of Lucius Verus
Obverse: LVCILLAE AVG ANTONINI AVG FB, draped bust right.
Reverse: Pietas standing left, right hand over lighted altar and holding box of incense. S C in field.
30mm., 19.8g
Reverse clearly shows an inverse portrait caused by a clashed die.
sold 1-2018
NORMAN K
LucillaSestVenus~0.jpg
Roman, LucillaWife of Lucius Verus, executed 182 AD

Sestertius

Draped bust, right, LVCILLAE AVG ANTONINI AVG F
Venus standing facing left holding apple, drawing out robe, VENUS

Daughter of Marcus Aurelius and Faustina Junior, she married Lucius Verus in 164. She was implicated in a plot against her brother Commodus and dispatched.

RIC 1767
1 commentsBlindado
Macedonian_Kingdom,_Alexander_III_The_Great,_336_-_323_B_C_,_Lifetime_Issue_~2.jpg
Greek, Alexander III The Great, Macedonian Kingdom, 336 - 323 B.C., Lifetime Issue.Silver Drachm, Müller Alexander 763; SNG Cop 895; SNG Alpha Bank 629; SNG Saroglos 771; SNG München - ; Price 2090, Choice good Very Fine , as found Superb Fine Style, toned, centered, bumps and marks, Ionia, Miletos mint, weight 4.004g, maximum diameter 18.0mm, die axis 0o, struck between 325 - 323 B.C.,.
Obverse ; head of Alexander the Great as Herakles right, clad in Nemean Lion scalp headdress tied at neck.
Reverse ; AΛEΞAN∆POY ( means " Of Alexander " in Ancient Greek ), Zeus seated left on throne without back, nude to the waist, himation around hips and legs, feet on footstool, right leg forward, eagle in extended right hand, long scepter topped with lotus vertical behind in left hand, ∆H monogram left.

*Lifetime issue. This coin was issued during the lifetime and rule of Alexander the Great. Most Alexander coins were issued after his death.

*Alexander the great believed if the world ruled by one king or leader , will be better for all.
Alexander the great was considered a god after his death.

FORVM Ancient Coins. / From The Sam Mansourati Collection.
Sam
Macrinus-Bste.JPG
Roman, MacrinusMacrinus AE25, struck 217-218 AD at Nikopolis ad Istrum, Moesia Inferior, legat Statius Longinus.
Obv: AY K M OΠEΛΛI CEV MAKPINOC (AY?), laureate bust right.
(Rev: VΠ CTA ΛONΓINOV NIKOΠOΛITΩN ΠPOC ICTPΩ, Liberalitas standing left, holding cornucopia and counting frame.)
Ø 23-25 mm, 9.30 g.
SNG ANS 278, Pick 1779

I love this portrait, even it is a bit worn! Ex FORVM.
1 commentsPscipio
Mamaea.jpg
Roman, Julia MamaeaA very pleasant depiction of Julia Mamaea (13 March 222 - February or March 235 A.D.) . RIC 335, RSC 17, BMC 483. 3.12g, 19.9mm, 180o, Rome mint, obverse IVL MAMAEA AVG, draped bust right; reverse FELICITAS PVBLICA, Felicitas standing left holding caduceus and resting elbow on column; ex Scott Collection.5 commentskklinejr
MARIUS01.jpg
Roman, MariusEmperor: Marius
Type: Antoninianus
Attribution: RIC Vb 19 (Mint unidentified), Elmer 640, Cohen 22
Obverse Legend: IMP C M AVR MARIVS AVG
Obverse Description: Radiate, cuirassed bust r.
Reverse Legend: VIRTVS AVG
Reverse Description: Soldier stg. l., leaning on shield and holding spear
Diameter: 18 mm
Weight: 2.78 g
Rarity: Rare

It's rare for both sides of a coin of this type to be nice, but this one has it all. The portrait in particular is a beauty.
From my collection. mz
1 commentsMark Z
Markus Aurelius HJB.jpg
Roman, Marcus AureliusA nice portrait of the young Augustus.5 comments
Mature_Caracalla_Portrait_7x-1.jpg
Roman, Caracalla * Mature
Of all the Caracalla portraits, I’m most drawn to & fond of those which show him in his greatest maturity. This one, dated to 217 AD, the year of his death is about as ‘mature’ as one can get for the man.
This portrait strikes me as exceptionally handsome, which I well-imagine he was in reality, despite his ‘official portraiture’ which often suggests otherwise.

