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Last comments - Britanikus
D367.jpg
RIC 367 DomitianÆ Dupondius, 11.64g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XI CENS POT P P; Head of Domitian, radiate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: ANNONA AVG; S C in exergue; Annona, std r., holding open on lap by two ends bag full of corn-ears; in front of her stands a small figure, l., also holding two ends of bag, and in the background, stern of ship
RIC 367 (C). BMC 347. BNC 364.
Ex eBay, August 2019.

A most curious reverse type was struck for Domitian on his dupondii for a short period between 84-88. Here we see Annona seated holding open a bag(?) of corn-ears and a mysterious small figure standing before her holding the other end of the bag with a ship's stern in the background. Overall, the reverse likely alludes to Domitian's care of the corn supply, hinted at by the stern, here a symbol of the all important African grain ships. The small individual before Annona has variously been described as a 'boy', a 'child', or ambiguously as just a 'figure'. H. Mattingly has the most imaginative explanation in BMCRE II - 'Annona herself, the spirit of the corn-supply, and the ship, the symbol of the overseas corn, are familiar: but who is the small figure who stands before her? He is certainly no child, but only a man reduced to tiny proportions beside the goddess; and the fact that he is bare to the waist may suggest that he is an Italian farmer. If this interpretation is right, the type records a definite policy of Domitian to encourage the growing of corn in Italy.' Mattingly may be correct about the overall meaning, but I think the figure is indeed a child, symbolic of the emperor's care, through Annona's auspices, for his subjects.

Flatly struck on one side, but in fine style.
8 commentsDavid Atherton03/27/23 at 01:26Britanikus: I'm really happy that you purchase that coin ...
const_xxx.jpg
Constantine X Ducas. 1059-1067.AV Histamenon Nomisma (26mm, 4.37 g, 6h). Constantinople mint. Struck 1062-1065. Christ Pantokrator enthroned facing / Constantine standing facing on daïs, holding labarum and globus cruciger. DOC 1a; SB 1847. Lightly toned, traces of deposits in devices, scratch on reverse. Good VF.

From the Ray Neff Collection.

CNG E Auction 507 lot 649
2 commentsBritanikus01/26/22 at 20:26Britanikus: Thanks Smile
T503.jpg
RIC 503 TitusÆ Dupondius, 12.49g
Eastern Mint (Thrace?), 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, radiate, bearded, r.
Rev: ROMA; S C in exergue; Roma std. l. on cuirass, with wreath and parazonium
RIC 503 (R). BMC 314. RPC 507. BNC 325.
Acquired from eBay, April 2019. Formerly in NGC holder 4680932-001, grade 'XF', strike 5/5, surface 3/5.

A mystery mint struck coins for Titus sometime between 80-81. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, and massive reverse figures), unique obverse legends (DIVI VESP F for Titus), and uncommon fabric (flat, almost convex flans) all suggest a mint other than Rome. Attributing exactly where these coins were struck has historically been a moving target - Mattingly in BMCRE thought Lugdunum, H.A. Cahn believed somewhere in Bithynia. More recent scholarship has looked towards Thrace as a possible location for production based on the Balkan distribution pattern of found specimens. Although the region of mintage has been narrowed down, the city itself remains elusive. RPC has suggested possibly Perinthus. Presumably a shortage of bronze coins in the region during Titus' reign prompted a localised imperial issue. The striking of imperial bronze outside of Rome was an exceptional step at the time considering the last imperial branch mint at Lugdunum had shuttered late in Vespasian's reign. The issue consisted of sestertii, dupondii, asses, and semisses which copied types struck at Rome. Only one reverse is known for the dupondius, the Roma type seen on this coin.

Beautifully toned with an extraordinarily decadent portrait.
10 commentsDavid Atherton05/06/19 at 01:40Britanikus: Nice ! this style is common for coins found in Bul...
AA-1.jpg
Roman Provincial. MACEDONRoman Provincial. MACEDON. Koinon of Macedonia. Pseudo-autonamous 222 AD to 249 AD
. Æ (27mm, 11.19 g, 6h). Beroea mint.
OBV: AΛEΞANΔPOC bust of Alexander the Great right, flowing hair.
REV: KOINMA KE ΔONΩN.B.NE Two tetrastyle temple façades; in field between, column surmounted by statue.
Unpublished in the standard references. VF, green surfaces, ragged edge, some smoothing and roughness. RPC online this coin https://rpc.ashmus.ox.ac.uk/coin/348572
1 commentsAncient Aussie03/25/19 at 03:08Britanikus: nice
aa3.jpg
Byzantine, MANUEL COMNENUS, METROPOLITIAN TETARTERON SBCV-1968 DOC 15 CLBC 4.4.2 OBV Full length figure of the Virgin, nimbate, orans, wearing tunic, and maphorion turned to the r. Manus Dei (Hands of God) in upper field to r.

