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Crawford 041/5, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Anonymous Post-Semilibral, AE As (Struck)Rome, The Republic.
Anonymous. 215-212 BCE.
AE As (58.04g; 37mm; 12h).
Rome Mint.
Obverse: Laureate head of Janus: I (mark-of-value) above.
Reverse: Prow facing right; I (mark-of-value) above; ROMA in exergue.
References: Cr 41/--; see Russo, Essays Hersh, no. 1; McCabe Group A2.
Provenance: Ex Vitangelo Collection [Roma e-Sale 80 (4 Feb 2021) lot 937].
The earliest two series of struck bronze Asses (McCabe A1 and A2) were heavy and struck on broad flans in low relief. The flans for A2 were produced in two-part moulds, and often show casting voids as on this specimen. Russo and McCabe consider these part of the Crawford 41 series of early struck prow bronzes, which is otherwise incomplete (except by near contemporaneous aes grave asses).Carausius02/28/21 at 12:39Jay GT4: Huge!
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Crawford 039/5, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Semilibral Reduction AE SemunciaRome, The Republic.
Anonymous, Semilibral Reduction, 217-215 BCE.
AE Struck Semuncia (6.03g; 20mm).
Uncertain Italian Mint.
Obverse: Turreted, draped female bust right.
Reverse: Rider on horseback holding whip and galloping right; ROMA below.
Reference: Crawford 39/5; Sydenham 97 (R4); BMCRR (Romano-Campanian) 136-138; R. Gobl, Antike Numismatik, pl. 1420 (this coin illustrated).
Provenance: Ex CB Collection (private purchase); SC Collection (bought from Richard Pearlman Dec 2015); Numismatic Fine Arts 17 (May 1976); Prof. Bonacini Collection [Rinaldi & Figlio FPL 1 (1942) Lot 4]; Sir Arthur Evans Collection [Ars Classica XVII (3 Oct 1934), Lot 1013]; Martini Collection [R. Ratto (24 Feb 1930) Lot 74].
This coin is part of a short-lived, semi-libral series, struck collateral to the standard prow types (Crawford 38) in 217-215 BC. The economic hardship on Rome imposed by Hannibal’s invasion led to a rapid decline in the weight of Roman bronze coins, resulting in the adoption of a semi-libral bronze standard (AE As of ½ Roman pound) and eventual elimination of cast coins. The Series 39 types appear quite propagandistic in the context of the Second Punic War. On the obverse of this coin, we have a female bust wearing a turreted crown, a device previously unseen on Roman coinage though frequently seen on eastern Greek coinage. The head may represent Roma, but more likely represents Cybele who protects people and cities during wartime. Cybele’s cult officially appeared in Rome circa 205-204 BCE. The reverse alludes to the cavalry’s importance in the war effort. The coin type would not be repeated in Roman bronze coinage; however a similar type AE Biunx (with horseman carrying spear rather than whip) was produced in Capua from 216-211 BCE, after the Capuans allied with Hannibal. While Crawford, relying on Rudy Thomsen’s analysis, attributes this series to the Rome mint, I believe the types and fabric of the coins are inconsistent with the contemporaneous, Crawford 38 prow types which are also attributed to Rome.
Carausius11/25/20 at 10:34Anaximander: It's no wonder that that this little marvel is...
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Crawford 039/5, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Semilibral Reduction AE SemunciaRome, The Republic.
Anonymous, Semilibral Reduction, 217-215 BCE.
AE Struck Semuncia (6.03g; 20mm).
Uncertain Italian Mint.
Obverse: Turreted, draped female bust right.
Reverse: Rider on horseback holding whip and galloping right; ROMA below.
Reference: Crawford 39/5; Sydenham 97 (R4); BMCRR (Romano-Campanian) 136-138; R. Gobl, Antike Numismatik, pl. 1420 (this coin illustrated).
Provenance: Ex CB Collection (private purchase); SC Collection (bought from Richard Pearlman Dec 2015); Numismatic Fine Arts 17 (May 1976); Prof. Bonacini Collection [Rinaldi & Figlio FPL 1 (1942) Lot 4]; Sir Arthur Evans Collection [Ars Classica XVII (3 Oct 1934), Lot 1013]; Martini Collection [R. Ratto (24 Feb 1930) Lot 74].
This coin is part of a short-lived, semi-libral series, struck collateral to the standard prow types (Crawford 38) in 217-215 BC. The economic hardship on Rome imposed by Hannibal’s invasion led to a rapid decline in the weight of Roman bronze coins, resulting in the adoption of a semi-libral bronze standard (AE As of ½ Roman pound) and eventual elimination of cast coins. The Series 39 types appear quite propagandistic in the context of the Second Punic War. On the obverse of this coin, we have a female bust wearing a turreted crown, a device previously unseen on Roman coinage though frequently seen on eastern Greek coinage. The head may represent Roma, but more likely represents Cybele who protects people and cities during wartime. Cybele’s cult officially appeared in Rome circa 205-204 BCE. The reverse alludes to the cavalry’s importance in the war effort. The coin type would not be repeated in Roman bronze coinage; however a similar type AE Biunx (with horseman carrying spear rather than whip) was produced in Capua from 216-211 BCE, after the Capuans allied with Hannibal. While Crawford, relying on Rudy Thomsen’s analysis, attributes this series to the Rome mint, I believe the types and fabric of the coins are inconsistent with the contemporaneous, Crawford 38 prow types which are also attributed to Rome.
Carausius08/15/20 at 22:10Molinari: Great coin!
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Crawford 122/3, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Dog Series, AE AsRome, The Republic.
Dog Series, 206-195 BCE.
AE As (35.91g; 34mm).
Rome Mint.
Obverse: Laureate head of Janus; I (mark-of-value) above.
Reverse: Prow right; dog symbol above; I (mark-of-value) to right; ROMA below.
References: Crawford 122/3; Sydenham 251; BMCRR 489-90.
Provenance: Ex A.J. Scammell Collection [DNW (3 Jun 2020) Lot 119].
Shortly after the introduction of the denarius coinage, the Romans began adding symbols and letters to their coins. In many cases both anonymous coins and coins with symbols/letters can be linked by identical styles, suggesting they were near-contemporaneous issues by the same mint. Symbols were frequently re-used on subsequent series; see, for example the three separate Anchor Series of coins produced in the late third century and second century BCE.
This particular bronze As bears a dog symbol above the prow. The identity of the moneyer or persons responsible for producing these symbol coins is generally unknown. However, because some symbols are later repeated on certain named coins in the Republican series, family connections to the earlier symbol coins are sometimes proposed by researchers. In the case of the dog symbol, we see later silver and bronze coins of the Antestia gens bearing similar dog symbols. For an example, see the following coin in my gallery: https://www.forumancientcoins.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-145800 . It is possible, though unproven, that a member of the Antestia gens was responsible for production of this early bronze dog series as well.
Carausius07/01/20 at 18:46PMah: Nice, particularly sharp Dog, usually a near-smudg...
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Crawford 122/3, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Dog Series, AE AsRome, The Republic.
Dog Series, 206-195 BCE.
AE As (35.91g; 34mm).
Rome Mint.
Obverse: Laureate head of Janus; I (mark-of-value) above.
Reverse: Prow right; dog symbol above; I (mark-of-value) to right; ROMA below.
References: Crawford 122/3; Sydenham 251; BMCRR 489-90.
Provenance: Ex A.J. Scammell Collection [DNW (3 Jun 2020) Lot 119].
Shortly after the introduction of the denarius coinage, the Romans began adding symbols and letters to their coins. In many cases both anonymous coins and coins with symbols/letters can be linked by identical styles, suggesting they were near-contemporaneous issues by the same mint. Symbols were frequently re-used on subsequent series; see, for example the three separate Anchor Series of coins produced in the late third century and second century BCE.
This particular bronze As bears a dog symbol above the prow. The identity of the moneyer or persons responsible for producing these symbol coins is generally unknown. However, because some symbols are later repeated on certain named coins in the Republican series, family connections to the earlier symbol coins are sometimes proposed by researchers. In the case of the dog symbol, we see later silver and bronze coins of the Antestia gens bearing similar dog symbols. For an example, see the following coin in my gallery: https://www.forumancientcoins.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-145800 . It is possible, though unproven, that a member of the Antestia gens was responsible for production of this early bronze dog series as well.
Carausius06/29/20 at 16:02Jay GT4: Good one
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Crawford 044/7, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Anonymous, AR SestertiusRome. The Republic.
Anonymous, 212-208 BCE
AR Sestertius (1.0g; 12mm).
Rome Mint.
Obverse: Helmeted head of Roma, right; IIS (mark of value) behind.
Reverse: Dioscuri galloping right with spears; two stars above; ROMA below in linear frame.
References: Crawford 44/7; Sydenham 142; BMCRR 13-18.
Provenance: Ex Volteia Collection [CNG 102 (18 May 2016), Lot 777]; ex August Voirol Collection [Munzen und Medaillen 38 (6-7 Dec 1968), Lot 105].
The IIS mark of value denotes that the coin is worth 2 asses + a semis, or 2.5 asses. This quarter-denarius denomination was part of the introduction of the denarius coinage following the Roman sack of Syracuse. The subsequent reduction in the weight standard and size of the bronze coinage eliminated the need for this tiny silver denomination, and it was soon discontinued. However, the denomination would be resurrected for short times during the Social War and Imperatorial eras.
There are various styles of anonymous AR Sestertii that likely correspond to the various styles of anonymous denarii. Some of these stylistic variations may represent different issues and/or different mints. This particular coin depicts Roma with unbound hair and a necklace of a simple line; the helmet visor is "splayed" and consists of two lines with a central, partial third line; the tail of the Dioscuri's horses are fully extended. Carausius04/08/20 at 15:38quadrans: Great piece ..I like it..
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Crawford 103/2, ROMAN REPUBLIC, MT Series, AR QuinariusRome, The Republic.
MT Series, 211-210 BCE.
AR Quinarius (2.03g; 16mm).
Apulian Mint.
Obverse: Head of Roma in winged helmet with splayed visor, facing right; V (mark-of-value) behind.
Reverse: Dioscuri galloping right with couched spears; two stars above; MT monogram below horses; ROMA in exergue.
References: Crawford 103/2b; Sydenham 183; BMCRR (Italy) 228.
Provenance: Ex Classical Numismatic Group Esale 463 (11 Mar 2020) Lot 292; New York Sale 23 (2010), Lot 99.
Quinarii of the MT series are typically struck on very broad, thin flans, and this coin is no exception. This fabric also yields frequent flan cracks. There are a variety of styles to the monogram and helmet types on these quinarii. The cross bar for the T of the monogram can appear on either the left or right tip of the M. The helmets are typically Attic style, although the RBW Collection included a rare example with a Phrygian helmet. In The RBW Collection book, Andrew McCabe theorizes that the MT series may have been struck in Luceria.
