Classical Numismatics Discussion Members' Coin Collection Photo Gallery

Last comments

RIC 1556 VespasianAR Denarius, 3.42g
Antioch mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESP AVG P M COS IIII; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: VESTA; Vesta stg. l., with simpulum and sceptre
RIC 1556 (R3). BMC -. RSC -. RPC -. BNC -.
Ex Numismatic Naumann 70, 7 October 2018, lot 411.

Second known example of the Antioch RIC group 5 Vesta. A double die match with the other published specimen, CNG 61, 25 September 2002, lot 1689, and an obverse die match with the extremely rare AVGVR TRI POT and VICTORIA AVGVSTI types from the same issue. All of these copy common contemporaneous reverse types from Rome.

Slightly off centre in good Antiochene style.6 commentsDavid Atherton07/08/23 at 22:26Jay GT4: Different dies than mine Very Happy

RIC 1011 Vespasian IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN COS VIII
Laureate head left

SC
Spes standing left, with flower

Rome, 77-78 CE

RIC 1011 (C)

10.78g

Ex-Londinium pick bin

Pulled this one out of a $10 pick bin. It was covered in a thick dark sticky film but was recognizable as a Flavian. A few dips in acetone and Vespasian came to the surface. Perhaps someone striped the patina at some point and tried repatination. In any case, the coin still toned under the film and now has a chocolate patina. Not so rough in hand. One of the more common coins from the series, yet still relatively scarce.3 commentsJay GT407/08/23 at 04:39Enodia: Best $10 coin I've seen. 🙂

Claudius Cistophorus Claudius and Fortuna in TempleObv.

TI CLAVD CAES AVG
Bare head of Claudius to left

Rev.

COM – ASI
Distyle temple of Roma, within Claudius on left being crowned by Fortuna on right
ROM ET AVG on temple frieze

26mm 10.26gm

RIC 120 (Pergamum) RPC 22214 commentsancientdave07/06/23 at 06:36quadrans: Great 👍🤗

A. Plautius denarius 55 BCEA. Plautius.

AED • CVR • S • C downwards to left, A • PLAVTIVS downward to right
Turreted head of Cybele right, wearing cruciform earring, hair in knot, locks falling down neck;

IVDAEVS upward to right, BACCHIVS in exergue.
Bearded male figure (Aristobulus II) kneels right with palm branch in left hand, alongside camel

Rome, 55 BCE.

3.75g

Hendin 6470

Ex-Taters

The very first Judaea Capta type commemorating the defeat of Aristobulus II in trying to usurp the High Priesthood and Kingship from his brother Hyrcanus II.

From Hendin's Guide to Biblical Coins volume 6:

"Bacchus the Jew has been an enigma in numismatics. The most popular opinion is that the figure on the coin represents Aristobulus II, ally of Aretas III, and commemorates Aristobulus' unsuccessful insurrection against both his brother Hyrcanus II and Pompey the Great.

"I suggest that BACCHIVS IVDAEVS is not only half-playful, but tauntingly mean and mischievous as well. There are numerous suggestions that many Romans and Greeks believed the ancient Jewish religion to be a cult of Dionysus, the popular god of grapes and winemaking, feasting, drunken behavior, and ecstasy. Josephus does not discuss any aspects of Bacchus and the Jews, but he mentions that Herod I presented a golden vine to the Temple. It was used to hang donatives of golden grapes and vine leaves and the vine was said to be part of the booty taken to Rome by Titus. Among the important prayers in Judaism, both ancient and modern, are those prayers that call upon the monotheistic God to bless "the fruit of the vine."
Grapes were also one of the seven species listed in Deuteronomy 8:8 as special products of the ancient Land of Israel. The relationship the Greeks and Romans fantasized to exist between the Jews and Dionysus may also be related to the traditional mythology that Dionysus was the son of Semele, "who was the daughter of Cadmus, who, being a Phoenician, was a Semite who spoke a language closely akin to Hebrew." (GBC p. 367)"10 commentsJay GT407/05/23 at 16:25TheEmpireNeverEnded: All-around cool coin

RIC 0681/0690 Vespasian MuleAR Denarius, 2.46g
Rome Mint, 74 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESP AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS III across field; Laurel trees, two, upright
Cf. RIC 681/690 (for obv./rev.). BMC -. RSC -. BNC -.
Ex Private Collection.

A unique and unpublished denarius mule combining an obverse of Vespasian with a reverse intended for Titus Caesar. Vespasian should be named COS V on the reverse, instead we have Titus's COS III title. Mules between Vespasian and Titus are not unheard of due to both of them frequently sharing the same reverse types throughout the reign. RIC II.1 author Ian Carradice has been alerted to this mule and has added a footnote to RIC 690 (... mint mule with obverse of Vespasian).

The reverse is a restoration of of a similar type struck by Augustus. The two laurel trees represent the ones planted at Augustus's door.2 commentsDavid Atherton07/05/23 at 16:24TheEmpireNeverEnded: I've never seen this reverse before. Excellen...

Julius Caesar (64-44 BC)AR Denarius
19.48 mm 3.68 gr.
Obv: No legend, Venus diademed head right, Cupid on shoulder
Rev: No legend, trophy of Gallic arms with two captives at base, on left female in dejection,
on right male with hands bound behind, CAESAR in exergue
Military mint in Spain (46-45 BC)
RSC I 13; Sear HCRI 58; Sydenham 1014
3 reverse die matches in Schaefer’s die study, 10/1713 commentsKen W207/05/23 at 16:22TheEmpireNeverEnded: Congrats on this one!!