REV Full length figure of emperor, bearded, wearing stemma, divitision, collar piece, jeweled loros of a simplified type and Saigon; holds in right hand scepter cruciger and in l. anexikakia

Size 20.53mm

Weight 4.2gm

Cosmopolitan Issue were minted in Constantinople, each of these coins had an added silver content of 3% and were also issued with a very light silver wash (Silver traces are common on Cosmopolitan issues but intact fully silvered coins are very rare.) These more than likely were tariffed at a higher rate than the Thessalonica issues that have been shown to have no silver content. Cosmopolitan issue are in general far scarcer than the Thessalonica issues

DOC lists 34 examples with weights from 2.32 to 4.9gm and size from 17mm to 22mm

The coins only flaw, wear on the Virgins face. Other that near perfect centering and a wonderful reverse strike.
6 commentsSimon01/09/19 at 05:02Britanikus: Nice
Justin-II-565-578_AE-Follis_DN-IVSTI-NVS-PP-AVG_M_ANNO_VI_NIKO_A_SB-0369-p-94-Nikopolis_Q-001_7h_27-28mm_12,97g-s.jpg
Byzantine, Justin II. (565-578 A.D.), SB 0369, A/NIKO, AE-Follis (40 Nummia), Nikopolis, Year UI,Justin II. (565-578 A.D.), SB 0369, A/NIKO, AE-Follis (40 Nummia), Nikopolis, Year UI,
avers: D N IVSTI NVS P P AVG, Justin left and Sophia right, seated facing on double-throne, both nimbate, Justin holding cross on globe, Sophia holding sceptre topped by cross.
reverse: "M" ANNO/VI/A, Large M, ANNO to left, Cross above, regnal year to right "VI", officina letter below "A", mintmark NIKO.
exergue: A/N/N/O/VI//NIKO, diameter: 27-28mm, weight: 13,22g, axis: 7h,
mint: Nikopolis, date: 571 A.D., ref: SB 0369, p-94,
Q-001
3 commentsquadrans01/09/19 at 05:00Britanikus: Nice i think the mint is Nicomedia
T499.jpg
RIC 499 TitusÆ Sestertius, 24.63g
Eastern Mint (Thrace?), 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: S C in field; Mars, with cloak over shoulders, adv. r., with spear and trophy
RIC 499 (C). BMC 310. RPC 502. BNC 324.
Acquired from Ken Dorney, December 2018.

A remarkable sestertius from a truly mysterious issue of bronze that was struck under Titus in 80-81. The style (heavily seriffed letters, large portraits, and massive reverse figures), unique obverse legends (DIVI VESP F for Titus), and uncommon fabric (convex flans) all suggest a mint other than Rome. Attributing exactly where these coins were struck has historically been a moving target - Mattingly in BMCRE thought Lugdunum, H.A. Cahn believed somewhere in Bithynia. More recent scholarship has looked towards Thrace as a possible location for production based on the Balkan distribution pattern of found specimens. Although the region of mintage has been narrowed down, the city itself remains elusive. RPC has suggested possibly Perinthus. Presumably a shortage of bronze coins in the region during Titus' reign prompted a localised imperial issue, which in the main copied types from Rome. The striking of imperial bronze outside of Rome was an exceptional step at the time considering the last imperial branch mint at Lugdunum had shuttered late in Vespasian's reign.

An appealing example with a beautiful sandy patina.
3 commentsDavid Atherton01/09/19 at 04:56Britanikus: Nice
4483748l.jpg
Crawford 428/3, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Q. Cassius Longinus, AR DenariusRome, The Republic.
Q. Cassius Longinus, 55 BCE.
AR Denarius (3.91g; 19mm).
Rome Mint.

Obverse: Bonus Eventus or Genius of the Roman People head facing right; scepter behind.

Reverse: Eagle on thunderbolt, facing right; lituus to left; jug to right; Q CASSIVS below.

References: Crawford 428/3; Sydenham 916; BMCRR 3868; Cassia 7.

Provenance: Ex Fernandez Collection [Aureo & Calico Alba Longa Auction (7 Nov 2018) Lot 227].

The identity of the head on the obverse is in doubt. Crawford interprets the obverse as Genius of the Roman People and the reverse an allusion to imperium. Michael Harlan theorizes that the head is Bonus Eventus and that it ties to symbols of the augurate on the reverse. Augurs, after all, want to predict good outcomes. Harlan's interpretation doesn’t fully explain the scepter on the obverse, which is not a typical characteristic of Bonus Eventus.
3 commentsCarausius01/07/19 at 05:50Britanikus: Very Nice
SullaCombined.jpg
Crawford 359/2, ROMAN REPUBLIC, L. Cornelius Sulla, AR DenariusRome, The Republic.
L. Cornelius Sulla, 84-83 BCE.
AR Denarius (3.88g; 21mm).
Military Mint.

Obverse: L·SVLLA; diademed head of Venus facing right; before, Cupid holding palm to left.

Reverse: IMPER – ITERV; two trophies with jug and lituus between them.

References: Crawford 359/2; Sydenham 761a; BMCRR East 3; Cornelia 30.

Provenance: Ex Nomisma 58 (6 Nov 2018) Lot 76.

