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Roman_seige_encampment.jpg
Israel, Masada - Remains of a Roman Seige Encampment217 views
Roman_Republic_Bronze_Semis.png
Roman Republic, Anonymous AE Semis217 viewsState : Roman Republic
Denomination : Bronze Semis
Date : Circa 211-206 BC
Maximum Diameter : 28.97 Millimeters
Weight : 19.78 Grames
Moneyer : ( anonymous)
Mint : Rome
Die Axis : →
Grade : Almost EF with smooth dark patina , an exceptionally fine example of this early issue.
Obverse : Laureate head of bearded Saturn Right, mark of value S behind
Reverse : Prow of galley right, mark of value S above , ROMA below.
References : Crawford 56/3 ; BMCRR 229 ; Sydenham 143a ; Sear ( Roman Coins & Their Values I ) 766
This Coin has been personally inspected and authenticated by Dr. David R. Sear as an exceptional fine example of this early struck issue.

**Numismatic Note by Mr. Andrew McCabe :



Dear Sam,

This exceptional looking semis is an anonymous version of the Crawford 50 anchor series, published by me in The Anonymous Struck Bronze Coinage of the Roman Republic: a Provisional Arrangement, in Essays Russo, 2013 (Witschonke, van Alfen eds). It's in my group D, whose description says

McCabe group D1, Related to RRC 50 anchor. Broad squared Janus, tall thick prowstem, prominent keel and rostrum. Average 40 gram As. Asses have a broad square Janus head. Reverses have tall thick prowstems which are either line bounded or solid fill. There are often curved keel lines with downward pointing rostrums. The deck structures are small and flat-topped. Flans are thick and dumpy. There are often off-strikes, flat-strikes or flan defects.

I show below pictures of two styles of As and Semis from this series. The two styles probably relate to two different die engravers. Your coin corresponds to the second of the semisses shown below. I admit I considered buying it myself but wondered whether the field surfaces were smoothed, and then you bought it. Now I see the coin again I think there's no problem with it, it's likely been professionally cleaned and patinated. It is a very high quality coin for a Roman Republican bronze.

Below my Group D photo, I show a standard Crawford 50/3 anchor as, with the symbol. You should hopefully see that the anonymous and the coin with anchor symbol look essentially similar as regards style, design details and flans.

Andrew

For more information , please go to :

http://www.forumancientcoins.com/board/index.php?topic=100262.msg618261#msg618261


Numismatic Note: The rapid slide in the weight standard of the Roman Republican bronze coinage, occasioned by Rome's military
catastrophes at the hands of the Carthaginian Hannibal in the early stages of the Second Punic War, was finally halted by the enactment of the sweeping currency reform of circa 211 BC. For the first time asses were issued as struck coins in place of the cast Aes Grave pieces, thus completing the process which had begun about six years before with the introduction of struck fractional denominations. Following the reform, struck bronzes were produced in a range of values (principally as, semis, triens, quadrans, sextans, and uncia) on the sextantal weight standard based on an as of about 44 grams. The initial issues were anonymous but as the series progressed, various control-marks (symbols, letters and monograms) began to appear, usually on the reverse, indicating the moneyer responsible for the coin's production. This exceptionally fine example of the semis, or half as, is anonymous and belongs to the initial phase of production following the reform of circa 211 BC. Crawford dates it to the half decade 211-206 BC.
The obverse type of Saturn, father of Jupiter, became standard on the semis denomination about 225 BC and at the same time the reverse type for all bronze denominations was standardized as the prow of a galley, the principal instrument of Rome's success against Carthage in the First Punic War.

From Sam Mansourati Collection.
5 commentsSam
Greek_Macedon__Acanthus_new~0.jpg
GREEK, Macedon Acanthus217 viewsGreek, Macedon. Acanthus. Late 5th Century – 348 BC. AR Tetrobol (2.16 gm).
Obverse: Forepart of bull running left, head reverted
Reverse: Quadripartite incuse with granular surface.
SNG ANS 44-6.
Ex: Freeman and Sear Fixed Price List 10, lot 152
2 commentspaul1888
calabr_tar.JPG
Greek, Calabria, Tarentum AR nomos (c. 272-240 BC)217 viewso/ Youth on horseback right; behind, Nike flying right, crowning him.
r/ Phalanthos astride dolphin left, holding grain ear and ornate trident; monogram behind.
6.1g. 19mm
Vlasto 911 This coin
2 commentsAugustin Caron
mithra~0.jpg
Greek, Mithradates I (171-138 BC), AR Drachm217 viewsAn exceptional portrait of an aging but still formidable ruler. Most Parthian coin portraits are fairly pedestrian but this artist captures the tangled beard and wrinkled eyes and brow of Mithridates I in what must be the last years of his reign.

Sellwood 11.1
daverino
LUCINA.JPG
Lucilla, wife of Lucius Verus, sister of Commodus. Augusta, 164-182/3 CE.216 viewsÆ Sestertius (31mm), Rome mint, AD 166.
Obv: LVCILLAE AVG ANTONINI AVG F, Bare-headed and draped bust right.
Rev: IVNONI LVCINAE SC, Juno Lucina seated left, holding flower and an infant in swaddling clothes.
RIC 1747, BMC 1154, Sear 5504, Cohen 37.
LEONTIA-1.jpg
Leontia, wife of Phocas, 602-610 CE.216 viewsÆ Follis (28.4 mm, 13.35 g). Constantinople mint. Struck 602/603 CE.
Obv: δmFOCA ЄPPAVG, Phocas and Leontia stg. facing. The Emperor holds globus cruciger, the Empress, nimbate, holds cruciform scepter.
Rev: Large M, surmounted by cross; ANNO to left, I (regnal year 1) right, CONB in exergue.
Sear 639; MIB 129, 60a; DOC 163, 24b.
074n.jpg
Laureate bust216 viewsBITHYNIA. Prusa ad Olympum. Maximinus I. Æ 23. A.D. 235-238. Obv: ΓIOVMAΞIMEINOCAV. Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right; countermark on bust. Rev: ΠP-OVC-AEΩN. Athena standing left, holding patera in right hand and spear in left, shield at her feet. Ref: BMC -; Waddington 148. Axis: 30°. Weight: 8.95 g. CM: Laureate bust right, in oval punch, 5 x 6 mm. Howgego 65 (130 pcs). Note: Dating of the countermark is problematic, and it seems likely that it was applied over a period of time. Collection Automan.Automan
075 Aurelian.jpg
Aurelian AE Antoninianus216 viewsAE Antoninianus
Obv: IMP AVRELIANVS AVG
Rev: ORIENS AVG ; Sol walking l., a captive at his feet.
RIC 137
Tanit
Postumus VBERITAS AVG RIC 330-2.jpg
VBERITAS AVG RIC V/2 330216 viewsAnt, 21mm, 3.76g.

Obverse: IMP C POSTVMVS PF AVG, Radiate, draped & cuirassed bust R.

Reverse: VBERITAS AVG, Uberitas standing L with purse and cornucopia.

Trier, Issue 4, Officina B.

RIC V/2 330, Common.