RPC 2466 TitusAR Tetradrachm, 13.08g
Alexandria mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: AYTOK TITOY KAIΣ OYEΣΠAΣIANOY ΣEB; Head of Titus, laureate, r.
Rev: NIA-OΣ; bust of Nilus with lotus on shoulder, r., date LΓ to r.
RPC 2466 (4 spec.). Emmett 234.3. Dattari-Savio 462.
Acquired from Tater's Relics, eBay, June 2023.

The Nilus type makes an appearance on Titus's tetradrachms during his third regnal year and is a carry-over reverse from Vespasian's Alexandrian bronze issues. Nilus was the god of the river Nile and father to several children. He is often shown on the coinage as a bearded old man holding a lotus flower, which symbolises the sun breaking forth from the water every morning with a beautiful bloom.

Titus's Alexandrian tetradrachms are scarcer than those of his father, perhaps owing to the shorter amount of time they were struck and a general winding down of the mint's production.3 commentsDavid Atherton07/05/23 at 15:36maridvnvm: A lovely looking coin.

BYZANTINE, JUSTINIAN I, AR Anonymous Half-Siliqua, struck c.530 at ConstantinopleObverse: No legend. Helmeted and draped bust of Constantinopolis facing right.
Reverse: Large K within pelleted circle.
Diameter: 15mm | Weight: 0.7gms | Die Axis: 12
Bendall, Anonymous, 8c. | Vagi 3051
Not in SBCV or DOC2 comments*Alex07/05/23 at 14:02Paulus J: A lovely example!

CT 9.05.020; RIC VII 279Crispus, as Caesar, BI Nummus. London, c. AD 321-323. CRISPVS NOBIL C, laureate and cuirassed bust left, right hand holding spear forward, decorated shield on left arm / BEAT TRANQLITAS, altar inscribed VOTIS XX in three lines, surmounted by globe; three stars above, PLON in exergue. 2.90g, 19mm, 6h.

Ex Numismatik Naumann Auction 129, 4th June 2023, Lot 672.

CT Rarity: CC (very many examples).1 commentsPaulus J07/05/23 at 08:48*Alex: Great ccoin, nicely centred and lovely patina.

Crusaders, Kingdom of Cyprus, Henry II, Second Reign 1310 - 1324 AR grosCrusaders, Kingdom of Cyprus, Henry II, Second Reign 1310 - 1324 AR gros
4.6 gr
hENRI REI DE, enthroned king holding globus cruciger in left hand and scepter in right over shoulder .
+ IERUSAL'M E D ChIP cross of Jerusalem .
CCS 64 ; Metcalf "The silver coinage of Cyprus , 1285-1382" Pl. 17 , 7. die D
Very rare reverse legend variant .2 commentsVladislav D07/04/23 at 12:09Anaximander: Such a great portrait.

Crusaders . Principality of ANTIOCH . Bohemond III ( 1163-1201.)Crusaders . Principality of ANTIOCH . Bohemond III ( 1163-1201.) Denier
Early experimental type
Obv.: +BOAHVHDVS, bearded ,helmeted bust right in chain mail , cross on helmet , crescent upward left , star right .
Rev.: +ANTIOCHIA, cross with crescent upward in first quarter.
CCS 52 ; Metcalf 359
Very Rare .1 commentsVladislav D07/04/23 at 12:07Anaximander: Nice rarity and a great strike.

Crusaders . Principality of ANTIOCH . Bohemond III ( 1163-1201.)Principality of ANTIOCH
Bohemond III ( 1163-1201.)
Denier ‘helmet’ type,
Obv.: +BOANVNDVS, helmeted bust left, pellet
below star in right field, crescent left field.
Rev.: +ANTIOCHIA, cross with crescent in second
quarter. CCS 65 for type1 commentsVladislav D07/04/23 at 12:04Anaximander: Better than Very Fine... Looks like Metcalf Class ...

Moesia inferior, Nikopolis ad Istrum, 14. Septimius Severus, HrHJ (2021) 8.14.04.09 corr.Septimius Severus, AD 193-211
AE 26, 13.19g, 26.27mm, 0°
struck under governor Aurelius Gallus
obv. AV.K.L.CEP. - CEVHROC
Bust, laureate, r., slightly draped on l. shoulder
rev. VP AVR.GALL(OV) - NIKOPOLI / PROC IC
Athena, helmeted, in long girded double chiton, stg. facing, head l., resting with
raised l. hand on long spear, shield behind, holding in extended r. hand patera
over burning altar
ref.: a) not in AMNG:
cf. AMNG I/1, 1296 (for the type only)
b) not in Varbanov
c) Hristova/Hoeft/Jekov (2021) No. 8.14.4.9 corr. (same dies, writes VP AV and
NIKOPOLIT)
VF2 commentsJochen07/04/23 at 04:00rennrad12020: Very nice indeed!

RIC 337 Domitian as Caesar [Titus]Æ Dupondius, 14.12g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: CAES DIVI VESP F DOMITIAN COS VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: CONCORDIA AVG; S C in exergue; Concordia std. l., with patera and cornucopiae
RIC 337 (C). BMC 239. BNC 247.
Acquired from eBay, June 2023. Formerly in NGC holder #4938480-029, grade VF.

