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Superb and Masterpiece Portraits Gallery

Roman, Postumus, mint of Milan, FIDES EQVIT, c.268-9I thought this one probably the worthiest of my Postumus portraits - an issue from Milan during the period when Aureolus held the city and struck issues in Postumus' name, c.268-9
IMP POSTVMVS AVG, Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right.
FIDES EQVIT, Fides seated left, -/-//P.
Normanby 1369.
Ex-Cottenham hoard.
2 commentsAdrianus

Roman, Gordian III AR TetradrachmAD240 Gordian III Tetradrachm of Antioch, Syria ( Seleucis & Pieria )

obv: Laureate bust right, draped and cuirassed.
rev: Eagle standing facing with head left, wings open, holding wreath in beak, SC below.
11.02gr3 commentsrexesq

Roman, Septimius Severus Rome early 5RIC 119. Denarius, mint of Rome, 198 AD.

This is very rare early Roman artistic style.
198AD exactly: uncommon engraver autors accent - big square head with straightened nose.
In addition - even rarest Laodicea specimens at 198AD depicting a cuirassed bust with Medusa.2 comments

Greek, Seleukos I Nikator (?) on Sophytes Drachm, BaktriaThe portrait on the obverse of this coin is may be that of Seleukos I Nikator. It appears that Sophytes submitted to Seleukos I during the latter’s eastern anabasis in 306-305 BC and was appointed to the position of Satrap of Baktria. Following the incorporation of Baktria into the Seleukid Empire, the Seleukid administration appears to have sponsored Greek migration into the territory from Asia Minor. The increased demand for coinage would explain the successive emissions of owl, eagle and cock coinage, which culminated in the issue of the epigraphic Sophytes cock emission. The inspiration for the obverse was probably the Hero/Trophy issue of Susa, which commenced ca 301 BC. The frontal profile and features of the portrait on the obverse of Sophytes issues bear a resemblance to the portrait of Seleukos on the later coinage of Philetairos of Pergamon. On allying himself with Seleukos, Philetairos issued coinage bearing the portrait of Seleukos on the obverse the name of Philetairos on a distinctive non-Seleukid reverse. The parallels between the documented circumstances and coinage of Philetairos with the earlier undocumented history and coinage of Sopytes are apparent and suggestive of the circumstances under which Sophytes came to issue coinage bearing his name in Seleukid Baktria.

With growing power and provincial wealth following a decade of Greek immigration to the province, it is possible that Sophytes determined to move on a more independent path and issued coinage in his name, but bearing the image of Seleukos, in anticipation that the latter would pacify any concern that Seleukos may have with the approach. However, the latter strategy appears to have failed and Sophytes rapidly disappears from the scene and numismatic record. This action of Sophytes may have been the trigger for Seleukos to declare Antiochos co-regent and satrap of the eastern provinces. With this appointment, Antiochos was dispatched to Baktria and set about expanding the Seleukid administration and development of the province, including the establishment of Seleukid royal mints at Baktra and Ai Khanoum, commencing around 294 BC.

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

Roman, Vitellius sestertius minted Rome, A.D. 6925.02g, Ø 36mm, 6h
Obv.: A VITELLIVS GERMAN IMP AVG PM TR P, laurate head right
Rev.: S C, Mars, helmeted, naked, advancing right with spear and legionnary standard.
Ref.: RIC 141 (R); BMCRE 58; C. 79; Sear (II) 22084 commentsCharles S

Roman, Antoninus Pius superb portraits from two sestertii from the same dieThe nicest portrait of Antoninus Pius in my collection, twice.
Sestertii minted Rome, A.D. 140-144.
Left: 28.4g, Ø 33-34mm, 12h (RIC 621) / Right: 24.4g, Ø 32-34mm, 12h (RIC 641)
Obv.: ANTONINVS AVG PI-VS P P TR P COS III, laurate head right2 commentsCharles S

Roman, TITUSAR denarius. 80 AD. 3.57 gm. Laureate head right. IMP TITVS CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M. / Dolphin right on tripod. TR P IX IMP XV COS VIII P P. RIC II 27a. RSC 321.
3 commentsbenito

Roman, Vespasian Dupondius Commagene mint, A.D.74Æ, 13.2g, 28mm, 7h
Obv.: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN AVG, laurate head left
Rev.: PON MAX TR POT P P COS V CENS, Winged caduceus between two crossed cornucopiae.
Ref.: RIC 798b (scarse), C. 3774 commentsCharles S

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.com11 comments

Roman, Trajan Tetradrachm - Melqart (PRIEUR 1495)AR Tetradrachm
Syria, Antioch 103-111 AD
15.04g 23mm

Obv: Laureate bust of Trajan (R), above Eagle standing on club (R), Grain ear in left field.