Carausius03/28/20 at 03:21PMah: Fantastic obverse in particular
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Crawford 068/2, Corn Ear Series, AR QuinariusRome, The Republic.
Corn Ear Series, 211-208 BCE.
AR Quinarius (1.87g; 15mm).
Sicilian Mint.
Obverse: Head of Roma in winged helmet with splayed visor, facing right; V (mark-of-value) behind.
Reverse: Dioscuri galloping right with couched spears; two stars above; ROMA in line border below.
References: Crawford 68/2b; Sydenham 192; RBW 282 (this coin illustrated).
Provenance: Ex Classical Numismatic Group Esale 463 (11 Mar 2020) Lot 293; RBW Collection [Numismatica Ars Classica 61 (10 May 2011) Lot 296]; Credit Suisse Sale 5 (1986), Lot 237.
The Crawford 68 series of denarii and quinarii are easily distinguishable from other early, anonymous silver issues by the large spike at the back of Roma’s helmet. The coins of the series come in two varieties: some marked with corn ears on the reverse, and some unmarked; but the style of both varieties are identical. The corn ear mark identifies the series as a Sicilian mint issue.
Carausius03/23/20 at 17:23Steve B5: Really nice example of this unique anonymous type.
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Crawford 042/1, ROMAN REPUBLIC, AR Didrachm - Quadrigatus - VERY RARERome. The Republic.
Corn-Ear Series, 214-212 BCE.
AR Didrachm-Quadrigatus (6.83g; 20mm).
Unknown Sicilian Mint.
Obverse: Laureate Janiform head of the Dioscuri.
Reverse: Jupiter and Victory in fast quadriga galloping right; corn ear below; ROMA in linear frame in exergue.
References: Crawford 42/1; RBW 138 (this coin); Sydenham 66 (R8); BMCRR 108; Hersh 9a (O-6; R-4).
Provenance: Ex Naville Numismatics 47 (3 Mar 2019) Lot 352; RBW Collection [NAC 61 (2011) Lot 141]; privately purchased from Munzen und Medaillen in August 1981.
The last few series of Roman silver didrachm coinage, produced from 225-212 BCE, are nicknamed "quadrigati" because of the common reverse type of Jupiter and Victory in a fast quadriga. Crawford's arrangement of quadrigati into distinct series requires a great amount of study to understand. Collectors and dealers alike often misattribute quadrigati among Crawford's series.
The Crawford 42 series of quadrigati, to which this example belongs, is the rarest of all the quadrigati series. In his study of the 42 series quadrigati, Charles Hersh could only locate 33 examples of the type. Based on the corn-ear control symbol, the series was likely struck somewhere in Sicily, perhaps during Rome’s Second Punic War offensive against Syracuse, from 214-212 BCE. While Crawford puts this series last in order of his various quadrigati series, it is likely they were produced near the same time as the debased, lightweight quadrigati that ended the Crawford 28 series. The coins are generally of debased style and metal, thought their weight is good, and in this regard they are similar to Crawford 31 quadrigati. Stylistically, the series 42 quadrigati typically display well-defined, separated “J”-shaped sideburns, with horizontal hairs, on the Janiform head. Neck truncations range from open C curve (as on this example) to straight and V truncations. On the reverse, Jupiter's thunderbolt is entirely within the line border, angle of the horses is on the low-side, and ROMA is always in relief in a linear frame. The type usually has a corn-ear on the reverse beneath the quadriga; however, “anonymous” versions of this series, without corn-ears but stylistically identical to the corn-eared coins, are known.
Carausius03/07/20 at 19:58PMah: Very nice.
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Crawford 041/9, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Post Semilibral AE Sextans OVER-STRUCK on Semilibral AE UnciaRome, The Republic.
Anonymous Post-Semilibral, 215-212 BCE.
AE Sextans (11.76g; 25mm) overstruck on AE Uncia.
Rome Mint.
Obverse: o/t: Head of Mercury wearing petasos, facing right; u/t: Prow facing right (not visible);
Reverse: o/t: Prow facing right; ROMA above; two pellets below. u/t: Head of Roma in crested helmet, facing left (remnants of crest visible below prow).
Over-type references: Crawford 41/9; Sydenham 107; BMCRR 72.
Under-type references: Crawford 38/6; Sydenham 86; BMCRR 88.
Overstrike references: Crawford Table XVIII, #18 (12 examples cited).
The economic hardship on Rome imposed by Hannibal’s invasion led to a rapid decline in the weight of Roman bronze coins, resulting in the adoption in about 217 BCE of a semi-libral bronze standard (AE As of ½ Roman pound) and eventual elimination of cast coins. Around 215 BCE, the weight standard was further reduced and continued reductions occurred thereafter. Because of the weight reductions and wartime exigency, Roman mints often overstruck earlier high-weight coins. It’s uncertain whether overstriking was merely a convenience to avoid producing new flans, or a potential money saving maneuver for the state as smaller denomination, early coins would be over-struck at a higher denomination. Thus, with the above coin, we see a Crawford 38 Uncia over-struck as a Sextans – thus doubling its denomination. The crest of Roma’s helmet from the obverse of the old Uncia remains visible beneath the ship’s prow on the reverse of the new Sextans.
Carausius03/07/20 at 19:54PMah: Nice catch!
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Crawford 042/1, ROMAN REPUBLIC, AR Didrachm - Quadrigatus - VERY RARERome. The Republic.
Corn-Ear Series, 214-212 BCE.
AR Didrachm-Quadrigatus (6.83g; 20mm).
Unknown Sicilian Mint.
Obverse: Laureate Janiform head of the Dioscuri.
Reverse: Jupiter and Victory in fast quadriga galloping right; corn ear below; ROMA in linear frame in exergue.
References: Crawford 42/1; RBW 138 (this coin); Sydenham 66 (R8); BMCRR 108; Hersh 9a (O-6; R-4).
Provenance: Ex Naville Numismatics 47 (3 Mar 2019) Lot 352; RBW Collection [NAC 61 (2011) Lot 141]; privately purchased from Munzen und Medaillen in August 1981.
The last few series of Roman silver didrachm coinage, produced from 225-212 BCE, are nicknamed "quadrigati" because of the common reverse type of Jupiter and Victory in a fast quadriga. Crawford's arrangement of quadrigati into distinct series requires a great amount of study to understand. Collectors and dealers alike often misattribute quadrigati among Crawford's series.
The Crawford 42 series of quadrigati, to which this example belongs, is the rarest of all the quadrigati series. In his study of the 42 series quadrigati, Charles Hersh could only locate 33 examples of the type. Based on the corn-ear control symbol, the series was likely struck somewhere in Sicily, perhaps during Rome’s Second Punic War offensive against Syracuse, from 214-212 BCE. While Crawford puts this series last in order of his various quadrigati series, it is likely they were produced near the same time as the debased, lightweight quadrigati that ended the Crawford 28 series. The coins are generally of debased style and metal, thought their weight is good, and in this regard they are similar to Crawford 31 quadrigati. Stylistically, the series 42 quadrigati typically display well-defined, separated “J”-shaped sideburns, with horizontal hairs, on the Janiform head. Neck truncations range from open C curve (as on this example) to straight and V truncations. On the reverse, Jupiter's thunderbolt is entirely within the line border, angle of the horses is on the low-side, and ROMA is always in relief in a linear frame. The type usually has a corn-ear on the reverse beneath the quadriga; however, “anonymous” versions of this series, without corn-ears but stylistically identical to the corn-eared coins, are known.
Carausius02/24/20 at 09:00Barnaba6: Marvelous!
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Crawford 042/1, ROMAN REPUBLIC, AR Didrachm - Quadrigatus - VERY RARERome. The Republic.
Corn-Ear Series, 214-212 BCE.
AR Didrachm-Quadrigatus (6.83g; 20mm).
Unknown Sicilian Mint.
Obverse: Laureate Janiform head of the Dioscuri.
Reverse: Jupiter and Victory in fast quadriga galloping right; corn ear below; ROMA in linear frame in exergue.
References: Crawford 42/1; RBW 138 (this coin); Sydenham 66 (R8); BMCRR 108; Hersh 9a (O-6; R-4).
Provenance: Ex Naville Numismatics 47 (3 Mar 2019) Lot 352; RBW Collection [NAC 61 (2011) Lot 141]; privately purchased from Munzen und Medaillen in August 1981.
The last few series of Roman silver didrachm coinage, produced from 225-212 BCE, are nicknamed "quadrigati" because of the common reverse type of Jupiter and Victory in a fast quadriga. Crawford's arrangement of quadrigati into distinct series requires a great amount of study to understand. Collectors and dealers alike often misattribute quadrigati among Crawford's series.
The Crawford 42 series of quadrigati, to which this example belongs, is the rarest of all the quadrigati series. In his study of the 42 series quadrigati, Charles Hersh could only locate 33 examples of the type. Based on the corn-ear control symbol, the series was likely struck somewhere in Sicily, perhaps during Rome’s Second Punic War offensive against Syracuse, from 214-212 BCE. While Crawford puts this series last in order of his various quadrigati series, it is likely they were produced near the same time as the debased, lightweight quadrigati that ended the Crawford 28 series. The coins are generally of debased style and metal, thought their weight is good, and in this regard they are similar to Crawford 31 quadrigati. Stylistically, the series 42 quadrigati typically display well-defined, separated “J”-shaped sideburns, with horizontal hairs, on the Janiform head. Neck truncations range from open C curve (as on this example) to straight and V truncations. On the reverse, Jupiter's thunderbolt is entirely within the line border, angle of the horses is on the low-side, and ROMA is always in relief in a linear frame. The type usually has a corn-ear on the reverse beneath the quadriga; however, “anonymous” versions of this series, without corn-ears but stylistically identical to the corn-eared coins, are known.
Carausius02/23/20 at 22:16Anaximander: Brilliant addition.
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Crawford 042/1, ROMAN REPUBLIC, AR Didrachm - Quadrigatus - VERY RARERome. The Republic.
Corn-Ear Series, 214-212 BCE.
AR Didrachm-Quadrigatus (6.83g; 20mm).
Unknown Sicilian Mint.
Obverse: Laureate Janiform head of the Dioscuri.
Reverse: Jupiter and Victory in fast quadriga galloping right; corn ear below; ROMA in linear frame in exergue.
References: Crawford 42/1; RBW 138 (this coin); Sydenham 66 (R8); BMCRR 108; Hersh 9a (O-6; R-4).
Provenance: Ex Naville Numismatics 47 (3 Mar 2019) Lot 352; RBW Collection [NAC 61 (2011) Lot 141]; privately purchased from Munzen und Medaillen in August 1981.
The last few series of Roman silver didrachm coinage, produced from 225-212 BCE, are nicknamed "quadrigati" because of the common reverse type of Jupiter and Victory in a fast quadriga. Crawford's arrangement of quadrigati into distinct series requires a great amount of study to understand. Collectors and dealers alike often misattribute quadrigati among Crawford's series.