A common Concordia type struck for Domitian Caesar under Titus after Vespasian's deification. According to H. Mattingly, Concordia here promises Domitian's 'loyal co-operation with his brother.' Suetonius would have us believe this public fraternal affection was a sham and Domitian did everything he could to plot against Titus. Dio goes so far as to say Domitian hastened Titus' death by having him packed in ice! All of this can be dismissed as nothing more than post-Domitianic gossip intended to blacken Domitian's name. The Flavian historian Brian Jones speculates the brother's relationship was one of 'mutual indifference and ignorance' due to their age and personality disparities. The numismatic evidence shows that the two brothers at least put on a good public face.

The portrait is rendered in fine style.1 commentsDavid Atherton07/02/23 at 12:24Jay GT4: Great coin and even better in hand

CT - ; RIC - (unpublished in standard references)Galerius, as Caesar, BI Nummus. London, c. AD 303-1 May 305. MAXIMIANVS NOBIL CAESAR, laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right / GENIO POPVLI ROMANI, Genius standing left, chlamys across left shoulder, holding patera and cornucopiae. 9.85g, 31mm, 6h.

Purchased from Rob Jones, 9th May 2023.
From the Rauceby Hoard, Lincolnshire, 9th July 2017 (PAS ref LIN-F6D516; BM ref 2017 T649).

CT Rarity: TBC (one of two known examples).

Notes: An unpublished issue from the London mint, set to be listed in the 2nd edition of LMCC (Cloke & Toone) as CT 3.01.27.5. There are just two known examples of this coin, which features the full CAESAR in the obverse legend, rather than the abbreviated CAES. Both examples came from the Rauceby hoard discovered in Lincolnshire by two detectorists on the 9th July 2017. This is the only known example in private hands, since the British Museum has kept the other (see https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/C_2022-4018-31).1 commentsPaulus J07/02/23 at 08:57Noviomagus: A fantastic coin with lovely detail.

S.886A Coenwulf with Archbishop ÆthelheardPenny of Æthelheard, Archbishop of Canterbury 793-796, 803-805, with Coenwulf, King of Mercia 796-821
Second Archepiscopate 803-805
Fifth issue
Mint: Canterbury
S.886A
N.232
Naismith C22.1j
O: +COENVVLF REX M
R: +AEDILHEARD AR EP

Æthelheard had a troubled time as Archbishop of Canterbury. Shortly after Offa of Mercia's death, Kent fell out of the Mercian sphere of influence and asserted its independence under Eadberht Praen. Æthelheard, who owed his position to the Mercians and was no friend to Eadberht, took refuge in Mercia. However, he found himself in a tricky position, as his predecessor Jaenberht had long feuded with Offa, leading to the latter creating a rival see in Lichfield with its own archbishop. Æthelheard found himself in exile and not even the top dog in Mercia.

It would take some time for the situation to improve, but eventually the new Mercian king, Coenwulf, was able to restore Mercian rule over Canterbury and restore Æthelheard. Meanwhile Æthelheard went to Rome to petition the pope to demote the rival Archbishopric in Lichfield, which was ultimately done, leaving Canterbury's archbishop the head of ecclesiastic matters in England, a situation that essentially has continued to this day. In 803, Æthelheard returned and was able to resume his position for a short time before his death.

Æthelheard struck coins with Offa and Coenwulf. It is not clear whether there were any coins of his made in his lengthy absence, and there are several different varieties, but all are pretty rare suggesting that the coinage volume was pretty small.

Ex- Wolfshead Gallery, Spink 18011 (lot 9), A Williams, SNC 12-1991 (7953), D Chick, found Dunmow, Essex, 1988, EMC 2001.09761 commentsSt. George's Collection07/02/23 at 03:31David Atherton: Great rarity! Love the neat bio provided.

S.947 Eadwald (Lul)Penny of Eadwald, king of East Anglia, ca. 798
Moneyer: Lul
Mint: Unknown
S. 947
N. 432
Naismith E3
O: REX/+EADVA/LD
R: +L V L

Nothing is known about Eadwald, who was king in East Anglia for a short time after the death of Offa of Mercia. Mercia had dominated East Anglia, but a dysnastic struggle after Offa's death seems to have allowed an independent East Anglia to re-emerge. It would not last, and within a few years it was again a Mercian protectorate.

We don't know who Eadwald was or when exactly he lived. He did produce coins, and these very rare pieces give insight into an otherwise forgotten period.

Ex- Lockdales 162 (lot 1496), CNG 97 (lot 983), J Cross, Spink 211 (lot 70), EMC 2011.01784 commentsSt. George's Collection07/02/23 at 03:29David Atherton: Fascinating background info provided!

023. Septimius Severus. 193-212. AR Denarius. RESTITVTOR VRBISObv. Laureate head right SEVERVS AVG PART MAX
Rev. Emperor standing left, sacrificing from patera over tripod and holding reversed spear. RESTITVTOR VRBIS

C 599. RIC 167a. 18mm, 3.27g.
3 commentsLordBest07/01/23 at 20:54vindelicus: Very nice coin.

