| Last additions - Charles S |
Titus, RIC 498, Sestertius of AD 80-81 (Pax)Æ Sestertius (25.7g, Ø35mm, 6h). Eastern mint (Thrace?). Struck AD 80-81.
Obv.: IMP T CAES DIVI VESP F AVG P M TR P P P COS VIII, laureate head right.
Rev.: PAX AVGVST around, S C across field, Pax standing left with olive branch and cornucopiae.
RIC II-1 498; Cohen 141 (4 fr.); Sear (Roman Coins and their Values I) 2526 var. (obv. legend).
Ex G.Henzen (Netherlands, 1997).Charles SApr 06, 2015
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Nerva, RIC 93, sestertius of AD 97 (Vehiculatione Italiae remissa)Nerva. 96-98 AD. Sestertius (24.7g, 32-33mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck 97 AD.
Obv.: IMP NERVA CAES AVG PM TR P COS III P P, laureate head right,
Rev.: VEHICVLATIONE ITALIAE REMISSA around, S C in ex., two mules grazing back to back, cart behind with shaft pointing upwards.
RIC 93; Cohen 143; BMC 119; Banti 44 (14 spec.).
One of the measures which Nerva took to reduce the burden of the citizens was the assumption by the government of the costs of imperial post, formerly assumed by the municipalities. See also the NumisWiki article on this subject.Charles SApr 06, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 952, Sestertius of AD 136 (Hispania)Æ Sestertius (28.0g, Ø33mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 136.
Obv.: HADRIANVS AVG COS III P P, laureate draped bust right.
Rev.: RESTITVTORI HISPANIAE around, S C in ex., Hadrian, togate, standing left on right, raising kneeling Spain holding an olive branch (in the centre usually a rabbit).
RIC 952; BMCRE III 1816; Cohen 1263 (15 fr.); Strack 777; Sear (Roman Coins and their Values II) 3633; Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 115/49Charles SApr 06, 2015
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Domitian, RIC 78, Sestertius of AD 81 (Minerva)Æ Sestertius (21.0g, Ø33mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 81.
Obv.: IMP CAES DIVI VESP F DOMITIAN AVG PM, laureate head right.
Rev.: TR P COS VII DES VIII P P around, large S C across field, Minerva, helmeted, draped, standing left, holding spear and left hand on hip.
RIC II-1 78 ; BMCRE II 261; Cohen 555 (4 fr.); Sear (Roman Coins and their Values I) 2780 var. (legend).
Ex D.Ruskin (Oxford 1996).Charles SApr 06, 2015
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Domitian, RIC (Titus) 295, Sestertius of AD 81 (Minerva)Æ Sestertius (25.8g, Ø34mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 81 (under Titus).
Obv.: CAES DIVI AVG VESP F DOMITIAN COS VII, laureate head right.
Rev.: Large S C across field, Minerva, helmeted, draped, advancing right brandishing javelin and holding round shield.
RIC (Titus) 295; BMCRE II (Titus) 232; Cohen 439 var. (obv. legend DOMITIANVS); Sear (Roman Coins & their Values I) 2778 var. (rev. legend)
Ex D.Ruskin (Oxford, 1994).Charles SApr 06, 2015
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Domitian, RIC (Titus) 288, Sestertius of AD 80-81 (Pax)Æ Sestertius (26.2g, Ø34mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 80-81 (under Titus).
Obv.: CAES DIVI AVG VESP F DOMITIANVS COS VII, laureate head of Domitian right.
Rev.: PAX AVGVST around, S C across field, Pax standing left, holding olive branch out sideways in right hand and cornucopiae in left.
RIC II-1 (Titus) 288 (rare); BMCRE II (Titus) 315 var. (obv. legend DOMITIAN); Cohen 343 (4 fr.); Sear (Roman Coins & their Values I) 2767var. (obv. legend COS VIII)
Ex D.Ruskin (from old collection, Oxford, 1995)Charles SApr 04, 2015
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Domitian, RIC 105, Sestertius of AD 82 (Minerva)Æ Sestertius (20.3g, Ø33mm, 12h). Rome mint. Struck AD 82.
Obv.: IMP CAES DIVI VESP F DOMITIAN AVG P M, laureate head right.
Rev.: TR P COS VIII DES VIIII P P around, S C across field, Minerva standing l, holding spear, left hand on side.
RIC II-1 105; BMCRE II 274; Cohen 581; Sear (Roman Coins and their Values I) 2780 var. (hd. left)
Ex G.Henzen, (Netherlands, 1998).Charles SApr 04, 2015
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Antoninus Pius, RIC 598var., Sestertius of AD 140-143 (Apollo, left bust variety)Æ Sestertius (27.6g, Ø33mm, 5h). Rome mint. Struck AD 140-143.
Obv.: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P COS III, laureate head of Antoninus Pius facing left.
Rev.: APOLLINI AVGVSTO (around) S C (in field), Apollo, standing left, holding a lyre and a patera.
RIC 598 var. (head right); BMCRE IV 1929 var. (idem; footnote); Cohen 62 var. (idem); Strack 822 var. (idem); Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-3) 36 (2 spec.)
ex G. Henzen
This is a extremely rare left head variant of the Apollo sestertius. The references for RIC, Cohen and Strack are all for bust types with head right. BMCRE 1229 footnote mentions a variant with laureate head l. (Münzhandlung Basel, 22 March, 1937, lot 736), which turns out to be a different specimen struck from the same obverse die. Banti 36 reports 2 specimens of this variant, the illustrated specimen has the same obv. and rev. dies.Charles SApr 04, 2015
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Antoninus Pius, RIC 929, Sestertius of AD 154-155 (Libertas)Æ Sestertius (24,68g, Ø 34,68mm, 11h). Rome mint. Struck AD 154-155.
Obv.: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P XVIII, laureate head right.
Rev.: LIBERTAS COS IIII around, S C in field, Libertas, draped, standing left, holding pileus and long sceptre.
RIC 929; BMCRE IV 1963; Cohen 543; Strack 1106; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-3) 227 (11 spec.)
Ex Marc Breitspecher (Vcoins sale 310, 2014).Charles SApr 03, 2015
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Antoninus Pius, RIC 579, Sestertius of AD 139 (Aurum Coronarium: Asia)Æ Sestertius (25.43g, Ø 31mm, 5h). Rome mint. Struck AD 139.
Obv.: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P, laureate head of Antoninus Pius facing right.
Rev.: COS II (around) S C (across field), ASIA (ex.) Asia, towered headdress, standing left, holding crown and anchor, prow at feet.
RIC 579 (R2); Cohen 64 (fr.40); BMCRE IV 1184; Strack 779 (listed in 5 collections); Banti 41 (2 spec.); RCV 4150
ex Flavius (Lakeville, MN, 2008)
Part of a series celebrating Antoninus' remission of half of the special tax (aurum coronarium) normally levied on the provinces at the time of the accession of an emperor.Charles SApr 03, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 779, Sestertius of AD 134-138 (Victoria-Nemesis)Æ Sestertius (26.0g, Ø32mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 134-138.
Obv.: HADRIANVS AVG COS III P P, laureate head right.
Rev.: S C, winged Pax (Nemesis) advancing right holding an olive branch and lifting upper front of dress which covers her breast.
RIC 779; Cohen 1374; Strack 704
Ex G.Henzen, Amerongen (1995).
RIC II, p. 327 and Strack III p.132-4, provide historical background for this coin type. The Jewish war from 132-135 was finally subdued after Hadrian sent his best generals, especially Julius Severus. Around 134-5, the Senate orders the bronze types Victoria-Nemesis (at the same time as the denarius type Victoria Augusti) which, according to RIC, implies respect for justice in the hour of triumph.
Charles SApr 01, 2015
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Nerva, RIC 108, Sestertius of AD 98 (clasped hands)Æ Sestertius (26.2g, Ø 34mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 98, Jan. 1 to 28 (Nerva's death).
Obv.: IMP NERVA CAES AVG GERM P M TR P II, laureate head right.
Rev.: IMP II COS IIII P P around S C in field, Clasped hands holding legionary eagle set on prow.