The Crawford 42 series of quadrigati, to which this example belongs, is the rarest of all the quadrigati series. In his study of the 42 series quadrigati, Charles Hersh could only locate 33 examples of the type. Based on the corn-ear control symbol, the series was likely struck somewhere in Sicily, perhaps during Rome’s Second Punic War offensive against Syracuse, from 214-212 BCE. While Crawford puts this series last in order of his various quadrigati series, it is likely they were produced near the same time as the debased, lightweight quadrigati that ended the Crawford 28 series. The coins are generally of debased style and metal, thought their weight is good, and in this regard they are similar to Crawford 31 quadrigati. Stylistically, the series 42 quadrigati typically display well-defined, separated “J”-shaped sideburns, with horizontal hairs, on the Janiform head. Neck truncations range from open C curve (as on this example) to straight and V truncations. On the reverse, Jupiter's thunderbolt is entirely within the line border, angle of the horses is on the low-side, and ROMA is always in relief in a linear frame. The type usually has a corn-ear on the reverse beneath the quadriga; however, “anonymous” versions of this series, without corn-ears but stylistically identical to the corn-eared coins, are known.
Carausius02/23/20 at 19:25quadrans: Nice piece..
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Crawford 042/1, ROMAN REPUBLIC - AR Didrachm - Quadrigatus - VERY RARERome. The Republic.
Corn-Ear Series, 214-212 BCE.
AR Didrachm-Quadrigatus (6.82g; 21mm).
Unknown Sicilian Mint.
Obverse: Laureate Janiform head of the Dioscuri.
Reverse: Jupiter and Victory in fast quadriga galloping right; corn ear below; ROMA in linear frame in exergue.
References: Crawford 42/1; Sydenham 66 (R8); BMCRR 108.
Provenance: Ex Naville Numismatics 41 (24 Jun 2018) Lot 389; ex NAC 50 (4 Apr 2011), Lot 1729; purchased from Freeman & Sear, before 2011.
The last few series of Roman silver didrachm coinage, produced from 225-212 BCE, are nicknamed "quadrigati" because of the common reverse type of Jupiter and Victory in a fast quadriga. Crawford's arrangement of quadrigati into distinct series requires a great amount of study to understand. Collectors and dealers alike often misattribute quadrigati among Crawford's series.
The Crawford 42 series of quadrigati, to which this example belongs, is the rarest of all the quadrigati series. In his study of the 42 series quadrigati, Charles Hersh could only locate 33 examples of the type. Based on the corn-ear control symbol, the series was likely struck somewhere in Sicily, perhaps during Rome’s Second Punic War offensive against Syracuse, from 214-212 BCE. While Crawford puts this series last in order of his various quadrigati series, it is likely they were produced near the same time as the debased, lightweight quadrigati that ended the Crawford 28 series. The coins are generally of debased style and metal, thought their weight is good, and in this regard they are similar to Crawford 31 quadrigati. Stylistically, the series 42 quadrigati typically display well-defined, separated “J”-shaped sideburns, with horizontal hairs, on the Janiform head. Neck truncations range from open C curve (as on this example) to straight and V truncations. On the reverse, Jupiter's thunderbolt is entirely within the line border, angle of the horses is on tbe low-side, and ROMA is always in relief in a linear frame. The type usually has a corn-ear on the reverse beneath the quadriga; however, “anonymous” versions of this series, without corn-ears but stylistically identical to the corn-eared coins, are known.
Carausius02/23/20 at 19:23quadrans: Great piece ..I like it..
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Crawford 042/1, ROMAN REPUBLIC, AR Didrachm - Quadrigatus - VERY RARERome. The Republic.
Corn-Ear Series, 214-212 BCE.
AR Didrachm-Quadrigatus (6.83g; 20mm).
Unknown Sicilian Mint.
Obverse: Laureate Janiform head of the Dioscuri.
Reverse: Jupiter and Victory in fast quadriga galloping right; corn ear below; ROMA in linear frame in exergue.
References: Crawford 42/1; RBW 138 (this coin); Sydenham 66 (R8); BMCRR 108; Hersh 9a (O-6; R-4).
Provenance: Ex Naville Numismatics 47 (3 Mar 2019) Lot 352; RBW Collection [NAC 61 (2011) Lot 141]; privately purchased from Munzen und Medaillen in August 1981.
The last few series of Roman silver didrachm coinage, produced from 225-212 BCE, are nicknamed "quadrigati" because of the common reverse type of Jupiter and Victory in a fast quadriga. Crawford's arrangement of quadrigati into distinct series requires a great amount of study to understand. Collectors and dealers alike often misattribute quadrigati among Crawford's series.
The Crawford 42 series of quadrigati, to which this example belongs, is the rarest of all the quadrigati series. In his study of the 42 series quadrigati, Charles Hersh could only locate 33 examples of the type. Based on the corn-ear control symbol, the series was likely struck somewhere in Sicily, perhaps during Rome’s Second Punic War offensive against Syracuse, from 214-212 BCE. While Crawford puts this series last in order of his various quadrigati series, it is likely they were produced near the same time as the debased, lightweight quadrigati that ended the Crawford 28 series. The coins are generally of debased style and metal, thought their weight is good, and in this regard they are similar to Crawford 31 quadrigati. Stylistically, the series 42 quadrigati typically display well-defined, separated “J”-shaped sideburns, with horizontal hairs, on the Janiform head. Neck truncations range from open C curve (as on this example) to straight and V truncations. On the reverse, Jupiter's thunderbolt is entirely within the line border, angle of the horses is on the low-side, and ROMA is always in relief in a linear frame. The type usually has a corn-ear on the reverse beneath the quadriga; however, “anonymous” versions of this series, without corn-ears but stylistically identical to the corn-eared coins, are known.
Carausius02/22/20 at 05:05Jay GT4: Great coin! One day I'll get one of these
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Crawford 039/5, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Semilibral Reduction AE SemunciaRome, The Republic.
Anonymous, Semilibral Reduction, 217-215 BCE.
AE Struck Semuncia (6.03g; 20mm).
Uncertain Italian Mint.
Obverse: Turreted, draped female bust right.
Reverse: Rider on horseback holding whip and galloping right; ROMA below.
Reference: Crawford 39/5; Sydenham 97 (R4); BMCRR (Romano-Campanian) 136-138; R. Gobl, Antike Numismatik, pl. 1420 (this coin illustrated).
Provenance: Ex CB Collection (private purchase); SC Collection (bought from Richard Pearlman Dec 2015); Numismatic Fine Arts 17 (May 1976); Prof. Bonacini Collection [Rinaldi & Figlio FPL 1 (1942) Lot 4]; Sir Arthur Evans Collection [Ars Classica XVII (3 Oct 1934), Lot 1013]; Martini Collection [R. Ratto (24 Feb 1930) Lot 74].
This coin is part of a short-lived, semi-libral series, struck collateral to the standard prow types (Crawford 38) in 217-215 BC. The economic hardship on Rome imposed by Hannibal’s invasion led to a rapid decline in the weight of Roman bronze coins, resulting in the adoption of a semi-libral bronze standard (AE As of ½ Roman pound) and eventual elimination of cast coins. The Series 39 types appear quite propagandistic in the context of the Second Punic War. On the obverse of this coin, we have a female bust wearing a turreted crown, a device previously unseen on Roman coinage though frequently seen on eastern Greek coinage. The head may represent Roma, but more likely represents Cybele who protects people and cities during wartime. Cybele’s cult officially appeared in Rome circa 205-204 BCE. The reverse alludes to the cavalry’s importance in the war effort. The coin type would not be repeated in Roman bronze coinage; however a similar type AE Biunx (with horseman carrying spear rather than whip) was produced in Capua from 216-211 BCE, after the Capuans allied with Hannibal. While Crawford, relying on Rudy Thomsen’s analysis, attributes this series to the Rome mint, I believe the types and fabric of the coins are inconsistent with the contemporaneous, Crawford 38 prow types which are also attributed to Rome.
Carausius02/02/20 at 18:40quadrans: Nice piece..
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Crawford 053/2, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Anonymous, AR DenariusRome, The Republic.
Anonymous, ca. 209-208 BCE
Uncertain Italian Mint
AR Denarius (4.64g; 19mm)
Obv: Head of Roma in peaked-visor helmet, facing right; X (mark of value = 10 asses) behind.
Rev: Dioscuri galloping right with couched spears; two stars above; ROMA, within full trapezoidal frame, below.
Reference: Crawford 53/2.
Provenance: Ex Hess Divo 331 (1 Dec 2016), Lot 75; ex Giesseener Munzhandlung Dieter Gorny Auktion 44 (1989), Lot 525.
Crawford series 53 Anonymous Denarii can be easily distinguished from the Crawford 44 Anonymous Denarii by "peaked" visor to the helmet. Carausius12/19/19 at 01:50PMah: Wonderful condition.
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Crawford 041/5, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Anonymous Post Semi-Libral, Aes Grave AE AsRome, The Republic.
Anonymous Post-Semilibral, 215-212 BCE.
AE Aes Grave As (41.26g; 35mm).
Rome Mint.
Obverse: Janus head.
Reverse: Prow facing left; I (mark-of-value) above.
References: Crawford 41/5a; Vecchi 105; Syd 101; Haeberlin pg. 119-123.
Provenance: Ex Spink Auction (23 Mar 2016), Lot 1085; NAC Auction 7 (1 Mar 1994), Lot 419.
By the time of this issue, weight standard of Roman bronze coins had reduced to the point that larger denomination bronzes could be struck from dies. The Crawford 41 series contains both cast and struck asses. Crawford acknowledged that he was likely lumping multiple series into the 41 series. The cast asses are of widely varying weight with style ranging from mediocre to comically horrendous. The devices also vary, with prows facing left or right. Haeberlin reports weights ranging from 132 grams down to 41 grams. There are probably multiple issues produced by multiple mints at play. This is not surprising as the exigent wartime circumstances (Hannibal's invasion) may have forced decentralized coin production.
Carausius12/19/19 at 01:49PMah: Quite nice. Some of this type barely look like a ...
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Crawford 114/2, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Rostrum Tridens Series, AE AsRome, The Republic.
Rostrum Tridens Series, 206-195 BCE.
AE As (30.7g; 34mm).
Rome Mint.
Obverse: Laureate head of Janus; I (mark-of-value) above.
Reverse: Prow facing right; rostrum tridens and I (mark-of-value) above.
References: Crawford 114/2; Sydenham 245; BMCRR (Rome) 451-3.
Provenance: Ex Dr. Hans Neussel (d. 1993) Collection [Peus Auction 420/421 (1 Nov 2017) Lot 73]; purchased from Dr. Kurt Deppert Kunsthandlung, Frankfurt (July 1958).
Shortly after the introduction of the denarius coinage, the Romans began adding symbols and letters to their coins. In many cases both anonymous coins and coins with symbols/letters can be linked by identical styles, suggesting they were near-contemporaneous issues by the same mint. Symbols were frequently re-used on subsequent series; see, for example the three separate Anchor Series of coins produced in the late third century and second century BCE.