These coins were struck in the east, just before Sulla’s march on Rome. The fabric and style of these coins are certainly different from other Roman Republican denarii of the era, more eastern than Roman. Perhaps not obvious from my photo, the obverse is struck in very high relief and the reverse has pronounced cupping (from a convex reverse die, which more efficiently drives the metal into the high relief obverse die). The obverse honors Venus, whom Sulla considered his protectress. The jug and lituus on the reverse are suggestive of the office of Augur, but Crawford did not think Sulla was an Augur at the time these coins were produced. The implements may refer to an ancestor of Sulla that was an Augur, or, as Crawford surmises, to Sulla’s imperium. The trophies on the reverse refer to Sulla’s victories in the east against Mithradates. Two trophies were also used by Sulla in an issue of tetradrachms in the Athenian “New Style” form.

Sulla’s seizure of dictatorial power following his march on Rome (leading an army that was loyal to him, rather than to the state) became a paradigm for Roman political struggles thereafter. Julius Caesar would initiate similar consequences when he crossed the Rubicon at the head of his army 30+ years later. Unlike Sulla, Caesar showed no interest in resigning his power. Also unlike Sulla, Caesar would strike coins bearing his own likeness. Sulla’s portrait did not appear on a Roman coin until 25 years after Sulla’s death (See, Crawford 434/1).
1 commentsCarausius01/07/19 at 05:47Britanikus: Nice
1207_P_Hadrian_RPC972.jpg
0972 Hadrian, Cistophorus BITHYNIA Koinon of Bithynia mint, Male in TempleReference.
RPC III, 972; RIC II 459a; RSC 241

Issue Reverse legend includes COM BIT

Obv. IMP CAES TRA HADRIANO AVG P P
Bare head of Hadrian, right

Rev. COM - BIT (in field), ROM S P AVG (in entablature)
Tetrastyle temple on podium of three steps; within, togate male standing r. holding spear in r. and Victory in left

9.89 gr
25 mm
6h
3 commentsokidoki12/31/18 at 04:53Britanikus: Nice coin!
RIC_911-3-5,_112_Probus,_AE-Ant,__IMP_C_M_AVR_PROBVS_P_F_AVG_(H-H2),_SO_LI_IN_VICT_O,_CM_XXIV,_p118,_3rd_em_,_5th_off_,_Cyzicus,_280-AD,_Q-001,_5h,_22,5mm,_3,90g-s.jpg
112 Probus (276-282 A.D.), AE-Antoninianus, RIC V-II 911.3c.1.H2.A., Cyzicus, SOLI INVICTO, Bust-H2, CM//XXIP, Sol left in spread quadriga, #3112 Probus (276-282 A.D.), AE-Antoninianus, RIC V-II 911.3c.1.H2.A., Cyzicus, SOLI INVICTO, Bust-H2, CM//XXIP, Sol left in spread quadriga, #3
avers: IMP C M AVR PROBVS P F AVG, Radiate bust left in imperial mantle, holding scepter surmounted by an eagle. (H2)
reverse: SOLI INVICTO, Sol left in spread quadriga, raising right hand and holding the whip in left hand. No exergual line. (A)
exergue: CM//XXIP, diameter: 22,5mm, weight: 3,90g, axis:5h,
mint: Cyzicus, 3rd. em., 1st. off., date: 280 A.D.,
ref: RIC V-II 911.3c.1.H2.A., p-118,
Q-003
4 commentsquadrans12/28/18 at 14:43Britanikus: Nice
1174_P_Hadrian_RPC--~0.jpg
ROMAN EMPIRE PROVINCIAL, Hadrian, Cistophorus Uncertain mint in Asia Minor, EagleReference.
RPC III, --; Metcalf --

Obv. HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS P P
Laureate bust left.

Rev. COS III.
Eagle, with head right and wings spread, standing facing on thunderbolt.

10.15 gr
28 mm
12h
5 commentsokidoki11/09/18 at 04:13Britanikus: Nice
john.jpg
Basil II & Constantine VIII, (976-1028 A.D.)Æ “Anonymous” Follis
Class A2
O: EMMANOVHΛ, Nimbate bust of Christ facing, wearing pallium and colobium and holding book of Gospels; IC – XC in fields to left and right.
R: + IhSЧS / [X]RISTЧ[S] / bASILЄЧ / bASILЄ / ·, legend in four lines.
8.68g
26mm
SBCV 1793
5 commentsMat11/09/18 at 04:12Britanikus: NICE COIN
Mesembria_AR_Obol.jpg
GREEK, Thrace, Mesembria, AR DiobolObv. Crested Corinthian helmet facing.
Rev. Spiked wheel in which META.
SNG - ; BMC 268
2 comments11/09/18 at 00:29Britanikus: I think not Authentick Black sea hoard.
Barbarous_Imitation,_AE-3,_VICTORIA_LAETAE_PRINC_PERP_type,Q-006,_6h,_15,5-17mm,_2,01g-s.jpg
Barbarous Imitation, AE-3, VICTORIA LAETAE PRINC PERP type, #11Barbarous Imitation, AE-3, VICTORIA LAETAE PRINC PERP type, #11
avers: IIIIIIIIIIIII III, Confusing text, Laureate, helmeted, cuirassed bust right.
reverse: H III III II ИИ, Confusing text, Two Victories standing, facing each other, together holding shield reading "VOT/PR" imitation on cippus.
exergue: -/-// Confusing text, diameter: 15,5-17,0mm, weight:2,01g, axis: 6h,
mint: Siscia, date: , ref: ,
Q-011
1 commentsquadrans11/07/18 at 02:19Britanikus: Nice
1152.jpg
hhj8.26.54.06Elagabalus
Nicopolis