Rev: Laureate bust of MELQART (Hercules) (R), lion's skin tied around neck.

Likely one of the finest known examples of the issue.

McAlee 455 Prieur 14951 commentsOptimo Principi

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 2053 commentsmiffy

Roman, Philip I.only the AV 2 comments

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

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 Caesars8 commentsFlaviusDomitianus

Roman, Trajan, Rome mint, struck 105 - 111 AD, Æ AsIMP CAES NERVAE TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS V P P laureate, draped and armored bust right
S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI, S-C Aequitas with scales and cornucopia
RIC 497 (Var.); C. 464 (Var.); BMC 926B (Var.); Strack 395; BN 609 (Var.)1 comments

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

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 2654 commentsmihali84

Roman, Aurelian Silvered Antoninianus RIC 368OBV: IMP C AURELIANUS AVG; Radiate and cuirassed bust right,
REV: RESTITUTOR ORBIS; Aurelian receiving a wreath from a Woman (PAX), Cyzicus Mint, about 275 AD

The coin is not the most perfect but the portrait is super. Done after Aurelian had reunited the Empire the Emperor is depicted as warrior hero, tough but humane -which Aurelian was. The relief of the ear is low compared to most coins, probably to avoid having the silvering wear off too quickly. The highlight of the eye is very realistically imitated and this makes a very animated portrait.1 commentsdaverino

Roman, Caracalla - Caesarea, Cappadocia - AR DrachmRoman Empire
Emperor Caracalla Silver Drachm of Caesarea, Cappadocia.
Struck year 17 (208 - 209 AD)
Titles in Greek.

obv: Laureate bust right.
rev: Mount Argaeus surmounted by star; crescent in left field.

ex CNG
Weight: 3.15 grams
Reference: Syderham 476c8 commentsrexesq

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

Roman, Claudius I3 commentsRandygeki(h2)

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

Roman, Gordian III AR TetradrachmBI tetradrachm. Antioch (Seleucis et Pieria). 240 AD .12.82 gr. Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right, viewed from the front. ΑΥΤΟΚ Κ Μ ΑΝΤ ΓΟΡΔΙΑΝΟC CΕΒ / Eagle standing facing,open wings, head turned left, wreath in beak. ΔΗΜΑΡΧ ΕΞΟYCΙΑC. S C in exergue. Prieur 279.

2 commentsbenito

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

Roman, MACRINUSAE 27. Nikopolis. 217-218 AD. 12,38 grs. Statius Longinus, legate. Laureate head right. AVT K M OΠEΛΛI CEV MAKPEINOC AVΓ. /
Nemesis standing left, holding scales and measuring rod, wheel at feet left. VΠ CTATI ΛONΓIOV NIKOΠOΛITΩN ΠPOC ICTPΩ.
Moushmov 1265 (variant). Hristova/Jekov No. 8.23.35.3 (same dies).
Gorny Mosch 126. Lot 1634.
2 commentsbenito

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

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

Roman, OTHOAR denarius. 69 A.D (3.42 gm). Bare head right with wig. IMP OTHO CAESAR AVG TR P / Securitas standing left, holding wreath and sceptre.SECVRITAS P R. RIC I 10; BMCRE 19; BN 7; RSC 15.
2 commentsbenito

Roman, Volusian. 251-253 AD.IMP CAE C VIB VOLVSIANO AVG, cuirassed, draped and radiate bust right.
SALVS AVGG, Salus standing right, feeding snake from patera.
RIC 184, RSC 118, RCV 9769.1 comments

Roman, Licinius I, Trier, AE Follis. 316 AD.IMP LICINIVS P F AVG, laureate, draped & cuirassed bust
right
GENIO POP ROM, Genius standing left, turret on head,
loins draped with himation, holding patera & cornucopiae

T- F across fields.
Mintmark ATR.