This particular bronze As bears the symbol of a rostrum tridens – the bronze ramming prow of a Roman galley. This symbol had been previously used on an earlier issue of denarii (Crawford 62). The rostrum tridens was an important symbol to the Romans, representing both the strength of their navy, which had become a powerful force in the Western Mediterranean from its start in the First Punic War, and the trophies of naval victories. Rostra were often taken from captured vessels. The Romans used six captured rostra to decorate the speaking platform, thereafter referred to as the Rostra, in the Comitium. Even today, a speaking platform is called a rostrum.
Carausius12/14/19 at 10:39Jay GT4: Great looking coin. Wish the pic was bigger
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Crawford 039/3, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Collateral Semilibral Struck AE SextansRome, The Republic.
Anonymous (Semilibral) Series, 217-215 BCE.
AE Sextans (25.91g; 29mm).
Uncertain Italian Mint.
Obverse: She-wolf facing right, head turned left, suckling the twins, Romulus & Remus; ●● (mark-of-value) below.
Reverse: Eagle facing right with flower in beak; ROMA to right; ●● (mark-of-value) behind.
References: Crawford 39/3; Sydenham 95; BMCRR (Romano-Campanian) 120-124; RBW 107.
Provenance: Ex Reinhold Faelton Collection [Stack's (20-2 Jan 1938) Lot 923]; Otto Helbing Auction (24 Oct 1927) Lot 3267.
The economic hardship imposed by Hannibal’s invasion led to a rapid decline in the weight of Roman bronze coins, resulting in the adoption of a semi-libral bronze standard (AE As of ½ Roman pound) and eventual elimination of cast coins. From 217-215, Rome produced two, contemporaneous series of struck bronzes on this new, semi-libral weight standard. From hoard evidence, we know the first of the two series was Crawford 38, consisting of “prow” types derived from the libral and semi-libral prow Aes Grave (Crawford 35 and 36) that preceded it. These "prow" coins were almost certainly produced in Rome and likely also in satellite military mints as needed. The second series of struck semi-libral bronzes was the enigmatic Crawford 39 series, with its unusual types, production of which commenced after the start of the 38 Series prow-types (hoards containing 39s almost always include 38s) and produced in much smaller numbers than the huge 38 Series.
The types on the Crawford 39 series are entirely pro-Roman, at a time that the Republic was in dire straits under threat of Hannibal’s invasion. This Sextans depicts the favorable founding of Rome, with the She-wolf suckling the City’s mythical founders, Romulus and Remus, on one side, and a powerful eagle bringing them additional nourishment or good omen on the other. This is the first depiction of the Wolf and Twins on a Roman bronze coin, the scene previously being depicted on a silver didrachm circa 269 BCE (Crawford 20/1).
Reinhold Faelton (1856 - 1949) was a musician, composer, the Dean and founder in 1897 of the Faelton Pianoforte School of Boston, Massachusetts, and a coin collector for over 50 years. His collection of ancient coins was sold by Stacks in January 1938. This Stack's catalogue was one of the earliest to feature photographs of actual ancient coins in the plates, rather than photos of plaster casts of the coins (which was the standard at the time). The resulting plates were mixed-quality but mostly poor, making it an arduous task to use this catalogue for provenance matching.
Carausius11/25/19 at 17:51curtislclay: Nice coin, pedigree, and write-up!
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Crawford 039/2, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Collateral Semilibral Struck AE QuadransRome, The Republic.
Anonymous, Semilibral Reduction, 217-215 BCE.
AE Struck Quadrans (38.77g; 31mm).
Uncertain Italian Mint.
Obverse: Youthful head of Hercules in boarskin headdress, facing right; three pellets (mark of value=3 unciae) behind.
Reverse: Bull leaping right, snake below; three pellets (mark of value = 3 unciae) above; ROMA below.
Reference: Crawford 39/2; Sydenham 94; BMCRR (Romano-Campanian) 116.
Provenance: Ex SKA/Credit Suisse (Bern) 7 (27-29 Apr 1987), Lot 656; Dr. Busso Peus Auction 300 (28 Oct 1980), Lot 206; Munz Zentrum Auktion XXX (21 Nov 1977) Lot 76; Signorelli Collection.
This coin is part of a short-lived, semi-libral series, struck collateral to the standard prow types (Crawford 38) in 217-215 BC. The economic hardship on Rome imposed by Hannibal’s invasion led to a rapid decline in the weight of Roman bronze coins, resulting in the adoption of a semi-libral bronze standard (AE As of ½ Roman pound) and eventual elimination of cast coins. The Series 39 types and their relationship to contemporaneous Second Punic War events are interesting to ponder. Hercules is an important figure, appearing on two of the 10 available sides of the series. Likely this is a paradigm of Roman strength and heroism during the War. While Crawford attributes this series to the Rome mint, I believe the types and fabric of the coins are inconsistent with the contemporaneous, Crawford 38 prow types which are also attributed to Rome.
Frequent visitors to my gallery may notice that this coin is a duplicate of a coin already in my collection. Indeed, I recently chose to upgrade my original specimen (viewable here: http://www.forumancientcoins.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-143993 ) with this companion. The type is difficult to find as well preserved as this specimen, so when I saw this coin, I snatched it up. For now, I’ll keep them both. The pair illustrates the general fabric of this series – well made, conical flans, likely produced in open moulds; flat fields (struck from flat-planed dies); and generally low relief.
Carausius10/25/19 at 03:46Jay GT4: Great patina and fabulous coin
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Crawford 106/5, ROMAN REPUBLIC, "Anonymous" Staff and Club Series, AE SemisRome, The Republic.
Anonymous Staff and Club Series, 208 BCE.
AE Semis (16.22g; 28mm).
Etrurian Mint.
Obverse: Laureate head of Saturn, facing right; S (mark-of-value) behind
Reverse: Prow right; S (mark-of-value) above; ROMA below.
References: Crawford106/5 var (no symbol above prow); McCabe Group E1.
Provenance: Ex Naville 48 (7 Apr 2019) Lot 326; Otto Collection [Hess (Dec 1931), Lot 822]; Niklovitz Collection [L. Hamburger 76 (19 Oct 1925), Lot 240].
In "Roman Republican Coinage", Michael Crawford recognized many silver “symbol” Republican series for which there were parallel “anonymous” types omitting the symbols. In his article “Unpublished Roman Republican Bronze Coins” (Essays Hersh, 1998), Roberto Russo noted that the parallel issue of anonymous silver coins to series with symbols applies equally to the bronze coins. (Essays Hersh, 1998, p. 141). Andrew McCabe takes this approach much further in his article “The Anonymous Struck Bronze Coinage of the Roman Republic” (Essays Russo, 2013) in which he links many of the anonymous Republican bronzes to symbol series based on precise style considerations. The takeaway from all this is that for many of the Roman Republican symbol series of the late Second Punic War and early 2nd Century BCE, there are parallel anonymous series identifiable by style. The rationale for these parallel issues is unclear, though possibly related to (a) governmental approvals for the issue or (b) mint control of the metal source from which the issue was struck or (c) workshop identification.
This coin is an anonymous version (missing symbol) of the Staff and Club Semis of the Crawford 106 series, produced in Etruria. It is identical in style to the Etrurian Staff and Club coins and only misses the symbols. Not surprisingly, these coins are commonly misattributed as Crawford 56 anonymous bronzes.
Carausius07/21/19 at 06:36quadrans: Nice piece..
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Crawford 041/10, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Anonymous Post Semi-Libral AE UnciaRome, The Republic.
Anonymous (Post Semi-libral Series), 215-212 BCE.
AE Uncia (7.87g; 24mm).
Rome Mint.
Obverse: Helmeted head of Roma facing right; pellet (mark-of-value) behind.
Reverse: Prow facing right; ROMA above; pellet (mark-of-value) below.
References: Crawford 41/10; McCabe Group A1; RBW 135.
Provenance: Ex Nomisma E-Live Auction 10 (18 Jun 2019) Lot 12.
This series is the second of the “prow” struck bronze series. It is most easily recognized by the left side of the prow device which has a clearly delineated edge, while on later series the left side of the prow appears to extend off the side of the coin. The series was issued during the Second Punic War and reflects the continued reduction in weight standard of the Roman bronze coinage during the conflict; this issue having occurred on the heels of the “semi-libral reduction” of 217-215 BCE. It would soon be followed by further weight reductions.
Carausius07/13/19 at 07:30quadrans: Nice one
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Crawford 041/10, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Anonymous Post Semi-Libral AE UnciaRome, The Republic.
Anonymous (Post Semi-libral Series), 215-212 BCE.
AE Uncia (7.87g; 24mm).
Rome Mint.
Obverse: Helmeted head of Roma facing right; pellet (mark-of-value) behind.
Reverse: Prow facing right; ROMA above; pellet (mark-of-value) below.
References: Crawford 41/10; McCabe Group A1; RBW 135.
Provenance: Ex Nomisma E-Live Auction 10 (18 Jun 2019) Lot 12.
This series is the second of the “prow” struck bronze series. It is most easily recognized by the left side of the prow device which has a clearly delineated edge, while on later series the left side of the prow appears to extend off the side of the coin. The series was issued during the Second Punic War and reflects the continued reduction in weight standard of the Roman bronze coinage during the conflict; this issue having occurred on the heels of the “semi-libral reduction” of 217-215 BCE. It would soon be followed by further weight reductions.
Carausius07/12/19 at 12:23Jay GT4: I like that prow
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Crawford 097/22a, ROMAN REPUBLIC, L Series, AE AsRome, The Republic.
L Series. 211-208 BCE.
AE As (27.67g; 37mm).
Luceria Mint.
Obverse: Janus head; --- (mark of values) above; L below.
Reverse: Prow to right; ROMA below; I (mark of value) above.
References: Crawford 97/22a; RBW 417-419.
Provenance: Ex Ambrose Collection [Roma X (9 Sept 2015), Lot 659]; Bombarda Collection [Tkalec AG (8 Sept 2008), Lot 236].
Possibly over-struck, though the under-type is not attributable.
Carausius06/14/19 at 04:33Jay GT4: That's a beauty
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Crawford 044/6, ROMAN REPUBLIC, AR Quinarius, c. 212-211 BCERome, The Republic.
Anonymous, c. 212-211 BCE.
AR Quinarius (2.55g; 16mm).
Rome Mint.
Obv: Helmeted head of Roma, facing right, with early, curved visor; V (mark-of-value=5 asses) behind.
Rev: Dioscuri galloping right with couched spears and stars above heads; ROMA below in linear frame.
References: Crawford 44/6; Sydenham 141; BMCRR 9-12.
Provenance: Ex RBW Collection [Agora 68 (15 Aug 2017), Lot 150]; ex CNG XXVII (29 Sep 1993).Carausius04/26/19 at 00:20Steve B5: Hammer $250 in the CNG sale in 1993. Significant ...