Obv: AVT K M AVP ANTΩNEINOC, radiate draped, cuirassed bust right, seen from behind.
Rev: VΠ ΝΟ / ΒΙΟV ΡΟV / ΦΟV ΝΙΚΟ / ΠΟΛIΤΩΝ / ΠΡOC ΙC / TPΩ. Legend in six lines..
25 mm, 12.33 gms

Hristova-Hoeft-Jekov 8.26.54.6
1 commentsCharles M11/06/18 at 03:56Britanikus: Nice
serd_sept.jpg
Septimius Severus Ae17 Thrace Serdica Rare unpublished2 commentsBritanikus09/19/18 at 12:23Britanikus: Yes 1969
T226.jpg
RIC 226 TitusÆ As, 10.75g
Rome mint, 80-81 AD
Obv: IMP T CAES VESP AVG P M TR P COS VIII; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, l.
Rev: GENI P R; S C in field; Genius stg. l., with patera over altar and cornucopiae
RIC 226 (R). BMC 210. BNC -.
Acquired from London Ancient Coins, September 2018.

Genius - 'The spirit of the Roman people' is not a common motif in Flavian coinage. It occurs under Vespasian on rare Spanish military denarii struck early in his reign and briefly during the reign of Titus on asses struck in 80-81. Mattingly connects the type under Titus with 'the vows undertaken for the first five years of the new reign'. The coin is dated COS VIII which Titus held in 80 (he did not renew the consulship in 81). Unlike the parallel silver issue the bronze lack an IMP number and cannot be more precisely dated. Most likely they were struck in the first half of 80 along with the silver.

Neatly centred with a fantastic portrait.
10 commentsDavid Atherton09/18/18 at 23:36Britanikus: NICE COIN
Numerian_def_4.jpg
NumerianusNumerianus, antoninianus.
22 mm 3.48 g.
Rome mint.
Obv. IMP NUMERIANVS AVG, radiate, cuirassed bust right.
Rev. IOVI VICTORI, Jupiter standing, head left, holding Victory, eagle at feet to left. Mintmark KAB.
RIC 410.
1 commentsMarsman09/16/18 at 19:55Britanikus: Nice Coin
Faustina_II_R639_fac.jpg
Denar, RIC 3, p.271, 712 - Faustina II, ChildrenFaustina Minor
AR-Denar, Rome, AD 161-165
Obv.: FAVSTINA AVGVSTA, diademed draped bust right, indusium (silk chemise) visible.
Rev.: SAECVLI FELICIT, draped throne on which are two children: Commodus and Titus Aurelius Fulvus Antoninus, no stars above
Ag, 3.21g, 17mm
Ref.: RIC 712, C 191, CRE 222 [C]
Ex Numismatik Naumann, auction 65, lot 638

Variation without diadem > click
Variation with diadem, but without visible silk chemise > click
2 commentsshanxi09/16/18 at 13:40Britanikus: Nice coin!
Domitian_Corinth.jpg
RIC 0271 (T) Domitian denarius SOLDCAESAR DIVI F DOMITIANVS COS VII
Laureate head right

PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS
Seat draped; above Corinthian helmet

Rome, 80-81 AD (after the deification of Vespasian)

3.40g

RIC 271 Titus (C2)

Ex-Stack's, Ex-Calgary Coin

Sold to ANE November 2022

A common type but with an exceptional reverse!
6 commentsJay GT409/15/18 at 23:09Britanikus: Nice Coin
V1160.jpg
RIC 1160 VespasianÆ Dupondius, 11.14g
Lyon mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIAN AVG COS III; Head of Vespasian, radiate, r.; globe at point of bust
Rev: VICTORIA NAVALIS; S C in field; Victory stg. r. on prow, with wreath and palm
RIC 1160 (R2). BMC 809. BNC 809.
Acquired from Victor's Imperial Coins, September 2018. Formerly in NGC holder 2077395-004, grade 'Ch F'.

The Victory on prow type is traditionally attributed to the naval victory Vespasian won on Lake Gennesaret (Sea of Galilee) during the Jewish War. By any definition it is a most bizarre 'naval' battle indeed. Near the close of the Galilean campaign, Vespasian and Titus marched to Lake Gennesaret in order to secure the cities along its coastline. Tiberias fell without much resistance, but the neighbouring city of Taricheae was a tougher nut to crack. Home to many of the Jewish rebels who had fled Tiberias, they put up a small fight on the plain outside the city and were quickly defeated by Titus' troops who then stormed the city and began slaughtering the inhabitants. Many of the rebels took flight to waiting boats they had previously commandeered on the lake. These were likely local fishing or ferry vessels not intended for use in war. Vespasian ordered the legionaries to construct large rafts in order to pursue the rebel's makeshift flotilla. With the coastline guarded by Roman horsemen the legionaries launched their rafts and sailed out in a large line toward the enemy. The Jewish boats were no match for the heavily armoured Roman rafts. The legionaries easily picked off the Jewish rebels who had no means of escape. The slaughter was intense, so much so that Josephus claims 6,500 Jews were killed. Several years later during Vespasian and Titus' Jewish War Triumph in Rome, ships were displayed to commemorate the battle. Were the Victoria Navalis coins struck with the same event in mind? As unlikely as it seems, the impromptu 'naval' battle at Lake Gennesaret is the best candidate for Vespasian striking this Actium-lite reverse type. The connection to Augustus would not have been lost on his contemporaries. Flavian propaganda at its most exaggerated.