Too, I think some of his portraits, such as this one, suggest strongly a certain vanity in his masculine appearance – that he was well groomed and took considerable pride in his over-all appearance, quite despite his soldierly life-style.
Such vanity and the purposefulness of his official portraiture not withstanding, here I believe one beholds ‘Caracalla’ the man more as he was – an alpha male par excellence, and a devilishly handsome one.

Portrait from AR Denarius * Caracalla * Serapis
Mint: Rome
Struck: 217 AD.
Size: 19 mm.

RIC 291b
* Reverse of * RIC 289, pg. 255

Submitted by Tiathena
5 commentsTiathena
maxconcord~0.JPG
Roman, Maximian Post-reform Radiate 296-297 ADIMP C M A MAXIMIANUS PF AVG/CONCORDIA MILITUM
RIC v.VI 46b Alexandria Mint

The "big-head" style of the Tetrarchy is usually not my favorite - nor anyone else's to judge by the fact that there are no others in the Portrait Gallery. However, this portrait of Maximian really succeeds in being monumental rather than just dorky. It reminds one that Maximian was at the top of Imperial politics for 25 years between 285 and 310 AD and his descendants wore the purple for another 50 years after his death.
2 commentsdaverino
Maximianus D-1.jpg
Roman, MaximianusAE Follis.
Obv.: IMP MAXIMIANVS SEN AVG ; Rev.: CONSERVATORES KART SVAE ; cult image of Carthage stg. in a temple.
Tanit
Maximinus Portrait.JPG
Roman, Maximinus I Thrax, mid Mar 235 - late May 238 A.D.Not sure if this coin fits the bill , but I find the portrait rather Powerfull and expressive.
Your thoughts?
4 commentsJerome Holderman
Maximinus0.jpg
Roman, Maximinus Thrax - AR denariusRome
II 236 - XII 236 AD
laureate, draped cuirassed bust right
MAXIMINVS PIVS AVG GERM
Maximinus standing left, raising hand and holding scepter; standard on either side
P M TR P II_COS P P
RIC 4, C 56
3,01 g 20-19 mm
1 commentsJ. B.
Maximinus_I_Denarius_Salus.jpg
ROMAN, Maximinus I (AD 235 - 238) Silver Denarius Salus Maximinus I, 235 - 238 AD
Silver Denarius, Rome Mint, struck Mar 235 - Jan 236 A.D.
20mm, 3.22 grams
Obverse: IMP MAXIMINVS PIVS AVG, Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of Maximinus right.
IMP[erator] MAXIMINVS PIVS AVG[vstvs] Emperor Maximinus Dutiful Augustus

Reverse: SALVS AVGVSTI ( [Dedicated to] To the health of the Emperors ) , Salus ( Hygieia - Greek - ), seated left, feeding snake rising up from altar, from Patera in right hand, resting left elbow on throne.

References ; RIC 85
A superb Choice EF masterpiece example , artistic and well executed dies.

From The Sam Mansourati Collection./ NO. RI 20450.
Given as a souvenir to a dear friend. ( 8/18/2016 )


Salus was the Roman goddess of health. She was Hygieia to the Greeks ( Her name is the source of the word "hygiene." ), who believed her to be the daughter of Aesculapius, the god of medicine and healing, and Epione, the goddess of soothing of pain. Her father Asclepius learned the secrets of keeping death at bay after observing one serpent bringing another 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.

*The logo of Pharmacology was taken from Salus 's Patera and snake .
5 commentsSam
maxobv1.jpg
Roman, MAXIMIANUS, First ReignBillon or AE Antoninianus. Rome 286-293 A.D. Ric V, Part II, 506.

IMP MAXIMIANVS PF AVG, Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right.
IOVI CONSERVAT AVGG, Jupiter standing facing, head left, chlamys
over left shoulder, holding thunderbolt and scepter.
XXIS in exergue
James Anderson
maxsumus~1.jpg
Roman, MAXIMINUSAR denarius. 236 AD. 3,28 grs. Laureate,draped,and cuirassed bust right. IMP MAXIMINUS PIUS AVG. / Salus enthroned left, feeding serpent rising from altar. SALVS AVGVSTI.
C. 85. RSC 85. RIC 14.
benito
mithra~0.jpg
Greek, Mithradates I (171-138 BC), AR DrachmAn exceptional portrait of an aging but still formidable ruler. Most Parthian coin portraits are fairly pedestrian but this artist captures the tangled beard and wrinkled eyes and brow of Mithridates I in what must be the last years of his reign.