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Crawford 038/5, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Anonymous (Semilibral) Series, AE SextansRome, The Republic.
Anonymous (Semilibral) Series, 217-215 BCE.
AE Sextans (24.25g; 31mm).
Rome Mint.
Obverse: Mercury facing right wearing petasus; ●● (mark-of-value=2 unciae), behind.
Reverse: Prow right; ROMA above; ●● (mark-of-value=2 unciae), below.
References: Crawford. 38/5; Sydenham 85; BMCRR 59.
Provenance: Ex Burgan Numismatique Auction (17 Nov 2017), Lot 102; ex Etienne Page Auction, Hotel Drouot (1972).
The economic hardship imposed by Hannibal’s invasion led to a rapid decline in the weight of Roman bronze coins, resulting in the adoption of a semi-libral bronze standard (AE As of ½ Roman pound) and eventual elimination of cast coins. From 217-215, Rome produced two, contemporaneous series of struck bronzes on this new, semi-libral weight standard. From hoard evidence, we know the first of the two series was Crawford 38, consisting of “prow” types derived from the libral and semi-libral prow Aes Grave (Crawford 35 and 36) that preceded it. These coins were almost certainly produced in Rome and likely also in satellite military mints as needed. The second series of struck semi-libral bronzes was the enigmatic Crawford 39 series, with its unusual types (see them in this gallery), production of which commenced after the start of the 38 Series prow-types (hoards containing 39s almost always include 38s) and produced in much smaller numbers than the huge 38 Series. The Crawford 38 series of struck bronzes, to which the above coin belongs, consisted of only four denominations: sextans, uncia, semuncia and quartuncia. In addition, Aes Grave production continued on a semi-libral basis for the As, Semis, Triens and Quadrans. Those Aes Grave denominations would later be replaced with struck coins when the weight standard reduced even further.
Carausius12/20/18 at 14:41Steve B5: Really exceptional style and definition
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Crawford 038/5, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Anonymous (Semilibral) Series, AE SextansRome, The Republic.
Anonymous (Semilibral) Series, 217-215 BCE.
AE Sextans (24.25g; 31mm).
Rome Mint.
Obverse: Mercury facing right wearing petasus; ●● (mark-of-value=2 unciae), behind.
Reverse: Prow right; ROMA above; ●● (mark-of-value=2 unciae), below.
References: Crawford. 38/5; Sydenham 85; BMCRR 59.
Provenance: Ex Burgan Numismatique Auction (17 Nov 2017), Lot 102; ex Etienne Page Auction, Hotel Drouot (1972).
The economic hardship imposed by Hannibal’s invasion led to a rapid decline in the weight of Roman bronze coins, resulting in the adoption of a semi-libral bronze standard (AE As of ½ Roman pound) and eventual elimination of cast coins. From 217-215, Rome produced two, contemporaneous series of struck bronzes on this new, semi-libral weight standard. From hoard evidence, we know the first of the two series was Crawford 38, consisting of “prow” types derived from the libral and semi-libral prow Aes Grave (Crawford 35 and 36) that preceded it. These coins were almost certainly produced in Rome and likely also in satellite military mints as needed. The second series of struck semi-libral bronzes was the enigmatic Crawford 39 series, with its unusual types (see them in this gallery), production of which commenced after the start of the 38 Series prow-types (hoards containing 39s almost always include 38s) and produced in much smaller numbers than the huge 38 Series. The Crawford 38 series of struck bronzes, to which the above coin belongs, consisted of only four denominations: sextans, uncia, semuncia and quartuncia. In addition, Aes Grave production continued on a semi-libral basis for the As, Semis, Triens and Quadrans. Those Aes Grave denominations would later be replaced with struck coins when the weight standard reduced even further.
Carausius12/19/18 at 22:02okidoki: wonderful, must be one of you best coin
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Crawford 038/5, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Anonymous (Semilibral) Series, AE SextansRome, The Republic.
Anonymous (Semilibral) Series, 217-215 BCE.
AE Sextans (24.25g; 31mm).
Rome Mint.
Obverse: Mercury facing right wearing petasus; ●● (mark-of-value=2 unciae), behind.
Reverse: Prow right; ROMA above; ●● (mark-of-value=2 unciae), below.
References: Crawford. 38/5; Sydenham 85; BMCRR 59.
Provenance: Ex Burgan Numismatique Auction (17 Nov 2017), Lot 102; ex Etienne Page Auction, Hotel Drouot (1972).
The economic hardship imposed by Hannibal’s invasion led to a rapid decline in the weight of Roman bronze coins, resulting in the adoption of a semi-libral bronze standard (AE As of ½ Roman pound) and eventual elimination of cast coins. From 217-215, Rome produced two, contemporaneous series of struck bronzes on this new, semi-libral weight standard. From hoard evidence, we know the first of the two series was Crawford 38, consisting of “prow” types derived from the libral and semi-libral prow Aes Grave (Crawford 35 and 36) that preceded it. These coins were almost certainly produced in Rome and likely also in satellite military mints as needed. The second series of struck semi-libral bronzes was the enigmatic Crawford 39 series, with its unusual types (see them in this gallery), production of which commenced after the start of the 38 Series prow-types (hoards containing 39s almost always include 38s) and produced in much smaller numbers than the huge 38 Series. The Crawford 38 series of struck bronzes, to which the above coin belongs, consisted of only four denominations: sextans, uncia, semuncia and quartuncia. In addition, Aes Grave production continued on a semi-libral basis for the As, Semis, Triens and Quadrans. Those Aes Grave denominations would later be replaced with struck coins when the weight standard reduced even further.
Carausius12/19/18 at 13:01Jay GT4: Great coin
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Crawford 039/1, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Collateral Semilibral Struck AE TriensRome. The Republic.
Semilibral Reduction, 217-215 BCE
Æ Triens (54 grams; 37 mm).
Uncertain Italian Mint.
Obverse: Head of Juno (?) right, wearing double-crested diadem, her hair tied in three ringlets down neck; scepter or sword over left shoulder (?); ●●●● (mark of value) behind.
Reverse: Hercules, naked but for lion skin, grasping centaur by hair and preparing to strike him with club; ●●●● (mark of value) before; ROMA in exergue.
References: Crawford 39/1; Sydenham 93 (R6); BMCRR (Romano-Campanian) 113-115.
Provenance: Ex Munzen und Medaillen 47 (1972), Lot 74.
Crawford dates his 39 series of collateral, semilibral struck bronzes to the early years of the Second Punic War, 217-215 BC. The economic hardship on Rome imposed by Hannibal’s invasion led to a rapid decline in the weight of Roman bronze coins, resulting in the adoption of a semi-libral bronze standard (AE As of ½ Roman pound) and eventual elimination of cast coins. Crawford deduces that Hannibal’s defeat of Rome at Trasimene in 217 B.C. likely tipped the financial scales to the semilibral reduction. He notes that Capua overstruck Roman coinage of the late semi-libral period when Capua joined with Hannibal in 216-215. Further, in Roman Republican Coin Hoards, Crawford reports that hoard #56, found at Capua in 1909, contained three trientes and four sextantes of the “collateral” series; thus the series must have circulated in Capua for a time before the town switched sides to Hannibal in 216-215. It appears that the standard, prow-type semilibral coins (Crawford 38) came first, because hoards containing the Crawford 39 coins almost always contain semilibral prow types as well.
The obverse of this Triens is particularly enigmatic. Both before, during and after production of this series, the goddess depicted on trientes was typically Minerva. In Roman iconography, Minerva’s attributes are the Corinthian helmet, aegis and spear. The goddess on this triens lacks the Corinthian helmet that was used to depict Minerva in previous Aes Grave series of libral and semilibral weight standard (See Crawford 35 and 38 Aes Grave) and on the subsequent, prow-type, struck trientes (Crawford 41 and 56). Some authors are non-committal as to the goddess’ identity (Crawford, for one, in his catalogue; though elsewhere in his text he refers to “Juno”); others attribute the goddess as Juno who, as Jupiter’s consort, is typically rendered with a diadem crown and scepter; and others believe the goddess is Bellona, a war goddess who is typically rendered with helmet and weapon. Firm identification depends, in part, on proper understanding of the headgear. I think attempts to call the headgear a “helmet” or “partial helmet” are misguided efforts to explain the crest. In my opinion, the headgear is a crested diadem. The odd crest attached to the end of the diadem is possibly a misinterpreted element borrowed from portraits of Tanit on Punic coinage, which always show Tanit with a stylized wheat leaf in this location (Tanit’s depiction was likely borrowed by the Carthaginians from Syracusan tetradrachms). There is also some confusion as to what the goddess holds over her left shoulder. Condition issues and poor strikes on some examples often eliminate this aspect of the design. Fortunately, my example is quite clear and one can see the shadowy image on the left shoulder which extends in straight-line behind the left side of the goddess’ head ending in a visible, rounded point above her head. Crawford may have thought the lower part of this element represented the goddess’ far-side curls (“hair falls in tight rolls onto BOTH shoulders” emphasis added), but this interpretation does not explain the point above her head. The point is not likely to represent the opposite crest, as the crest on the visible side does not extend above head-top level. A more plausible theory, proposed by both Grueber and Sydenham, is that the goddess is holding a scepter over her left shoulder, which is consistent with Juno’s attributes. Other possibilities are that she bears a spear, which is an attribute of Minerva, or a sword, which is an attribute of Bellona.
The Series 39 types and their relationship to contemporaneous Second Punic War events are interesting to ponder. Hercules is an important figure, appearing on two of the 10 available sides of the series. Likely this is a paradigm of Roman heroism during the War. In the myth depicted on this Triens, Hercules kills a centaur for assaulting his wife – is this an allegorical reference to Hannibal’s assault on Italy (and the likely response from Rome)?
Despite its beauty, this type would never again be repeated on a Roman coin. However, related imagery can be found on quincunxes of Capua and quadrantes of Larinum, Apulia, immediately following the defection of those towns to Hannibal’s side of the Second Punic War.
Carausius11/29/18 at 06:56quadrans: Great coin , and details,
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Crawford 039/1, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Collateral Semilibral Struck AE TriensRome. The Republic.
Semilibral Reduction, 217-215 BCE
Æ Triens (54 grams; 37 mm).
Uncertain Italian Mint.
Obverse: Head of Juno (?) right, wearing double-crested diadem, her hair tied in three ringlets down neck; scepter or sword over left shoulder (?); ●●●● (mark of value) behind.
Reverse: Hercules, naked but for lion skin, grasping centaur by hair and preparing to strike him with club; ●●●● (mark of value) before; ROMA in exergue.
References: Crawford 39/1; Sydenham 93 (R6); BMCRR (Romano-Campanian) 113-115.
Provenance: Ex Munzen und Medaillen 47 (1972), Lot 74.
