Classical Numismatics Discussion Members' Coin Collection Photo Gallery

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Tiberius (A.D. 14-37)AR Denarius, A.D. 22 - 30, Lugdunum, 18.5mm, 3.38g, 90°, RIC I 26, RSC 16.
Obv: TI CAESAR DIVI AVG F AVGVSTVS. Laureate head right
Rev: PONTIF MAXIM. Livia, as Pax, seated right on throne, holding long scepter & olive branch.1 commentsMarti Vltori11/15/23 at 01:30Jay GT4: A must have for a Roman collector

Claudius (A.D. 41-54)AE As, A.D. 41-50, Rome, 31mm, 11.2g, ~160°, : RIC I 97. Ex Hanlon collection.
Obv: TI CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG PM TR P IMP. Bare head left.
Rev: LIBERTAS AVGVSTA. Libertas standing facing, holding pileus and raising hand; S-C in field.1 commentsMarti Vltori11/15/23 at 01:29Jay GT4: Very nice

RIC 1561 Titus Antioch denariusT CAES IMP VESP PON TR POT
Laureate bust right

NEP RED
Neptune standing left, right foot on globe, with acrostolium and sceptre

Antioch, 72-3 CE

3.07g

RIC 1561 (C)

Ex-Divus Numismatik

Wonderful Antiochine style with typical ragged flan

6 commentsJay GT411/15/23 at 00:07Tracy Aiello: A splendid coin.

RIC II 1² Domitian 0683AObv.: IVLIA AVGVSTA
Rev.: DIVI TITI FILIA
JuliaTiti 80-91, Denar 88-89, Rom, 21mm , 3.05g, ss-vz, (R2), INV:R265
Ex. Artemide Aste A LX Lot 513, 29.09.233 commentsDirk J11/13/23 at 12:35David Atherton: Wow.

RIC II 1² Vespasian 1078varObv.: T CAESAR IMP VESPASIANVS
Rev.: PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS
Vespasian 69-79, Titus als Ceasar, Denar 79, Rom, 18mm 3,10g, ss, (R2), INV:R259
Ex. Gorny & Mosch A297 Lot 1487, 10.10.231 commentsDirk J11/13/23 at 12:22David Atherton: Fantastic!

RIC 0608 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]Æ Sestertius, 26.55g
Rome mint, 73 AD
Obv: T CAES VESP IMP PON TR POT COS II CENS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PAX AVGVSTI; S C in field; Pax stg. l., with branch and cornucopiae
RIC 608 (R2). BMC 667A. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 42. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex CNG E139, 10 May 2006, lot 284.

A rare Pax sestertius variety struck for Titus Caesar in 73 when he and Vespasian held the joint censorship. Pax is seen here holding a cornucopiae symbolising the emperor's gift of peace and prosperity to the empire.2 commentsDavid Atherton11/13/23 at 12:10Dirk J: Nice piece ! Congratulations.

RIC II 1² Titus 0041Obv.: IMP TITVS CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M
Rev.: TR P VIIII IMP XV COS VII P P
Titus 79-81, Denar 79, Rom, 20mm 3,28g, -vz, (R2), INV:R251
Ex. G. Hirsch Nachfolger A383 Lot 2397, 21.09.23 1 commentsDirk J11/13/23 at 02:34Jay GT4: High grade beauty

RIC II 1² Vespasian 0004Obv.: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG
Rev.: IVDAEA
Vespasian 69-79, Denar 69-70, Rom, 18mm 3,13g, -ss, (R), INV:R249
Ex. G. Hirsch Nachfolger A383 Lot 2377, 21.09.231 commentsDirk J11/13/23 at 02:33Jay GT4: Great rarity with the palm tree

Campania, Neapolis. 340-241 BC. AR Didrachm (7.29 grams) Diademed head of Parthenope right/ Manheaded bull, Acheloos, advancing right crowned by Nike. S 307. 1 commentspaul188811/11/23 at 14:35Jay GT4: Great piece

Constantine I the Great. Jupiter standing follis of Nikomedia.Roman Empire. Constantine I. 306-337 AD. AE Follis, silvered (4.02 gm, 21.6mm, 12h) of Nikomedia, 6th officina, 317-320 AD. Laureate bust left, wearing consular robes & holding mappa & sceptre, IMP CONSTANTINVS AVG. / Jupiter standing left, with Victory on globe & long sceptre, IOVI CONSERVATORI AVGG. ex: SMN, S (stigma) in right field, branch in left. nEF. Pegasi Numismatics Auction VII #576. RIC VII p.603 #23; Cohen 301; SRCV IV #15966.3 commentsAnaximander11/11/23 at 01:22Callimachus: Beautiful coin; but I especially like the reverse.

Julian II. Votive Siliqua of Lyons.Roman Empire. Julian II. 360-363 AD. AR Siliqua (2.48 gm, 17mm, 7h) of Lugdunum (Lyons). 2ⁿᵈ officina. Pearl-diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust right, FL CL IVLIANVS PP AVG. / Votive inscription within wreath, medallion at top. VOTIS V MVLTIS X. Ex: SLVG. EF. East Harptree 1887 Hoard. Bt. Herakles Numismatics, Richmond Coin Show, 11/2023. RIC VIII p.195 #227; RSC V #163b; SRCV V #19122 var. (VOT V MVLT X & star in exergue).1 commentsAnaximander11/11/23 at 00:13Pharsalos: Very nice, excellent provenance too.

RIC 184 TitusÆ Sestertius, 24.48g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: No legend; Flavian amphitheatre; to l., Meta Sudans; to r., porticoed building
Rev: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR PPP COS VIII; Titus std. l. on curule chair with branch and roll; around, arms; S C in field
RIC 184 (R2). BMC 190. BNC 189. Hendin 1594.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 456. Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 35, 12 February 1985, lot 361.