Sellwood 11.1
daverino
my-theodosius.jpg
Roman, Theodosius I AE4 BustTheodosius I (Augustus)
Bronze AE4
DN THEODO-SIVS PF AVG - Pearl diademed bust draped and cuirassed right.
SALVS REI-PVBLICAE - Victory dragging captive left and holding trophy. Cross in left field.
Minted in Antioch or Alexandria (388-395 A.D.)
Cross in left field, A-- mint mark.
RIC IX Antioch 67b/70a or RIC IX Alexandria 20b/23a

WOW! When I was making an order and I saw this bust on a AE4, how could I pass on it!?
2 commentsHolding_History
N80063~0.jpg
Roman, CaracallaAn incuse profile of Caracalla is visible on the reverse4 commentsTLP
nero sestertius.jpg
Roman, Nero, 54-68 A.D. SestertiusNero, 54-68 A.D. Sestertius

Sear #: 1952
RIC: 430
Lugdunum mint 65 A.D.

Obv: NERO CLAVDI CAESAR AVG GER P M TR P IMP PP

Actually my only Nero Sestertius so far. I really like the portrait on this one. The legends on the reverse are a bit weakly, and double struck. Apart from that, a very nice coin in hand. I hope ther are more coins like this out there ...
4 comments
nero5.jpg
Roman, NEROAR tetradrachm.1 commentsbenito
Nerone Sesterzio.jpg
Roman, NeroOrichalcum sestertius, RIC 517, C 268, BMC 328, S 1961, EF, 20.2g, 34.3mm, 180o, Lugdunum mint, 66 A.D.; obverse IMP NERO CAESAR AVG PONT MAX TR POT P P, laureate head left, globe at point of bust; reverse ROMA in ex, S - C in fields, Roma seated left on cuirass, holding Victory, left arm resting on parazonium, shields behind; extraordinary portrait, dark green patina. Ex Forum5 comments
Nero_Salvs1.jpg
Roman, Nero - Salvs_PortraitA little wear but nicely toned and high relief with beard growth.1 comments
nero~0.jpg
Roman, Nero AE DupondiusOBV: NERO CLAVD CAESAR AVG GER P M TR P IMP P P
Radiate crowned head right
REV: S C
Roma helmeted, in military dress, seated left on cuirass, holding wreath and parazonium, surrounded by arms; ROMA in ex
Date: 65 AD
14.2g, 29mm, Orient: 180°
RIC 296, BMC 205
3 commentsmiffy
nerva1.jpg
Roman, NervaAR Tetradrachm. Antiochia ad Orontem (Seleucis et Pieria). 15.52 gm, 12h. Regnal year 1. Laureate bust right, wearing aegis with Medusa head and snakes on shoulder. AVT NEROVAS KAIS SEB / Eagle with wings raised, standing facing on thunderbolt, head right; palm branch before on right field. ETOVS NEOV IEROV A. Prieur 149. BM 267.
2 commentsbenito
Nikomedes_III_AR_Tetradrachm~1.jpg
Greek, Nikomedes II of Bithynia (149-127 BC)Bithynian Kingdom, Nikomedes III Euergetes, 127-94 BC, AR Tetradrachm struck 126/5 BC
Diademed head of Nikomedes II right / BAΣIΛEΩΣ EПiΦANOYΣ NIKOMHΔΩΣ.
(The reverse is Zeus standing left holding sceptre and laurel wreath capping Nikomedes name, eagle standing left on fulmen in inner left field above monogram ΩΓYE, dated below BOP = Bithynian era year 172 = 126/5 BC).
De Callatay pl. XV, D12-R1a (this coin); SNG von Aulock 6894 (same reverse die); Sear GCV 7274 (date variant).
(33mm, 16.68 g,11h)
Jencek; ex- Noble Investments (UK) PLC; ex- Spink Sale 5014 (28 September 2005) Lot 121; ex- Monnaies et Medailles (19-20 June 1975) lot 163; ex- Bank Leu Auction 2 (25 April 1972) lot 224

This coin holds it own amongst the masterpieces of late Hellenistic portraiture. The obverse image is that of a confident and contented ruler, Nikomedes II (149-127 BC), comfortable in his role leading a client state of Rome, while secure in the knowledge that the military might of the latter underpinned his position. Following Nikomedes II reign, the portrait on the obverse of the kingdom’s coinage continued unchanged, through the reign of his son (Nikomedes III) and grandson (Nikomedes IV). However, the issuing king can be readily identified by the date on coins and to a lesser degree by the style of the obverse.