The scarcer variant with VBERITAS spelt correctly.
6 commentsRobert_Brenchley
s08p.jpg
Roman, Septimius Severus Rome late 216 viewsRIC 244. Denarius, mint of Rome, 211 AD.
Great sage portrait!
volusian~0.jpg
Volusian Sestertius216 viewsAE Sestertius
Obv: IMP CAE C VIB VOLVSIANO AVG, laureate, draped & cuirassed bust right
Rev: PAX AVGG S - C, Pax standing l. holding branch and transverse scepter.

RIC 256a, Cohen 74.
Tanit
Matthias_Huszar_720~0.JPG
Huszár 720, Pohl 222-9, Unger 566j, Réthy II 233A, Kaplan Subtype A216 viewsHungary. Matthias "Corvinus" (Mátyás Hunyadi in Hun.) (1458-1490). AR denar.

Obv: M MAThIE R hVnGARIE, Four-part shield with Hungarian arms (Árpádian stripes, patriarchal cross, Dalmatian leopard heads, Bohemian lion), raven in escutcheon.

Rev: PATROn — VnGARIE, Crowned Madonna with infant Jesus to her right, n—crossed hammers (privy mark) in fields.

The type was struck in 1479-1485 (per Pohl) or 1482-1490 (per Huszár & Unger), with an average fineness of approximately .500 silver, and an average weight of .59023 g. This privy mark was struck in Nagybánya (now Baia Mare, Romania) as a collective bourgeoisie issue (per Pohl).

Huszár/Pohl rarity rating 4. This emission is considerably less common than this rarity rating would suggest.
Stkp
severus_eag~0.jpg
Eagle216 viewsSeverus Alexander provincial - Varbanov 1390 (similar to Moushmov 714)1 comments
20277598.jpg
Greece, Olympia - temple of Hera216 viewsJ. B.
4046624.jpg
Italy, Pompeii - temple of Apollo216 viewsJ. B.
Constantine_captive.jpg
Constantine I the Great 216 viewsConstantine I the Great
AE Follis
Ticinum mint, Struck AD 319-320.
21mm, 3.4g 0o
obv: Helmeted and cuirassed bust right.
rev: Two captives seated at base of standard inscribed VOT XX, PT below.
RIC VII 114
Silvered
3 commentsmihali84
Perge_Roman_Baths.jpg
Turkey, Perga - Roman Baths216 viewsThe hot room (caldarium); some traces of the original marble flooring are visible at the far end. Underneath, a well-preserved hypocaust of slightly unusual design, based on pilae tiles formed into arches rather than the more common upright stacks. Abu Galyon
033_2.jpg
Abdera, Thrace216 views345-323 B.C.
Bronze Æ 15
2.98 gm, 15 mm
Obv.: Griffin seated right on club; EYAN (magistrate) below
Rev.: Laurate head of Apollo right within square border; ABΔ-HPI-TE-ΩN around
BMC 3, 82; Sear 1558 var.;
Strack 216 var.; SNG Cop 374 var.
2 commentsJaimelai
Sikyonia,_Sikyon,_AR_Triobol~0~0.jpg
GREEK, Sikyonia, Sikyon, 330/20-280 BC, AR Triobol - BMC 112 var.216 viewsChimaera standing left; ΣI below. / Dove flying left; Δ above tail feathers.
BCD Peloponnesos 298 (this coin); BMC 112 var.; SNG Copenhagen 61 var. (ΔI on reverse) - very rare variant.
(15 mm, 2.99 g 7h)
ex-BCD Collection; LHS 96 (8 May 2006) Lot 298.
4 comments
Antoninus_Pius_Serpent_on_Galley.JPG
ROMAN EMPIRE PROVINCIAL, Antoninus Pius. Serpent on Half Galley (Snake on a boat)216 viewsAntoninus Pius, 138-161 A.D., Nicomedia, Bithynis, 18mm, 3.61g,
OBV: KAICAP ANTΩNINO, Laureate head right.
REV: MHTPOПOΛEΩC NPINO, (or similar) Coiled serpent right atop forepart of galley right.

BMC___, von Aulock___, SNG Copenhagen__ RPC IV online
SRukke
1807_30_Kreuzer_s.jpg
1807 - 30 Kreuzer216 viewsGalicia & Lodomeria -Galician Austria
Obv: Franz kais * V * Oest.Koen * Z.Hung. Boeh. * Galiz.U.Lod -
Legend and denomination surrounding a diamond dotted border, inside bust of Franz II.
Exergue: A
Rev: outside-Dreyssig * Kreutzer * Erblaend * Isch.1807.*
inside- Wiener St. Banco Zett. Theilungs Münz Z.30.K.-
Around four sides of a diamond dotted border,
enclosing an Austrian double headed eagle with a crown over the heads and a sword in each claw.
Denomination in center.
Mint: Münz ; Size: 37mm;
Ref: KM- 2149

Brian L
quadriga_lead-Q-001_21mm-s.jpg
Rome, Lead Seal, #03, Quadriga, 216 viewsRome, Lead Seal, #03, Quadriga,
"I think it dates to the beginning of the 4th century, and it is published in the supplement of Leukel, Römische Bleiplomben aus Trierer Funden, N226-240. There, the depiction is described as 'two Victories in two bigas to right', but I think it is more probably just one quadriga with a second Victory flying above. This is quite a common seal, which might indicate that it is an imperial seal, not a personal one." by Gert. Thank you Gert.
Extremely fine.
diameter: 21mm,
weight: ,
Q-001
1 commentsquadrans
IMG11189.JPG
Italy, Aquileia - mosaic floor216 viewsPost-Theodorian South hall (end of 4th century)
Mosaics were originally part of Theodorian complex destroyed by Attila. Basilica was built on its site in 1031 and mosaics remained untouched under the floor.
J. B.
tituscapt.jpg
Roman Empire, Titus RIC II 1076 (Vespasian)216 viewsAD 69-79. AR Denarius (18mm, 3.27 g, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 79. O: Laureate head right, T CAESAR IMP VESPASIANVS R:Bound captive kneeling right before trophy, TR POT VIII COS VII. RIC II 1076 (Vespasian); RSC 334.

This type with these legends were minted in the first several days of Titus reign.
8 commentsNemonater
RRC.jpg
Anonymous Aes Grave As216 viewsAnonymous. Circa 225-217 BC. Æ Aes Grave As (63mm, 266.40 g, 12h). Libral standard. Rome mint. Head of bearded Janus; – (mark of value) below; all on a raised disk / Prow of galley right; | (mark of value) above; all on a raised disk. Crawford 35/1; Thurlow & Vecchi 51; Haeberlin pl. 10, 1-16, 4; HN Italy 337; Sydenham 71; Kestner 111-5; BMCRR Rome (Aes Grave) 1-16.

Ex. CNG eAuction 163, lot 211 (2007)
Ex. Triton XVI, lot 753 (2013)
Ex. CNG Coin Shop (2013)
8 commentsMolinari
Constantius_II__AD_337-361__AV_Solidus.jpg
Roman Empire, Constantius II ( Unlisted Officina )216 viewsConstantius II. AD 337-361. AV Solidus (20mm, 4.23 g, 12h). Antioch mint, 10th officina. Struck AD 347-355. Pearl-diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust right of Constantius II / Roma seated facing and Constantinopolis seated half-left, foot on prow, each holding scepter, supporting shield between them inscribed VOT/ XX/ MVLT/ XXX in four lines; SMANI. RIC VIII 81 var. (unlisted officina); Depeyrot 6/3. VF, digs and scratches on obverse.