RIC 108 (ref. B.M.; scarce; error in rev. legend: COS III should be COS IIII); Cohen unlisted; BMCRE III p.27 ‡ (contradicts the B.M. ref. of RIC 108: it is not in B.M.); Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-1) 27 (1 spec.).
Ex Roma Numismatics Ltd (2009); ex Ex Künker 2007.
Even though the BMCRE note seems to invalidate the RIC 108 record, the correct source of RIC 108 could be one of the numerous articles by Gnecchi on unpublished pieces in the Gnecchi collection (=Museo delle Terme, Rome), which is the reference for the single specimen listed in Banti 27 (Curtis Clay, personal communication, who also reports another specimen from the same dies: NAC K, 30 March 2000, lot 1719). This type with the COS IIII reverse legend is extremely rare with a total of only two other known specimens. The indication "Scarce" at RIC 108 is misleading.
This type, more common with rev. legend CONCORDIA EXERCITVVM (=harmony with the army), was issued in an effort to secure the good will of the praetorians (who nevertheless remained hostile).Charles SMar 27, 2015
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Nerva, RIC 52, Sestertius of AD 96 (Annona & Ceres)Æ Sestertius (22.3g, Ø 32mm, 7h). Rome mint. Struck AD 96.
Obv.: NERVA CAES AVG P M TR P COS II P P, laureate head right.
Rev.: ANNONA AVGVST around, S C in ex., Annona standing right, holding cornucopiae, facing Ceres seated left, holding corn-ears and torch, modius on garlanded altar between them, prow of ship in background..
RIC 52 (scarce); BMCRE p14,† (listed but not in B.M.); Cohen 12; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-1) 2 (2 spec.; same obv. die as illustrated spec.); Sear (Roman Coins and their Values) 3041
Ex D.Ruskin (Oxford, 1996).Charles SMar 26, 2015
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Antoninus Pius, RIC 652, Sestertius of AD 141-143 (Temple of Venus and Roma)Æ sestertius (24.06g, 33, 12h). Rome mint struck AD 141-143.
ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P COS III laureate head of Antoninus Pius facing right
VENERI FELICI (around) S C (in ex.) decastyle temple on podium of four steps; statue of seated figure (Venus) in center space between columns; in pediment three standing figures in the center flanked by reclining figures; on roof, seated figure in the center flanked by two smaller kneeling figures; on angles, Victories standing front, holding wreaths in both hands.
RIC 652 (rare); Cohen 1074 (12 fr.); BMCRE 1324 var. (no statue between columns); Strack III 865 (listed in 3 collections: Berlin, Paris, Vienna; plate X 864: same obv. & rev. dies); Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-3) 507 (3 spec.); Sear (Roman Coins & Their Values II) 4257; Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 125:23
ex Nomisma auction 46 (2012)
This commemorates the completion in AD 141 of the celebrated double-temple of Venus and Roma designed by Hadrian and begun two decades before. The two sanctuaries were placed back to back and the complex formed the largest temple in Rome. A parallel issue depicts the other element of the structure, the temple of Roma.Charles SMar 26, 2015
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Antoninus Pius, RIC 1004, Sestertius of AD 159 (Temple of Divus Augustus)Æ Sestertius (22.23g, Ø30mm, 12h). Rome mint. Struck AD 159.
Obv.: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P XXII laureate head of Antoninus Pius facing right.
Rev.: TEMPLVM DIV AVG REST (around) COS IIII (in ex.) S C (in field), Octastyle temple of Divus Augustus with statues of Augustus and Livia. The temple stands on a podium of three steps. Both statues in the centre, standing on a base, have the right arms raised. There are statues to the left near the foot of the steps and other statues of soldiers on pedestals at each side of the top step. The statuary on the roof can be identified as Augustus in quadriga flanked by Romulus on the right and Aeneas carrying Anchises on the left. Unidentified statuary in the pediment.
RIC 1004 (S); BMCRE 2063; Cohen 805; Strack 1167; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-3) 406; Sear (Roman Coins and their Values II) 4235.
ex Triton VI (2003)
The second Temple of Divus Augustus, commenced under Tiberius and dedicated by Caligula in August AD 37, suffered during the great fire of 80 which began on the Capitoline Hill and spread into the Forum and onto the Palatine. It was possibly restored or rebuilt under Domitian, although it is not mentioned in the Chronographia, and it certainly received further restoration under Antoninus Pius in 158. The temple under Antoninus was Corinthian octastyle and contained the seated figures of Divus Augustus and Livia within, generally drawn on the coinage at an elevated level to suggest perspective. Charles SMar 24, 2015
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Antoninus Pius, RIC 1003A, Sestertius of AD 158-159 (Temple of Divus Augustus) Æ Sestertius (25.4g, Ø32mm, 12h). Rome mint. Struck AD 158-159.
Obv.: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P XXII, laureate head of Antoninus Pius right.
Rev.: TEMPL DIVI AVG REST (around) COS IIII (ex.) S C (field), Octastyle temple of with statues of Divus Augustus and Livia. Both statues in the centre, standing on a base, have the right arms raised. There are statues to the left near the foot of the steps and other statues of soldiers on pedestals at each side of the top step. In the roof is a quadriga in the centre, and statues at each corner; further statues in the pediment.
RIC 1003A (S); BMCRE 2063 var. (rev. legend TEMPLVM DIV); Cohen 797; Strack 1168; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-3) 404 (2 specimens); Sear (Roman Coins and their Values II) 4235 var. (different rev. legend); Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 132:88a
ex D. Ruskin, Oxford, 1995 ("found in Reigate (Surrey), 1864")
Coin issued on the occasion of the restoration of the temple of Divus Ausustus and Diva Augusta (Livia) in AD 158. he temple was probably situated in the valley between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills, behind the Basilica Julia. No trace has survived.Charles SMar 24, 2015
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ROMAN EMPIRE, Antoninus Pius AE Sestertius - RIC 598 left hd. varietyÆ Sestertius (27.6g, Ø33mm, 5h). Rome mint. Struck AD 140-143.
Obv.: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P COS III, laureate head of Antoninus Pius facing left.
Rev.: APOLLINI AVGVSTO (around) S C (in field), Apollo, standing left, holding a lyre and a patera.
RIC 598var. (head right); BMCRE 1929 var. (idem,; footnote); Cohen 62 var. (idem); Strack 822 var. (idem); Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-3) 36 (same obv. and rev. dies)
ex G. Henzen
The references for RIC, Cohen and Strack are all for the variant with head right. BMCRE 1229 footnote mentions a variant with laureate head l. (Münzhandlung Basel, 22 March, 1937, lot 736), which turns out to be a different specimen struck from the same obverse die. Banti 36 illustrates this variant with same die pair and reports 2 other specimens. Charles SMar 23, 2015
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Antoninus Pius, RIC 767a, Sestertius of AD 145-147 (Slow quadriga)Æ Sestertius (25.2g, Ø31mm, 12h). Rome mint. Struck AD 145-147.
Obv.: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P, draped laureate bust right.
Rev.: COS IIII / S C (in two lines in ex.), Emperor in slow quadriga left, holding eagle-tipped sceptre.
RIC 767a; BMCRE 1669; Cohen 320; Strack 974; Sear (Roman Coins and their Values II) 4168
ex D. Ruskin (1998)
Charles SMar 23, 2015
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Antoninus Pius, RIC 607, Sestertius of AD 142 (Jupiter Stator)Æ Sestertius (25,67g, Ø 33mm, 11h). Rome mint. Struck AD 142.
Obv.: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P COS III, laureate head right.
Rev.: IOVI STATORI (around) S C (field), Jupiter, naked, standing front, holding long sceptre and thunderbolt.
RIC 607 (rare); BMCRE 1247 var. (hd. left; note: variant with hd. right not in B.M.); Cohen 460; Strack 835 (3 spec. for hd. r.); Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-3) 188 (3 spec.); Sear (Roman Coins and their Values II) 4184.
Ex CNG 91
According to Strack, this type was issued to thank Jupiter Stator for his help in the victory by Quintus Lollius Urbicus over the Brigantes in Britannia in 142.Charles SMar 22, 2015
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Antoninus Pius, RIC 580, Sestertius of AD 139 (Aurum Coronarium: Cappadocia)Æ Sestertius (29.1g, Ø33mm, 5h). Rome mint. Struck AD 139.