Ref: RIC VII Trier 120lorry66

Roman, Caracalla AE 26 of Odessos, ThraceOBV: AVK MAV ANTWNINOC; Laureate, draped cuirassed bust seen from behind, REV:ODHCCEITWN; The Great God of Odessos offering sacrifice over a lighted altar.
The portrait of Caracalla as a youth is beautifully modeled and very idealized. Usually the provincial mints did not produce this quality of coin sculpture, superb even in a worn condition.

Moushmov 1610daverino

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

Roman, PERTINAX4 commentsbenito

Roman, GORDIAN III1 commentsbenito

Roman, PUPIENUSbenito

Roman, NERVA2 commentsbenito

Roman, AUGUSTUSAR tetradrachm. Antioch ad Orontem. 2-1 BC. 15,23 grs. 12 h. Laureate head right. KAIΣAΡΟΣ ΣΕΒΑΣΤΟΥ.

Prieur 55benito

Roman, VESPASIAN1 commentsbenito

Roman, HADRIAN2 commentsbenito

Roman, CARACALLA2 commentsbenito

Roman, TACITUS1 commentsbenito

Roman, LUCIUS VERUS1 commentsbenito

Roman, Diadumenianus, Rome mint, struck 217-218 AD, AE Dupondius or AsM OPEL ANTONINVS DIADVMENIANVS CAES draped bust right

RIC 212, Cohen 9, BMC 1584 comments

Roman, Trajan (53-117 AD)This portrait exudes gravitas; the stern, judicious visage of the emperor almost seems to be lost in a prescient stare - looking forward to final conquest of Dacia and later Parthia.Optimo Principi

Roman, Gordian III AR Antoninianus Britanikus

Roman, Constans 1 commentsRandygeki(h2)

Roman, TRAJAN1 commentsbenito

Roman, GALBA2 commentsbenito

Roman, Severus Alexander, Rome firstRIC 178, denarius.
Mint of Rome, 222 AD.

First Roman artistic style.
Elagabalus features.

Roman, Herennia Etruscilla AR antoninianusA beautiful portrait.Ryan C

Roman, NEROAR tetradrachm.1 commentsbenito

Roman, Aurelian Billon AntoninianusSear (2000) 11581, RIC 232. Minted in Siscia 272 A.D. (according to Sear).
Obverse: IMP AVRELIANVS AVG; Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust of Aurelian right.
Reverse: PAX AVGVSTI; Pax walking left, holding olive branch and transverse scepter.
Star in left field, T in right field.
If Sear's dating is correct Aurelian was about sixty two years old when this coin
was minted. I believe this coin image reflects the character of Aurelian better
than any other I have seen. A ruthless general, he was also a person of
intelligence and understanding, who instituted a number of civil and religious
reforms, and began the restoration of the currency. Aware of the
continuing threat from the German tribes, he also began the construction of
a massive wall around the City of Rome, parts of which still exist. 2 commentsJames Anderson

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

Roman, CARAUSIUSAE antoninianus. Camulodonum. Radiate draped and cuirassed bust right. IMP C CARAUSIUS P F AVG. / Pax standing left, holding olive-branch and sceptre. PAX AVGGG. In field, S-P. In exergue C.

benito

Greek, Alexander III the GreatAlexander III the Great - Tetradrachm - Amphipolis, Macedon
Date: 332-326 BC (lifetime)
Size: 25 mm
Weight: 17.4 g
Obv: Head of Herakles wearing lion's scalp right
Rev: Zeus Aëtophoros seated left, legs open, ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΟΥ to right; amphora in left field
Price 136 commentsViriathus

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

Roman, Trajan DeciusTrajan Decius dupondius, RIC 120a
9,92 g L.e.