From Sam Mansourati Collection / Ex CNG / Ex Kelly J. Krizan, M.D. Collection.
Photo and Description , courtesy of Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
4 commentsSam
82_BC_ROMAN_REP_ODYSSEUS_DENARIUS_BOTH~0.jpg
Roman Republic, C. Mamilius C.f. Limetanus, 82 BC216 viewsC. Mamilius C.f. Limetanus. Silver Denarius (3.81 g), 82 BC. Rome. Draped bust of Mercury right, wearing winged petasus; behind, A above caduceus. Reverse : C MAMIL LIME(TA)N, Odysseus (Ulysses in Latin form) advancing right, holding staff and extending hand to his dog Argus, coming to greet him. Crawford 362/1; Sydenham 741; Mamilia 6.

The types on this coin allude to the moneyer's claim to descent from Telegonus, son of Ulysses/Odysseus and Circe, and hence from the god Mercury. When Odysseus returns home after twenty years disguised as a beggar and his old dog, who had been neglected, is the only one who recognizes him.
JL-1b.JPG
216 views12 tray cabinet

www.CabinetsByCraig.net
cmcdon0923
0530-Jtn-K-Con-S7_109.jpg
BYZANTINE, Justinian I, Anonymous Half-Siliqua, Struck at Constantinople (c.530AD), Bendall Type 8c216 viewsObverse: Helmeted and draped bust of Constantinople facing right.
Reverse: Large K in a pearl border.

S. Bendall made an attempt at the classification and chronology of these types. He accepted the general conclusion that the oldest issues, of very fine style, were struck during the inauguration of the new capital of the empire on May 11th, A.D.330. Bendall, having analyzed the changes in style, suggested that some issues were struck on the anniversaries of the founding of Constantinople in A.D.430 and A.D.530, and that other variants might have been issued during the reign of Justinian I to celebrate the reconquest of Italy.

Atelier : Constantinople (Istanbul en Turquie) - Ref : Bendall Type 8c - Sommer 7.109 (Maurice), Tolstoï 28, 612 - Rare
0,80 g / 13-15 mm - Etat presque Extremely Fine
3 comments
alexcross.jpg
ALEXIUS AE Tetarteron S-1931215 viewsJewelled Cross, with globus at each extremity, X in center and two steps beneath. Rev. Bust Facing wearing crown loros and holding cruciform sceptre and gl. cr. 16/22mm DOC 40 Fine +
Simon
moneta 551 small.jpg
ROMAN EMPIRE, Aelia Flaccilla, Heraclea215 viewsAelia Flaccilla AE4
obv: AEL FLACCILLA AVG. Diademed and draped bust right, wearing knecklace
rev: SALVS REIPVBLICAE. Victory seated right, inscribing a chi-rho on shield resting on small column
exergue: dot S (?)
Struck at 383-386 A.D. at Heraclea
Van Meter 6
Note: Wife of Theodosius I, mother of Arcadius and Honorius
60319LG.jpg
thasos.jpg
GREEK, Thasos, Tetradrachm215 viewsThasos: After 148BC
A: Dionysos. R: Herakles standing.

A pleasant example of a finer style. Multiple scratches and clear signs of circulation keeps it from the top dollar prize tag. Slight wave in the flan - a result of a broken reverse die. Die crack visible from A in the inscription to your right and to Herakles' upper arm to your left.

D=34 x 35.5 mm. W=16.75 grams. Dies at 12 o'clock.
4 comments
9811 n.jpg
ROMAN EMPIRE, Postumus Double Sestertius RIC 173 - ONLY 2 KNOWN OF TYPE215 viewsDouble sestertius, Colonia AD 260 (?), about 32 gr., 32-36 mm diameter.
Av.: IMP C M CASS LAT POSTVMVS PF AVG , drap. cuir. bust with crown right
Rv.: [VICTO]R[I]A AVG , Victoria walking with palm-branch and wreath right (no captive at feet)
Cohen 392 (Vente de Marquis de Moustier, Hoffmann, Paris, 1872) ; RIC 5B, p. 351 no. 173 ; Bastien - ; Zschucke -
probably the second known coin of this type (Curtis Clay)
Arminius
RI 130af img~0.jpg
Roman Empire, Tacitus Antoninianus - RIC 033 Bust Type C var (DA in exe)215 viewsObv:– IMP C M CL TACITVS P F AVG, Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right
Rev:– PAX AETERNA, Pax standing left, holding olive branch and sceptre
Minted in Lugdunum (DA in exe), Emission 3 Officina 4. Early A.D. 276
References:– Cohen 64, Bastien 65, RIC 33 Bust Type C var. (Not listed for this officina in RIC)
1 commentsmaridvnvm
athen_SNGcop31.jpg
Attica, Athens, SNG Copenhagen 31215 viewsThe famous Attic owl, 449-413 BC
AR - tetradrachm (classic style), 17.1g, 24.2mm
obv. Archaic head of Athena r., with almond shaped eye, wearing crested helmet
ornamented with three olive leaves and floral scroll, wire necklace, round
earring.
rev. AQE right
owl standing right, head facing, erect in posture, prong tail, to left olive twig
and crescent, all within incuse square
SNG Copenhagen 13; Sydenham 2526
nice VF, good metall (Thanks to Salem!)
7 commentsJochen
LOUIS VIII or IX.jpg
FRANCE - LOUIS VIII (The Lion)/LOUIS IX (St. Louis)215 viewsSilver coin of Louis VIII (1223-1226) or Louis IX (1226-1270). Tournois Denier. Minted at Tours. Obverse: Cross, legend: LVDOVICVS REX. Reverses: Crude castle or cathedral, TVRONVS CIVI. Louis IX did not alter the coinage upon assuming the throne at the age of 12, so the coin may be from either king (althought Louis IX is more probable).dpaul7
Matthias_Huszar_704.jpg
Huszár 704, Pohl 204-1, Unger 555a, Réthy II 222 215 viewsHungary. Matthias "Corvinus" (Mátyás Hunyadi in Hun.) (1458-1490). Billon denar, .71 g., 15 mm.

Obv: + MOnETA • MAThIE • DE, Lion's head, facing.

Rev: REGIS • h—VnGARIE, Patriarchal cross, B—S (privy mark) across fields.

The type was struck 1462 (per Pohl, Huszár & Unger). This privy mark was struck in Buda (now Budapest) by Stephan Kowách, kammergraf (per Pohl).