Hadrian As RIC 678Hadrian 117-138. As ca. 125-127 Rome 10.78 g. HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS. Laureate bust, draped, right. rev. SALVS AVGVSTI, in field S-C, in section COS III. Salus standing left with scepter, altar with snake in front. RIC 678. extremely fine.1 commentsCaesarincarnate06/29/23 at 00:50Caesarincarnate: New addition

Alexander III , The Great Drachm Miletos mint.Silver Drachm,
Miletos (near Balat, Turkey) mint, struck under Philoxenos, c. 325 - 323 B.C.
Obverse :head of Herakles right, wearing Nemean Lion skin, scalp over head, forepaws tied at neck.
Reverse: Zeus Aëtophoros seated left on backless throne, nude to the waist, himation around hips and legs, right leg forward (lifetime style), eagle in extended right hand, long scepter vertical behind in left hand, thunderbolt left, AΛEΞANΔPOY downward behind, ΔΗ monogram under throne.
Price 2088, Müller Alexander 11, SNG Alpha Bank 627.

The Sam Mansourati Collection./Given as a souvenir to a superb dear friend Dr. Joseph Diaz.2 commentsSam06/28/23 at 16:15Virgil H: Very nice

Constans VICTORIA DD AVGG Q NN from Trier...unofficial issueConstans
A.D. 347- 348
14x15mm 1.1gm
CONSTANS P F AVG; Diademed and cuirassed bust right.
VICTORIA DD AVGG Q NN; Two victories, holding wreaths upward, facing each other; Leaf between;
In ex. TRS in exergue.
Cf. RIC VIII Trier 185

Unofficial issue
1 commentsVictor C06/27/23 at 13:45Laurentius: Also nice! Cool

Constantine II VIRTVS AVGG NN from Trier...unofficial issueConstantine II
Circa A.D. 340
13x14mm 1.5gm
[????] CONSINNITVS AVG; laureate and cuirassed bust right.
[VIRTVS] IVGG NN; Virtus standing holding spear and resting hand on shield.
In ex. TRP

unofficial issue copying a Trier coin1 commentsVictor C06/27/23 at 13:44Laurentius: A beautiful example of these special editions!

Kingdom of Paphlagonia, Pylaimenes II/III Euergetes 133-103 BC
AE 18 mm, 3.190 grams, 0 degrees

O: bull head facing

R: winged caduceus, BAΣIΛEΩΣ downward on right, ΠYΛAIMENOY / EYEPΓETOY in two downward lines on the left

Ref: SNG BM Black Sea 1555-6; HGC 7, 441; SG 3715

Notes: Very fine. Unknown Paphlagonian mint. This one has a great bull and well centered reverse. This is second of two coins of this type in my gallery. It is rated R1 in HGC.

Ex-Forum Ancient Coins, May 20234 commentsVirgil H06/27/23 at 00:32Tracy Aiello: Great coin!

Alexander III the Great Lifetime Issue AR Tetradrachm Damascus MintKINGS of MACEDON.
Alexander III ‘the Great’. 336-323 BC.
AR Tetradrachm , Damascus mint. Struck under Menon or Menes, circa 330-323 BC.
Obverse : Head of Herakles right, wearing lion skin.
Reverse : Zeus Aëtophoros seated left; AP (monogram)X in left field; below throne, four pellets between struts, ΔA below. Price 3200. Iridescent tone, some marks. Near VF.
26.5 MM W: 16.98 Gr Die Axis : 12h.
The Sam Mansourati Collection.1 commentsSam06/26/23 at 20:51Jay GT4: Great addition Sam!

RIC 1092 VespasianÆ Dupondius, 12.58g
Rome mint, 79 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN COS VIIII; Head of Vespasian, radiate, l.
Rev: CERES AVGVST; S C in field; Ceres stg. l., with corn ears and poppy and sceptre
RIC 1092 (R). BMC p. 177 ||. BNC -.
Acquired from Classic World Coins, May 2023.

Vespasian's bronze issue struck in 79 (between 1 January and 24 June) was very brief, likely owing to his death in June. Consequently, all the coins from the issue are extremely rare. Only one reverse type is recorded for the dupondii - the standing Ceres, carried-over from previous bronze issues. Missing from both the BM and Paris collections. 1 commentsDavid Atherton06/26/23 at 13:17Jay GT4: Very nice David, Congrats

0 - Severus Alexander as Caesar - AR DenariusSeverus Alexander as Caesar. Rome Mint.

obv: " M AUR ALEXANDER CAES "
Bare head right, draped.

rev: " PIETAS AUG " - Priestly Implements.4 commentsrexesq06/25/23 at 16:07Callimachus: Nice portrait.

Orodes IV2nd half of 2nd century AD
AE Drachm, 14 mm, 2.70 grams, 0 degrees

O: Bust facing forward, wearing diadem band, with large hair tuft on top and sides of head; pellet border

R: Bust of Artemis left, wearing low tiara with crest of dots; to right, anchor with one crossbar on top; pellet border

Ref: van’t Haaff 17.2.1-1b

Ex-Heritage Auction #232322 Lot 61179 (part of), June 2023; Ex-Tony Nozar collection1 commentsVirgil H06/25/23 at 14:40*Alex: Nice coin, my favourite of the three you posted.

aA3. RSC 1a. AR Denarius. CONCORDIA AVGGAR Denarius. Rome mint.

Obv. Draped bust right PLAVTILLAE AVGVSTAE

Rev. Concordia standing left holding patera and sceptre CONCORDIA AVGG.