Crawford dates his 39 series of collateral, semilibral struck bronzes to the early years of the Second Punic War, 217-215 BC. The economic hardship on Rome imposed by Hannibal’s invasion led to a rapid decline in the weight of Roman bronze coins, resulting in the adoption of a semi-libral bronze standard (AE As of ½ Roman pound) and eventual elimination of cast coins. Crawford deduces that Hannibal’s defeat of Rome at Trasimene in 217 B.C. likely tipped the financial scales to the semilibral reduction. He notes that Capua overstruck Roman coinage of the late semi-libral period when Capua joined with Hannibal in 216-215. Further, in Roman Republican Coin Hoards, Crawford reports that hoard #56, found at Capua in 1909, contained three trientes and four sextantes of the “collateral” series; thus the series must have circulated in Capua for a time before the town switched sides to Hannibal in 216-215. It appears that the standard, prow-type semilibral coins (Crawford 38) came first, because hoards containing the Crawford 39 coins almost always contain semilibral prow types as well.
The obverse of this Triens is particularly enigmatic. Both before, during and after production of this series, the goddess depicted on trientes was typically Minerva. In Roman iconography, Minerva’s attributes are the Corinthian helmet, aegis and spear. The goddess on this triens lacks the Corinthian helmet that was used to depict Minerva in previous Aes Grave series of libral and semilibral weight standard (See Crawford 35 and 38 Aes Grave) and on the subsequent, prow-type, struck trientes (Crawford 41 and 56). Some authors are non-committal as to the goddess’ identity (Crawford, for one, in his catalogue; though elsewhere in his text he refers to “Juno”); others attribute the goddess as Juno who, as Jupiter’s consort, is typically rendered with a diadem crown and scepter; and others believe the goddess is Bellona, a war goddess who is typically rendered with helmet and weapon. Firm identification depends, in part, on proper understanding of the headgear. I think attempts to call the headgear a “helmet” or “partial helmet” are misguided efforts to explain the crest. In my opinion, the headgear is a crested diadem. The odd crest attached to the end of the diadem is possibly a misinterpreted element borrowed from portraits of Tanit on Punic coinage, which always show Tanit with a stylized wheat leaf in this location (Tanit’s depiction was likely borrowed by the Carthaginians from Syracusan tetradrachms). There is also some confusion as to what the goddess holds over her left shoulder. Condition issues and poor strikes on some examples often eliminate this aspect of the design. Fortunately, my example is quite clear and one can see the shadowy image on the left shoulder which extends in straight-line behind the left side of the goddess’ head ending in a visible, rounded point above her head. Crawford may have thought the lower part of this element represented the goddess’ far-side curls (“hair falls in tight rolls onto BOTH shoulders” emphasis added), but this interpretation does not explain the point above her head. The point is not likely to represent the opposite crest, as the crest on the visible side does not extend above head-top level. A more plausible theory, proposed by both Grueber and Sydenham, is that the goddess is holding a scepter over her left shoulder, which is consistent with Juno’s attributes. Other possibilities are that she bears a spear, which is an attribute of Minerva, or a sword, which is an attribute of Bellona.
The Series 39 types and their relationship to contemporaneous Second Punic War events are interesting to ponder. Hercules is an important figure, appearing on two of the 10 available sides of the series. Likely this is a paradigm of Roman heroism during the War. In the myth depicted on this Triens, Hercules kills a centaur for assaulting his wife – is this an allegorical reference to Hannibal’s assault on Italy (and the likely response from Rome)?
Despite its beauty, this type would never again be repeated on a Roman coin. However, related imagery can be found on quincunxes of Capua and quadrantes of Larinum, Apulia, immediately following the defection of those towns to Hannibal’s side of the Second Punic War.
Carausius11/28/18 at 08:03Pharsalos: Wow, spectacular.
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Crawford 039/1, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Collateral Semilibral Struck AE TriensRome. The Republic.
Semilibral Reduction, 217-215 BCE
Æ Triens (54 grams; 37 mm).
Uncertain Italian Mint.
Obverse: Head of Juno (?) right, wearing double-crested diadem, her hair tied in three ringlets down neck; scepter or sword over left shoulder (?); ●●●● (mark of value) behind.
Reverse: Hercules, naked but for lion skin, grasping centaur by hair and preparing to strike him with club; ●●●● (mark of value) before; ROMA in exergue.
References: Crawford 39/1; Sydenham 93 (R6); BMCRR (Romano-Campanian) 113-115.
Provenance: Ex Munzen und Medaillen 47 (1972), Lot 74.
Crawford dates his 39 series of collateral, semilibral struck bronzes to the early years of the Second Punic War, 217-215 BC. The economic hardship on Rome imposed by Hannibal’s invasion led to a rapid decline in the weight of Roman bronze coins, resulting in the adoption of a semi-libral bronze standard (AE As of ½ Roman pound) and eventual elimination of cast coins. Crawford deduces that Hannibal’s defeat of Rome at Trasimene in 217 B.C. likely tipped the financial scales to the semilibral reduction. He notes that Capua overstruck Roman coinage of the late semi-libral period when Capua joined with Hannibal in 216-215. Further, in Roman Republican Coin Hoards, Crawford reports that hoard #56, found at Capua in 1909, contained three trientes and four sextantes of the “collateral” series; thus the series must have circulated in Capua for a time before the town switched sides to Hannibal in 216-215. It appears that the standard, prow-type semilibral coins (Crawford 38) came first, because hoards containing the Crawford 39 coins almost always contain semilibral prow types as well.
The obverse of this Triens is particularly enigmatic. Both before, during and after production of this series, the goddess depicted on trientes was typically Minerva. In Roman iconography, Minerva’s attributes are the Corinthian helmet, aegis and spear. The goddess on this triens lacks the Corinthian helmet that was used to depict Minerva in previous Aes Grave series of libral and semilibral weight standard (See Crawford 35 and 38 Aes Grave) and on the subsequent, prow-type, struck trientes (Crawford 41 and 56). Some authors are non-committal as to the goddess’ identity (Crawford, for one, in his catalogue; though elsewhere in his text he refers to “Juno”); others attribute the goddess as Juno who, as Jupiter’s consort, is typically rendered with a diadem crown and scepter; and others believe the goddess is Bellona, a war goddess who is typically rendered with helmet and weapon. Firm identification depends, in part, on proper understanding of the headgear. I think attempts to call the headgear a “helmet” or “partial helmet” are misguided efforts to explain the crest. In my opinion, the headgear is a crested diadem. The odd crest attached to the end of the diadem is possibly a misinterpreted element borrowed from portraits of Tanit on Punic coinage, which always show Tanit with a stylized wheat leaf in this location (Tanit’s depiction was likely borrowed by the Carthaginians from Syracusan tetradrachms). There is also some confusion as to what the goddess holds over her left shoulder. Condition issues and poor strikes on some examples often eliminate this aspect of the design. Fortunately, my example is quite clear and one can see the shadowy image on the left shoulder which extends in straight-line behind the left side of the goddess’ head ending in a visible, rounded point above her head. Crawford may have thought the lower part of this element represented the goddess’ far-side curls (“hair falls in tight rolls onto BOTH shoulders” emphasis added), but this interpretation does not explain the point above her head. The point is not likely to represent the opposite crest, as the crest on the visible side does not extend above head-top level. A more plausible theory, proposed by both Grueber and Sydenham, is that the goddess is holding a scepter over her left shoulder, which is consistent with Juno’s attributes. Other possibilities are that she bears a spear, which is an attribute of Minerva, or a sword, which is an attribute of Bellona.
The Series 39 types and their relationship to contemporaneous Second Punic War events are interesting to ponder. Hercules is an important figure, appearing on two of the 10 available sides of the series. Likely this is a paradigm of Roman heroism during the War. In the myth depicted on this Triens, Hercules kills a centaur for assaulting his wife – is this an allegorical reference to Hannibal’s assault on Italy (and the likely response from Rome)?
Despite its beauty, this type would never again be repeated on a Roman coin. However, related imagery can be found on quincunxes of Capua and quadrantes of Larinum, Apulia, immediately following the defection of those towns to Hannibal’s side of the Second Punic War.
Carausius11/25/18 at 04:30Jay GT4: Outstanding
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Crawford 039/4, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Collateral Semilibral Struck AE UnciaRome, The Republic.
Semilibral Reduction, 217-215 BC.
AE Struck Uncia (10.88g; 24mm).
Uncertain Mint.
Obverse: Facing draped bust of Sol; pellet (mark of value) to left.
Reverse: Crescent, two stars and pellet (mark of value) above; ROMA below.
References: Crawford 39/4; Sydenham 96; BMCRR (Romano-Campanian) 125-135.
Provenance: Triskeles 5 (27 June 2013), Lot 95; ex RBW Collection (not in prior sales); purchased privately from Ed Waddell in 1994.
This coin is part of a short-lived, collateral series struck contemporaneously with the standard prow types (Crawford 38) in 217-215 BC. The economic hardship on Rome imposed by Hannibal’s invasion led to a rapid decline in the weight of Roman bronze coins, resulting in the adoption of a semi-libral bronze standard (AE As of ½ Roman pound) and eventual elimination of cast coins.
In attributing the 39 series to the Rome mint, Crawford relied on the earlier analysis of Rudy Thomsen in “Early Roman Coins”. However, Thomsen’s analysis of the hoard evidence was flawed, in my opinion, because he included temple deposits north of Rome which deceptively widened the apparent circulation dispersal of this collateral series. Eliminating these temple deposits shows a clearer circulation focus south of Rome, in Campania. Also, the types and fabric of the coins are inconsistent with the contemporaneous, Crawford 38 prow types which are similarly attributed to Rome (and which do have Roman prototypes in the prow series Aes Grave). However, some of the unusual collateral types are copied by Campanian towns after their defection to Hannibal. Further study is needed.
Carausius10/04/18 at 11:38Jay GT4: Nice
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Crawford 053/2, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Anonymous, AR DenariusRome, The Republic.
Anonymous, ca. 209-208 BCE
Uncertain Italian Mint
AR Denarius (4.64g; 19mm)
Obv: Head of Roma in peaked-visor helmet, facing right; X (mark of value = 10 asses) behind.
Rev: Dioscuri galloping right with couched spears; two stars above; ROMA, within full trapezoidal frame, below.
Reference: Crawford 53/2.
Provenance: Ex Hess Divo 331 (1 Dec 2016), Lot 75; ex Giesseener Munzhandlung Dieter Gorny Auktion 44 (1989), Lot 525.
Crawford series 53 Anonymous Denarii can be easily distinguished from the Crawford 44 Anonymous Denarii by "peaked" visor to the helmet. Carausius08/25/18 at 18:32Steve B5: I think I was under-bidder on this marvelous coin....
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Crawford 044/7, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Anonymous, AR SestertiusRome. The Republic.
Anonymous, 212-208 BCE
AR Sestertius (1.0g; 12mm).
Rome Mint.
Obverse: Helmeted head of Roma, right; IIS (mark of value) behind.
Reverse: Dioscuri galloping right with spears; two stars above; ROMA below in linear frame.
References: Crawford 44/7; Sydenham 142; BMCRR 13-18.