Huszár/Pohl rarity rating 4.
Stkp
Ptolemy_II.jpg
Ptolemy II Philadelphos215 viewsPtolemy II Philadelphos Silver Tetradrachm
Tyre mint, 257 B.C.
14.11g, 27mm
Svoronos 656, SNG Cop 482
4 commentsmihali84
hyrcanus_full_S~0.jpg
JUDAEA, Hyrcanus I, Prutah215 viewsHendin 457. Hasmonian Kingdom of Judaea, John Hyrcanus I AE Prutah, Dark Image. 135-104 BC. Archaic Hebrew text within wreath: Yehohanan the High Priest and the Council of the Jews / Double cornucopia adorned with ribbons and pomegranate between, unknown monogram. AJC I Group N. 1 commentsAarmale
MARCUS_AURELIUS_161-180_AD_DUPONDIUS.JPG
Imperial Rome, Marcus Aurelius 161 - 180 AD. AE-Dupondius 176 - 177 AD. Rome.215 viewsMarcus Aurelius AE Dupondius. M ANTONINVS AVG GERM SARM TR P XXXI, radiate head right / IMP VIII COS III P P, trophy, at base seated Sarmatian woman & man, DE SARM in ex. RIC 1186 (26mm,4mm thick)Rome mint.
Struck AD 174-175. Radiate head right. Weight 12,74 gr. Rev : IMP VIII COS III PP / S C
Two captives seated at sides of trophy with oval shield and carnyx in each hand. _10900
http://www.wildwinds.com/coins/ric/marcus_aurelius/RIC_1186.jpg
4 commentsAntonivs Protti
France_436_St_Romain_en_Gal_mosaics.JPG
France, St Romain en Gal215 viewsmosaicvacationchick
Villanovan_warrior.jpg
Villanovan warrior, circa 8th century B.C.215 viewsThe Villanovan culture, flourishing between 1000-700 B.C., was the earliest Iron Age culture of central and northern Italy, abruptly following the Bronze Age "Terramare" culture. The name Villanovan comes from the site where the first archaeological finds relating to this advanced culture (remnants of a cemetery) were found: Villanova in northern Italy, near Bologna. Similar finds to those of the Bolognan village were discovered at urban centres across Italy, from parts of Campania in the South to the Po Valley in the North, but focused most around modern Tuscany and Lazio, equivalent to ancient Etruria.

During the 7th century B.C. the Villanovan culture began to give way to an increasingly orientalizing culture influenced by Greek traders and Greek neighbours in Magna Graecia, the Hellenic civilization of southern Italy. As a result, Villanovan culture disappeared, to be replaced by the Etruscan civilization.

Scale of this model: 75mm (1/24)
2 commentsRomaVictor
BRVTVS~0.jpg
ROMAN REPUBLIC, M. Junius Brutus AR Denarius 54 BC.215 viewsLIBERTAS
bust of Libertas right

BRVTVS in ex
Consul L Junius Brutus, between two lictors, preceeded by accensus, all walking left, .

54 BC.
Syd 906, Cr433/1, Junia 31.
3 commentsJay GT4
Vlasto_713.JPG
GREEK, Italy, Calabria, Taras215 views281-272 BC (Period VII - The Pyrrhic Hegemony)
AR Didrachm (19mm, 6.37g)
Sostratos magistrate.
O: Warrior on horseback right, holding shield and spears in left hand and thrusting spear downward with right; [Γ]Y (engraver) behind, ΣΩΣTP - ATOΣ (magistrate) in two lines below.
R: Taras riding dolphin left, holding cornucopia in left hand and Nike with laurel wreath in right; ΠOΛY to left, thunderbolt to right, T-APA[Σ] below.
Vlasto 713 / Evans VII, A2 / Cote 371-72 / SNG ANS 1084 / HN Italy 1001
ex CNG

Taras was foremost in resisting Roman influence during the third century, forming an alliance with Metapontum and supporting Pyrrhus of Epirus in his war against Rome from 281-275 BC.
3 commentsEnodia
trajanport.jpg
Roman, TRAJAN215 views1 commentsbenito
Traianus-Decius_IMP-C-M-Q-TRAIANVS-DECIVS-AVG_GENIVS-EXERC-ILLVRICIANI_RIC-IV-III-16c-p-122_249-251-AD_Q-001_axis-6h_20,5-21,5mm_3,57g-s.jpg
079 Traianus Decius (249-251 A.D.), RIC IV-III 0016c, Rome, AR-Antoninianus, GENIVS EXERC ILLVRICIANI, Genius standing left, #1215 views079 Traianus Decius (249-251 A.D.), RIC IV-III 0016c, Rome, AR-Antoninianus, GENIVS EXERC ILLVRICIANI, Genius standing left, #1
avers: IMP C M Q TRAIANVS DECIVS AVG, Radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust right.
revers: GENIVS EXERC ILLVRICIANI, Genius standing left, holding patera and cornucopia; standard to right.
exe: -/-//--, diameter: 20,5-21,5mm, weight: 3,57g, axis: 6h,
mint: Rome, date: 249-251 A.D.,ref: RIC-IV-III-16c, p-122
Q-001
quadrans
Seal005.jpg
ROMAN LEAD SEAL215 viewsFacing bust, flanked by two profile busts, all draped and wearing cuirass; Above, DDD[NNN] ('Dominorum Nostrorum')

16x15x5mm

2.58g

very fine, rough spot

Note: On a number of occasions three emperors ruled the Roman empire. This seal might well belong to the joint reign of Arcadius, Honorius and Theodosius II.

Early 5th century.

From the Gert Boersema files
Jay GT4
Tiberiustribute.jpg
Tiberius Tribute Penny215 viewsTI CAESAR DIVI AVG F AVGVSTVS
Laureate head of Tiberius right

PONTIF MAXIM
Livia seated right holding scepter and branch, legs on char ornamented, feet on footstool

Lugdunum after 16 AD

3.64g

Sear 1763, RIC 26

Ex-Calgary coin
3 commentsJay GT4
Roman_Empire_,_Emperor_Caracalla__,_AD_198-217.png
Roman, CARACALLA215 viewsRoman Empire , Emperor Caracalla , AD 198-217
Caracalla / Serapis AR Denarius
Obverse : ANTONINVSPIVSAVGBRIT - Laureate head right.
Reverse : PMTRPXVCOSIIIPP - Serapis standing left, raising hand and holding scepter.
( 3.49 gr )

Marcus Aurelius Antoninus or Marcus Aurelius Severus Antoninus , commonly known Caracallus or Caracalla.