In June of 80 AD Titus spectacularly opened the Flavian amphitheatre with a series of inaugural games lasting 100 days. This rare sestertius commemorates the event in a no less impressive fashion. Vespasian had begun construction nearly a decade before, but it was Titus who virtually completed it. The obverse* features an inventive bird's eye view of the structure from the Temple of Claudius on the Caelian Hill, with the Meta Sudans to the left and the porticoes of the Baths of Titus to the right. The depiction of the three structures on the obverse is strong evidence the Romans viewed the amphitheatre as part of a larger entertainment complex. The reverse features Titus seated surrounded by a pile of captured arms, identical to sestertii struck for Claudius. Taken together both obverse and reverse pays homage to Claudius, an emperor highly regarded by the Flavians. At the same time, the captured arms on the reverse and the decorative motif of the amphitheatre featuring palm trees and triumphal imagery commemorate the Jewish War which was still a major theme of Titus' coinage. Also, a recently discovered inscription which originally adorned one of the entrances proclaims the Flavian amphitheatre was built from the spoils of the Jewish War. Nathan T. Elkins believes the rarity of these coins today may hint that they were issued primarily for distribution at the opening games as souvenirs of the occasion. Ben Lee Damsky has convincingly argued Titus' extensive pulvinar precious metal coinage commemorates the inaugural games as well. If that is the case, a large portion of Titus' coinage was devoted to these opening games and the fantastic venue in which they were held, emphasising the prominent place it held for Titus and the Flavian dynasty. The fact that it still serves as a symbol of the Roman Empire today shows that Titus was correct in his estimation of its importance. Like the Eid Mar denarii, the Colosseum sestertii are seen today as one of the most well known and iconic coin types struck by the Roman Empire.

*Older references place the Colosseum on the reverse, but this is incorrect. Reverse dies at the Rome mint typically have concave flans. The seated Titus side is concave on these sestertii, therefore it was almost certainly intended as the reverse. 9 commentsDavid Atherton11/09/23 at 17:33ancientdave: Wow. A holy grail addition! Bravo!

Vitellius / Son and Daughter DenariusVITELLIUS, (A.D. 69), silver denarius, issued July-December 69, Rome mint, (2.94 g)
O: Laureate head to right of Vitellius, around A VITELLIVS GERMAN IMP TR P
R: Confronted draped busts of Vitellius' son and daughter, LIBER[I IMP GERMA]N around
- RIC 103, BMC 29, RSC 2, Ex Noble Numismatics Auction 121, Ex Dr C. Haymes Collection, Ex CNG Auction 258, lot 3662 commentsNemonater11/09/23 at 04:39ancientdave: Incredible portraits!

08 02 Otho RIC I 12Otho. 15 Jan. to April 69 A.D. AR Denarius. Rome Mint. 69 A.D. (3.23, 18.5mm, 6h). Obv: IMP M OTHO CAESAR AVG TR P, bare head left. SECVRITAS P R, Securitas standing left, wreath in right, scepter in left. RIC I 12, RSC 19. Ex Forum.

While coins of Otho are fairly rare given the short length of his reign, this issue is perhaps more so with the left facing bust. (RIC 3). Otho supported Galba’s revolt, and then turned on Galba when he wasn't named Galba's heir. He committed suicide after his forces were defeated by those of Vitellius during the Year of the Four Emperors. A nicely centered and well toned coin.
1 commentsLucas H11/09/23 at 04:32ancientdave: Very nice!

033. Vitellius.Denarius, July - Dec. 69 AD, Rome mint.
Obverse: A VITELLIVS GERM IMP AVG TRP / Laureate bust of Vitellius.
Reverse: PONT MAXIM / Vesta seated, holding patera and sceptre.
3.42 gm., 17 mm.
RIC #20; Sear #3300.1 commentsCallimachus11/09/23 at 04:31ancientdave: Fine style!

019 Vitellius (69 A.D.), Rome, RIC I 0109, AR-Denarius, XV VIR SACR FAC, Tripod and dolphin, Scarce, #1019 Vitellius (69 A.D.), Rome, RIC I 0109, AR-Denarius, XV VIR SACR FAC, Tripod and dolphin, Scarce, #1
avers: A VITELLIVS GERM IMP AVG TR P, Laureate head right.
reverse: XV VIR SACR FAC, Tripod lebes with dolphin lying right on top and raven standing right below.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 18mm, weight: 3,23g, axes: 6h,
mint: Rome, date: 69 A.D.,
ref: RIC I 109, p-272, RSC 111, BCM 39, Sear 2201,
Q-0014 commentsquadrans11/09/23 at 04:30ancientdave: Excellent portrait!

RIC 184 TitusÆ Sestertius, 24.48g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: No legend; Flavian amphitheatre; to l., Meta Sudans; to r., porticoed building
Rev: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR PPP COS VIII; Titus std. l. on curule chair with branch and roll; around, arms; S C in field
RIC 184 (R2). BMC 190. BNC 189. Hendin 1594.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 456. Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 35, 12 February 1985, lot 361.