Provenance: Ex Volteia Collection [CNG 102 (18 May 2016), Lot 777]; ex August Voirol Collection [Munzen und Medaillen 38 (6-7 Dec 1968), Lot 105].
The IIS mark of value denotes that the coin is worth 2 asses + a semis, or 2.5 asses. This quarter-denarius denomination was part of the introduction of the denarius coinage following the Roman sack of Syracuse. The subsequent reduction in the weight standard and size of the bronze coinage eliminated the need for this tiny silver denomination, and it was soon discontinued. However, the denomination would be resurrected for short times during the Social War and Imperatorial eras.
There are various styles of anonymous AR Sestertii that likely correspond to the various styles of anonymous denarii. Some of these stylistic variations may represent different issues and/or different mints. This particular coin depicts Roma with unbound hair and a necklace of a simple line; the helmet visor is "splayed" and consists of two lines with a central, partial third line; the tail of the Dioscuri's horses are fully extended. Carausius08/23/18 at 00:18Steve B5: One of the best I've seen of this variety with...
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Crawford 044/5, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Semi-incuse Early AR Denarius - Second Punic WarRome, The Republic.
Anonymous, ca. 212 BCE
Rome Mint
AR Denarius (4.48g)
Obv: Head of Roma in splayed-visor helmet, facing right; X (mark of value = 10 asses) behind.
Rev: Dioscuri galloping right with couched spears; two stars above; ROMA, semi-incused, below.
Reference: Crawford 44/5; Sydenham 167; RSC Anonymous 1a.
Provenance: ex NAC 84 Part II (21 May 2015), Lot 1622.
This example is among the earliest of the very first denarii issue by the Roman Republic, circa 212 BCE. From 218-212 BCE, the excessive cost of the war with Hannibal and Carthage had necessitated debasement of Rome's silver quadrigatus coinage and several weight standard reductions in the bronze coinage. It was possibly the sack of Syracuse in 212 BCE that provided the silver infusion that Rome needed to reform their debased currency and introduce the denarius system. The earliest denarii had a semi-incuse ROMA inscription on the reverse, as seen here, reminiscent of the fully-incuse and semi-incuse inscriptions on the earlier quadrigati coinage. This early-style inscription was soon replaced by a relief inscription within a linear frame.
Carausius08/23/18 at 00:17Steve B5: Lovely well-centered example - This is a prototypi...
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Crawford 044/7, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Anonymous, AR SestertiusRome. The Republic.
Anonymous, 212-208 BCE
AR Sestertius (1.0g; 12mm).
Rome Mint.
Obverse: Helmeted head of Roma, right; IIS (mark of value) behind.
Reverse: Dioscuri galloping right with spears; two stars above; ROMA below in linear frame.
References: Crawford 44/7; Sydenham 142; BMCRR 13-18.
Provenance: Ex Volteia Collection [CNG 102 (18 May 2016), Lot 777]; ex August Voirol Collection [Munzen und Medaillen 38 (6-7 Dec 1968), Lot 105].
The IIS mark of value denotes that the coin is worth 2 asses + a semis, or 2.5 asses. This quarter-denarius denomination was part of the introduction of the denarius coinage following the Roman sack of Syracuse. The subsequent reduction in the weight standard and size of the bronze coinage eliminated the need for this tiny silver denomination, and it was soon discontinued. However, the denomination would be resurrected for short times during the Social War and Imperatorial eras.
There are various styles of anonymous AR Sestertii that likely correspond to the various styles of anonymous denarii. Some of these stylistic variations may represent different issues and/or different mints. This particular coin depicts Roma with unbound hair and a necklace of a simple line; the helmet visor is "splayed" and consists of two lines with a central, partial third line; the tail of the Dioscuri's horses are fully extended. Carausius08/20/18 at 15:25Enodia: Neat coin!
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Crawford 044/7, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Anonymous, AR SestertiusRome. The Republic.
Anonymous, 212-208 BCE
AR Sestertius (1.0g; 12mm).
Rome Mint.
Obverse: Helmeted head of Roma, right; IIS (mark of value) behind.
Reverse: Dioscuri galloping right with spears; two stars above; ROMA below in linear frame.
References: Crawford 44/7; Sydenham 142; BMCRR 13-18.
Provenance: Ex Volteia Collection [CNG 102 (18 May 2016), Lot 777]; ex August Voirol Collection [Munzen und Medaillen 38 (6-7 Dec 1968), Lot 105].
The IIS mark of value denotes that the coin is worth 2 asses + a semis, or 2.5 asses. This quarter-denarius denomination was part of the introduction of the denarius coinage following the Roman sack of Syracuse. The subsequent reduction in the weight standard and size of the bronze coinage eliminated the need for this tiny silver denomination, and it was soon discontinued. However, the denomination would be resurrected for short times during the Social War and Imperatorial eras.
There are various styles of anonymous AR Sestertii that likely correspond to the various styles of anonymous denarii. Some of these stylistic variations may represent different issues and/or different mints. This particular coin depicts Roma with unbound hair and a necklace of a simple line; the helmet visor is "splayed" and consists of two lines with a central, partial third line; the tail of the Dioscuri's horses are fully extended. Carausius08/03/18 at 03:32Jay GT4: great
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Crawford 044/7, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Anonymous, AR SestertiusRome. The Republic.
Anonymous, 212-208 BCE
AR Sestertius (1.0g; 12mm).
Rome Mint.
Obverse: Helmeted head of Roma, right; IIS (mark of value) behind.
Reverse: Dioscuri galloping right with spears; two stars above; ROMA below in linear frame.
References: Crawford 44/7; Sydenham 142; BMCRR 13-18.
Provenance: Ex Volteia Collection [CNG 102 (18 May 2016), Lot 777]; ex August Voirol Collection [Munzen und Medaillen 38 (6-7 Dec 1968), Lot 105].
The IIS mark of value denotes that the coin is worth 2 asses + a semis, or 2.5 asses. This quarter-denarius denomination was part of the introduction of the denarius coinage following the Roman sack of Syracuse. The subsequent reduction in the weight standard and size of the bronze coinage eliminated the need for this tiny silver denomination, and it was soon discontinued. However, the denomination would be resurrected for short times during the Social War and Imperatorial eras.
There are various styles of anonymous AR Sestertii that likely correspond to the various styles of anonymous denarii. Some of these stylistic variations may represent different issues and/or different mints. This particular coin depicts Roma with unbound hair and a necklace of a simple line; the helmet visor is "splayed" and consists of two lines with a central, partial third line; the tail of the Dioscuri's horses are fully extended. Carausius08/02/18 at 21:39Molinari: 
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Crawford 097/1, ROMAN REPUBLIC, L Series VictoriatusRome. The Republic.
L Series, 211-208 BCE
AR Victoriatus (3.13g; 18mm).
Luceria mint
Obverse: Laureate head of Jupiter facing right; bead-and-reel border.
Reverse: Victory crowns trophy; L between; ROMA in exergue.
References: Crawford 97/1b; RBW 395; Sydenham 121; BMCRR (Italy) 157-8.
Provenance: Ex Andrew McCabe Collection; ex RBW Collection (not in prior sales); private purchase from H.J. Berk 15 May 1994.
About 212 BCE, when the Romans introduced the denarius system, they also introduced a collateral denomination of silver coin, the victoriatus. As evidenced by its different weight standard, debased metal, iconography and missing denominational mark, the victoriatus was not integral to the denarius system but was produced for a special purpose. While the denarius and its fractions, the quinarius and sestertius, all depicted Roma and the Dioscuri, victoriati depicted Jupiter and Victory crowning a trophy. Further, while denarii were produced from nearly pure silver, victoriati were made from debased silver of about 70% purity. Based on the weight standard of Magna Graecia drachms, victoriati were likely designed specifically for payments to Greek cities of southern Italy and hoard evidence supports circulation largely in southern Italy.
Like the LT Series victoriati that were also struck in Luceria, Crawford notes that the L Series Victoriati went through three obverse phases: the first, with bead-and-reel border and Jupiter with scraggly hair; the second, with bead-and-reel border and Jupiter with neat ringlets; and the last, with dot border. This coin clearly belongs to the second phase.
Rome ceased issuing victoriati circa 170 BCE. Perhaps because of their debased metal (which discouraged hoarding), victoriati continued to circulate in Gaul for many years until they functioned as de facto quinarii due to metal loss from wear. Their continued popularity caused Rome to later issue quinarii bearing the same devices (Jupiter/Victory and trophy). Carausius07/08/18 at 10:39*Alex: Excellent.
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Crawford 071/1, ROMAN REPUBLIC, C/M Series VictoriatusRome. The Republic.
C/M Series, 211-208 BCE
AR Victoriatus (3.26g; 18mm).
Sicilian mint (?)
Obverse: Laureate head of Jupiter facing right; C behind.
Reverse: Victory crowns trophy; M between; ROMA in exergue.
References: Crawford 71/1a; RBW 300; Sydenham 112; BMCRR (Italy) 252.
Provenance: Ex Andrew McCabe Collection; Vecchi 7 (6 Oct 1997) Lot 571; NAC 1 (29 Mar 1989) Lot 561.
About 212 BCE, when the Romans introduced the denarius system, they also introduced a collateral denomination of silver coin, the victoriatus. As evidenced by its different weight standard, debased metal, iconography and missing denominational mark, the victoriatus was not integral to the denarius system but was produced for a special purpose. While the denarius and its fractions, the quinarius and sestertius, all depicted Roma and the Dioscuri, victoriati depicted Jupiter and Victory crowning a trophy. Further, while denarii were produced from nearly pure silver, victoriati were made from debased silver of about 70% purity. Based on the weight standard of Magna Graecia drachms, victoriati were likely designed specifically for payments to Greek cities of southern Italy and hoard evidence supports circulation largely in southern Italy.
Crawford’s attribution of the C/M Series victoriati to a Sicilian mint is uncertain and partly based on style.
Rome ceased issuing victoriati circa 170 BCE. Perhaps because of their debased metal (which discouraged hoarding), victoriati continued to circulate in Gaul for many years until they functioned as de facto quinarii due to metal loss from wear. Their continued popularity caused Rome to later issue quinarii bearing the same devices (Jupiter/Victory and trophy). Carausius07/08/18 at 01:53PMah: Jupiter obv is fantastic; details of Victory unusu...
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Crawford 098A/1, ROMAN REPUBLIC, LT Series VictoriatusRome. The Republic.
LT Series, 211-210 BCE
AR Victoriatus (3.06g; 18mm).
Luceria mint
Obverse: Laureate head of Jupiter facing right.
Reverse: Victory crowns trophy; LT ligate between; ROMA in exergue.
References: Crawford 98A/1b; RBW 429; Sydenham 137; BMCRR (Italy) 178-80.
Provenance: Ex Andrew McCabe Collection; private purchase in 2012 from CNG #910522; ex CNG 88 (14 Sep 2011) Lot 1130.