RIC 269

An unusual variant of a common type featuring the common CONCORDIA AVGG reverse with the first obverse type of Plautilla featuring a youthful portrait (type A) and the PLAVTILLAE AVGVSTAE (a) legend. 7 commentsLordBest06/25/23 at 06:05okidoki: great looks

Kings of Macedon, Kassander319 - 297 BC
AE 20, 6.584 grams, 30 degrees
Macedonia, Pella or Amphipolis minted from 306 - 297 BC

O: Head of Herakles right wearing lion skin head dress

R: KAΣΣANΔPOY BAΣIΛEΩΣ, horseman riding right, raising right hand in salute, star right, Λ below, T between forelegs

Ref: SNG Alpha Bank 912 ff., SNG München 999, SNG Cop 1144, HGC 3.1 992

Notes: aVF, dark patina, porosity, scratches

Ex- Forum Ancient Coins, May 2023; TMC (Tom Maus Coins, Johnson City, NY)1 commentsVirgil H06/24/23 at 20:40Jay GT4: Nice one

RIC 0012 Titus DenariusIMP TITVS CAES VESPASIAN AVG PM
Laureate head right

TR P VIIII IMP XIIII
Trophy, below, captive kneeling right

Rome after July 1, 79 CE

3.25g

RIC 12 (R)

Ex-Praefectus

Mis-attributed as the more common Second issue RIC 30, this is the rarer First issue missing PP at the end of the obverse legend. Worn but lovely portrait of the new Emperor with nice toning. Very handsome coin in hand. I believe these are now convincingly attributed as Judaea Capta coins.4 commentsJay GT406/23/23 at 16:49*Alex: Great find! Well done.

Moesia inferior, Nikopolis ad Istrum, 23. Macrinus, HrHJ (2021) 8.23.01.10 corr.Macrinus, AD 217-218
AE 28, 11.99g, 27.71mm, 345°
struck under governor Statius Longinus
obv. AVT K M OPPELLI CEV[H] - MAKRINOC
Laureate heasd r.
rev. VP CTATI LONGINO - V.NI - KOPOLITWN PR / [OC ICTR]
Zeus in himation enthroned l., resting with raised l. hand on long sceptre and
holding in extended r. hand patera; without eagle
ref. a) not in AMNG:
cf. AMNG I/1, 1722
b) Varbanov 3538
c) Hristova//Hoeft/Jekov (2023) No. 8.23.1.10 corr. (legend break after V NI not mentioned)
S+, dark green patina1 commentsJochen06/23/23 at 05:30Virgil H: Nice patina

RIC 0102 Titus denariusIMP TITVS CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M
Laureate head of Titus right

TR P IX IMP XV COS VIII P P
Captives, two back to back, seated either side of trophy, woman on left, man on right.

Rome, January 1- June 30, 80 CE

2.73g

RIC 102 (C); Hendin 6615

One interpretation is that this coin was Issued to commemorate a victory in Britain by Agricola, in connection with Titus' 15th imperial acclamation. However, there is no evidence for this supposed British Victory on any other coin of Titus. Hendin classifies this as a Judaea Capta issue, which is understandable given the iconography. When considered together with the entirety of Titus' coinage, it becomes apparent this is in fact a Jewish war commemorative.

Worn, but with a lovely old cabinet patina.

Ex-C. Euston from an old European collection, with ticket.
4 commentsJay GT406/23/23 at 05:26Virgil H: Interesting imagery

Greek Coins
LOKRIS. Lokri Opuntii. Obol (Circa 370-350 BC). Obv: ΟΠΟΝ. Amphora with grape bunch and ivy wreath hanging from mouth. Rev: Sixteen-rayed star. BCD Lokris 27-38; HGC 4, 1003. Ex BCD Collection. Condition: Good very fine. Weight: 0.77 g. Diameter: 11 mm.2 commentspaul188806/21/23 at 11:20Anaximander: Impressive clarity of devices and legends, so rare...

Kingdom of PaphlagoniaPylaimenes II. / III. Euergetes
Circa 133-103 BC
AE 18mm, 2.90 grams, 0 degrees

O: Head of bull facing

R: ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ / ΠΥΛΑΙΜΕΝΟΥ ΕΥΕΡΓΕΤΟΥ.  Winged kerykeion (caduceus)

Ref: SNG BM Black Sea 1555-6; HGC 7, 441; SG 3715

Notes: Extremely fine. Unknown mint. This is a beautiful coin in hand, it has the best obverse of any I have seen. It is rated R1 in HGC.

Ex-Numismatik Naumann Auction 127, Lot 230, April 20237 commentsVirgil H06/21/23 at 10:54Serendipity: Wonderful!

RIC 418 DomitianÆ As, 12.26g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XI CENS PER P P; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: SALVTI above, AVGVSTI below; S C in field; Altar
RIC 418 (R2). BMC 366A. BNC -.
Acquired from Jetons Canada, eBay, May 2023.

The SALVTI AVGVSTI altar type was first introduced on Domitian's aes coinage in 84 after a brief hiatus of the Senatorial mint's production in 82-83, presumably for re-organisational purposes. The structure on the reverse has been traditionally described as an altar, however, Marvin Tameanko has convincingly argued it is actually a sacellum, or small shrine. He states the steps at the base leading to two doors with handles are overwhelming evidence that the structure was much larger than an altar. As far as the shrine's significance - H. Mattingly in BMCRE II interprets the type as commemorating the Senate's dedication of an altar shrine celebrating Domitian's safe return from the Germanic Wars of 82-83. Alternately, the shrine may have been dedicated as an appeal to Salus for the emperor's continued good health. In any case, no trace of the shrine has survived antiquity. This as struck during the last bronze issue of 85 is a rare variety of the type with a RIC frequency rating of 'R2'. Missing from the Paris collection.1 commentsDavid Atherton06/19/23 at 12:53Jay GT4: Bold portrait

Antoninus Pius (138 - 161 A.D.)EGYPT, Alexandria
BI Tetradrachm
O: ΑΝΤⲰNINOC CЄΒ ЄΥCЄΒ Laureate head right.
R:L - Ζ Athena Stathmia standing front, head to left, holding scales in her right hand and cornucopiae in her left; at feet to right, shield.
Alexandria Mint RY 7 = 143/4
23mm
13.95g
Dattari (Savio) 2178. Emmett 1372.7. K&G 35.198. RPC IV.4 online 13508.