In June of 80 AD Titus spectacularly opened the Flavian amphitheatre with a series of inaugural games lasting 100 days. This rare sestertius commemorates the event in a no less impressive fashion. Vespasian had begun construction nearly a decade before, but it was Titus who virtually completed it. The obverse* features an inventive bird's eye view of the structure from the Temple of Claudius on the Caelian Hill, with the Meta Sudans to the left and the porticoes of the Baths of Titus to the right. The depiction of the three structures on the obverse is strong evidence the Romans viewed the amphitheatre as part of a larger entertainment complex. The reverse features Titus seated surrounded by a pile of captured arms, identical to sestertii struck for Claudius. Taken together both obverse and reverse pays homage to Claudius, an emperor highly regarded by the Flavians. At the same time, the captured arms on the reverse and the decorative motif of the amphitheatre featuring palm trees and triumphal imagery commemorate the Jewish War which was still a major theme of Titus' coinage. Also, a recently discovered inscription which originally adorned one of the entrances proclaims the Flavian amphitheatre was built from the spoils of the Jewish War. Nathan T. Elkins believes the rarity of these coins today may hint that they were issued primarily for distribution at the opening games as souvenirs of the occasion. Ben Lee Damsky has convincingly argued Titus' extensive pulvinar precious metal coinage commemorates the inaugural games as well. If that is the case, a large portion of Titus' coinage was devoted to these opening games and the fantastic venue in which they were held, emphasising the prominent place it held for Titus and the Flavian dynasty. The fact that it still serves as a symbol of the Roman Empire today shows that Titus was correct in his estimation of its importance. Like the Eid Mar denarii, the Colosseum sestertii are seen today as one of the most well known and iconic coin types struck by the Roman Empire.

*Older references place the Colosseum on the reverse, but this is incorrect. Reverse dies at the Rome mint typically have concave flans. The seated Titus side is concave on these sestertii, therefore it was almost certainly intended as the reverse. 9 commentsDavid Atherton11/09/23 at 03:51wileyc: very nice, was not aware even of this type, a uniq...

Tiberius Sestertius Temple Of ConcordiaObv.

Facade of the Temple of Concordia: hexstyle temple, Concordia enthroned left at center above an altar; statues of Hercules to left and Mercury to right; on pediment above, statues of Jupiter, Juno, Minerva and Victories

Rev.

CAESAR DIVI AVG F AVGVST P M TR POT XXVII around large SC

35-36 AD

33mm 22.68g

RIC 61 Cohen 692 commentsancientdave11/09/23 at 01:43Virgil H: I love the temple coins.

RIC 1029 Titus DupondiusT CAESAR VESPASIANVS TR P COS VI
Laureate head left

PRINCIP IVVENT SC across lower field
Domitian Caesar on horse prancing left, raising right hand and holding scepter in left.

Rome; 77-78 CE

10.66g

RIC 1029 (R3)

HJB 225th Bid or Buy lot 63 from the Curtis L. Clay Collection; ex CNG E329, 25 June 2014, 409.

The reverse depicts Domitian participating in the Judaea Capta triumph of 71 A.D. He is, as Josephus described him, riding alongside in magnificent apparel and mounted on a horse that was itself a site worth seeing.

RIC notes that this is "presumably a mule, with the reverse of Domitian from the parallel issue." David Atherton believes the reverse die is intentional for both Titus and Domitian, making this an official pairing of dies for Titus. Regardless, the type is very rare. None in Forum galleries.9 commentsJay GT411/09/23 at 01:40Virgil H: Great coin

017. Crispina. AR Denarius. IVNOCrispina. Augusta, AD 178-182. AR Denarius (18.5mm, 3.03 g, 12h). Rome mint. Struck under Commodus. Draped bust right / Juno standing left, holding patera and scepter; to left, peacock standing left. RIC III 283 (Commodus); MIR 18, 12-4a; RSC 21. Toned, some iridescence and underlying luster, hairline flan crack

Ex Numismatica Ars Classica 78 (26 May 2014), lot 2311.6 commentsLordBest11/09/23 at 01:39Virgil H: Beautiful

Vitellius Denarius ConcordiaObv.

A VITELLIVS GERM IMP AVG TR P
Laureate head right

Rev.

CONCORDIA PR
Concordia seated left holding patera and double cornucopia

69 AD

18mm 3.36g

RIC I 90 BMCRE 20 RSC 182 commentsancientdave11/09/23 at 00:18Tracy Aiello: Great portrait.

Tiberius As Rudder On GlobeObv.

TI CAESAR DIVI AVG F AVGVST IMP VII
Laureate head left

Rev.

PONTIF MAX TR POT XXXIIX
S C
Globe and rudder

36-37 AD

28mm 11.54g

RIC 64 Cohen 14 BMC 1351 commentsancientdave11/08/23 at 23:20Jay GT4: Bold reverse!

RIC 0925 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian] Æ Sestertius, 27.15g
Rome mint, 76-77 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS COS IIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PAX AVGVSTI; S C in field; Pax stg. l., with branch and cornucopiae
RIC 925 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 69. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Pagan, Yahoo!, 26 March 2003.

Domitian Caesar's sestertii under Vespasian are exceedingly rare. This Pax type struck in either 76 or early 77 is missing from both the BM and Paris collections.

Nice bold portrait in fine style.

3 commentsDavid Atherton11/08/23 at 15:30Dirk J: Impressive early portrait of Domitian. Congratulat...

RIC 0925 Domitian as Caesar [Vespasian] Æ Sestertius, 27.15g
Rome mint, 76-77 AD
Obv: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS COS IIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PAX AVGVSTI; S C in field; Pax stg. l., with branch and cornucopiae
RIC 925 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 69. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Pagan, Yahoo!, 26 March 2003.

Domitian Caesar's sestertii under Vespasian are exceedingly rare. This Pax type struck in either 76 or early 77 is missing from both the BM and Paris collections.

Nice bold portrait in fine style.