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

Roman, VESPASIANAR denarius. Ephesus. 71 AD. 3,61 grs. Laureate head right. IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III TR P P P / Ceres? seated left,holding corn ears and poppy and cornucopiae.
CONCORDIA AVG. In exergue E PH (ligate) E.
RIC 329. C 67.
A breathtaking portrait from an eastern mint.benito

Roman, AUGUSTUS. From a Cistophorus of Pergamum. Struck c.19 - 18 B.C.
RIC I : 510
4 comments*Alex

Roman, VALENTINIAN IFrom an AE1 of Heraclea, struck between A.D.364 and 367.
RIC IX : 2
Extremely Rare

The Colossus of Barletta is a large bronze statue of a Roman Emperor, nearly three times life size currently located in the coastal town of Barletta, Italy. The legs and hands were replaced in the 15th Century, but the 5-metre-high statue is still a powerful reminder of the later days of the Roman Empire.
There are many different versions of the story of this statue, the most popular being that the statue washed up on the shore after a Venetian ship sank returning from the sack of Constantinople during the Fourth Crusade, but if that was indeed the case it is not impossible that the statue had been sent to Constantinople much earlier. The identity of the Emperor is uncertain, the most likely subjects appear to be Valentinian I (A.D.364–375), Honorius (A.D.393–423), Theodosius II (A.D.408–450), Marcian (A.D.450–457), Leo I (A.D.457–474) and Justinian I (A.D.527–565). The facial features on my coin seem to me to closely resemble those on the statue, so Valentinian I would be my own personal choice as to the identity of the emperor.

*Alex

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 CNG7 commentsSam

Roman, Philip I, early 1 - AntiochRIC 71 (4,32 gm, 22 mm).
Mint of Antioch, 244 AD.

Wide sharp obverse &
excellent portrait!

Roman, Nero - Salvs_PortraitA little wear but nicely toned and high relief with beard growth.1 comments

Roman, Julia MamaeaRoman Empire
Julia Mamaea 222-235 AD
AR Denarius (2.71 g)
RV Juno with Peacock
Rome Mint
Certified by NGC / Ch Au Strike 5/5 Surface 5/5
Sam Mansourati CollectionSam

Roman, Victorinus PietasFor my opinion a very nice portrait of this issue (with a nice revers too)

Roman, TETRICUS Antoninian, A good one of this guy is really hard to find. Difficult times in Cologne in these years.

Greek, Ariobarzanes I Philoromaios. Cappadocian Kingdom. AR Drachm.Circa 96-63 B.C. AR Drachm (17mm, 3.92g, 1h). Simmoneta 9a. Obverse diademed head of Ariobarzanes to right. Reverse BASILEUS ARIOBARZANOU PHILOROMAIOU Athena standing left, holding Nike and spear and shield; to left monogram; to right, A; in exergue, gamma. Extremely Fine, beautifully toned. Ex Nomos AG 6th Price List Sale, lot 44.
Ariobarzanes I, nicknamed Philoromaios or “Lover of Rome” in the literal sense but should be translated as “Friend of Rome,” was a client king of Cappadocia during Roman expansion and hegemony in Asia Minor. He was elected by his people with the backing of Lucius Cornelius Sulla. He was removed several times by either Mithradates IV of Pontus or Tigranes II of Armenia but reinstated by the Roman Senate each time. He eventually abdicated and was replaced by his son, Ariobarzanes II.

The detail and artistry is surprisingly elegant on this small coin with a diameter of only 17mm. It is a masterpiece of miniature numismatic portraiture: most of Ariobarzanes’ coins are of inferior quality and finding one with fine portraiture of good style, such as this, is rarely encountered.

2 commentsJason T

Roman, Nero portait on victory as As, Néron, 65, Lyon, (Bronze)
Avers : Tête nue Néron à droite.
Revers : SC. Victoire allant à gauche et posant la main droite sur un bouclier, sur lequel est inscrit SPQR.