From the Sam Mansourati collection.
Sam
Sept-Severus_Ar-Den_L-SEPT-SEV-PERT-AVG-IMP-VIII_ADVENTVI-AVG-FELICISSIMO_RIC-IV-74_Rome-196-7-AD_Q-001_0h_17-19mm_3,10g-s.jpg
049 Septimius Severus (193-211 A.D.), Rome, RIC IV-I 074, AR-Denarius, ADVENTVI AVG FELICISSIMO, Septimius on horseback right, #1215 views049 Septimius Severus (193-211 A.D.), Rome, RIC IV-I 074, AR-Denarius, ADVENTVI AVG FELICISSIMO, Septimius on horseback right, #1
avers: L SEPT SEV PERT AVG IMP VIII, Laureate bust right.
reverse: ADVENTVI AVG FELICISSIMO, Septimius on horseback right, right hand extended.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 17,0-19,0mm, weight: 3,10g, axis: 0h,
mint: Rome, date: 196-197A.D.,
ref: RIC IV-I 074, p-, RSC 6, BMCRE-V 151
Q-001
2 commentsquadrans
Hadrian_AR-Den_HADRIANVS-AVG-COS-III-P-P_SALVS-AVG_RIC-II-267-p-369_C-1335_137-AD_Q-001_6h_17mm_2,82g-s.jpg
032 Hadrianus (117-138 A.D.), RIC II 0267, Rome, AR-Denarius, SALVS AVG, Salus standing right, 215 views032 Hadrianus (117-138 A.D.), RIC II 0267, Rome, AR-Denarius, SALVS AVG, Salus standing right,
avers: HADRIANVS-AVG-COS-III-P-P, Laureate head right.
revers: SALVS-AVG, Salus standing right, feeding snake rising from altar out of patera.
exerg: -/-//--, diameter: 17mm, weight: 2,82g, axes: 6h,
mint: Rome, date: 137 A.D., ref: RIC II 267 p-368, RSC-1335,
Q-001
2 commentsquadrans
xBS_01.jpg
215 viewsAn example of a cabinet built for a collector, and friend of mine.

www.CabinetsByCraig.net
cmcdon0923
AE-Weight_with_Gold-Chi-Rho_AD-Q-051_27x25x4mm_17,83g-s.jpg
AE weight (4 nomismata), marked with Golden color Chi-Rho #51,215 viewsAE weight (4 nomismata), marked with Golden color Chi-Rho #51,
type: AE four-cornered weight, engraved square inside Christogram (Chi-Rho, marked with golden color), both side unredable symbols (hope Α-Ω ). In addition to the ich lines outside the 4 points (mean 4 nomismata ?).
size: 27x25x4mm,
weight: 17,83g, (4 nomismata, exactly 17.84g; 4x4,46 = 17.84g).
date: 6th-8th cent. A.D.,
ref: Not official, may be hommade,
distribution: Byzatine ?,
Q-051
"This is really a beautiful and rare weight. Congratulations!
From my point of view it is a nominal to 4 nomismata, exactly 17.83 g (4x4,46 = 17.84 g). Each side of the weight is separately punched with 4 points which means lettering for 4 nomismata.
Within the Christogram the letters Α-Ω are to be read. These were engraved faulty. No official weight, but a homemade version (see Simon Bendall). The Christogam was marked with golden color no gold inlay!
dated approx. 6th-8th cent. AD
similar weights were found in Bulgaria. by Basil, Thanks "

3 commentsquadrans
Constantine I, Sarmatia Devicta3.jpg
SARMATIA DEVICTA- Lugdunum RIC 214214 viewsConstantine I

obv: CONSTAN-TINVS AVG
rev: SARMATIA DEVICTA
PLG[crescent], G in l field
RIC Lugdunum 214
chEF
2 commentswolfgang336
Pythodorus.jpg
Pythodoris, queen of Thrace. Wife of Rhoemetalkes I, 11 BCE-12 CE.214 viewsThrace. Æ (24 mm, 6.88 g).
Obv: AUTOKRATOROS KAISAROS SEBASTOU. Bare head of Tiberius, r.
Rev: BASILEWS ROIMHTALKOU, Jugate busts, r., of her nephew, Rhoemetalkes II and Pythodoris.
Youroukova 201; Forrer 207; SGI 5405; BMC 3. 209, 3.
Lion_Chersonese_hem1~0.jpg
Thracian Chersonese AR, Lion / Lizard Hemiobol214 views
Thracian, Chersonese 480-350 BC.
Silver Hemiobol
Obv: Forepart of lion right, head reverted left (Double struck)
Rev: Quadripartite incuse square, (partial)-pellet with A and lizard monogram.
Weight: 2.10 grams

Similar to: Sear Greek Coins and their Values (SG) Number sg1604/05
1 commentsTiathena
086n.jpg
Eagle214 viewsPHRYGIA. Ancyra. Sabina. Æ 20. A.D. 117-137. Obv: CA(BEINA)-CEBACTH. Draped bust right, elaborate hairdo; countermark on head. Rev: ANKYP-ANΩN.Cult-Statue of Ephesian Artemis facing, flanked by two stags. Ref: BMC 23-24; Sear GIC 1308. Axis: 180°. Weight: 3.18 g. CM: Eagle standing, head left, wings spread, E.C.H between wings and legs, in circular punch, 6 mm. Howgego -. Collection Automan.Automan
Antony1.jpg
ROMAN IMPERATORS, Mark Antony & Octavian, RSC 8214 viewsMark Antony & Octavian 43 B.C.

Obv: M ANT IMP AUG III VIR RPCM BARBAT QP
Rev: CAESAR IMP PONT III VIR RPC
3 comments
Numidia.jpg
Punic Numidia Micipsa214 viewsNumidia, Kings of. Micipsa. Circa 148-118 BC. Æ 26 mm (15.75 gm). Laureate, bearded head left / Prancing horse left; pellet below.

SNG Copenhagen 504ff; Mazard 50.
1 commentsTanit
LIVON CHRISTINA.jpg
LIVONIA - CHRISTINA of SWEDEN214 viewsLivonia, Riga, under Sweden's Christina 1632-1654 A.D. Silvered billon solidus, crude, aFine. Interestingly, this one has a readable date, unusual for the series, 1654.
Size: 16 mm
dpaul7
dom as caesar helmet.jpg
RIC 271 Domitian as Caesar [Titus]214 viewsAR Denarius, 2.74g
Rome Mint, 80 AD
Obv: CAESAR DIVI F DOMITIANVS COS VII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS; Square seat, draped with cloth hanging in folds, with tassels: on it, crested Corinthian helmet
RIC 271 (C2). BMC 98. RSC 399a. BNC 79.
Acquired from Et Tu Antiquities, November 2007.

Domitian as Caesar issued this denarius under Titus in 80 AD. The reverse is part of the pulvinaria series which commemorates the opening of the Colosseum in 80 AD.

Pulvinaria were sacred couches of the gods which had symbolic attributes set upon them. In this case, the Corinthian helmet and table are attributes of Minerva, the patron goddess of Domitian.

A wonderful denarius with a good portrait in a fine style.