3 commentsDavid Atherton11/08/23 at 03:32Jay GT4: Wonderful portrait, even nicer in hand

RIC II 1² Domitian 0054Obv.: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M
Rev.: TR P COS VII DES VIII P P
Domitian 81-96, Denar 81, Rom, 19mm 3,04g, ss, (C2), INV:R1081 commentsDirk J11/08/23 at 02:53Christiane M: Danke Dirk für deinen link im deutschen Forum

Bruttium, Kaulonia. Apollo and Stag Stater.Greek Italy. Bruttium. 475-425 BC. AR Stater (8.02 gm, 20mm, 3h) of Kaulonia. Apollo striding r., raising lustral branch, daimon running r. on outstretched arm. Stag on basis in r. field, looking back, ⤹ʌvᴀʞ (KAVA, retrograde) to l. / Stag stdg. r., ʌvᴀʞ (KAVA, retrograde) above and laurel bough with three branches to r. VF/EF. Bt. Coral Gables 1999. SNG ANS 3 #175, 178-179; HN Italy 2046; HGC 1 #1419; Noe Caulonia group F #94 (pl. VIII, same rev. die); SNG Cop 1 (Italy) #1712; SNG Delepierre 434-435 (same rev. die: 436-437); SNG Lockett 586.1 commentsAnaximander11/07/23 at 01:33Enodia: Great coin, especially the reverse

RIC 0102 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 23.43g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG P M T P P P COS III; Bust of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: RO-MA across field; S C in field; Roma stg. r., with Victory and spear
RIC 102 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 6. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Heidelberger Münzhandlung Herbert Grün e.K Auction 32, 5 May 2001, lot 552.

An early Vespasian sestertius from 71 featuring a fine style idealised portrait paired with a reverse die recycled from Galba's reign. All of the coins from this first sestertius issue of 71 are rare with most being monumental in design. Missing from both the BM and Paris collections. RIC cites one specimen from Oxford.4 commentsDavid Atherton11/06/23 at 20:14orfew: Wow. An Amazing coin! Congrats

Titus Dupondius Felicitas Publica 3Obv.

T CAES VESPAS IMP P TR P COS II
Radiate head right

Rev.

FELICITAS PVBLICA
S C
Felicitas standing left, holding caduceus and cornucopiae

72 AD

26.5mm 12.42g

RIC 413 (Vespasian)1 commentsancientdave11/04/23 at 22:14Jay GT4: A great portrait

Vespasian As Head Left SpesObv.

IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN COS VIII
Laureate head left

Rev.

S C across fields
Spes advancing left, holding flower

77-78 AD

27mm 11.06g

RIC II.2 1011 BMCRE 7391 commentsancientdave11/04/23 at 22:14Jay GT4: Very nice

Nero Dupondius Head Left Temple Of Janus Obv.

NERO CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG GER PM TR P IMP PP
Radiate head left

Rev.

PACE PR TERRA MARIQ PARTA IANVM CLVSIT
S C across fields
View of one front of the temple of Janus, with latticed window on the left left, and garland hung across closed double doors on the right

65 AD

26mm 11.60g

RIC 285
1 commentsancientdave11/04/23 at 22:14Jay GT4: Good detail on the reverse

RIC 184 TitusÆ Sestertius, 24.48g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: No legend; Flavian amphitheatre; to l., Meta Sudans; to r., porticoed building
Rev: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR PPP COS VIII; Titus std. l. on curule chair with branch and roll; around, arms; S C in field
RIC 184 (R2). BMC 190. BNC 189. Hendin 1594.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 456. Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 35, 12 February 1985, lot 361.

In June of 80 AD Titus spectacularly opened the Flavian amphitheatre with a series of inaugural games lasting 100 days. This rare sestertius commemorates the event in a no less impressive fashion. Vespasian had begun construction nearly a decade before, but it was Titus who virtually completed it. The obverse* features an inventive bird's eye view of the structure from the Temple of Claudius on the Caelian Hill, with the Meta Sudans to the left and the porticoes of the Baths of Titus to the right. The depiction of the three structures on the obverse is strong evidence the Romans viewed the amphitheatre as part of a larger entertainment complex. The reverse features Titus seated surrounded by a pile of captured arms, identical to sestertii struck for Claudius. Taken together both obverse and reverse pays homage to Claudius, an emperor highly regarded by the Flavians. At the same time, the captured arms on the reverse and the decorative motif of the amphitheatre featuring palm trees and triumphal imagery commemorate the Jewish War which was still a major theme of Titus' coinage. Also, a recently discovered inscription which originally adorned one of the entrances proclaims the Flavian amphitheatre was built from the spoils of the Jewish War. Nathan T. Elkins believes the rarity of these coins today may hint that they were issued primarily for distribution at the opening games as souvenirs of the occasion. Ben Lee Damsky has convincingly argued Titus' extensive pulvinar precious metal coinage commemorates the inaugural games as well. If that is the case, a large portion of Titus' coinage was devoted to these opening games and the fantastic venue in which they were held, emphasising the prominent place it held for Titus and the Flavian dynasty. The fact that it still serves as a symbol of the Roman Empire today shows that Titus was correct in his estimation of its importance. Like the Eid Mar denarii, the Colosseum sestertii are seen today as one of the most well known and iconic coin types struck by the Roman Empire.

*Older references place the Colosseum on the reverse, but this is incorrect. Reverse dies at the Rome mint typically have concave flans. The seated Titus side is concave on these sestertii, therefore it was almost certainly intended as the reverse. 9 commentsDavid Atherton11/04/23 at 05:49Serendipity: A remarkable Colosseum coin!

RIC II 1² Vespasian 1425AObv.: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS III TR P P P
Rev.: PACI AVGVSTAE, Victory adv. left, BY mintmark
Vespasian 69-79, Denar 71, Ephesus, 17mm 2,74g, ss, (R3), INV:R264
Ex. Catawiki, 28.10.232 commentsDirk J11/03/23 at 23:19David Atherton: Super rarity!