Published on Wildwinds!3 commentsMat06/18/23 at 02:05Randygeki(h2): Oh cool. That's a really nice tet Mat! Great ...

Arcadius GLORIA REIPVBLICE from ThessalonicaArcadius
A.D. 384- 388
12mm 1.1gm
D N ARCADIVS P F AVG; pearl-diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
GLORIA REIPVBLICE; campgate with windows and two turrets; Γ in left.
In ex. TES
RIC IX Thessalonica 62

Windows in campgate
1 commentsVictor C06/15/23 at 21:50Virgil H: Very nice

Moesia inferior, Nikopolis ad Istrum, 26. Elagabal, HrHJ (2021) 8.26.36.08Elagabal, AD 218-222
AE 27, 12.49g, 26.5mm, 210!
struck under governor Novius Rufus
obv. AVT K M AVR - ANTWNEINOC
Bust, daped and cuirassed, seen from before, radiate, r.
rev. VP NOBIOV ROVFOV - NIKOPOLITWN PRC(sic!)
in l. field one below the other ICT / R, in r. field ON
Homonoia in long garment and mantle, stg. frontal, head l., holding in l. arm
cornucopiae and in extended r. hand patera; over l. shoulder unknown object
(misunderstood hair braid?)
ref. a) not in AMNG
b) not in Varbanov
c) Hristova/Hoeft/Jekov (2021) No. 8.26.36.8 (same dies)
scarce, F/F+
1 commentsJochen06/15/23 at 11:35Anaximander: So many of these large module Nikopolis coins (pen...

S.6106 Phase I Hiberno-NorsePhase I Hiberno-Norse penny ca. 995-1020
In the name of Æthelred II
Moneyer: Faeremin
Mint: Dublin
S.6106
Phase I
O: +ÆDELRÆD RE+ AIGO
R: +FÆREMIN MO DYFLI

This coin does not name Sihtric, but was probably of his time. The obverse names Æthelred but the reverse has the Dublin signature.

Ex- G Schinke, Noonans 259 (lot 515), Good Money Collection, Baldwins1 commentsSt. George's Collection06/15/23 at 11:33Anaximander: Love this! Peck marks just add character. And the...

S.947 Eadwald (Lul)Penny of Eadwald, king of East Anglia, ca. 798
Moneyer: Lul
Mint: Unknown
S. 947
N. 432
Naismith E3
O: REX/+EADVA/LD
R: +L V L

Nothing is known about Eadwald, who was king in East Anglia for a short time after the death of Offa of Mercia. Mercia had dominated East Anglia, but a dysnastic struggle after Offa's death seems to have allowed an independent East Anglia to re-emerge. It would not last, and within a few years it was again a Mercian protectorate.

We don't know who Eadwald was or when exactly he lived. He did produce coins, and these very rare pieces give insight into an otherwise forgotten period.

Ex- Lockdales 162 (lot 1496), CNG 97 (lot 983), J Cross, Spink 211 (lot 70), EMC 2011.01784 commentsSt. George's Collection06/15/23 at 11:30Anaximander: Oh, my! Such a rarity, with great eye appeal..

Constantine I SARMATIA DEVICTA from ArlesConstantine I
A.D. 322-323
19mm 3.0g
CONSTAN-•TINVS AVG; laureate head right.
SARMATIA DEVICTA; Victory advancing r., holding trophy, palm branch, spurning captive std. on ground to right.
In ex. S✶AR
RIC VII Arles 257

There is a dot in the obverse legend

The Sarmatia coins were issued from London, Lyon, Arles, Trier and Sirmium.

“When Constantine learned that the Sarmatians, who live near Lake Maeotis, had sailed across the Danube and were pillaging his territory, he led his army against them…he killed many, took more prisoners and put the rest to flight.” Zosimus 2:21

"Licinius did not accept the gold coinage on which Constantine emblazoned his victory against the Sarmatians, but melted it down and converted it to other uses, giving no answer to those who faulted him with regard to this than that he did not wish foreign affairs to have a place in domestic business." Petrus Patricius (circa A.D. 500- 565) The Lost History of Peter the Patrician F 208
2 commentsVictor C06/15/23 at 03:16Victor C: Thanks...It is a pretty sharp example.