About 212 BCE, when the Romans introduced the denarius system, they also introduced a collateral denomination of silver coin, the victoriatus. As evidenced by its different weight standard, debased metal, iconography and missing denominational mark, the victoriatus was not integral to the denarius system but was produced for a special purpose. While the denarius and its fractions, the quinarius and sestertius, all depicted Roma and the Dioscuri, victoriati depicted Jupiter and Victory crowning a trophy. Further, while denarii were produced from nearly pure silver, victoriati were made from debased silver of about 70% purity. Based on the weight standard of Magna Graecia drachms, victoriati were likely designed specifically for payments to Greek cities of southern Italy and hoard evidence supports circulation largely in southern Italy.
Like the L Series victoriati which were also struck in Luceria, Crawford notes three phases of the LT Series victoriati: the first, with a small head and mint/control letters split between obverse and reverse; the second, with larger head and monogram LT on reverse; the last, with careless, spread devices and mint/control marks again split between obverse and reverse. This coin belongs to the second phase of the series’ development. While the L almost certainly represent Luceria, the meaning of the additional letter T is uncertain. Crawford suggests it may be a magistrates initial or indicate the purpose of the expenditure.
Rome ceased issuing victoriati circa 170 BCE. Perhaps because of their debased metal (which discouraged hoarding), victoriati continued to circulate in Gaul for many years until they functioned as de facto quinarii due to metal loss from wear. Their continued popularity caused Rome to later issue quinarii bearing the same devices (Jupiter/Victory and trophy).
Carausius06/22/18 at 22:31Jay GT4: Nice coin, great provenance
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Crawford 097/1, ROMAN REPUBLIC, L Series VictoriatusRome. The Republic.
L Series, 211-208 BCE
AR Victoriatus (3.13g; 18mm).
Luceria mint
Obverse: Laureate head of Jupiter facing right; bead-and-reel border.
Reverse: Victory crowns trophy; L between; ROMA in exergue.
References: Crawford 97/1b; RBW 395; Sydenham 121; BMCRR (Italy) 157-8.
Provenance: Ex Andrew McCabe Collection; ex RBW Collection (not in prior sales); private purchase from H.J. Berk 15 May 1994.
About 212 BCE, when the Romans introduced the denarius system, they also introduced a collateral denomination of silver coin, the victoriatus. As evidenced by its different weight standard, debased metal, iconography and missing denominational mark, the victoriatus was not integral to the denarius system but was produced for a special purpose. While the denarius and its fractions, the quinarius and sestertius, all depicted Roma and the Dioscuri, victoriati depicted Jupiter and Victory crowning a trophy. Further, while denarii were produced from nearly pure silver, victoriati were made from debased silver of about 70% purity. Based on the weight standard of Magna Graecia drachms, victoriati were likely designed specifically for payments to Greek cities of southern Italy and hoard evidence supports circulation largely in southern Italy.
Like the LT Series victoriati that were also struck in Luceria, Crawford notes that the L Series Victoriati went through three obverse phases: the first, with bead-and-reel border and Jupiter with scraggly hair; the second, with bead-and-reel border and Jupiter with neat ringlets; and the last, with dot border. This coin clearly belongs to the second phase.
Rome ceased issuing victoriati circa 170 BCE. Perhaps because of their debased metal (which discouraged hoarding), victoriati continued to circulate in Gaul for many years until they functioned as de facto quinarii due to metal loss from wear. Their continued popularity caused Rome to later issue quinarii bearing the same devices (Jupiter/Victory and trophy). Carausius06/22/18 at 19:03quadrans: Nice piece..
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Crawford 097/1, ROMAN REPUBLIC, L Series VictoriatusRome. The Republic.
L Series, 211-208 BCE
AR Victoriatus (3.13g; 18mm).
Luceria mint
Obverse: Laureate head of Jupiter facing right; bead-and-reel border.
Reverse: Victory crowns trophy; L between; ROMA in exergue.
References: Crawford 97/1b; RBW 395; Sydenham 121; BMCRR (Italy) 157-8.
Provenance: Ex Andrew McCabe Collection; ex RBW Collection (not in prior sales); private purchase from H.J. Berk 15 May 1994.
About 212 BCE, when the Romans introduced the denarius system, they also introduced a collateral denomination of silver coin, the victoriatus. As evidenced by its different weight standard, debased metal, iconography and missing denominational mark, the victoriatus was not integral to the denarius system but was produced for a special purpose. While the denarius and its fractions, the quinarius and sestertius, all depicted Roma and the Dioscuri, victoriati depicted Jupiter and Victory crowning a trophy. Further, while denarii were produced from nearly pure silver, victoriati were made from debased silver of about 70% purity. Based on the weight standard of Magna Graecia drachms, victoriati were likely designed specifically for payments to Greek cities of southern Italy and hoard evidence supports circulation largely in southern Italy.
Like the LT Series victoriati that were also struck in Luceria, Crawford notes that the L Series Victoriati went through three obverse phases: the first, with bead-and-reel border and Jupiter with scraggly hair; the second, with bead-and-reel border and Jupiter with neat ringlets; and the last, with dot border. This coin clearly belongs to the second phase.
Rome ceased issuing victoriati circa 170 BCE. Perhaps because of their debased metal (which discouraged hoarding), victoriati continued to circulate in Gaul for many years until they functioned as de facto quinarii due to metal loss from wear. Their continued popularity caused Rome to later issue quinarii bearing the same devices (Jupiter/Victory and trophy). Carausius06/22/18 at 11:25okidoki: great example,
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Crawford 097/8, ROMAN REPUBLIC, L Series, AE SemunciaRome, The Republic.
L Series, circa 211-208 BCE.
AE Semuncia (3.52g; 18mm).
Obverse: Mercury head facing right, wearing winged petasus.
Reverse: Prow r; above ε; be ROMA; before L; above, ε (mark-of-value).
References: Crawford 97/8; Sydenham 178g (R5); Kestner-Hannover 1090; BMCRR (Italy) ----.
Provenance: Ex Bertolami Fine Arts 24 (22 Jun 2016), Lot 371.
There are only four examples of this rare semuncia of Luceria in the Paris collection. There were no examples in the British Museum collection at the 1910 publication of BMCRR.
Carausius05/23/18 at 05:40quadrans: Nice piece..
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Crawford 045/2, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Anonymous AR QuinariusRome, The Republic.
Anonymous, c. 211 BCE.
AR Quinarius (2.22g; 15mm).
Rome Mint.
Obv: Helmeted head of Roma facing right; V (mark-of-value=5 asses) behind.
Rev: Dioscuri galloping right with couched spears; ROMA in frame below; ** above.
References: Crawford 45/2; SRCV 42
Provenance: Ex NAC 73 (18 Nov 2013), Lot 19; ex NAC sale 8 (1995), Lot 464.Carausius04/02/18 at 11:52Jay GT4: Outstanding
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Crawford 044/6, ROMAN REPUBLIC, AR Quinarius, c. 212-211 BCERome, The Republic.
Anonymous, c. 212-211 BCE.
AR Quinarius (2.55g; 16mm).
Rome Mint.
Obv: Helmeted head of Roma, facing right, with early, curved visor; V (mark-of-value=5 asses) behind.
Rev: Dioscuri galloping right with couched spears and stars above heads; ROMA below in linear frame.
References: Crawford 44/6; Sydenham 141; BMCRR 9-12.
Provenance: Ex RBW Collection [Agora 68 (15 Aug 2017), Lot 150]; ex CNG XXVII (29 Sep 1993).Carausius04/02/18 at 11:51Jay GT4: Great coin
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Crawford 042/2, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Overstruck "Anonymous" Corn Ear AE QuadransRome, The Republic.
Corn Ear Series (No Corn Ear), 214-212 BCE.
AE Quadrans (16.76g; 29mm).
Obv: Head of Hercules right in boarskin; three pellets (mark of value = 3 unciae) behind.
Rev: Bull leaping over snake; three pellets (mark of value) above; ROMA below.
Reference: Crawford 42/2var (no corn ear): See Russo, Essays Hersh (1998) p. 141.
Provenance: ex Agora Auction 70 (21 Nov 2017) Lot 194; ex RBW Collection duplicate (not in prior sales); ex P. Vecchi Auction 6 (14 Sep 1981) Lot 245.
In "Roman Republican Coinage", Michael Crawford recognized many silver “symbol” Republican series for which there were parallel “anonymous” types omitting the symbols. This coin is an anonymous version (missing symbol) of the Corn Ear Quadrans of the Crawford 42 series, produced in Sicily. It is identical in style to the Sicilian Corn Ear coins and only misses the symbol. Roberto Russo wrote about these anonymous coins in his article “Unpublished Roman Republican Bronze Coins” (Essays Hersh, 1998), where he notes that the parallel issue of anonymous silver coins to series with symbols applies equally to the bronze coins. Andrew McCabe takes this approach much further in his article “The Anonymous Struck Bronze Coinage of the Roman Republic” (Essays Russo, 2013) in which he links many of the anonymous Republican bronzes to symbol series based on precise style considerations. The takeaway from all this is that for many of the Roman Republican symbol series of the late Second Punic War and early 2nd Century BCE, there are parallel anonymous series identifiable by style. The rationale for these parallel issues is unclear, though possibly related to (a) governmental approvals for the issue or (b) mint control of the precious metal source from which the issue was struck or (c) workshop identification.
This particular example is overstruck, showing particular evidence of the under-type on the reverse. Based on that evidence and weight of the coin, I’ve concluded the under-type a Hieron II AE Obol imitative of Ptolemy II. The edge of the reverse shows the hairline of Zeus as depicted on this Hieron II issue.
Carausius02/24/18 at 17:45Norbert: A special congratulations to this one
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Crawford 044/5, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Semi-incuse Early AR Denarius - Second Punic WarRome, The Republic.
Anonymous, ca. 212 BCE
Rome Mint
AR Denarius (4.48g)
Obv: Head of Roma in splayed-visor helmet, facing right; X (mark of value = 10 asses) behind.
Rev: Dioscuri galloping right with couched spears; two stars above; ROMA, semi-incused, below.
Reference: Crawford 44/5; Sydenham 167; RSC Anonymous 1a.
Provenance: ex NAC 84 Part II (21 May 2015), Lot 1622.
This example is among the earliest of the very first denarii issue by the Roman Republic, circa 212 BCE. From 218-212 BCE, the excessive cost of the war with Hannibal and Carthage had necessitated debasement of Rome's silver quadrigatus coinage and several weight standard reductions in the bronze coinage. It was possibly the sack of Syracuse in 212 BCE that provided the silver infusion that Rome needed to reform their debased currency and introduce the denarius system. The earliest denarii had a semi-incuse ROMA inscription on the reverse, as seen here, reminiscent of the fully-incuse and semi-incuse inscriptions on the earlier quadrigati coinage. This early-style inscription was soon replaced by a relief inscription within a linear frame.
Carausius02/24/18 at 17:43Norbert: this is a nice one
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