Nikomedes II commenced the practice of dating Bithynian coinage, with reference to the era commencing 297/6 BC, this date being the date of foundation of the Bithynian Kingdom by Zipoetes. This coin was struck shortly after the death of Nikomedes II and the portrait closely resembles that on coins struck during his reign. It is an accurate portrayal of Nikomedes II. With time the portrait became increasingly stylized so that some examples struck toward the end of the kingdom’s existence bear only a passing resemblance to the original portrait.
2 comments
normal_elagabalus_AR-Ant_salus_5_20gr_00~1.JPG
Roman, Elagabalus AR Antoninianus - SALVS ANTONINI AVGRoman Empire
Emperor Varius 'Elagabalus' Antoninus (218 - 222 AD)
Silver Antoninianus, Struck at the Rome Mint.

obv: IMP CAES M AUR ANTONINUS - Radiate bust of the Emperor right, draped and cuirassed.
rev: SALVS ANTONINI AUG - Salus standing facing right, holding snake, which she feeds from patera held in other hand.

5.20 Grams
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**CLICK TO ENLARGE**
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1 commentsrexesq
normal_philip-I_ar-ant_antioch_aequitas_DSC09094_DSC09101~0.jpg
Roman, Philip I AR Antoninianus - ' AEQUITAS AUG ' - Antioch Mint - Antioch, SyriaAncient Roman Empire
Emperor Philip I (244 - 249 AD)
Silver Antoninianus, Struck at the Antioch Mint.

obv: IMP M JUL PHILIPPUS AUG - Radiate bust of Emperor right, draped and cuirassed. Seen from Behind.
rev: AEQUITAS AUG - Aequitas standing, head left, holding scales in one hand and a cornucopia in the other.

Weight: 3.8 Grams
Size: 22.5 mm
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Very nice details.
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rexesq
osev_-_early_port.jpg
Roman, Otacilia Severa earlyRIC 123c (4,3 gm, 24 mm).
Mint of Rome, 244 AD.
A pleasant strike!
Philip I ROMAE ETERNAE RIC 44b.jpg
Roman, Philip I, first half of 244 - end of Sep 249 A.D.ROMAE AETERNAE RIC 44b.2 commentsRobert_Brenchley
philipIIsest.jpg
Roman, PHILIP IIAE sestertius. 248 AD. 18,11 gm. 10h. Laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind . IMP M IVL PHILIPPVS AVG. /
Philip II and Philip I, laureate and togate, seated left on curule chairs, each extending right hand; Philip I holding baton or short scepter in left hand. LIBERALITAS AVGG III. In exergue SC.
RIC IV 267a. s 9279.

benito
Philip_I.png
Roman, Philip IPhilip I AR Antoninianus
Rome mint 244-249 AD.
Obverse: IMPMIVLPHILIPPVSAVG, radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right
Reverse: AEQVITASAVGG, Aequitas standing left, holding scales in right hand, cornucopia in left
RIC IV: 27b
Size:22mm,3.81g
Matthew C5
Philip_I_Liberalitas~0.jpg
Roman, PHILIP IPhilip I. A.D. 244-249. AR double denarius (22 mm, 3.47 g, 6 h). Rome, A.D. 245. Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust of Philip I right / Liberalitas standing left, holding abacus and cornucopiae. RIC 38b; RSC 87

I believe that this coin has one of the best, if not the best, obverse portraits of Philip I on an antoninianus that I have ever seen.
3 commentspaul1888
ph_-_early_Antioch.jpg
Roman, Philip I, early 1 - AntiochRIC 71 (4,32 gm, 22 mm).
Mint of Antioch, 244 AD.