Constantius II campgate from TicinumConstantius II
A.D. 326
19x20mm 3.6g
FL IVL CONSTANTIVS NOB C; Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust left.
PROVIDEN-TIAE CAESS; campgate with two turrets and star between them.
in ex. Q crescent T
RIC VII Ticinum 201
4 commentsVictor C06/15/23 at 03:16Victor C: Yes, this one has nice toned silvering

Constantine I SARMATIA DEVICTA from TrierConstantine I
A.D. 323-4
18x19mm 3.6g
CONSTANTINVS AVG; laureate head right.
SARMATIA DEVICTA; Victory advancing r., holding trophy, palm branch, spurning captive std. on ground to right.
In ex. STR crescent
RIC VII Trier 435
2 commentsVictor C06/15/23 at 03:14Victor C: thanks...I managed a nice picture of it

Roman Imperial: Constantius II as Augustus, AE2.Cyzicus 351-354 A.D. 5.64g - 24.4mm, Axis 12h.

Obv: DN CONSTAN-TIVS PF AVG - Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.

Rev: FEL TEMP RE-PARATIO / Γ / SMKΓ - Helmeted soldier left, shield on left arm, spearing fallen horseman; shield on the ground right. Bare-headed and bearded horseman turns to face the
soldier and raises right arm. Γ in left field. Mintmark SMKΓ.

Ref: RIC VIII, 93.
Rated Scarce.
Provenance: Ex Carpe Deim Numismatics. Chris Scarlioli Collection.1 commentsChristian Scarlioli06/15/23 at 02:51Jay GT4: Fantastic coin

M. Junius Brutus (54 BC)AR Denarius
18.95 mm 3.91 gr.
Obv: LIBERTAS, head right
Rev: No legend, consul L. Junius Brutus walking left between lictors,
preceded by accensus, BRVTVS in exergue
Mint: Rome (54 BC)
RSC I 31; Sydenham 906

[Issued by the assassin-to-be as moneyer five years before Caesar crossed the Rubicon. Perhaps forecasting Brutus becoming one of the lead conspirators, this coin reflects his republican views and in particular celebrates the expulsion of the Tarquins from Rome by his ancestor, L. Junius Brutus, consul in 509 BC, ushering in the republican era.]2 commentsKen W206/15/23 at 02:51Jay GT4: Historic!

RIC 247 Titus VariantÆ As, 9.10g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: VICTORIA AVGVST; S C in field; Victory adv. r., with wreath and palm
RIC 247 var. (rev. legend). BMC -, BNC -.
Acquired from Roman Coin Shop, May 2023.

A unique and unpublished variant of the left facing portrait/Victory advancing type with the reverse legend beginning from the upper right instead of the previously recorded lower left. Although the reverse legend on this specimen is worn, the letter 'V' starting off the legend can clearly be seen below Victory's wreath. RIC II.1 co-author Ian Carradice has been notified of the piece and should assign it as a footnote to RIC 247 in the Addenda and Corrigenda (...variant with reverse legend inscribed from top right, not bottom left).
1 commentsDavid Atherton06/14/23 at 12:25Jay GT4: Superb rarity! And even better in hand!

Constantius II campgate from TicinumConstantius II
A.D. 326
19x20mm 3.6g
FL IVL CONSTANTIVS NOB C; Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust left.
PROVIDEN-TIAE CAESS; campgate with two turrets and star between them.
in ex. Q crescent T
RIC VII Ticinum 201
4 commentsVictor C06/13/23 at 22:23Virgil H: Very nice, love the campgates

Constantine I SARMATIA DEVICTA from TrierConstantine I
A.D. 323-4
18x19mm 3.6g
CONSTANTINVS AVG; laureate head right.
SARMATIA DEVICTA; Victory advancing r., holding trophy, palm branch, spurning captive std. on ground to right.
In ex. STR crescent
RIC VII Trier 435
2 commentsVictor C06/13/23 at 17:35Laurentius: Yes, a very nice one from the 2. Officina! Cool

Bowl #8Possibly Iran (Tepe Sialk?)
Iron Age?
10 cm (4") (width)

Description:
Tripod bowl with base extending to same depth as legs, which are slanted outward; one leg is intact, one chipped, and one missing. The bowl bears some similarities to Medvedskaya’s (Iran: Iron Age I) Fig. 4, Sialk 22 and 23. (It is sort of a hybrid of these).

Ex-NY City collection (estate sale)1 commentsKamnaskires06/13/23 at 01:24Jay GT4: Interesting piece

Taras, Calabria 302--228 BC
AR Hemiobol (7.5mm, 0.24g)
O: Scallop shell with seven teeth, within linear border.
R: Two crescents back to back, with two pellets above and below.
Vlasto 1789-91; SNG France 2258-60; Cote 181; HN Italy 926
Very scarce
From the Anders collection; ex Roma Auctions
3 commentsEnodia06/12/23 at 23:51Jay GT4: Very nice

RIC 0305 VespasianÆ As, 9.64g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: IVDEA CAPTA; S C in exergue; Palm tree; to r., Judaea std. r. on cuirass, head resting on hand, surrounded by arms
RIC 305 (C). BMC 605. BNC 580. Hendin 1554a.
Acquired from Praefectus Coins, May 2023. Ex Jean Elsen & ses Fils S.A. Auction 154, 17 March 2023, lot 602.