Lysimachos tetradrachm Kings of Thrace (Macedonian). Lysimachos, AR Tetradrachm, 16.43 g, 27 mm. 305-281 BC, Sardes mint.
Obv: Diademed head of the deified Alexander right, wearing horn of Ammon.
Rev: ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ / ΛΥΣΙΜΑΧΟΥ. Athena seated left on throne, holding Nike and spear over shoulder. ΠPΕ monogram outer left, ΔK monogram in exergue.
Ref: Thompson 86; HGC 3.2, 1750d.1 commentsJayAg4711/03/23 at 23:04Jay GT4: Nice hunk of silver

RIC 0096 VespasianusObv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG P M TR P P P COS III, Laureate head right
Rev: PAX AVGVSTI / S C (in field); Pax standing left, with cornucopia and olive branch
AE/Sestertius (34.21 mm 28.83 g 6h) Struck in Rome 71 A D (1st issue)
RIC 96 (R), BMCRE 558, BNF unlisted
ex Negrini June 2020 E-Auction Lot 7303 commentsFlaviusDomitianus11/02/23 at 20:36ancientdave: Excellent example! Just added one of these myself!

Constantine I as Caesar SAC MON VRB AVGG ET CAESS NN from RomeConstantine I
A.D. 306
Ӕ follis 27mm 9.2g
CONSTANTINVS NOB CAES; laureate head right.
SAC MON VRB AVGG ET CAESS NN; Moneta standing left with scales & cornucopiae.
In ex. R wreath P
RIC VI Rome 159b

the first workshop is not listed in RIC1 commentsVictor C11/02/23 at 01:16Callimachus: Nice coin.

Achaea. Corinthia, Corinth. Caracalla Æ24.Obv: Laureate, draped bust of Caracalla left. Melikertes-Palaimon.
Rev: CLI COR / Melikertes-Palaimon reclining right on the back of a dolphin, pine tree in background.
24mm., 8.1 g.
BCD Corinth 930.1 commentsancientone10/31/23 at 21:06Curtis JJ: Great coin!!

RIC 184 TitusÆ Sestertius, 24.48g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: No legend; Flavian amphitheatre; to l., Meta Sudans; to r., porticoed building
Rev: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR PPP COS VIII; Titus std. l. on curule chair with branch and roll; around, arms; S C in field
RIC 184 (R2). BMC 190. BNC 189. Hendin 1594.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 456. Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 35, 12 February 1985, lot 361.

In June of 80 AD Titus spectacularly opened the Flavian amphitheatre with a series of inaugural games lasting 100 days. This rare sestertius commemorates the event in a no less impressive fashion. Vespasian had begun construction nearly a decade before, but it was Titus who virtually completed it. The obverse* features an inventive bird's eye view of the structure from the Temple of Claudius on the Caelian Hill, with the Meta Sudans to the left and the porticoes of the Baths of Titus to the right. The depiction of the three structures on the obverse is strong evidence the Romans viewed the amphitheatre as part of a larger entertainment complex. The reverse features Titus seated surrounded by a pile of captured arms, identical to sestertii struck for Claudius. Taken together both obverse and reverse pays homage to Claudius, an emperor highly regarded by the Flavians. At the same time, the captured arms on the reverse and the decorative motif of the amphitheatre featuring palm trees and triumphal imagery commemorate the Jewish War which was still a major theme of Titus' coinage. Also, a recently discovered inscription which originally adorned one of the entrances proclaims the Flavian amphitheatre was built from the spoils of the Jewish War. Nathan T. Elkins believes the rarity of these coins today may hint that they were issued primarily for distribution at the opening games as souvenirs of the occasion. Ben Lee Damsky has convincingly argued Titus' extensive pulvinar precious metal coinage commemorates the inaugural games as well. If that is the case, a large portion of Titus' coinage was devoted to these opening games and the fantastic venue in which they were held, emphasising the prominent place it held for Titus and the Flavian dynasty. The fact that it still serves as a symbol of the Roman Empire today shows that Titus was correct in his estimation of its importance. Like the Eid Mar denarii, the Colosseum sestertii are seen today as one of the most well known and iconic coin types struck by the Roman Empire.

*Older references place the Colosseum on the reverse, but this is incorrect. Reverse dies at the Rome mint typically have concave flans. The seated Titus side is concave on these sestertii, therefore it was almost certainly intended as the reverse. 9 commentsDavid Atherton10/31/23 at 16:08Virgil H: Amazing, congrats on finding this one

RIC 0111 VespasianÆ Sestertius, 26.55g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG P M T P P P COS III; Bust of Vespasian, laureate, draped, r.
Rev: SALVS AVGVSTA; S C in exergue; Salus std. l., with patera and sceptre
RIC 111 (R2). BMC -. BNC -.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 7. Ex Curtis Clay Collection. Ex Tom Cederlind.

An extremely rare sestertius struck for Vespasian between January and March 71. Curtis Clay had this to say about the piece which I cannot improve upon:

'Kraay in his illuminating Oxford dissertation, summarized in the new RIC, p. 22, established that Vespasian's sestertii of 71 (COS III) fall into three successive groups marked by progressive abbreviations of the emperor's name, and he suggested the following dates for the groups: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG P M T P P P COS III: Jan.-March/April 71; Same but VESPASIAN and TR P for T P: March/April-July/August 71; Same but VESPAS: July/August-Dec. 71. The reverse SALVS AVGVSTA S C occurs mainly in the third and latest issue of the year. In the earlier groups this type is very rare. Obv. VESPASIANVS, with bust laureate and draped; the bust types and portrait features are much more varied in this early group than in the two later ones. Rev. SALVS AVGVSTA S C, from the only die known for this type in the VESPASIANVS issue. Kraay discovered that this is actually a rev. die of Galba's, engraved and used by Galba in 68 (Kraay's P 61), now reused by Vespasian about 2 1/2 years later!'

An utterly fantastic piece! RIC describes many of the sestertii from this issue as 'monumental', I think the above coin fits that description perfectly. Missing from the BM and Paris collections.7 commentsDavid Atherton10/31/23 at 16:06Virgil H: Beautiful

RIC 184 TitusÆ Sestertius, 24.48g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: No legend; Flavian amphitheatre; to l., Meta Sudans; to r., porticoed building
Rev: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR PPP COS VIII; Titus std. l. on curule chair with branch and roll; around, arms; S C in field
RIC 184 (R2). BMC 190. BNC 189. Hendin 1594.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 456. Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 35, 12 February 1985, lot 361.