Wide sharp obverse &
excellent portrait!
Picture_14.jpg
Greek, Ptolemy VI PhilometorSilver Tetradrachm
Alexandria mint
Struck c. 170-164 B.C.
27mm 14.2g
Obv: Diademed head of Ptolemy I right, wearing aegis.
Rev: PTOLEMAIOU BASILEWS, eagle standing left on thunderbolt.
Svoronos 1489; SNG Copenhagen 265
4 commentsmihali84
PLOTINA-SARTI.jpg
Roman, PLOTINAThe Sestertius was minted in c. 112 AD in honour of Pompeia PLOTINA, the wife of TRAJAN (emperor from 98 to 117). Maybe the finest examples of its type to survive from ancient times. It is struck on a broad full flan and the only Plotina Sestertius in the SARTI 1906 sale from the BOLSENA HOARD of the 1890's. This specima sold in 1906 for Liire 1400 an incredible price for a Roman Bronze or any coin at this time. www.petitioncrown.com2 comments
POMEIUS.jpg
Roman, Pompey the Great5 comments
Pontic_Kingdom,_Mithradates_Vi_ATG_Tetradrachm,_Odessos_.jpg
Greek, Mithridates VI (The Great) as HeraklesPontic Kingdom, Thrace, Odessos, Mithridates VI Megas, 120-63 BC, AR Tetradrachm in the name of Alexander the Great, struck ca. 88-86 BC.
Head of Mithridates VI (the Great) as Herakles, wearing lion's skin headdress / ΒΑΣIΛΕΩΣ ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡOΥ.
(Reverse is of Zeus seated left, legs draped, confronting eagle held on outstretched right arm and grasping lotus-tipped sceptre, ΛAK before, OΔΗ (Odessos ethnic) in exergue.)
Callataÿ Group 3; Price 1192. Odessos ca. 88-86 BC
(30 mm, 16.04 gm, 1h)

This is amongst the last of the coinages in the style of Alexander the Great to be minted. In this final incarnation the portrait of Herakles was adapted to the features of Mithridates VI the Great, to the extent that the image of Herakles is in fact a portrait of Mithridates. Comparison with his portrait on tetradrachms minted in Pontus proves this point.
1 comments
PostMoneta.JPG
Roman, PostumusThe only reason that I bought this coin was for the portrait, otherwise it is fairly ordinary.1 commentswhitetd49
postumeMilanbuste.jpg
Roman, Postumus struck under AureolusIMP C POSTVMVS P F AVG
Cuirassed, draped and radiated bust right
R/[VIRTV]S EQVIT / / T
Mars walking right, holding spear end shield

Antoninianus struck in Mediolanum , third officina
C.442 - RIC.387 - Elmer 617 - AGK.111a

magnificient portrait

the coin is also in my gallery with reverse
2 commentsgb29400
Postumus Ant1.jpg
Roman, PostumusPostumus Antoninian, struck 260-261 AD at Lugdunum mint.
Obv: IMP C POSTVMVS P F AVG, radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right.
Rev: HERC DEVSONIENSI, Hercules standing right, leaning on club, holding bow and lion's skin.
Ø 20-21.5 mm, 4.44 g.
RIC 64
1 commentsPscipio
Probus, Fides Militvm2.jpg
Roman, Probus, summer 276 - Sep 282 A.D.Ex Forum. Silvered antoninianus, RIC 169 (listing obv. legend 8 in error), EF, 3.39g, 22.7mm, 0o, Rome mint, 276-282 A.D.; obverse IMP PROBVS P F AVG, radiate and cuirassed bust right; reverse FIDES MILITVM, Fides standing left holding standard in each hand, R thunderbolt B in ex; handsome military bust; SOLD 3 commentswolfgang336
Probus-Bste.JPG
Roman, Probus AntoninianusProbus Antoninian, struck 278 AD at Siscia mint.
Obv: IMP PROBVS AVG, radiate, helmeted and cuirassed bust left, holding spear and shield.
(Rev: ADVENTVS AVG, Emperor riding left, right hand raised, left holding sceptre, captive at foot.
Ex: XXIS)
Ø 24.5 mm, 3.50 g.
RIC 628

Ex FORVM.
Pscipio
Probus_RIC_V,_II_864_variation_Second_example~0.jpg
Roman, Probus, AE Antoninianus, RIC V, II 864 Serdica variation, unlisted, SOLI INVICTO, Sol in a Quadriga, ScarceProbus
Augustus, 276 - 282 A.D.

Coin: AE Antoninianus

Obverse: IMP C M AVR PROBVS P F AVG, radiate, helmeted and cuirassed bust facing left, holding a Spear with his right hand, over his right shoulder and a Shield with his left.
Reverse: S-OL-I INVICT-O, Sol, his head turned to the left, in a Quadriga, facing, all four Horses rampant, raising his right hand in Blessing and holding the Globe with his left. KA●Δ● in exergue.