Judaea Capta commemorative coins were struck in all metals, but are quite scarce on the middle bronzes. This as from 71 echoes a similar Judaea Capta denarius struck the previous year. Here IVDEA CAPTA is spelled out, on the denarii only IVDAEA is in exergue (note the different spelling between the two denominations). The cuirass and surrounding pile of arms are also missing from the denarius examples. This as is rated common in RIC but can be most difficult to find in trade.1 commentsDavid Atherton06/12/23 at 13:27Jay GT4: Historic type with a good reverse

Tiberius II Constantine, 578 - 582 ADAV Solidus
Constantinople mint
Obv. - Facing bust of Justinian crowned and cuirassed, holding globus cruciger and shield decorated with horseman spearing a fallen enemy; Dm TIb CONS/ TANT PP AVI
Rev. - Cross potent on three steps; CONOB in exurge
20.76 mm / 4.47 grams1 commentscmcdon092306/10/23 at 21:52Virgil H: These are all so beautiful

Moesia inferior, Nikopolis ad Istrum, 18. Caracalla, HrHJ (2021) 8.18.36.19 (rev. only)Caracalla as Caesar, AD 195-98
AE 18, 3.43g, 17.65mm, 225°
obv. M AVR KAI. - ANTWNINo
Bare head r.
rev. NIKOPOLIT - PROC ICTR
Concordia stg. frontal, head l., holding in l. arm cornucopiae and in extended r.
hand patera
ref: a) AMNG I/1, 1501
b) Varbanov 2957
c) not in Hristova/Hoeft/Jekov (2021):
rev. No. 8.18.36.19 (same die)
obv. e.g. No. 8.18.7.9 (same die)
VF, dark green patina1 commentsJochen06/10/23 at 19:28vindelicus: Very nice coin.

Roman Imperial: Crispus as Caesar, AE FollisTrier 322-323 A.D. 2.60g - 18.8mm, Axis 11h.

Obv: IVL CRISPVS NOB CAES - Laureate, cuirassed bust left, holding spear over right shoulder and shield with captive and trophy motif.

Rev: BEATA TRANQVILLITAS / VO-TIS-XX / • PTR • - Globe on altar inscribed VO-TIS-XX, ✱✱✱ above. Mintmark • PTR •.

Ref: RIC VII, 372, P.
Provenance: Chris Scarlioli Collection.1 commentsChristian Scarlioli06/10/23 at 08:57Laurentius: Nice Crispus!

Roman Imperial: Constantine II as Caesar, AE Follis. Londinium 324-325 A.D. 3.15g - 20.7mm, Axis 6h.

Obv: CONSTANTINVS IVN NOB C - Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind.

Rev: PROVIDEN-TIAE CAESS / PLON- Campgate, 5 layers, 2 turrets, ✱ above, no door. Mintmark PLON.

Ref: RIC VII, 296.
Provenance: Chris Scarlioli Collection.1 commentsChristian Scarlioli06/09/23 at 04:15Virgil H: Very nice

Justin I, 518 - 527 ADAV Solidus
Constantinople mint, struck 518 - 519 AD
Obv. - D N IVSTI / NVS P P AVG, helmeted and cuirassed bust facing three-quarters to right, holding spear over shoulder and shield decorated with horseman spearing a fallen enemy
Rev. - VICTORIA / AVGGG B (officiana), Victory standing left, holding jeweled cross and globus cruciger; star in left field; CONOB in exurge
19.9 mm / 4.47 grams
2 commentscmcdon092306/09/23 at 04:14Virgil H: Beautiful

Heraclius, 610 - 641 ADAV Solidus
Constantinople mint
Obv. - Heraclius (center), Heraclius Constantine (right) and Heraclonas (left), all crowned and wearing chlamys, standing facing, all holding cross on globe.
Rev: - VICTORIA / AVGU and officina letter B (?), cross potent on three steps, monogram in left field, I over B in right field; CONOB in exergue
19.6 mm / 4.32 grams
1 commentscmcdon092306/09/23 at 04:13Virgil H: Beautiful

1887-S Victoria Jubilee Head Gold SovereignAustralia, Victoria (1837-1901), Gold Sovereign, 1887-S, DISH S2 R2, SCWC KM 10, Marsh 138, SCBC 3868A, gEF-aUNC, lightly hairlined in fields both sides, edge milled, weight 7.9881g (AGW 0.2355oz), composition 0.917 Au, 0.0125 Ag, 0.0705 Cu, diameter 23.0mm, thickness 1.52mm, die axis 0°, Sydney mint, 1887; obverse VICTORIA D : G :-BRITT : REG : F : D : (Victoria, by the Grace of God, Queen of the Britains, Defender of the Faith), Jubilee tall, crowned, veiled and draped bust left, wearing double pearl drop earring with 13-pearl necklace, Ribbon and Star of the Garter at breast with badge of the Imperial Order of the Crown of India, tiny spread J.E.B. with hooked J raised on shoulder truncation, stops in line with each other, for engraver Joseph Edgar Boehm, toothed border surrounding; reverse St. George, nude but for crested Attic helmet, paludamentum fastened in front by fibula billowing behind and high-topped boots (calcei equestri), on horse rearing right, with short tail, ending in three strands, with one spur higher up at curve, holding bridle in left hand and short sword in right, looking down, trampling and slaying prostrate dragon to lower right, with broken lance in its side, looking back and up at St. George, broken lance on ground-line to left, tiny WWP raised under lance for Master of the Mint, William Wellesley-Pole, mint mark S at centre of ground-line, 1887 in exergue, tiny B.P. raised to upper right of exergue for engraver Benedetto Pistrucci, toothed border surrounding; from the Roger Belmar Collection; ex Sovereign Rarities (29 May 2020); ex David Iverson Duplicates Collection (2015); very rare; £2,000.00.1 commentsSerendipity06/08/23 at 12:22Jay GT4: Dynamic reverse! congrats

54945 files on 611 page(s)

611