6 commentsDavid Atherton
owl1.JPG
Owl - Mysia, Pergamum 214 viewsAE15 circa 150 BC
TRAJ1.jpg
ROMAN EMPIRE, Trajan Sestercius214 viewsMint:Roma
98/99 AD
Dimensions:32mm/23.8grms.
Obverse: IMP CAES NERVA TRAIAN AVG GERM PM
Reverse: TRP COS II- SC
Réf :Miss into the reference book ( "OT"Letters are missing on reverse )
Conservation:TB+
2 comments
Qumran_TowerA.JPG
Israel, Qumran - Tower214 viewsThe remains of the tower at Qumran. The tower is set in the middle of the north side and has a natural function as an observation or guard tower: north looks towards Jericho, and that would be the natural direction from which travellers would approach the settlement. There is no access to the tower at ground level; instead people would have entered higher up, after climbing a flight of stone steps fixed to the south-side exterior wall. Abu Galyon
France_386_Pont_du_Gard.JPG
France, Pont du Gard - aqueduct214 viewsvacationchick
6___As_de_Nron__la_Victoire_Lyon.jpg
ROMAN EMPIRE, Nero, AE AS, Victory214 viewsAs, Néron, 65, Lyon, (Bronze)
Avers : Tête nue Néron à droite.
Revers : SC. Victoire allant à gauche et posant la main droite sur un bouclier, sur lequel est inscrit SPQR.
1 comments
VIM_Gordianus-III_AE-22_IMP-CAES-MANT-GORDIANVS-AVG_PMSCO-L-VIM_AN-_I__Pick-072_PM-1-02-1_Mus--_239-240-AD__Q-001_22mm_5,33g-sa.jpg
Moesia, Viminacium, 072 Gordianus-III. (238-244 A.D.), PM 01-02-01, -/-//AN •I•, AE-Dupondius, #1214 viewsMoesia, Viminacium, 072 Gordianus-III. (238-244 A.D.), PM 01-02-01, -/-//AN •I•, AE-Dupondius, #1
avers:- IMP-CAES-MANT-GORDIANVS-AVG, Radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust right .
revers:- PMSCO-L-VIM, Moesia standing facing, head left, extending hands to bull and lion standing at feet on either side.
exergo: -/-//AN •I•, diameter: 22mm, weight: 5,33g, axis: h,
mint: Moesia, Viminacium, date: 239-240 A.D., ref: Pick-072, PM-1-02-1,
Q-001
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Justinian-527-565-AD_AE-Follis_DN-IVSTINI-ANVS-PP-AVG_M_cross_over-M-Gamma-belowe-left-star-right-cross_CON_SB--p--Constantinopolis_Q-001_axis-7h_29,5-32mm_13,34g-s~0.jpg
Byzantine, Justinian I. (527-565 A.D.), SB 0158, Γ/CON, AE-Follis, (40 Nummia), Constantinopolis,214 viewsJustinian I. (527-565 A.D.), SB 0158, Γ/CON, AE-Follis, (40 Nummia), Constantinopolis,
avers: D N IVSTINI ANVS P P AVG, Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: Large M, Star to left, cross above, and cross to right, officina letter "Γ" below, mintmark CON.
exergue: Γ//CON, diameter: 29,5-32mm, weight: 13,34g, axis: 7h,
mint: Constantinopolis, date: A.D., ref: SB 0158, p-59,
Q-001
quadrans
D328.jpg
RIC 328 Domitian214 viewsAR Denarius, 3.35g
Rome mint, 85 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P IIII; Bust of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r., with aegis
Rev: IMP VIIII COS XI CENS POTES P P; Minerva stg. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear and shield; to r., owl (M2)
RIC 328 (R2). BMC (spec. acquired 1987). RSC -. BNC -.
Purportedly found in the Alsace Region of France.

This coin is part of the 3rd issue of 85 (arguably the rarest issue of the year) and the last struck before Domitian reformed the precious metal coinage once again by slightly lowering the fineness. Very few examples from this issue are known, the Germania type surprisingly being the most common. An obverse and reverse die match with the RIC plate coin in the BM as well. This specimen is from the Alsace Region, an area of much military activity early in Domitian's reign.

A beautiful denarius struck in the fine high style of 85 on a large (21mm) flan.
6 commentsDavid Atherton
Septimius-Severus_AR-Billon-Den_IMP-CAE-L-SEP-SEV-PERT-AVG--COS-II_VICTOR-AVG_RIC-IV-I-425-p-_C-_Emesa--AD_Q-001_axis-0h_16-16,5mm_2,42g-s.jpg
049 Septimius Severus (193-211 A.D.), Emesa, RIC IV-I 425, AR-Denarius, VICTOR AVG, Victory advancing left, #1214 views049 Septimius Severus (193-211 A.D.), Emesa, RIC IV-I 425, AR-Denarius, VICTOR AVG, Victory advancing left, #1
avers: IMP CAE L SEP SEV PERT AVG COS II, Laureate bust right.
reverse: VICTOR AVG, Victory advancing left, holding wreath and palm.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 16,0-16,5mm, weight: 2,42g, axis: 0h,
mint: Emesa, date: 194-195 A.D.,
ref: RIC IV-I 425, p-, RSC 697,
Q-001
3 commentsquadrans
Faustina_jun_FAVSTINA_AVGVSTA_FECVN-DITAS_RIC-_Q-001_-h_mm_ga-s.jpg
038b Faustina (II) Filia (128-175 A.D.), RIC III 0677 (Marc.Aur.), Rome, AR-Denarius, FECVNDITAS, Fecunditas standing right, #1214 views038b Faustina (II) Filia (128-175 A.D.), RIC III 0677 (Marc.Aur.), Rome, AR-Denarius, FECVNDITAS, Fecunditas standing right, #1
"Daughter of Antoninus Pius and Faustina Sr. and wife of Marcus Aurelius. She was also the mother of Commodus and Lucilla, wife of Lucius Verus."
avers:- FAVSTINA_AVGVSTA, Draped bust right, chignon behind head, hair waved.
revers: FECVN-DITAS, Fecunditas standing right holding scepter in right and infant in left.
exerg:-/-//--, diameter: mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Rome, date: A.D., ref: RIC-III-RIC 677, (Marcus Aurelius), Sear , RSC II 99, BMCRE IV 91
Q-001
1 commentsquadrans
Constantinus-I__AE-3_CONSTANTINVS-P-F-AVG-(1dB4)_SOLI-INVICTO-COMITI_T-F_PTR_RIC-VII-41-p-168_Trier_313-5-AD_R5_Q-001_h_mm_ga-s.jpg
136 Constantinus I. (306-309 A.D. Caesar, 309-910 A.D. Filius Augustorum, 307-337 A.D. Augustus), Trier, RIC VII 042, AE-2 Follis, F/T//PTR, SOLI INVICTO COMITI, Sol radiate, head left, R3!214 views136 Constantinus I. (306-309 A.D. Caesar, 309-910 A.D. Filius Augustorum, 307-337 A.D. Augustus), Trier, RIC VII 042, AE-2 Follis, F/T//PTR, SOLI INVICTO COMITI, Sol radiate, head left, R3!
avers:- CONSTANTINVS P F AVG (1d,B5), Laurate, and cuirassed bust right.
revers:- SOLI INVIC TO COMITI, Sol radiate, head left, rising right hand, chlamys over left shoulder, and hanging behind, across the right shoulder, holding up globe left hand.
exerg: F/T//PTR, diameter: mm, weight: g, axis: h,
mint: Trier, 1st.-off., date: 313-315-A.D., ref:RIC-VII-42, p-168, R3!
Q-001
quadrans
Istvan-II_(1116-1131_AD)_U-041_C1-076_H-092_Q-002_2h_11,2mm_0,31g-s.jpg
CÁC II. 18.07.1.1./a1.01./02., Anonymous I. (István II., (Stephen II.) King of Hungary, (1116-1131 A.D.) ?), AR-Denarius, H-092, CNH I.-076, U-041, #01214 viewsCÁC II. 18.07.1.1./a1.01./02., Anonymous I. (István II., (Stephen II.) King of Hungary, (1116-1131 A.D.) ?), AR-Denarius, H-092, CNH I.-076, U-041, #01
avers: Cross with dots and crosses within crescents in the angles; border of dots.
reverse: Lines in place of the legend; cross in circle with wedges in the angles; border of line.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 11,2 mm, weight: 0,310 g, axis: 2h,
mint: Esztergom , date: A.D., ref: Huszár-092, CNH I.-076, Unger-041,
Kiss-Toth, Sigla: 18.07.1.1./a1.01./02.,
Q-001
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Jovianus_AE-1-28_DN-IOVIANV-S-PF-AVG_VICTORIA-ROMANORVM_TES-Gamma_Thessalonica_RIC-VIII-234_Q-001_5h_28-29mm_6,32g-s.jpg
154 Jovianus (363-364 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 234, AE-1, VICTORIA ROMANORVM, -/-//TESΓ, Jovian standing front, Scarce! #1214 views154 Jovianus (363-364 A.D.), Sirmium, RIC VIII 234, AE-1, VICTORIA ROMANORVM, -/-//TESΓ, Jovian standing front, Scarce! #1
avers: D N IOVIA NVS P F AVG, Rosette-diademed, draped and cuirassed bust right.
reverse: VICTORIA ROMANORVM, Jovian standing front, head right, holding Victory and labarum.
exergue: -/-//TESΓ, diameter: 28,0-29,0mm, weight: 6,32g, axis: 5h,
mint: Thessalonica, date: 363-64 A.D.,
ref: RIC VIII 234, p-, Scarce!
Q-001
quadrans
Constantius II Gloria Exercitvs3.jpg
Constantius II- Constantinople RIC 61213 viewsobv: FL IVL CONSTANTIVS NOB C, bust rt., cuir. draped, laureate
rev: GLOR-IA EXERC-ITVS, soldiers guarding two standards
CONSS in exergue
RIC Constantinople 61
ChEF
2 commentswolfgang336
Probus ADVENTVS AVG RIC 157-2.jpg
ADVENTVS AVG, RIC 157213 viewsAnt.