In June of 80 AD Titus spectacularly opened the Flavian amphitheatre with a series of inaugural games lasting 100 days. This rare sestertius commemorates the event in a no less impressive fashion. Vespasian had begun construction nearly a decade before, but it was Titus who virtually completed it. The obverse* features an inventive bird's eye view of the structure from the Temple of Claudius on the Caelian Hill, with the Meta Sudans to the left and the porticoes of the Baths of Titus to the right. The depiction of the three structures on the obverse is strong evidence the Romans viewed the amphitheatre as part of a larger entertainment complex. The reverse features Titus seated surrounded by a pile of captured arms, identical to sestertii struck for Claudius. Taken together both obverse and reverse pays homage to Claudius, an emperor highly regarded by the Flavians. At the same time, the captured arms on the reverse and the decorative motif of the amphitheatre featuring palm trees and triumphal imagery commemorate the Jewish War which was still a major theme of Titus' coinage. Also, a recently discovered inscription which originally adorned one of the entrances proclaims the Flavian amphitheatre was built from the spoils of the Jewish War. Nathan T. Elkins believes the rarity of these coins today may hint that they were issued primarily for distribution at the opening games as souvenirs of the occasion. Ben Lee Damsky has convincingly argued Titus' extensive pulvinar precious metal coinage commemorates the inaugural games as well. If that is the case, a large portion of Titus' coinage was devoted to these opening games and the fantastic venue in which they were held, emphasising the prominent place it held for Titus and the Flavian dynasty. The fact that it still serves as a symbol of the Roman Empire today shows that Titus was correct in his estimation of its importance. Like the Eid Mar denarii, the Colosseum sestertii are seen today as one of the most well known and iconic coin types struck by the Roman Empire.

*Older references place the Colosseum on the reverse, but this is incorrect. Reverse dies at the Rome mint typically have concave flans. The seated Titus side is concave on these sestertii, therefore it was almost certainly intended as the reverse. 9 commentsDavid Atherton10/31/23 at 01:24CPK: Wow! Congrats on a lifetime collection achievement...

Vespasian Sestertius Pax 2Obv.

IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG P M TR P P P COS III
Laureate bust right

Rev.

PAX AVGVSTI
Pax standing left, holding olive branch and cornucopiae
S-C across fields

71 AD

33.5mm 21.32g

RIC 96

Rare2 commentsancientdave10/30/23 at 23:35David Atherton: Another rare beauty!

Vespasian Lugdunum Dupondius Pax 2Obv.

IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN AVG COS III
Radiate head right, globe at point of bust

Rev.

PAX AVG
S C
Pax standing left, sacrificing from patera over altar and holding caduceus & branch

71 AD

28mm 12.07g

RIC 11442 commentsancientdave10/30/23 at 23:35David Atherton: Severe portrait.

Vespasian Sestertius Seated Salus Obv.

IMP CAES VESPAS AVG P M TR P P P COS IIII
Laureate head right

Rev.
SALVS AVGVSTA
S C

72-73 AD

35mm 26.12g

RIC 383

Rare2 commentsancientdave10/30/23 at 23:34David Atherton: Rare variety!

RIC 184 TitusÆ Sestertius, 24.48g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: No legend; Flavian amphitheatre; to l., Meta Sudans; to r., porticoed building
Rev: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR PPP COS VIII; Titus std. l. on curule chair with branch and roll; around, arms; S C in field
RIC 184 (R2). BMC 190. BNC 189. Hendin 1594.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 456. Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 35, 12 February 1985, lot 361.

In June of 80 AD Titus spectacularly opened the Flavian amphitheatre with a series of inaugural games lasting 100 days. This rare sestertius commemorates the event in a no less impressive fashion. Vespasian had begun construction nearly a decade before, but it was Titus who virtually completed it. The obverse* features an inventive bird's eye view of the structure from the Temple of Claudius on the Caelian Hill, with the Meta Sudans to the left and the porticoes of the Baths of Titus to the right. The depiction of the three structures on the obverse is strong evidence the Romans viewed the amphitheatre as part of a larger entertainment complex. The reverse features Titus seated surrounded by a pile of captured arms, identical to sestertii struck for Claudius. Taken together both obverse and reverse pays homage to Claudius, an emperor highly regarded by the Flavians. At the same time, the captured arms on the reverse and the decorative motif of the amphitheatre featuring palm trees and triumphal imagery commemorate the Jewish War which was still a major theme of Titus' coinage. Also, a recently discovered inscription which originally adorned one of the entrances proclaims the Flavian amphitheatre was built from the spoils of the Jewish War. Nathan T. Elkins believes the rarity of these coins today may hint that they were issued primarily for distribution at the opening games as souvenirs of the occasion. Ben Lee Damsky has convincingly argued Titus' extensive pulvinar precious metal coinage commemorates the inaugural games as well. If that is the case, a large portion of Titus' coinage was devoted to these opening games and the fantastic venue in which they were held, emphasising the prominent place it held for Titus and the Flavian dynasty. The fact that it still serves as a symbol of the Roman Empire today shows that Titus was correct in his estimation of its importance. Like the Eid Mar denarii, the Colosseum sestertii are seen today as one of the most well known and iconic coin types struck by the Roman Empire.

*Older references place the Colosseum on the reverse, but this is incorrect. Reverse dies at the Rome mint typically have concave flans. The seated Titus side is concave on these sestertii, therefore it was almost certainly intended as the reverse. 9 commentsDavid Atherton10/30/23 at 23:10Jay GT4: Outstanding historic type!

Septimius Severus Denarius RIC IVa 82Septimius Severus AR denarius

3.12g, 16.4mm, 180 degrees, Rome mint, 197CE.