Obv.: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P, laureate head of Antoninus Pius facing right.
Rev.: CAPPADOCIA (around) COS II (ex.) S C (field), Cappadocia, wearing towered headdress, short tunic and short cloak, standing left, holding crown and vexillum, Mons Argaeus at left of her feet.
RIC 580 (R); BMCRE IV 1185; Cohen 120 (fr.25); Strack 783 (lists 5 collections); Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-3) 51 (3 spec.); Sear (Roman Coins and their Values II) 4155
ex GAA Inc. ("s*p*q*r", eBay, 2008)
Part of a series celebrating Antoninus' remission of half of the special tax (aurum coronarium) normally levied on the provinces at the time of the accession of an emperor.Charles SMar 22, 2015
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Antoninus Pius, RIC 622c, Sestertius of AD 140-144 (Temple of Venus & Roma)Æ Sestertius (29,1g, Ø 33mm, 10h). Rome mint. Struck AD 140-144.
Obv.: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P COS III, laureate head left.
Rev.: ROMAE AETERNAE (around) S C (ex.), decastyle temple on podium of four steps with statues on roof and in pediment.
RIC 622(c) (scarce); BMCRE 1345v. (hd. r.); Cohen 702 (12 fr.); Strack 848 (2 spec. for left-headed var.); Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-3) 335 (1 spec. w/o illustration); Sear (Roman Coins and their Values II) 4212v. (hd. r.)
Ex Guy BRAUN collection (France, 2015).
very rare left headed variety
The temple of Roma, designed by Hadrian in 121 and completed by Antoninus Pius in 141, facing the forum, was built back to back with the temple of Venus, which faced the Flavian Amphitheater. The building containing the two temples was referred to as the Temple of Venus and Roma ("Templum Veneris et Romae"). The remains are still visible and show that both temples consisted of ten colums. The coins suggest many decorative details.Charles SMar 22, 2015
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Antoninus Pius, RIC 623, Sestertius of AD 141-144 (Temple of Venus and Roma)Æ sestertius (25.11g, 31.5mm 6h) Rome mint. Struck AD 141-144.
ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P COS III laureate head of Antoninus Pius facing right
ROMAE AETERNAE (around) S C (ex.) ornamented dekastyle temple with the statue of Roma inside; tympanum adorned with high relief statues; quadriga (suggested) at top and statues at each side.
RIC 623 (scarce); Cohen 703 (12 Fr.); BMCRE 1279; Strack 849; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-3) 336 (4 spec.); Sear(Roman Coins and their Values II) 4212 var. (rev. no figure of Roma); Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 125:24a
ex CNG EAuction 52 (2002)
The temple of Roma was designed by Hadrian (himself) in AD 121 and completed by Antoninus Pius in 141. It stood facing the forum, and was built back to back with the temple of Venus, which faced the Flavian Amphitheater. The building with the two temples was referred to as the Temple of Venus and Roma ("Templum Veneris et Romae"). Hadrian had to have the colossal statue of Nero (Colossus) removed in order to make room for the temples, which were built on the site of the vestibule of Nero's golden house. (He had the Colossus placed near the entrance to the amphitheater, and this provided the nickname, "Colosseum".) The ruins show that both temples consisted of ten colums, and the coins suggest many decorative details.Charles SMar 21, 2015
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Nerva, RIC 86, Sestertius of AD 97 (Libertas)Æ Sestertius (27.0g, Ø 34mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 97.
Obv.: IMP NERVA CAES AVG P M TR P COS III P P, laureate head right.
Rev.: LIBERTAS PVBLICA (around) S C (field), Libertas, draped, standing left, holding pileus right, and scepter left.
RIC 86; Cohen 14 (5 fr.); BMCRE III 112; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-1) 33 (13 spec.); Sear (Roman Coins and their Values II) 3050
Ex D.Ruskin (Oxford, 1994)Charles SMar 21, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 838, Sestertius of AD 132 (Aegyptos)Æ Sestertius (26.46g, Ø32mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 132.
Obv.: HADRIANVS AVG COS IIII P P, laureate draped bust right.
Rev.: AEGYPTOS around S C in ex., Aegyptos, draped, reclining left, holding sistrum in right hand and resting elbow on basket of fruit; ibis standing right on low column at her feet.
RIC 838; BMCRE 1695; Cohen 112 (8 fr.); Strack 707
Ex Harlan J. Berk, Buy/Bid Sale 132, lot 715 (May 2003).Charles SMar 20, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 786, Sestertius of AD 134-138 (Salus)Æ Sestertius (26,3g, Ø31mm, 12h). Rome mint. Struck AD 134-138.
Obv.: HADRIANVS AVG COS III P P, laureate head right.
Rev.: SALVS AVG (around) S C (field), Salus standing left holding staff, feeding out of patera a snake coiled around an altar.
RIC 786; Cohen 1333
Ex Holleman (Netherlands 1999).Charles SMar 19, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 897, Sestertius of AD 134-138 (Mauretania)Æ Sestertius (24,54g, 33mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 134-138.
Obv.: HADRIANVS AVG COS III PP, laureate head right.
Rev.: ADVENTVI AVG MAVRETANIAE (around) S C (ex.), Hadrian standing right raising right hand; opposite Mauretania in short tunic standing left, holding patera and vexillum; between them an altar, bull behind.
RIC 897; BMCRE 1664; Cohen 64; Strack 758; Banti 50 (5 spec.)
Ex Leipziger Münzh. 70. Auktion 12/2010, Lot 663; ex Auktion Hirsch 16/372.Charles SMar 19, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 761(f), Sestertius of AD 134 (Fortuna redux)Æ Sestertius (24.7g, Ø 31mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 134.
Obv.: HADRIANVS AVG COS III P P, laureate draped bust right.
Rev.: FORTVNAE REDVCI (around) S C (ex.), Hadrian standing right holding scroll in left hand, clasping right hands with Fortuna, draped, standing left , holding cornucopiae in left hand.
RIC 761(f); BMCRE 1515; Cohen 793; Strack 646; Bant 434 (10 spec.); Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 118/106
One of the issues marking Hadrian's return to Rome and end of his travels in AD 133
Charles SMar 19, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 859, Sestertius of AD 134-138Æ Sestertius (23,65g, Ø33mm, 12h). Rome mint. Struck AD 134-138.
Obv.: HADRIANVS AVG COS III P P, draped bare-headed bust left.
Rev.: MAVRETANIA around, S C in field, Mauretania, in short tunic, standing in front of a horse pacing left, holding it by the reins and holding a javelin pointing downwards in left hand.
RIC 859 (S); BMCRE 1763; Cohen 957; Strack 721
Ex Gorny & Mosch Auction 176, lot 2287 (march 2009).
Mauretania (modern Morocco and NW Algeria) was home to the Numidians or Mauri (the "Moors"), the ancestors of today's Berber people. Since the annexation of Mauretania by Claudius in AD 44, light cavalry (equites Maurorum or Numidarum) were recruited into the regular Auxilia. These dreaded Mauri horsemen had been involved in many Roman wars, and from the Second Punic War until the 3rd century AD, the bulk of Rome's light cavalry (apart from mounted archers from Syria) consisted of Mauri horsemen. On Trajan's Column, they are depicted with long hair in dreadlocks, riding small horses bare-back and unbridled, with a simple braided rope round their mount's neck for control. They wear no body or head armour, carrying only a small, round leather shield. Their weaponry consisted of several short javelins. Numidian cavalry would harass the enemy by hit-and-run attacks, riding up and loosing volleys of javelins, then scattering faster than any opposing cavalry could pursue. Charles SMar 14, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 634, Sestertius of AD 125-128 (Neptune)Æ Sestertius (24,3g, Ø 32mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 125-128.
Obv.: HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS, laureate head right (drapery on left shoulder).
Rev.: COS III (around) S C (field), Neptune standing left, holding trident and dolphin right foot on prow.
RIC 634; Cohen 311; Strack 603.