This Victoria Navalis dupondius struck at Lugdunum (Lyon) is much rarer than the Rome mint variants, which are more commonly seen on the As issues. The 'severe' portrait along with the globe at the base of the neck help to distinguish them from their Rome mint counterparts.
5 commentsDavid Atherton09/13/18 at 04:08Britanikus: Nice
411607.jpg
Crawford 383/1, ROMAN REPUBLIC, Tiberius Claudius Nero, AR Serrate DenariusRome. The Republic.
Ti. Claudius Ti.f. Ap.n. Nero, 79 BCE.
AR Serrate Denarius (4.13g; 19mm).
Rome Mint.

Obverse: Draped bust of Diana facing right, with bow and quiver over shoulder; S.C, before.

Reverse: Victory driving biga galloping right; A.LXXXVIII below; TI CLAVD TI F AP N, in exergue.

References: Crawford 383/1; Sydenham 770a; BMCRR ;Claudia 5.

Provenance: Ex CNG Classical Numismatic Review (Fall 2015), Lot 411607; CNG Inventory 735603 (August 2003); Numismatica Ars Classica N (26 June 2003), lot 1540; Eton College Collection [Sotheby’s (1 December 1976), lot 195].

The moneyer is Tiberius Claudius Nero, son of Tiberius ("TI F") and grandson of Appius ("AP N"). He served under Pompey in the war against the pirates in 67 BCE, and was the grandfather of the Roman emperor Tiberius. There are two series of control marks for the reverse: one, marked from I to CLXV; the second marked with letter A and I to CLXXXII. Each reverse control mark has only one die. The letters S.C on the obverse mean that this coin was struck by special Senatorial decree, as opposed to routine coinage which was still authorized by the Senate but not specially marked. The reason for the special decree is not certain in this case. The obverse of the coin may refer to the introduction of the worship of Diana by the Sabines from whom the Claudii originated, though Crawford disputes this reading. The reverse may refer to the Second Punic War victories of C. Claudius Nero.

This example comes from the Eton College Collection, which was auctioned by Sotheby’s in 1976. Eton College initiated its ancient coin collection by acquiring a large group of British Museum duplicates in the 1870s, and Eton added to this collection in the ensuing years. By the mid-1970s, the ancient coin market was white-hot, and Eton decided to cash-out the lion’s share of its collection, keeping a representative core for study purposes.
2 commentsCarausius09/10/18 at 01:36Britanikus: Nice sharp Coin
vespasian annona.jpg
RIC 0964 VespasianAR Denarius, 3.60g
Rome Mint, 77-78 AD
Obv: CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: ANNONA AVG; Annona, draped, seated l. on throne, adorned with corn-ears, feet on stool, holding on her lap a sack or corn-ears open, the ties, looped at one end, in her hands
RIC 964 (C2). BMC 295. RSC 28. BNC 258.

This reverse possibly belongs to a series of coins that promoted a Vespasianic agricultural programme. Many other denarii were issued at the same time with a similar 'rustic' theme, notably: the modius reverse, Ceres either seated or standing, sow with piglets, goat-herd milking a she-goat, bull, and the two oxen reverse.

A wonderful coin in excellent condition. The obverse detail is so crisp, I'm inclined to believe that the die was used for aureii too.
2 commentsDavid Atherton09/02/18 at 23:54Britanikus: Nice sharp Coin
vesp pax75.JPG
RIC 0772 VespasianAR Denarius, 3.40g
Rome Mint, 75 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PON MAX TR P COS VI; Pax, bare to the waist, seated l., holding branch extended in r. hand, l. hand on lap
RIC 772 (C3). BMC 161. RSC 366. BNC 139.
Acquired from Old Roman Coins, March 2003.

One of Vespasian's most common Pax types continuing a major theme in his coinage of peace and prosperity, courtesy of the Flavian house. Probably the most common denarius type struck for Vespasian.

This coin has sentimental value for being the first Flavian denarius I ever purchased. A nice one at that too.
2 commentsDavid Atherton09/02/18 at 23:48Britanikus: Nice Coin
vesp r eagle.jpg
RIC 0847 Vespasian (1)AR Denarius, 3.21g
Rome Mint, 76 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: COS VII across field; Eagle head l. standing on thunderbolt, on Altar. Very uncommon with thunderbolt showing.
RIC 847 (C2). BMC 180. RSC 121. BNC 156.
Acquired from Glenn W. Woods, July 2007.