Weight: 4.64 g, Diameter: 21.6 x 21.8 x 1.3 mm, Die axis: 160°, Mint: Serdica, Reference: RIC V, II 864 Serdica variation, unlisted (obverse legend includes P F, reverse has no exergual line)

Rated Scarce
Constantine IV
PSX_20200223_025109~0.jpg
Parthia/Persia, Artabanos I ca. 127-124 B.C.AR Drachm
Ecbatana Mint
Sellwood 20.1
Sunrise 278 (Artabanos III)
Ex. FSR Coin
1 commentsWilliam T2
ptolemy2~0.jpg
Greek, Ptolemy II Philadelphus AR TetradrachmObverse: Diademed head of Ptolemy I Soter
Reverse: Eagle with folded wings standing on thunderbolts. PTOLEMAIOY SOTHROS; Regnal Year 31 (255/54 BC) of Ptolemy II (285-246 BC) Monograms and control marks of the Gaza mint in the fields

Many of the portraits of Ptolemy Soter (the Savior) are little more than caricatures on the tetradrachms that are commonly for sale. Perhaps after engraving the same features for centuries the man behind the image became lost. I think this coin portrait has great quality and I imagine it looks a lot like the original Ptolemy I although cut about thirty years after his death. Ptolemy I may have been regarded as the George Washington of his day and the the notion of "father of his country" is exemplified in this portrait.
It is ironic that his patron, Alexander, overthrew the Persian God-Kings and was a major factor in preserving the role of the individual in Western values. Ptolemy's dynasty generally followed the Egyptian model with family members succeeding family members for over two centuries rather than the highly competitive and dynamic model that shaped Western politics and history.

Gaza mint; Svoronos 828; wt 13.7 gm
daverino
Pupienus portrait - RIC 10(a).jpg
Roman, Pupienus, April - June 238 A.D.MARCVS CLODIVS PUPIENVS MAXIMVS was born about 164. He was a Senator in 238 when the revolt of the Gordians broke out against Maximinus I, and he was one of the Senate's "Committee of Twenty" to oversee the defense of Italy in support of the Gordians. When the Gordians were quickly killed in Africa, the Senate made Pupienus and a Senator named Balbinus co-Augusti. Pupienus was to lead the army and Balbinus was to administrate. Maximinus was soon killed by his own men at Aquileia but discontent in Rome led to the murder of Pupienus by the Praetorian Guard on July 29, 238. This portrait is from a Antonianus (ex-Forum) in my collection (see jimwho523's gallery for actual coin)13 commentsjimwho523
RI 066ab obv.jpg
Roman, CaracallaThis seemed such a striking portrait of this notorious emperor that I couldn't resist.5 commentsmaridvnvm
RI 115l obv.jpg
Roman, PostumusThe quality of the engraving on this bust made me want to pick it up and look at it through my loupe again and again. It is paired with a slightly weak reverse which I have not included since it would detract from the portrait.1 commentsmaridvnvm
RIC_507_T_Domitian.jpg
Roman, Domitian, RIC 507Obverse: CAES DIVI AVG VESP F DOMITIANVS COS VII - Laureate head right
Reverse: PAX AVGVST S C - Pax standing left with branch and cornucopiae.
mm. 34 - g. 25,93
RIC2 507 R (Titus) - RPC II 504 - 80 a.D. Thracian mint
A realistic powerful portrait of the last of the Twelve Caesars
8 commentsFlaviusDomitianus
RIC_Vol_VIII_8_2_.jpg
Roman, Licinius I, Antioch Mint, Flawless Ave!

Licinius I, Iovi, Antioch Mint, Flawless!
Æ Follis; 18mm/3.9gm. Struck 314 AD
Con/ MS; glossy jet patina with sand fill. Blemishless handsome portrait, heroic portraiture of Jupiter done in fine style, this coin could not be improved in any manner.
Obv/ IMP C VAL LICIN LICINIVS PF AVG; laur. head r.
Rev/ IOVI CONSERVATORI AVGG; Jupiter stg. l., holding Victory on globe and sceptre; eagle with wreath before; wreath gamma III in r. field.
Antioch Mint; ANT in exergue

Ref/ RIC Vol VIII 8/2 = R3
Mayadigger
RI_122m_obv.jpg
Roman, Claudius II GothicusA nice strike with decent centering leading to a nice portrait overall.1 commentsmaridvnvm
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