Ex G.Henzen (1998)
Return to Rome in AD 126 after travels to Greece and Sicily, with sacrifice of thanks to Neptune, who safely brought Hadrian back across the sea.Charles SMar 14, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 636, Sestertius of AD 125-128 (Roma)Æ Sestertius (30.7g, Ø 32mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 125-128.
Obv.: HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS, laureate head right; drapery on left shoulder.
Rev.: COS III (around) S C (ex.), Roma seated left holding Victory & cornucopiae, shields behind.
RIC 636; Cohen 342
Ex D.Ruskin (1994).Charles SMar 14, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 650, Sestertius of AD 126-128 (Neptune)Obv.: HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS, laureate head right; drapery on lleft shoulder
Rev.: COS III (around) NEP RED / S C (in two lines in field), Neptune standing right holding trident and dolphin; left foot on ships' prow.
RIC 650; BMCRE 1317; Cohen 981; Strack 595; RIC 631b; BMCRE 1281Cohen 316; Strack 600; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-2) 553 (4 spec.); Sear (Roman Coins and their Values, II) 3612 var. ; Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 116/67
Ex G.Henzen (1995)
Return to Rome in AD 126 after travels to Greece and Sicily, with sacrifice of thanks to Neptune, NEPtunus REDux, who safely brought Hadrian back across the sea.Charles SMar 14, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 710c, Sestertius of AD 132-134 (Justitia)Obv.: HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS, bare headed draped bust right.
Rev.: IVSTITIA AGG COS III P P around, S C in ex., Justitia seated left holding patera and sceptre.
RIC 710c; Cohen 885; Strack 818.
Ex Künker Auktion 153Charles SMar 14, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 710f, Sestertius of AD 130 (Justitia)Æ Sestertius (22.7g, Ø 33mm, 12h). Rome mint. Struck AD 130.
Obv.: HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS, draped, bare-headed bust left.
Rev.: IVSTITIA AVG COS III P P (around) S C (ex.), Justitia seated l, holding patera and sceptre.
RIC 710 f ; BMCRE 1425; Cohen 887; Strack 818.
Ex G.Henzen (1997).Charles SMar 14, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 631b, Sestertius of AD 125-128 (Diana) Æ Sestertius (22.8g, Ø33mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 125-128.
Obv.: HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS, laureate head right, drapery on left shoulder.
Rev.: COS III (around) S C (field), Diana standing right holding bow and arrow.
RIC 631b; BMCRE 1281Cohen 316; Strack 600; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-2) 177 (35 spec.).
Charles SMar 13, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 612b, Sestertius of AD 119-121 (Spes)Æ sestertius (22.8g, Ø34mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 119-121.
Obv.: IMP CAESAR TRAIANVS HADRIANVS AVG, laureate cuirassed draped bust right.
Rev.: P M TR P COS III (around) S C (field), Spes advancing left, holding flower.
RIC 612; Cohen 1154; Strack 576; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-2) 595 (40 spec.).
ex D.Ruskin (1994).
Charles SMar 11, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 614c, Sestertius of AD 119-122 (Virtus)Æ sestertius (24.96g, Ø31.5mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 119-121.
Obv.: IMP CAESAR TRAIANVS HADRIANVS AVG, laureate draped bust right.
Rev.: P M TR P COS III (around) VIRT AVG / S C (field), Virtus standing left holding inverted spear and parazonium, right foot on helmet.
RIC 614c; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-2) missing; Cohen 1466; Strack 571
ex G.Henzen (2009).Charles SMar 11, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 645, Sestertius of AD 128 (Hadrian riding)Æ sestertius (27.7g, Ø33.5mm, 5h). Rome mint. Struck AD 128.
Obv.: HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS, laureate head right (drapery on left shoulder).
Rev.: P M TR P COS III (around) VIRT AVG / S C (field), Hadrian, on horse prancing left, raising right hand.
RIC 645; BMCRE 1313; Cohen 590; Strack 590; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-2) 298 (23 spec.); Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 117/78
ex Holleman (1998).
Commemorates Hadrians' visit to Africa in 128, seen as a new military departure.Charles SMar 11, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 706f, Sestertius of AD 133-134 (Galley)Æ sestertius (24.4g, Ø33mm, 12h). Rome mint. Struck AD 133-134.
Obv.: HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS, laureate and draped bust right.
Rev.: FELICITATI AVG (around) COS III P P (field below galley) S C (l. & r. of galley), Galley left with eight oarsmen: Triton on the bow, at the stern is a hortator and an arched cabin between two standards..
RIC 706f; Cohen 657; Strack 837; Banti 370; Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 119/108c
ex G.Henzen (1995).
Commemorates Hadrian's return to Rome and the end of his travels in A.D.133.Charles SMar 11, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 631b, Sestertius of AD 125-128 (Diana) Æ Sestertius (27.4g, Ø33mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 125-128.
Obv.: HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS, laureate head right, drapery on left shoulder.
Rev.: COS III (around) S C (low across field), Diana (=Artemis) standing right holding bow and arrow.
RIC 631b; BMCRE 1281Cohen 316; Strack 600; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-2) 177 (35 spec.).
Charles SMar 10, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 613b, Sestertius of AD 119-121 (Hadrian riding) Æ Sestertius (22.52g, Ø 32mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 119-121.
Obv.: IMP CAESAR TRAIAN HADRIANVS AVG, laureate draped, cuirassed bust right.
Rev.: P M TR P COS III (around) EXPED AVG / S C (in two lines in ex.), Hadrian in military dress, on horse prancing left raising right hand, holding spear with banner (bandum) in left.
RIC 613b (scarce); Cohen 590; BMCRE 1260; Strack 591; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-2) 310 (same rev. die as plate, 3 spec.)
ex G.Henzen (2008).
EXPEDitio: Departure of Hadrian on his travels in 121 AD.Charles SMar 10, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 596, Sestertius of AD 119-121 (Victory with trophy)Æ sestertius (26.3g, Ø33mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 119-121.
Obv.: IMP CAESAR TRAIANVS HADRIANVS AVG P M TR P COS III, laureate, heroic bust right, drapery on far shoulder.
Rev.: VICTORIA AVGVSTI (around) S C (field), Victory advancing right, holding trophy.
RIC 596; Cohen 1462; Strack 561; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-2) 767 (1 spec.)
ex G.Henzen (1997).
In AD 117, Hadrian successfully repressed a revolt in Britain. Even though one legion was lost, the senate issued a number of coins celebrating the victory from AD 119 onwards. This issue with Victoria holding a trophy was one of these.Charles SMar 10, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 594, Sestertius of AD 118 (Restitutori Orbis Terrarum)Æ sestertius (27.2g, Ø34mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 118.
Obv.: IMP CAESAR TRAIANVS HADRIANVS AVG P M TR P COS III, laureate bust right, drapery on far shoulder.
Rev.: RESTITVTORI ORBIS TERRARVM (around) S C (ex.) Hadrian standing left, holding a scroll, raises woman with turreted crown who holds globe.
RIC 594b; BMCRE 1213; Cohen 1285 (25 fr.); Strack 559; Banti 678 (27 spec.); RCV 3637
ex D.Ruskin (1998)
David Sear: "This type, from an earlier period of the reign than the other 'restitutor' types, depicts a personification of the 'circle of lands', i.e. the world".Charles SMar 09, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 561a, Sestertius of AD 119 (Jupiter Victor)Æ Sestertius (23.9g, Ø 33mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 119.
Obv.: IMP CAESAR TRAIANVS HADRIANVS AVG, laureate bust of Hadrian facing right, drapery on far shoulder.
Rev.: PONT MAX TR POT COS III (around) S C (in ex.), Jupiter seated left holding Victory statuette and sceptre.
RIC 561; BMCRE 1146; Cohen 1185; Strack 533; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-2) 599 (30 spec.).
ex G. Henzen (1994).
This issue is connected with the suppression of a revolt in Britain in AD 117 (see Strack p.70 : Expeditio Britannica)Charles SMar 08, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 560, Sestertius of AD 118 (Annona)Æ Sestertius (26.9g, Ø 32mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 118.