The reverse is possibly a reference to Mucianius' death, which occured around the time the coin was minted. Mucianius was the Governor of Syria when Vespasian made his bid for the purple and helped him secure the throne.

The eagle & base type's original design included a thunderbolt, although not well rendered because of the unwieldiness of the design. Over time, either from laziness or expediency, the engravers began omitting the thunderbolt altogether. It seems most of these were struck without thunderbolts, so they were probably dropped very early in the issue's production. It's rare to find the type with one.

I love the portrait on this coin, Vespasian seems to be smirking...the eagle isn't a bad one either. A few flan flaws and dodgy obverse legends do not detract from the eye appeal.

2 commentsDavid Atherton08/26/18 at 14:31Britanikus: Nice Coin
Titus_Denarius.jpg
Titus AR Denarius 79-81Ad Titus AR Denarius 79-81Ad 3.07gm Ric 25a2 commentsBritanikus08/23/18 at 02:17Britanikus: Thank You
Commemorative_AE-follis_URBS-ROMA_dot_SISdot_RIC-VII-240-p-456-c3_Siscia_334-5-AD__Q-001_axis-6h_16mm_2,02g-s.jpg
ROMAN EMPIRE, VRBS ROMA, Commemorative, (330-333 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VII 240, AE-3, -/-//•ΓSIS•, She-wolf left, C3!, #1ROMAN EMPIRE, VRBS ROMA, Commemorative, (330-333 A.D.), Siscia, RIC VII 240, AE-3, -/-//•ΓSIS•, She-wolf left, C3!, #1
avers: VRBS ROMA, Helmeted bust of Roma left.
reverse: She-wolf and twins, 2 stars above
exergue: -/-//•ΓSIS•, diameter: 17-18,5mm, weight: 2,71g, axis: 0h,
mint: Siscia, date: 334-335 A.D., RIC VII 240, p:456, C3!,
Q-001
2 commentsquadrans12/24/17 at 00:22Britanikus: Nice
constantine_marti_2.png
Constantine 7.10.016Constantine
Obv CONSTANTINVS AVG
(L.laur, wearing mantle, right hand holding eagle-tipped sceptre)
Rev MARTI CONSERVATORI
Mars helmeted, in military dress, standing right, head right, right hand resting on reversed spear, left on shield)
*|
PLN
Not in RIC LMCC 7.10.016 (R)
London
3.4g, 21.8 mm x 21.8 mm
(ex Janusz Ostrowski)
(Two examples of this coin have been sold by CNG. CNG 90 lot 1716, CNG 84 lot 1502)
1 commentsNoviomagus12/23/17 at 00:05Britanikus: Nice
magnentius.jpg
Magnentius, AE2, Lyons. AD 350-353.Magnentius, AE2 23mm. 4.96gm. Lyons. AD 350-353. . DN MAGNEN-TIVS PF AVG, bare-headed, draped, cuirassed bust right, A behind head / GLORIA ROMANORVM, emperor on horseback galloping right, no shield, wielding spear at a bare-headed enemy before the horse, broken spear and shield beneath the horse. Mintmark RPL. RIC VIII Lyons 116; Sear 18799.
2 commentsBritanikus12/22/17 at 20:17Britanikus: Thank you
3890607.jpg
Vespasian Ad 69-67.AR DenariusVespasian. AD 69-79. AR Denarius (17.5mm, 3.25 g, 6h). Rome mint. Struck January-June AD 70. Laureate head right / Pax seated left, holding olive branch and winged caduceus. RIC II 29; RSC 94h. Good VF, toned.

From the collection of a Texas Wine Doctor, purchased from Marshall Fields, Chicago, 22 November 1966.
3 commentsBritanikus08/22/17 at 02:24Britanikus: Thank you
Greek_Q-052_axis-5h_20-20,5mm_7,89ga-s.jpg
G., Thessaly, Scotussa, (360-344 B.C.), AE-20, SNG Cop 256, Bunch of grapes on vine branch, Rare!!!,Thessaly, Scotussa, (360-344 B.C.), AE-20, SNG Cop 256, Bunch of grapes on vine branch, Rare!!!,
avers: Head of nymph faceing.
revers: ΣΚΟΤΟΥΣΣΑΙ-ΩΝ, Bunch of grapes on vine branch.
exerg: -/-//--, diameter: 20-20,5mm, weight: 7,89g, axes:5 h,
mint: Thessaly, Scotussa, date: 360-344 B.C., ref: SNG Cop 256, Rogers 543,
Q-001
4 commentsquadrans09/14/15 at 17:37Britanikus: Gorgeous
ANTLEGIV.jpg
Mark Antony Legionary Denarius LEG IVANT AVG III VIR R P C
galley right, mast with banners at prow

LEG IV
Legionary eagle between two standards

Patrae mint 32-31BC

3.34g

ex-Arcade coin

The coin that started it. This was my first Mark Antony coin!