Attribution: RIC IVa 82, Cohen 348. BMCRE V 168.

O: L SEPT SEV PERT AVG IMP VIII, laureate head right.

R: MVNIFICENTIA AVG, Elephant right (sometimes cuirassed).

27 examples in Reka Devnia, Mouchmov P.99.

Ex-FORUM coin No. RS94729, October 2023.3 commentsRon C210/30/23 at 15:54Virgil H: Very nice, love the elephant

079 Traianus Decius (249-251 A.D.), RIC IV-III 0041b2, Milan, AR-Antoninianus, PANNONIAE, Two Pannoniae facing each other, Scarce! #1079 Traianus Decius (249-251 A.D.), RIC IV-III 0041b2, Milan, AR-Antoninianus, PANNONIAE, Two Pannoniae facing each other, Scarce! #1
avers: IMP CAE TRA DECIVS AVG, Radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: PANNONIAE, Two Pannoniae facing each other, shaking hands in front of the standard in the center.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 21,5-22,2mm, weight: 3,79g, axis: 6h,
mint: Milan, date: 250-251 A.D.,
ref: RIC IV-III 0041b2, p-124, C 82-83, Scarce!
Q-0013 commentsquadrans10/30/23 at 15:51Virgil H: Beautiful

98Trajan 98-117 AD
AE 15mm
Perga in Pamphyllia
Laureate bust right
Temple with two columns within which cult statue of Artemis of Perga; eagle in pediment
RPC 2688, SNG Cop 3151 commentsmauseus10/30/23 at 15:49Virgil H: Nice one

RIC 184 TitusÆ Sestertius, 24.48g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: No legend; Flavian amphitheatre; to l., Meta Sudans; to r., porticoed building
Rev: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR PPP COS VIII; Titus std. l. on curule chair with branch and roll; around, arms; S C in field
RIC 184 (R2). BMC 190. BNC 189. Hendin 1594.
Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 225, 30 November 2023, lot 456. Ex Harlan J Berk BBS 35, 12 February 1985, lot 361.

In June of 80 AD Titus spectacularly opened the Flavian amphitheatre with a series of inaugural games lasting 100 days. This rare sestertius commemorates the event in a no less impressive fashion. Vespasian had begun construction nearly a decade before, but it was Titus who virtually completed it. The obverse* features an inventive bird's eye view of the structure from the Temple of Claudius on the Caelian Hill, with the Meta Sudans to the left and the porticoes of the Baths of Titus to the right. The depiction of the three structures on the obverse is strong evidence the Romans viewed the amphitheatre as part of a larger entertainment complex. The reverse features Titus seated surrounded by a pile of captured arms, identical to sestertii struck for Claudius. Taken together both obverse and reverse pays homage to Claudius, an emperor highly regarded by the Flavians. At the same time, the captured arms on the reverse and the decorative motif of the amphitheatre featuring palm trees and triumphal imagery commemorate the Jewish War which was still a major theme of Titus' coinage. Also, a recently discovered inscription which originally adorned one of the entrances proclaims the Flavian amphitheatre was built from the spoils of the Jewish War. Nathan T. Elkins believes the rarity of these coins today may hint that they were issued primarily for distribution at the opening games as souvenirs of the occasion. Ben Lee Damsky has convincingly argued Titus' extensive pulvinar precious metal coinage commemorates the inaugural games as well. If that is the case, a large portion of Titus' coinage was devoted to these opening games and the fantastic venue in which they were held, emphasising the prominent place it held for Titus and the Flavian dynasty. The fact that it still serves as a symbol of the Roman Empire today shows that Titus was correct in his estimation of its importance. Like the Eid Mar denarii, the Colosseum sestertii are seen today as one of the most well known and iconic coin types struck by the Roman Empire.

*Older references place the Colosseum on the reverse, but this is incorrect. Reverse dies at the Rome mint typically have concave flans. The seated Titus side is concave on these sestertii, therefore it was almost certainly intended as the reverse. 9 commentsDavid Atherton10/30/23 at 15:26Dirk J: Congratulations on the coin and making a dream com...

Titus (79 - 81 A.D.)EGYPT, Alexandria
BI Tetradrachm
O: Laureate head right.
R: EVQHNIA LG.Draped bust right of Euthenia, wearing wreath of grain ears; grain ears and poppies on her left shoulder; star behind.
Alexandria Mint RY 3 (AD 80/81)
12.62g
25mm
Köln 321; Dattari (Savio) 421; K&G 22.5; RPC II 2469; Emmett 232.3.

Extremely Rare

Ex.CNG Coins Electronic Auction 538, Lot 8631 commentsMat10/30/23 at 02:39Jay GT4: Fantastic style

RIC II 1² Domitian 0601Obv.: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII
Rev.: Column inscribed: COS XIIII LVD SAEC FEC
Domitian 81-96, Denar 88, Rom, 19mm 3,53g, ss, (C), INV:R261
Ex. Concordia Numismatik A9 Lot 412, 15.10.23 2 commentsDirk J10/29/23 at 07:49vindelicus: Great coin.

Constantius II FEL TEMP phoenix on rocky mound from RomeConstantius II
A.D. 348- 350
18x19mm 2.0g
D N CONSTAN-TIVS P F AVG; pearl diademed, draped and cuirassed bust.
FEL TEMP REPARATIO; radiate phoenix on rocky mound.
In ex. RT
RIC VIII Rome --

The rocky mound type is very rare and only issued by Rome. This coin is unlisted without star in left of reverse (compare with RIC VIII Rome 141)1 commentsVictor C10/29/23 at 01:04Pharsalos: Wow, that is a rare type!