Obv.: IMP CAESAR TRAIANVS HADRIANVS AVG, laureate bust of Hadrian facing right, drapery on far shoulder.
Rev.: PONT MAX TR POT COS DES III (around) ANNONA AVG (in ex.) S C (field), Annona standing left between modius and ship's prow, holding corn ears right, cornucopiae left.
RIC 560; BMCRE 1143; Cohen 180; Strack 520; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-2) 106 (15 spec.).
ex D. Ruskin(1995).
Soon after his arrival in Rome, Hadrian ordered an extraordinary distribution of grain to the people, an act which the senate, like the other donations, advertised on coin issues in the years 118 and 119.
Charles SMar 08, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 551a, Sestertius of AD 118 (Fortuna Redux)Æ sestertius (25.8g, Ø 34mm, 4h). Rome mint. Struck AD 118.
Obv.: IMP CAESAR TRAIANVS HADRIANVS AVG laureate bust right, drapery on far shoulder.
Rev.: PONT MAX TR POT COS II (around) FORT RED / S C (in two lines in ex.) Fortuna seated left holding branch right and cornucopiae left.
RIC 551; BMCRE 1132; Cohen 756; Strack 515; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-2) 414 (15 spec.)
ex Numismatik Lanz - Hubert Lanz (2009)
This FORTuna REDux issue celebrates the first arrival to Rome of Hadrian as emperor on 9 july 118, returning from travel. Hadrian had spent his first winter as emperor in Asia Minor and pacified the Danube frontier the following spring.Charles SMar 08, 2015
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Hadrian, RIC 534a, Sestertius of AD 117 (Accession)Æ sestertius (23.78g, 34mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 117.
Obv.: IMP CAES DIVI TRAIAN AVG F HADRIAN OPT AVG GER laureate draped cuirassed bust right.
Rev.: DAC PARTHICO P M TR P COS P P (around) S C (ex.) Trajan right handing globe to Hadrian left, both togate and standing.
RIC 534a [R]; Cohen 523; BMCRE 1101; Strack 500; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-2) 234 (4 spec.); Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 111:4
ex G.Henzen (2009)
The reverse is a symbolic representation of the adoption of Hadrian by Trajan in 117 (on his death bed while in Silicia and in the absence of Hadrian). The rare "accession" reverse type of Hadrian's first issue gives him titles of OPTimus, GERmanicus, DACicus, PARTHICus, and Pater Patriae, which the Senate had decreed to him in his absence. Hadrian however refused these titles and they were omitted from subsequent issues.Charles SMar 08, 2015
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Trajan, RIC 564, Sestertius of AD 106-111 (Dacia mourning)Æ Sestertius (26.8g, Ø 33mm, 6h), minted AD 106-111, Rome
Obv.: IMP CAES NERVAE TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS V P P, laureate head right
Rev.: SPQR OPTIMO PRINCIPI (around) S C (ex)., Dacia, wearing a peaked cap, resting head on right hand, mourning, seated left on shield and arms before trophy with captured arms including curved sword and spear.
RIC 564; Cohen 534; Sear (Roman Coins & their Values, II)3296; Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 101/28eCharles SMar 06, 2015
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Domitian, RIC 705, Dupondius of AD 90-91 (Fortuna)Æ Dupondius (13.1g, Ø28mm, 6h), Rome, AD 90-91
Obv.: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XV CENS PER P P, radiate head of Domitian right
Rev.: FORTVNA AVGVSTI (around) S | C, Fortuna standing left holding rudder and cornucopiae.
RIC II,1 705; Cohen 132
ex G.Henzen, May, 1997Charles SMar 02, 2015
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Vespasian RIC 1053, for Domitian, As minted Rome, AD 77-78 (Spes)Æ As (9.4g, Ø 29mm, 6h), Rome, AD 77-78
Obv.: CAESAR AVG F DOMITIANVS COS V, laureate head of Domitian right
Rev.: S C (field), Spes standing left, holding flower and raising dress.
RIC Vespasian II,1:1053; Cohen 453
ex D.Ruskin (Oxford, 1997)Charles SMar 02, 2015
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Titus RIC 398, for Julia Titi, Dupondius minted Rome, AD 80-81 (Vesta)Æ Dupondius (__g, Ø__mm, 6h), Rome, AD 80-81
Obv.: IVLIA IMP T AVG F AVGVSTA, draped bust of Julia Titi right
Rev.: VESTA (ex.) S C (field), Vesta seated left, holding palladium and sceptre.
RIC II,1 (Titus) 398; Cohen 18
ex Edgar Owen auction (1998).Charles SMar 02, 2015
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Domitian, RIC 414, As minted Rome, AD 85 (Fides)Æ As (11.49g, Ø__, 6h), Rome, AD 85
Obv.: IMP·CAES·DOMIT·AVG·GERM COS XI CENS PER P P, laureate head of Domitian right, aegis
Rev.: FIDEI PVBLICAE (around) S C (field), Fides standing left, holding basket of fruits and corn ears.
RIC II,1:414 [R2]; Cohen unlisted
ex Künker Auction 153 (2009).Charles SMar 02, 2015
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Domitian, RIC 385, As minted Rome, AD 85 (Altar)Æ As (9,80g, Ø__, 6h), Rome, AD85
Obv.: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XI CENS POT P P, laureate head of Domitian right, aegis
Rev.: SALVTI AVGVSTI in twolines above & below altar, S C (field), Altar.
RIC II,1 385; Cohen 418
ex Künker Auction 153 (2009).Charles SMar 02, 2015
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Domitian, RIC 479, Dupondius minted Rome, AD 86 (Fortuna)Æ Dupondius (13.6g, Ø 28mm, 6h), Rome, AD 86
Obv.: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM COS XII CENS PER P P, radiate head of Domitian right, aegis
Rev.: FORTVNAE AVGVSTI S C, Fortuna standing left right rudder left cornucopiae.
RIC II,1 479; Cohen 123
ex G.Henzen, (1995)Charles SMar 02, 2015
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Domitian, RIC 300, Dupondius of AD 88 (Virtus)Æ Dupondius (10.8g, Ø 27.5mm, 6h), Rome, AD 88
Obv.: IMP CAES DOMITIAN AVG GERM COS XI, radiate head right (aegis)
Rev.: VIRTVTI AVGVSTI (around) S C (field), Virtus standing right, foot on helmet left holding parazonium right spear.
RIC II,1:300[R2]; Cohen unlistedCharles SMar 01, 2015
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Domitian, RIC 478 & 493, As of AD 86 (double reverse)Æ As (11,2g, Ø 30mm, 6h), Rome, AD 86
Obv.: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM.COS XII CENS PER P P, laureate head right, aegis
Rev.: M[ONETA] AVGVSTI, Moneta standing left, holding scales and cornucopiae, struck over [F]IDEI [PVBLICAE] (around), S C (field), Fides standing right with corn ears and plate of fruits (of which only the head is visible).
RIC II,1:478 & 493
ex G.Henzen (1998)
The double struck reverse is composed of parts from two different dies: upper left third: (F)IDEI (PVBLICAE) and head of Fides turned r. (RIC 478); other two thirds: M(ONETA) AVGVSTI (RIC 493). Curtis Clay gives a plausible and interesting explanation for this strange phenomenon: "Roman imperial bronze coins with perfect obverses, but two dies of the same or different types overstruck on each other on the reverse, occur with some regularity; large public collections like BM or Vienna probably possess 50-100 of them each and I've been able to buy maybe 10-15 for my personal collection over a period of about 30 years. What I don't doubt is the correct explanation which was suggested to me by Colin Kraay c. 1972, when showing me an As of Caracalla of that sort that the Ashmolean Museum had just acquired: might it not have been quicker to employ two mobile rev. dies alternately at each obv. die set in its anvil, so that while one worker was removing his coin and getting a new blank, the second would be striking his own coin at the same obv. die? The overstrikes in question resulted from failure to remove the coin from the obv. die after the first strike! Robert Kokotailo suggested to me a year or two ago that such an alternation might also have prevented the reverse dies from overheating. Many modern scholars have proposed that different rev. types were struck at different officinae or workshops within the mint, so it's rather neat to be able to point out that in fact different types were often struck alternately at one and the same obverse die, Fides-Moneta-Fides-Moneta-Fides-Moneta and so on until there was some reason to stop work or replace the dies!"Charles SMar 01, 2015
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Domitian, RIC 493, As of AD 86 (Moneta)Æ As ((10.2g, Ø 26-28mm, 6hh), Rome, AD 86
Obv.: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM.COS XII CENS PER P P, laureate head right, aegis
Rev.: MONETA AVGVSTI (around) S C (field), Moneta standing left, holding scales right and cornucopiae left.