In its first years, the whereabouts of IV Scythica are uncertain, although it is probable that it took part in Antony's campaign against the Parthians. The name suggests that it fought against the Scythians. After the battle of Actium and Antony's suicide, Octavian transferred IV Scythica to the Danube province of Moesia. The legion is reported to have taken part in civilian tasks, such as the building and keeping of roads. In his youth, future emperor Vespasian served in this legion.
2 commentsJay GT401/21/14 at 13:06Britanikus: Nice congrats
Domitianhorse.jpg
RIC 0680 (V) Domitian denarius SOLDCAES AVG F DOMIT COS II
Laureate head of Domitian right

No legend
Domitian on horseback prancing left, right hand raised, holding human-headed (helmet) sceptre in left

Rome 73 AD

3.25g

RIC 680 Vespasian (C); Sear 2627

Double die match to CNG E-Auction 481 lot 557


Ex-Forum

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.

SOLD to Incitatus Jan 2021
7 commentsJay GT401/08/14 at 03:00Britanikus: Nice
Probus_RIC_786_Siscia.jpg
Probus RIC 786 Siscia(3.63g)
obv. IMP C M AVR PROBVS P F AVG
Radiate, helmeted, cuirassed bust left, holding spear and shield.
rev. SPES AVG
Spes walking left, holding flower and raising robe.
Mintmark: XXIII
RIC 786
2 commentsHolgerG01/04/14 at 21:46Britanikus: Nice Coin Shocked Idea Exclamation Shocked
Marcus-Antonius_LEG-XII_Before-and-After_.jpg
001a Marc Antony ( 83-30 B.C.), AR-denarius, Crawf 544-26, LEG-XII, ANT AVG III VIR•R•P•C•, praetorian galley right, Before and After the Cleaning001a Marc Antony ( 83-30 B.C.), AR-denarius, Crawf 544-26, LEG-XII, ANT AVG III VIR•R•P•C•, praetorian galley right,
avers:- LEG-XII, legionary eagle (aquila) between two standards.
revers:- ANT-AVG-III-VIR•R•P•C•, praetorian galley right.
exerg: -/-//--, diameter: 17-18,5mm, weight: 3,39g, axes: 5h,
mint: Legionary Denarius, date: 32-31 B.C., ref: Crawford-544/26, Sydneham-1230, RSC-41,
Before and After the Cleaning
Q-001
2 commentsquadrans01/04/14 at 21:44Britanikus: Nice Coin Congrats
Philip~0.jpg
Roman Empire, Philip I SestertiusIMP M IVL PHILIPPVS AVG
Laureate bust right

VICTORIA AVG SC
Victory advancing right holding wreath and palm

17.1g

Rome
244-5 AD

RIC 192a
Sear 9021

Ex-Tater's

SOLD Forum Auction April 2019
4 commentsJay GT401/02/14 at 12:20Britanikus: Nice coin congrats
JuliaMamaea1~0.jpg
Roman Empire, Julia Mamaea, Felicitas IVLIA MA-MAEA AVG
Draped bust right

FELICI-TA-S PVBLICAE
Felicitas standing left, leaning on column with legs crossed, holding caduceus

RIC 335, S 8209 Rome Mint (year 222-235)
Ar Denarius; 2.80g;19mm
8 commentsarizonarobin12/31/13 at 12:36Britanikus: Nice coin congrats
Maximinus_II~0~0.jpg
Roman Empire, Maximinus II AE2. 312 AD. Maximinus II AE2. 312 AD. IMP C GAL VAL MAXIMINVS P F AVG, laureate head right / IOVI CONSERVATORI, Jupiter standing left, holding Victory & sceptre, eagle at foot left with wreath in its beak,A officina letter to right, SMHT in ex.
RIC (Heraclea) 74.
3 commentsBritanikus12/31/13 at 02:50Britanikus: Thank you
Gordian_III_Laetitia~1.jpg
Roman Empire, Gordian III Laetitia AR Antoninianus, RIC 86.IMP GORDIANVS PIVS FEL AVG, radiate, draped & cuirassed bust right .
LAETITIA AVG N, Laetitia standing right with wreath & anchor. RSC 121.
4 commentsBritanikus01/19/13 at 17:15Britanikus: Thank you Very Happy
Kyzikos.jpg
Mysia, Kyzikos, obol, tunny / quadratum incusum520-480 BC(?)
8mm, 0.65g
obv: tunny fish left
rev: quadratum incusum

SNG Aulock 7328
1 commentsareich01/17/13 at 21:06Britanikus: Nice
Agrippina-Ses-Ob-_-Rev~2.jpg
Roman, Agrippina the Elder (ca. 14 B.C.-33 A.D)Agrippina the Elder (ca. 14 B.C.-33 A.D)
Sestertius
Daughter of Julia and Marcus Agrippa, wife of Germanicus and mother of Emperor Caligula. The most beautiful woman of all Caesars in the most incredible condition. The finest known specimen originally from the Morreti Collection.

Posthumous portrait ordered by Caligula to commemorate his mother who had tragically died in exile.

Cohen 1 ; RIC 42
9 comments01/13/13 at 00:40Britanikus: Shocked
Augustus.JPG
Roman, AUGUSTUS. From a Cistophorus of Pergamum. Struck c.19 - 18 B.C.
RIC I : 510
4 comments*Alex01/02/13 at 05:49Britanikus: Shocked
normal_Domitian_Pax~0.jpg
Roman Empire, Domitian Unlisted Pax DupondiusObv: CAES DIVI VESP F DOMITIAN COS VII
Domitian laureate right
Rev: PAX AVGVST
Pax standing left holding branch and caduceus leaning on cippus.