Roman, Victorinus AE AntoninianusAttribution: RIC 61, Cohen 101
Date: AD 269-270
Obverse: IMP C VICTORINVS PF AVG, radiate and cuirassed bust r.
Reverse: PROVIDENTIA AVG, Providence stg. l. holding cornucopia,
pointing rod to globe at feet
Size: 18 mm
Weight: 2.67 grams1 commentsNoah

Roman, Tiberius AR DenariusAttribution: RIC I 30, RSC II 16a, SRCV I 1763, Lugdunum
Date: 19 August, AD 14 – 16 March, AD 37
Obverse: TI CAESAR DIVI AVG F AVGVSTVS, laureate head r.
Reverse: PONTIF MAXIM, Livia, as Pax, seated r., holding olive branch & long scepter; ornate legs to chair
Size: 19 mm
Weight: 3.6 grams
* NOTE: chipped piece & metal adhesions from prior mounting of coin as jewelry2 commentsNoah

Roman, CALIGULAAE sestertius3 commentsbenito

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

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

Roman, Philip I – The Syrian – First Christian Roman EmperorEmperor Philip I – The Syrian – First Christian Emperor ( AD 244 - 249 )
Silver Double - Denarius ( 5.03 Gr)
Reverse : Pax advancing.
Rome mint.

Emperor Philip I ( ruled 244 to 249 AD)– The Syrian –
Philip I was the first Roman emperor believed in Christianity.
While Roman emperor Constantine the Great was the first Roman emperor
believed in Christianity and announced it as the religion of the Roman empire

Sam Mansourati Collection Sam

Roman, Severus Alexander ( AD 222 – 235 )Emperor Severus Alexander Silver Denarius
Obverse : IMPALEXANDERPIVSAVG - Laureate head right, draped left shoulder
Reverse : PROVIDENTIAAVG - Annona standing left, holding grain ears over modius and cornucopia
Mint : Rome
Marcus Aurelius Severus Alexander (born October 1, 208–March 18, died 235 AD), commonly called Severus Alexander.

From the Sam Mansourati collection. 2 commentsSam

Roman, Julian IIFRONT/ DN FL CL IVLIANVS PF AVG Helmeted bust left, holding spear and shield. BACK/ VOT X MVLT XX within wreath; BSIRM in ex. Sirmium Mint. Struck 361-363 AD. Ref: RIC VIII Sirmium 108, page 393, rated C2. LRBC 1619. Max. Dia. 20mm.

Sam Mansourati CollectionSam

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 17671 commentsBlindado

Roman, CARACALLARoman Empire , Emperor Caracalla , AD 198-217
Caracalla / Serapis AR Denarius
Obverse : ANTONINVSPIVSAVGBRIT - Laureate head right.
Reverse : PMTRPXVCOSIIIPP - Serapis standing left, raising hand and holding scepter.
( 3.49 gr )

Marcus Aurelius Antoninus or Marcus Aurelius Severus Antoninus , commonly known Caracallus or Caracalla.

From the Sam Mansourati collection.Sam

Roman, Galerius as Caesar ROMAN EMPIRE / Galerius, as Caesar (AD 293-305) Argenteus
Obverse : Laureate head of Galerius right
Reverse : Tetrarchs sacrificing before six-turreted enclosure, Gamma in exe.
Rome mint, 3rd officina Struck AD 295-297
MS (according to auction house), RIC 35b. RSC 183b.

**I believe there is an unusual misspelling of reverse legend.

From the Sam Mansourati collection.2 commentsSam

Roman, Otacilia Severa earlyRIC 123c (4,3 gm, 24 mm).
Mint of Rome, 244 AD.
A pleasant strike!

Roman, Julia MaesaRIC 263 (3,1 gm, 20 mm).
Mint of Rome, 220 AD.
Wide & sharp specimen -
rare for this queen!2 comments

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

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 exergueJames Anderson

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

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 ScarceConstantine IV

Roman, VOLUSIAN A.D.251 - 253AR Antoninianus minted in Rome.
RIC IV iii : 140

Volusian was the son of Trebonianus Gallus, he was murdered along with his father in A.D.253.

2 comments*Alex

Roman, Severus Alexander, Silver Denarius59850. Silver denarius, SRCV II 7923, RIC IV 252, RSC III 508a, BMCRE VI 813, VF, scratches, 3.143g, 19.8mm, 0o, Rome mint, 231 - 235 A.D.; obverse IMP ALEXANDER PIVS AVG, laureate bust right with drapery on left shoulder

Combined photo of coin with bust of Alex for comparison. Love the detail in the hair, eye, and beard. He looks a bit concerned.
2 commentsColby S

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

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