RIC II,1:493; Cohen 327; Foss(Roman Historical Coins) 92/25
According to Foss, this type was issued on the occasion of the establishment of a new site near the Colosseum for the Roman mint in 84, to replace that in the temple of Juno Moneta which was destroyed by fire shortly before; it is the first appearance of Moneta Augusti.Charles SMar 01, 2015
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Nero, RIC 523, Dupondius of c.AD 66 (Victory)Æ Dupondius (15.2g, Ø28mm, 6h). Lugdunum mint. Struck c.AD 66.
Obv.: IMP NERO CAESARAVG PM MAX TR P P P, laureate head right, globe
Rev.: VICTORIA AVGVSTI (around) S C (field), Victoria walkingholding palm branch.
RIC 523; BMC 356; Cohen 344
ex G.Henzen (1997)Charles SFeb 27, 2015
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Nero, RIC 450, Dupondius of c.AD 65 (Victory)Æ Dupondius (13.1g, Ø31mm, 6h). Lugdunum mint. Struck c.AD 65.
Obv.: NERO CLAVD CAESAR AVG GER P M TR P IMP P P, laureate head left (globe)
Rev.: VICTORIA - AV-GVSTI (around) S C (field), Victory walking left, holding wreath and palm branch.
RIC 450; BMCRE 352
ex D. Ruskin (1998).Charles SFeb 27, 2015
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Nero, RIC 450, Dupondius of c.AD 65 (Victory)Æ Dupondius (13.2g, Ø30mm, 6h). Lugdunum mint. Struck AD 65.
Obv.: NERO CLAVD CAESAR AVG GER P M TR P IMP P P, laureate head left (globe)
Rev.: VICTORIA AVGVSTI (around) S C (field), Victory walking left, holding wreath and palm branch.
RIC 450; BMCRE 352
ex Holleman (1996)Charles SFeb 27, 2015
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Nero, RIC 410, Dupondius of c.AD 65 (Victory)Æ Dupondius (12.7g, Ø28mm, 6h). Lugdunum mint. Struck c.AD 65.
Obv.: NERO CLAVD CAESAR AVG GER P M TR P IMP P, laureate head left (globe)
Rev.: VICTORIA AVGUSTI (around) II (ex.) S C (field), Victory walking left, holding wreath and palm branch.
RIC 410; Cohen 341
ex G.Henzen (1996)Charles SFeb 27, 2015
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Nero, RIC 379, Dupondius of c.AD 64 (Victory)Æ Dupondius (13.2g, Ø30mm, 6h). Lugdunum mint. Struck c.AD 64
Obv.: NERO CLAVD CAESAR AVG GER P M TR P IMP P P, radiate head right (w. globe)
Rev.: VICTORIA AVGVSTI (around) S C (field) II (ex.), Victoria walking left holding wreath and palm.
RIC 379Charles SFeb 27, 2015
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Nero, RIC 204, Dupondius of c.AD 64 (Victory)Æ Dupondius (12.8g, Ø28mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck c.AD 64.
Obv.: NERO CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG GER P M TR P IMP P P, radiate head right
Rev.: VICTORIA AVGVSTI (around) S C (field) II (ex.), Victory walking right.
RIC 204
Ex D.Ruskin (Oxford, 1995)Charles SFeb 27, 2015
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HARBOUR, NERO, AE Sestertius (Portus Claudii)Æ sestertius (22.54g, maximum Ø34.24mm, 6h), Lugdunum mint, struck AD 66.
Obv.: IMP NERO CAESAR AVG P MAX TR P P P, laureate head of Nero right, globe below tip of bust.
Rev.: PORT AVG (below) S C (above), aerial view of the harbour of Ostia, showing pier, breakwaters, lighthouse surmounted by the statue of Neptune, seven ships, and the figure of Tiber reclining left in foreground, holding rudder and dolphin.
Mac Dowall (The western Coinages of Nero, ANS SSN 161) 476; RIC 586 (R2); BMCRE 323 var. (different obv. legend); Cohen 253 var. (emperor's head to left); CBN 74 var. (different obv. legend); Sear (RCV) 1953var.
Rome's original harbour was Ostia, situated at the mouth of the Tiber. It could not easily handle large sea-going vessels such as those of the grain fleet. Therefore, Claudius initiated the construction of a new all-weather harboru at Portus, about 4 km north of Ostia. The project was completed under Nero who renamed the harbour "Portus Augusti".
It was a huge project enclosing an area of 69 hectares, with two long curving moles projecting into the sea, and an artificial island, bearing a lighthouse, in the centre of the space between the moles. The foundation of this lighthouse was provided by filling with concrete and sinking one of the massive ships that Caligula had used to transport an obelisk from Egypt for the Circus Maximus. These giant ships had a length of around 100m and displaced a minimum of 7400 tons. The harbour opened directly to the sea on the northwest and communicated with the Tiber by a channel on the southeast. However, it was very exposed to the weather and under Trajan was superseded by a new land-locked inner basin linked to the Tiber by a canal.Charles SFeb 26, 2015
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HARBOUR, TRAJAN, AE Sestertius (Portus Trajani)Portus Trajani
Æ Sestertius (26.66g, Ø35mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 104-111.
Obv.: IMP CAES NERVAE TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS V P P laureate draped bust of Trajan facing right.
Rev.: (PORTVM TRAIANI around, S C in ex.), Basin of Trajan's harbour (Portus Traiani), near Ostia, surrounded by warehouses, ships in centre.
RIC 471 (R2); Cohen 305; BMC 770A; Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 104:59
ex Jean Elsen Auction 95; ex coll. A. Senden: "L'architecture des monnaies Romaines".
Due to the vulnarability of Portus Claudii, witness the events of 62 AD when a violent storm destroyed some 200 ships in the port, Trajan built a second one farther inland behind the port of Claudius. The work was carried out in the years 100-112 AD, and included improvements of the Claudian harbour. It was a hexagonal basin enclosing an area of 39 hectares, and communicating by canals with the harbour of Claudius, with the Tiber directly, and with the sea. The capacity of the harbour was much enlarged, and many new warehouses were built around it, remains of which may still be seen: The fineness of the brickwork of which they are built is remarkable. The sides of the hexagonal basin were over 350 m, the maximum diameter more than 700 m., and 5m deep. The bottom was covered with stones, at the north end gradually sloping upwards, to reach a depth of only one meter at the edge of the basin.
The basin could contain more than 100 ships that did not moor alongside the quays, but at a straight angle. It was surrounded by a few wide treads (total width c. 6 m.). On the quays was a wall, with five narrow doorways (1.80) on each side of the hexagon. The doorways are too narrow for wagons. Apparently the goods were unloaded and carried by slaves. This can also be seen on several reliefs and mosaics. The wall facilitated the control of the flow of goods, for the Customs Service and the levying of import duties (the portorium).
The hexagon may have been designed by Apollodorus of Damascus, the architect of Trajan's Market in Rome. No other harbours are known with this shape, suggesting that it was chosen not only for practical purposes, but also for aesthetic reasons.
Portus was the main port of ancient Rome for more than 500 years and provided a conduit for everything from glass, ceramics, marble and slaves to wild animals caught in Africa and shipped to Rome for spectacles in the Colosseum.Charles SFeb 26, 2015
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Matidia, niece of Trajan, mother of SabinaÆ Sestertius (25.51g, Ø35mm, 6h), Rome mint. Struck AD 113-117.
MATIDIA AVG DIVAE MARCIANAE F, draped diademed bust of Matidia facing right.
PIETAS AVGST (around) S C (in ex.), Pietas standing left, placing her hands on the heads of two children.