Obverse: IMP PROBVS AVG, Radiate and cuirassed bust R.

Reverse: ADVENTVS AVG, Probus on horseback, arm raised L, trampling captive.

Exe: R crescent delta.

Rome.

RIC 157, Common.

Langtoft Hoard.

A much nicer coin than my other example of the type!
5 commentsRobert_Brenchley
junk.jpg
Miscellaneous junk from uncleaned lots213 viewsBits, fittings and fragmented coins4 commentsScotvs Capitis
D_gryphon.jpg
GRYPHON, Gallienus: Apollos gryphon213 viewsGallienus (253–268)
Rome mint, workshop D.
Obeverse: GALLIENVSAVG, Galllienus head right.
Reverse: APOL[I]NICONS[AVG], gryphon left. Greek ’delta’ below.

Comment: Do anyone mention Buckbeak?

W=1.88g[Sic!]; D=19x22mm.
1 comments
177.jpg
5-pointed star213 viewsSYRIA: COMMAGENE. Zeugma. Antoninus Pius. Æ 20. A.D. 138-161. Obv: AYT(OKAITIANAΔPIANTWNEINOCCE) or similar. Laureate head right; Countermark on neck. Rev: (ZEV)-ГMA-(TWN), (A) in upper field to left (?). Tetrastyle temple, with periobolos containing grove, and having on right and left a collonade and in front a portico or panelled wall of two stories. Ref: BMC 1 (obv. or sim.)/2 (rev.; var. leg. breaks, though). Axis: 360°. Weight: 6.03 g. Note: The meaning of the numerals on the reverse is not known, but may indicate issue. CM: 5-pointed star, in roughly square punch with rounded corners, 4 mm. Howgego 453 var. (32 pcs). Collection Automan.Automan
239.jpg
Draped female bust right213 viewsUncertain mint. Uncertain emperor. Æ 28. Obv: Inscription illegible. Outline of laureate imperial bust right; countermark on head. Rev: Inscription illegible. Weight: 18.37 g. CM: Draped female bust right, in oval punch, 6 x 9 mm. Howgego - (?). Note: The bust resembles Faustina Sr., but may well depict another empress. Collection Automan.Automan
faustina_jr_den_pvdicitia_ag.jpg
ROMAN EMPIRE, Faustina II213 viewsFAVSTINAE AVG PII AVG FIL
PVDICITIA
www.fredericweber.com
1 commentsfrederic W
g01b.jpg
ROMAN EMPIRE, Geta MINERVA denarius213 viewsRIC 34a (3,3 gm, 19 mm).
Mint of Rome, 202-209 AD.

Lustrous & sharp specimen.
Realistic portrait!

MINERVA
3 comments
aelius.jpg
Roman Aelius As213 viewsAE As
Obv: L AELIVS CAESAR, bare head right
Rev: TR POT COS II S-C, Spes walking left holding flower & hitching skirt.

RIC 1065, Cohen 64.
2 commentsTanit
Poltura_1706KB_b.jpg
Poltura 1706 KB213 viewscoin of Rakoczi's RevolutionTibsi
20090712_IMG_0391.JPG
Israel, Tzipporri - Tzipporri Mosaic213 viewsA mosaic found in Tzipporri, Israel.Aarmale
[901a]_NervaAntiochAE26.jpg
Nerva, 18 September 96 - 25 January 98 A.D., Antioch, Syria213 viewsBronze AE 26, BMC Syria, p. 182, 261, aVF, Antioch mint, weight 13.524g, maximum diameter 25.0mm, die axis 0o, Jan - Sep 97 A.D.; Obverse: IMP CAESAR NERVA AVG III COS, laureate head right; Reverse: large S C in wreath, D below; unbelievable portrait. Ex FORVM. Photo courtesy FORVM.

De Imperatoribus Romanis: An Online Encyclopedia of Roman Rulers and their Families
Nerva (96-98 A.D.)


David Wend

Introduction
Although short, the reign of Marcus Cocceius Nerva (A.D. 96-98) is pivotal. The first of Edward Gibbon's so-called "Five Good Emperors," Nerva is credited with beginning the practice of adopting his heir rather than selecting a blood relative. Claimed as an ancestor by all the emperors down to Severus Alexander, he has traditionally been regarded with much good will at the expense of his predecessor, Domitian.

Ancestry
Nerva could claim eminent ancestry on both sides of his family. On the paternal side, his great-grandfather, M. Cocceius Nerva, was consul in 36 B.C.; his grandfather, a distinguished jurist of the same name, accompanied Tiberius on his retirement to Capri in 26 A.D. On his mother's side an aunt, Rubellia Bassa, was the great-granddaughter of Tiberius. In addition, a great-uncle, L. Cocceius Nerva, played a part in the negotiations that secured a treaty between Octavian and Antony in 40 B.C

Early Career and Life under Domitian
Nerva was born on 8 November, 30 A.D. Little is known of his upbringing beyond the fact that he belonged to a senatorial family and pursued neither a military nor a public speaking career. On the other hand, he did hold various priesthoods and was a praetor-designate. More importantly, as praetor designate in 65, Nerva was instrumental in revealing the conspiracy of Piso against the emperor Nero.