This coin was minted some time between Domitian's seventh consulship in 80 AD and the death of Titus in 81 AD. The reverse type appears to be identical to RIC II 727 (Vespasian); BMCRE 747 (Vespasian) however, unlike this coin, the listed coin has the obverse inscription CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS COS VI. This coin appears therefore to be a continuation of that type after Vespasian's death with a different obverse inscription.
2 comments10/13/12 at 18:41Britanikus: Is it Dupondius Or Ae AS
012C~0.jpg
ROMAN EMPIRE, Domitian, DupondiusRIC II 706 (new), 393 (old) Rome, 90-91 A.D.
15.7 gm, 30 mm
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XV CENS PER P P. Radiate head right.
Rev: VIRTVTI AVGVSTI / S - C. Virtus standing right with spear and parazonium, foot set on helmet.
6 commentsMark Z10/01/12 at 14:23Britanikus: Why will anyone place 2 stars on this coin it mak...
Vespasian_RIC_10.jpg
Vespasian - [RIC II 29, RSC II 94th, BMC II 26, SRCV I 2285] Silver denarius, 3.38g, 18.25mm, 180 degree, Rome mint, 70 A.D.

Obv. – IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG, laureate head right

Rev. – COS ITER TR POT, Pax seated left on chair without back, holding branch in right and caduceus in left

Coin in natural "as found" uncleaned state.

The dark areas that look like possible patina breaks, thus suggesting a fouree, are actually surface deposits and sit atop the surrounding silver areas.
___________

Purchased from eBay
2 commentsrenegade322009/17/12 at 17:55Britanikus: nice patina nice coin Very Happy
Hadrian_silver_denarius.jpg
Roman Empire, Hadrian, Uncleaned Silver Denarius Ric 133Hadrian Denarius. 121 AD. IMP CAESAR TRAIAN HADRIANVS AVG, laureate head right, draped left shoulder / P M TR P COS III, Providentia standing left, holding right hand above globe at feet & holding transverse sceptre. RSC 1198a. 3 commentsBritanikus09/17/12 at 16:46Britanikus: Thanks Very Happy
Domitian_As_RIC_486.jpg
ROMAN EMPIRE, Domitan, As, FidesObverse: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XII CENS PER PP - Laureate and bearded bust right with aegis.
Reverse: FIDEI PVBLICAE S C - Fides standing right, with corn-ears, poppy and a basket of fruits.
mm. 28 - g. 10,15 - die axis 6
RIC 2 486 C2 - Cohen 111/2 - Struck in Rome 86 a.D.
Hard to see beard and/or sideburns on Domitian's adult portraits, especially on bronze.
6 commentsFlaviusDomitianus09/17/12 at 16:37Britanikus: Wow Nice coin
00florianus.jpg
FLORIANUSAE antoninianus. 276 AD. Siscia , 2nd off. 1st em. 3.90 gr, 5h. Radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust right . IMP C M AN FLORIANVS P AVG. /
Felicitas standing left, sacrificing with patera over altar and holding long caduceus. FELICITAS AVG. S in exergue. RIC V 61. BN 1944
3 commentsbenito03/31/12 at 00:32Britanikus: Shocked
Decius-04.jpg
ROMAN EMPIRE, Trajan Decius - FELICITAS SAECVLIObv.:IMP C M Q TRAIANVS DECIVS AVG, radiate & cuirassed bust right Rev.: FELICITAS SAECVLI S-C, Felicitas standing left, holding caduceus & cornucopiae. 15 commentsPostumus03/18/12 at 14:14Britanikus: wow Shocked
owl6.jpg
Athens tetradrachmAthens --AR Tetradrachm (after 449BC). Helmeted head of athena right, owl standing right within incuse square. Sear 2526. 3 commentsfeatherz01/01/12 at 21:07Britanikus: Shocked
Titus_RIC_0985[vesp].jpg
RIC 0985 Titus as Caesar [Vespasian]AR Denarius, 3.53g
Rome Mint, July 77 AD - December 78 AD
Obv: T CAESAR VESPASIANVS; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XIII in exergue; Goatherd std. l., milking goat l.
RIC 985 (R). BMC 230. RSC 103. BNC 204.
Ex Harry N. Sneh Collection.

This type had been one of my 'dream coins' since I started collecting Flavian denarii. A very tough coin to find and one I couldn't resist. Curiously enough, it has a frequency rating of rare in RIC, as does the more common Vespasian variant of the type. I think the Titus is a bit rarer.

It is quite obvious that this reverse is part of an agrarian propaganda series. Unlike the goat referring to Jupiter as seen on a denarius of Domitian as Caesar (RIC 267 (Titus), this type has rustic overtones.

I love this reverse, well centered and fairly clear. Unfortunately, I only have the old dealer's pic.
6 commentsDavid Atherton12/09/11 at 02:10yavor8310: Beautiful Bravo
   
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