RIC (Trajan) 761 [R3]; Cohen 11 (350 Fr.); Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 107:112
ex Ibercoins, Madrid
Matidia was the daughter of Trajan's sister Marciana and thus niece of Trajan, born about AD 68. She assumed the title of Augusta upon the death of her mother in 112. On reverse, Matidia, as Pietas, with her daughters Matidia the younger and Sabina, future wife of Hadrian. After her death in 119, a temple was dedicated to her on the forum of Trajan. Charles SFeb 25, 2015
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Trajan, RIC 569, Sestertius of AD 107-110 (bridge)Æ Sestertius (27.1g, Ø34mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck 107-110.
Obv.: IMP CAES NERVAE TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS V P P laur. bust of Trajan right, paludamentum on l. shoulder.
Re.: S·P·Q·R·OPTIMO PRINCIPI [around] S C [in ex.] Single-span bridge with tower at each end, below a boat.
RIC 569; BMC 848; Cohen 542; Strack 385; Banti 261 (25 spec.); MIR 314(bD2); RHC 100:21.
ex CNG, 2001
According to Hill, the bridge represented on the reverse could well be the ancient Pons Sublicus.Charles SFeb 25, 2015
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Trajan, RIC 624, Sestertius of AD 112-114 (Felicitas)Æ Sestertius (24.9g, Ø34mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck 112-114.
Obv.: IMP CAES NERVAE TRAIANO AVG GER DAC PM TR P COS VI P Plaureate head of Trajan right.
Rev.: FELICITAS AVGVST [around] S C [ex.] Felicitas standing left holding caduceus and cornucopiae.
RIC 624; Cohen 142 (4 Fr.)
ex Jesu Vico S.A., Auction 140 (2014)Charles SFeb 25, 2015
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Trajan, RIC 558, Sestertius of AD 106-111Æ Sestertius (23.50g, Ø32mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 106-111.
Obv.: IMP CAES NERVAE TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS V P P laureate bust of Trajan with aegis, facing right.
Rev.: S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI [around,] S C [ex.] The Danube river god standing left, cloak billowing behind, holding reed and forcing Dacia to the ground with his knee.
RIC 558 [scarce]; Cohen 525 (fr.25); BMCRE 793 (note); Foss (Roman Historical Coins): 100/23
ex Gitbud & Naumann Auction 23 lot 777 (2014)
Historical background: In 106 A.D., Trajan besieged Sarmizegetusa, the Dacian capital. With the aid of a Dacian traitor, the Romans found and destroyed water pipes supplying the city. Running out of water and food the city fell and was burned to the ground. Decebalus fled but, followed by the Roman cavalry, committed suicide rather than face capture. The river-god on the reverse is usually described as Tiber, however, the reverse likely personifies the impact of the Roman destruction of the Dacian's water supply. Dacia's own water supply has betrayed her, knocked her to the ground, and is choking her.
Charles SFeb 25, 2015
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Tiberius, RIC 81, for Divus Augustus, As of AD 22-30 (Altar) Æ As (10,0g, Ø 29mm, 6h) Rome mint, struck AD 22-30.
Obv.: DIVVS AVGVSTVS PATER, radiate portrait of Augustus left.
Rev.: PROVIDENT (ex.), S C left & right of ornamented altar enclosure with double panelled door.
RIC (Tiberius) 81; Cohen (Augustus) 228
ex. D.Ruskin (1994) Charles SFeb 25, 2015
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Tiberius, RIC 82, for Divus Augustus, As of AD 34-37 (Eagle on globe) Æ As (__g, Ø__mm, 12h) Rome mint, struck AD 34-37.
Obv.: DIVVS AVGVSTVS PATER, radiate portrait of Augustus left.
Rev.: S C left & right of eagle standing on globe, head right, wings half spread.
RIC (Tiberius) 82; BMCRE 155; Cohen (Augustus) 247
ex. J.Jencek, 2000Charles SFeb 25, 2015
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Tiberius, RIC 44, As of AD 22 (large S C) Æ As (10.8g, Ø30mm, 6h) Rome mint. Struck AD 22.
Obv.: TI CAESAR DIVI AVG F AVGVST IMP VIII, bare head of Tiberius left.
Rev.: PONTIF MAXIM TRIBVN POTEST XXIIII round large S C.
RIC 44; BMCRE 91; Cohen 19.Charles SFeb 25, 2015
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Augustus, RIC 347, Dupondius of 19-4 BC (oak wreath) Æ Dupondius (10.7g, Ø 25mm, 2h) Lugdunum mint. Struck 19-4 BC.
Coinage of P. Licinius Stolo.
Obv.: AVGVSTVS / TRIBVNIC / POTEST, with tall T in AVGVSTVS, in three lines in oak wreath
Rev.: P STOLO III VIR A A A F F round large S C
RIC 347 (R2)
ex Medierranean Coins (2001)Charles SFeb 25, 2015
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Augustus, RIC 237, for Tiberius, As of AD 10-14 (Altar of Ludunum)Æ As (10.2g, Ø 25mm, 2h) Lugdunum mint. Struck AD 10-14.
Obv.: TI CAESAR AVGVST F·IMPERAT V, bare head of Tiberius left
Rev.: ROM ET AVG (ex.), Altar of Lugdunum decorated with the corona civica between laurel branches flanked by stylized male figures; left and right of the altar, Victories on columns facing one another.
RIC (Augustus) 237; Cohen (Tiberius) 31; Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 56/1
ex D.Ruskin (Oxford, 1994)
Dedication of the altar in Ludugnum (Lyon) presided over by Tiberius together with Augustus in 10 BC.Charles SFeb 25, 2015
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Augustus, RIC 245, for Tiberius, As of AD 10-14 (Altar of Lugdunum) Æ As (8.5g, Ø24mm, 4h) Lugdunum mint. Struck AD 10-14.
Obv.: TI CAESAR AVGVST F IMPERAT VII, laureate head of Tiberius right.
Rev.: ROM ET AVG (ex.), Altar of Lyons decorated with the corona civica between laurel branches flanked by stylized male figures; left and right of the altar, Victories on columns facing one another.
RIC (Augustus) 245; Cohen (Tiberius) 37; BMCRE 585; Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 56/1
ex G.Henzen, 1995
Dedication of the altar in Ludugnum (Lyon) presided over by Tiberius together with Augustus in 10 BC.Charles SFeb 25, 2015
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Tiberius, RIC 83, for Divus Augustus, As of AD 34-37 (thunderbolt) Æ As (10.7g, Ø29mm, 7h) Rome mint, struck AD 34-37.
Obv.: DIVVS AVGVSTVS PATER, radiate portrait of Augustus left.
Rev.: S C left & right of winged thunderbolt.
RIC (Tiberius) 83; BMCRE 158; Cohen 249
ex. M.R. Vosper (2000)Charles SFeb 24, 2015
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Gaius ("Caligula"), RIC 43, for Germanicus, As of AD 39-40Æ As (11.9g, Ø 28mm, 6h), Rome mint, struck AD 37-38
Obv.: GERMANICVS CAESAR TI AVG F DIVI AVG N, bare head of Germanicus left.
Rev.: C CAESAR DIVI AVG PRON AVG PM TR P III P P round large S·C.
RIC (Gaius) 43 (R2) (but incorrect legends: see note below); BMCRE p.156 n.‡; not in Cohen
Ex G.Henzen (1996)
Germanicus adopted by Tiberius, father of Caligula, lived 15BC-19AD.
Note: Both obverse and reverse legends are wrong in the revised edition of RIC Vol1 (1984) no. 83. The obverse is quoted as "GERMANICVS CAESAR TI AVGvst F DIVI AVG N"; the reverse as "C CAESAR DIVI AVG PRON AVG PM TR Pot III P P": the parts in lower case are incorrect and should be deleted. The 1923 issue of RIC, no. 46 had these legends correct.
Charles SFeb 24, 2015
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Gaius ("Caligula"), RIC 34, for Nero & Drusus, Dupondius of AD 37-38Æ Dupondius (13.2g, Ø28.5mm, 12h), Rome mint, struck AD 37-38.