Euboia, Euboian League. AR Drachm.
Date: c. 304-290 B.C.
Denomination: AR Drachm.
Diameter: 17 mm.
Weight: 3.70 grams.
Obverse: Head of the nymph Euboia left.
Reverse: Filleted head and neck of cow facing slightly right; EY above; BCD Euboia 22; HGC 4, 1421; Ex Glendining 13 November 1957, lot 94.1 commentspaul188810/29/23 at 01:04Pharsalos: Beautiful coin and cool provenance.

RIC II 1² Domitian 0339Obv.: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P IIII
Rev.: IMP VIIII COS XI CENS POT P P
Domitian 81-96, Denar 85, Rom, 21mm 3,46g, vz, (R2), INV:R262
Ex. DECAPOLIS MA-Shops, 20.10.23 2 commentsDirk J10/28/23 at 21:15Jay GT4: Exceptional portrait!

RPC 2463 Titus TetradrachmΑΥΤΟΚ ΤΙΤΟΥ ΚΑΙΣ ΟΥΕΣΠΑΣΙΑΝΟΥ ΣΕΒ
Laureate head of Titus right

ΟΜΟΝΟΙΑ LΒ (Year 2)
Homonoia seated, l., with olive branch

Alexandria, Egypt 79-80 CE

12.41g

RPC 2463 (12 in the core collection) Scarce

Ex-Incitatus

A scarce debased Alexandrian tetradrachm for Year 2 of Titus.2 commentsJay GT410/28/23 at 17:56quadrans: Wow 🤗👍

RIC 1570 Vespasian quadransIMP VESP AVG
Laureate head left

PON TR POT
Winged caduceus

Rome; 74 CE
2.91g
RIC 1570 (R3)

An official mule using the reverse of Titus. Reverse die matched to RIC 1575 in my gallery.

Ex-Zeus Auction 26 lot 448

Very rare. None in Forum galleries. One on acsearch.7 commentsJay GT410/28/23 at 17:53quadrans: Nice 😉🤗👍

RIC 1575 (V) Titus QuadransT CAES IMP
Laureate head right

PON TR POT
Winged Caduceus

Rome, 74 CE

2.79g

RIC 1575 (R2)

Ex-Tom Vossen (Netherlands)

Black patina under earthen deposits. This reverse is die matched to RIC 1570 (R3) in my collection (a mule with Vespasian obverse).5 commentsJay GT410/28/23 at 17:53quadrans: Great 🤗👍

CALABRIA, Taras. Circa 500-490 BC. AR NomosAR. 7.47 g. 24.00 mm.
Obv. Phalanthos riding dolphin right, holding cuttlefish; below, ΤΑΡΑ (retrograde).
Rev. [...] Ra (retrograde). Hippocamp right; cockle shell below.
HN Italy 827; Vlasto 108.
RR. Choice example of this rare and fascinating issue. Delicate warm patina over lustrous surfaces. EF.1 commentsLeo10/28/23 at 15:53Callimachus: What a beautiful coin.

RIC II 1² Vespasian 1477Obv.: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG
Rev.: PON MAX TR P COS VII
Vespasian 69-79, Denar 76, Ephesus?, 19mm 3,08g, ss, (R), INV:R260
Ex. Concordia Numismatik A9 Lot 394, 15.10.23 1 commentsDirk J10/27/23 at 20:34David Atherton: Beautiful piece!

RIC 146 var.Aureus, 103-111
Obv: IMP TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P
Laur. r., aegis.
Rev: COS V P P S P Q R OPTIMO PRINC
Octastyle temple, adorned with five statues; within, figure of Jupiter (or Pax) standing.

6.26g, 18mm
Woytek 267r (2 specimen): Temple of Honos?3 commentsklausklage10/27/23 at 11:45vindelicus: Wonderful reverse.

3. Trajan (AD 98-117)AV Aureus (18.5mm, 7.31 g). Rome mint. AD 108-110. IMP TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P, laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind / COS V PP SPQR OPTIMO PRINC, Ceres standing left, holding grain-ears and long torch. RIC III 109.

Ex Classical Numismatic Group Triton XXIV (20 January 2021), lot 1081.
Ex Classical Numismatic Group Triton XXI (9 January 2018), lot 750.1 commentsRomancollector10/27/23 at 11:34vindelicus: Wonderful coin!

Legion V
16.48 mm 4.22 gr.
RSC I 32; Sear HCRI 354; Sydenham 1221
Reverse die match in Schaefer’s die study, 14/236

[Struck with clashed dies. Incuse portions of the obverse legend and devices are clearly seen on the reverse, most prominently the AVG and lower portion of the oars. On the obverse, the beak of the eagle and a portion of a crescent are in incuse between the mast and prow.]2 commentsKen W210/27/23 at 11:30vindelicus: Rare in this condition. A nice one.

RIC II 1² Domitian 0487Obv.: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XII CENS PER P P
Rev.: FORTVNAE AVGVSTI S C
Domitian 81-96, As 86, Rom, 29mm 12,06g, ss-vz, (R3), INV:R257
Ex. Kölner Münzkabinett A119 Lot 441, 06.10.23 / Ex.Gorny&Mosch A100 Lot 478, 19991 commentsDirk J10/26/23 at 02:37Jay GT4: Great portrait Dirk

RIC II 1² Domitian 0094Obv.: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M
Rev.: TR POT COS VIII P P
Domitian 81-96, Denar 82, Rom, 19mm 3,45g, ss, (R), INV:R255
Ex. Catawiki, 02.10.231 commentsDirk J10/25/23 at 20:01David Atherton: Another beauty!

RIC II 1² Domitian 0064Obv.: IMP CAES DOMITIANVS AVG P M
Rev.: TR P COS VII DES VIII P P
Domitian 81-96, Denar 81, Rom, 18mm 3,53g, ss+, (R), INV:R256
Ex. Kölner Münzkabinett A119 Lot 437, 06.10.231 commentsDirk J10/25/23 at 20:00David Atherton: Beautiful!

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