As a result, he received triumphal ornaments and his statue was placed in the palace. Following Nero's fall in 68, Nerva must have realized that support of Vespasian and the Flavian cause was in his best interests. In 71 his loyalty was rewarded with a joint consulship with the emperor, the only time that Vespasian ever held the office without his son Titus. It was under the reign of Vespasian's other son, Domitian, that Nerva's political fortunes were ultimately determined, however. He shared the ordinary consulship with Domitian in 90, an honor that was perhaps the result of his alerting the emperor about the revolt of Antonius Saturninus, the governor of Upper Germany, in 89. Even so, like so many others of the senatorial class, Nerva came under scrutiny in the final years of Domitian's reign, when the emperor was unwilling to tolerate any criticism.

Whether or not Nerva was forced to withdraw from public life during Domitian's final years remains an open question. What is not in dispute is that he was named emperor on the same day that Domitian was assassinated in September, 96. Indeed, in some respects the accession was improbable, since it placed the Empire under the control of a feeble sexagenarian and long-time Flavian supporter with close ties to the unpopular Domitian. On the other hand, Nerva had proven to be a capable senator, one with political connections and an ability to negotiate. Moreover, he had no children, thereby ensuring that the state would not become his hereditary possession.

Imperial Initiatives
Upon taking office, Nerva made immediate changes. He ordered the palace of Domitian to be renamed the House of the People, while he himself resided at the Horti Sallustiani, the favorite residence of Vespasian. More significantly, he took an oath before the senate that he would refrain from executing its members. He also released those who had been imprisoned by Domitian and recalled exiles not found guilty of serious crimes. Nevertheless, Nerva still allowed the prosecution of informers by the senate, a measure that led to chaos, as everyone acted in his own interests while trying to settle scores with personal enemies.

In the area of economic administration Nerva, like Domitian, was keen on maintaining a balanced budget. In early 97, after appointing a commission of five consular senators to give advice on reducing expenditures, he proceeded to abolish many sacrifices, races, and games. Similarly, he allowed no gold or silver statues to be made of himself. Even so, there was some room for municipal expenditure. For the urban poor of Italy he granted allotments of land worth 60 million sesterces, and he exempted parents and their children from a 5% inheritance tax. He also made loans to Italian landowners on the condition that they pay interest of 5% to their municipality to support the children of needy families. These alimentary schemes were later extended by Trajan, Antoninus Pius, and Marcus Aurelius.

Because he reigned only briefly, Nerva's public works were few. By early 98 he dedicated the forum that Domitian had built to connect the Forum of Augustus with the Forum of Peace. It became known as the Forum of Nerva, or the Forum Transitorium. Nerva also built granaries, made repairs to the Colosseum when the Tiber flooded, and continued the program of road building and repairs inaugurated under the Flavians. In addition, pantomime performances, supressed by Domitian, were restored.

In the military realm, Nerva established veterans' colonies in Africa, a practice that was continued by the emperor Trajan. Normal military privileges were continued and some auxiliary units assumed the epithet Nervia or Nerviana. We are not well informed beyond these details, and any military action that may have occurred while Nerva was emperor is known sketchy at best.

Nature of Nerva's Government
Nerva's major appointments favored men whom he knew and trusted, and who had long served and been rewarded by the Flavians. Typical was Sextus Julius Frontinus. A consul under Vespasian and governor of Britain twenty years earlier, Frontinus came out of retirement to become curator of the water supply, an office that had long been subject to abuse and mismanagement. He helped to put an end to the abuses and published a significant work on Rome's water supply, De aquis urbis Romae. As a reward for his service, Frontinus was named consul for the second time in 98. Similarly, the emperor's own amici were often senators with Flavian ties, men who, by virtue of their links to the previous regime, were valuable to Nerva for what they knew. Thus do we find the likes of A. Didius Gallus Fabricius Veiiento, one of Domitian's ill-reputed counselors, seated next to Nerva at an imperial dinner. Nerva was less willing to consult the Senate as a whole. In many cases he preferred the opinions of his own consilium, and was less submissive than many senators would have liked. This attitude may have been responsible for hostile discontent among several senators.

Mutiny of the Praetorians and the Adoption of Trajan
It was not long before the assassination of Domitian came to work against the new emperor. Dissatisfied that Domitian had not been deified after his death, the praetorian guards mutinied under Casperius Aelianus in October 97. Taking the emperor as hostage, they demanded that Nerva hand over Domitian's murderers. The emperor not only relented, but was forced to give a public speech of thanks to the mutineers for their actions. His authority compomised, Nerva used the occasion of a victory in Pannonia over the Germans in late October, 97 to announce the adoption of Marcus Ulpius Traianus, governor of Upper Germany, as his successor. The new Caesar was immediately acclaimed imperator and granted the tribunicia potestas. Nerva's public announcement of the adoption settled succession as fact; he allowed no time to oppose his decision. From the German victory, Nerva assumed the epithet Germanicus and conferred the title on Trajan as well. He also made Trajan his consular colleague in 98.

Death and Deification
On January 1, 98, the start of his fourth consulship, Nerva suffered a stroke during a private audience. Three weeks later he died at his villa in the Gardens of Sallust. From his headquarters at Cologne, Trajan insisted that Nerva's ashes be placed in the mausoleum of Augustus and asked the senate to vote on his deification. We are further told that he dedicated a temple to Nerva, yet no trace of it has ever been found. Nor was a commemorative series of coins issued for the Deified Nerva in the wake of his death, but only ten years later.

Conclusion
Nerva's reign was more concerned with the continuation of an existing political system than with the birth of a new age. Indeed, his economic policies, his relationship with the senate, and the men whom he chose to govern and to offer him advice all show signs of Flavian influence. In many respects, Nerva was the right man at the right time. His immediate accession following Domitian's murder prevented anarchy and civil war, while his age, poor health and moderate views were perfect attributes for a government that offered a bridge between Domitian's stormy reign and the emperorships of the stable rulers to follow.

Copyright (C) 1998, David Wend.
Published: De Imperatoribus Romanis: An Online Encyclopedia of Roman Rulers and their Families http://www.roman-emperors.org/startup.htm. Used by permission.

Edited by J. P. Fitzgerald, Jr.
Cleisthenes
Nerva_Concordia.jpg
Nerva213 viewsIMP NERVA CAES AVG PM TR P COS III P P
Head of Nerva right

CONCORDIA EXERCITVVM
clasped right hands

Rome January-September 97 A.D.

3.51g

Sear 3020, RIC 14, RSC 20

Ex-Forum

VF with amazing toning
7 commentsJay GT4
CONTINE1-45~0.jpg
ROMAN EMPIRE, Barbaric Constantine I213 viewsObv:nonsense
helmet, cuirassed bust right
Rev:VICTORIAE LAETAE PRINC PERP type
two Victories standing facing one another
holding shield inscribed VOT PR on altar
snake in ex
18mm 3,5 gm
OWL365
126077 files on 1401 page(s) 33

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