Obv.: NERO ET DRVSVS CAESARES, Nero and Drusus riding right, cloaks flying.
Rev.: C CAESAR AVG GERMANICVS PON M TR POT round large S·C.
RIC 34 BMCRE 44; Cohen 1; Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 61:10b
This type celebrates the memory of Caligula's family: bringing back the ashes of his brothers Nero and Drusus.Charles SFeb 24, 2015
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Augustus, RIC 233, As of AD 9-14 (Altar of Lugdunum) Æ As (10.7g, Ø 25mm, 2h) Lugdunum mint. Struck AD 9-14.
Obv.: CAESAR AVGVSTVS·DIVI F·PATER PATRIAE, laureate head right
Rev.: ROM ET AVG (ex.), Altar of Lugdunum decorated with the corona civica between laurels flanked by stylized male figures; left and right of the altar, Victories on columns facing one another.
RIC 233; Cohen 237; Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 53/92
ex D.Ruskin (Oxford, 1995)
Dedication of the altar of Lugdunum (at present Lyons) and creation of the community of the Gauls in 10 BCCharles SFeb 23, 2015
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Augustus, RIC 230, As of 15-10 BC (Altar of Lugunum)Æ As (11.4g, Ø27mm, 11h) Lugdunum mint. Struck 15-10 BC.
Obv.: CAESAR PONT MAX, laureate head right
Rev.: ROM ET AVG (ex.), Altar of Lugdunum decorated with the corona civica between laurels; l. and r. Victories on columns facing one another.
RIC 230; BMCRE 550Charles SFeb 23, 2015
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Claudius, RIC 101, for Germanicus, Dupondius of AD 41-50 Æ Dupondius (16.4g, Ø 31,5mm, 6h). Rome mint, struck AD 41-50.
Obv.: DIVVS AVGVSTVS, head of Augustus facing left between S C.
Rev.: DIVA AVGVSTA, Livia seated left holding corn ears with poppy and a long torch
RIC (Claudius) 101 (R2); Cohen (Octave Auguste) 93; BMCRE 224Charles SFeb 23, 2015
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Tiberius, RIC 58, As of AD 35-36Æ As (10.2g, Ø 28.5mm, 12h). Rome mint. Struck AD 35-36.
Obv.: TI CAESAR DIVI AVG F AVGVST IMP VIII, bare head of Tiberius left.
Rev,: PONTIF MAX TR POT XXXVII (round) S C (in field), rudder placed vertically across banded globe, small globe at base of rudder.
RIC 58 (R2); BMCRE 117 Charles SFeb 23, 2015
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Tiberius, RIC 64, As of AD 36-37 Æ As (13.9g, Ø 28mm, 7h). Rome mint. Struck AD 36-37.
Obv.: TI CAESAR DIVI AVG F AVGVST IMP VIII, bare head of Tiberius left
Rev,: PONTIF·MAX·TR·POT·XXXIIX (round) S C (in field), rudder before banded large globe, small globe left at the base of the rudder.
RIC 64 (scarce); BMCRE 135Charles SFeb 23, 2015
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Gaius ("Caligula"), RIC 35, for Germanicus, As of AD 37-38Æ As (10.4g, Ø 28mm, 6h), Rome mint, struck AD 37-38
Obv.: GERMANICVS CAESAR TI AVGVST F DIVI AVG N, bare head of Germanicus left.
Rev.: C CAESAR AVG GERMANICVS PON M TR POT round large S·C.
RIC 35; Cohen 1Charles SFeb 23, 2015
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Tiberius, RIC 82, for Divus Augustus, As of AD 34-37 (Eagle on globe)Æ As (10,80g, Ø 29mm, 6h) Rome mint, struck AD 34-37.
Obv.: DIVVS AVGVSTVS PATER, radiate portrait of Augustus left.
Rev.: S C left & right of eagle standing on globe, head right, wings half spread.
RIC (Tiberius) 82; BMCRE 155; Cohen 247
ex. G.Henzen (2015)Charles SFeb 22, 2015
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Gaius ("Caligula"), RIC 44, Sestertius of AD 39Æ Sestertius (28.5g, Ø 35.5mm, 6h) Rome mint, struck AD 39.
Obv.: C CAESAR DIVI AVG PRON P M TR P III P P around, PIETAS in ex., Pietas, veiled and draped, seated left, holding patera and resting left arm on small statue on pedestal.
Rev.: DIVO AVG / S C (in two lines in field left & right of the temple), Hexastyle guirlanded temple, surmounted with quadriga and statues, before which Gaius, veiled and togate, standing left, sacrifices with patera over garlanded altar; at left, an attendant leading bull to altar; at right, another attendant holding patera.
RIC 44 (R); Sear (Roman Coins & their Values I) 1802; Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 60:2a
ex G.Henzen (1999).
Explanation of the legend: obverse: CAIVS CAESAR DIVI AVGVSTI PRONEPOS AVGVSTVS PONTIFEX MAXIMVS TRIBVNICIA POTESTATE III PATER PATRIAE : Gaius Caesar, great-grandson of Divine Augustus, emperor, High Priest, with tribunician power for the third time, father of the fatherland. reverse: DIVO AVGVSTO SENATVS CONSVLTO: to Divine Augustus by decree of the Senate.
This architectural type commemorates the dedication of the temple to Divus Augustus in August, 37 AD. There were two temples in Rome honoring Augustus, one on the Palatine, the other of uncertain location, possibly behind the Basilica Julia in the depression between the Palatine and the Capitoline Hills. The latter, built under Tiberius, was the one dedicated by Caligula in 37 AD.Charles SFeb 21, 2015
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ROMAN EMPIRE, ANTONINUS PIUS sestertius, RIC 618 Æ Sestertius (24.83g, Ø 33mm, 11h), Rome mint, Struck AD 140-144.
Obv.: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P COS III, laurate head Antoninus Pius facing right
Rev.: PROVIDENTIAE DEORVM (around) S C (in field), winged thunderbolt with six lightnings.
RIC 618; Coh.684; BMC 1266 note (six barbs instead of four); Strack 845; Banti 321 (same rev. die as illustrated, 2 spec.)
ex CNG eAuction 202 (2009); ex White Mountain Collection
 Charles SFeb 21, 2015
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Trajan, RIC 521, As of AD 103-111 (Victoria with branch and palm)Æ As (10,33g, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 103-111.
Obv.: IMP CAES NERVAE TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS V P P, laureate head of Trajan facing right (aegis).
Rev.: S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI (around), S C (in field), advancing left, with branch and palm.
RIC 521; Cohen 436.
ex KÜnker auction 153 (2009)Charles SFeb 21, 2015
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Trajan, RIC 563, Dupondius of AD 106-111 (Dacia mourning)Æ Dupondius (10.5g, Ø 25mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 106-111.
Obv.: IIMP CAES NERVAE TRAIA NO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS V P P, radiate head of Trajan right.
Rev.: SPQR OPTIMO PRINCIPI (around), S C (in ex.), Dacia seated left, mourning, on shield and arms, before trophy.
RIC 563; Cohen 533
ex D.Ruskin (Oxford, 1993)Charles SFeb 21, 2015
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Trajan, RIC 675, As of AD 116-117 (Victory) Æ As (11.7g, Ø 25-27mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 116-117.
Obv.: IMP CAES NER TRAIANO OPTIMO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS VI P P, laureate and draped bust right
laureate head of Trajan right.
Rev.: SENATVS POPVLVSQUE ROMANVS (around), S C (in field), Victory holding wreath and palm branch advancing right.
RIC 675; Cohen 355
ex D.Ruskin (Oxford, 1996)Charles SFeb 21, 2015
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Trajan, RIC 591, As of AD 103-111 (Victory) Æ As (11.4g, Ø 28mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 98-99.
Obv.: IMP CAES NERVAE TRAIANO AVG GER DAC PM TR P COS V P P, laureate head of Trajan right; aegis on chest.
Rev.: S P Q R OPTIMO PRICIPI (around), S C (in field), Victory advancing left, with branch and palm.
RIC 591; Cohen 436
ex Künker auction 153 (2003) Charles SFeb 21, 2015
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