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Very Unusual Rectangular Lead Seal from Caesarea Maritima A"I"GN/LIV

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v-drome:
Hi, all.  This rectangular seal from Caesarea warrants its own topic, separate from the current assemblage, for a number of reasons.  First is the complete and clear inscription, typically three letters repeating on each side, which in this case differs on the obverse and reverse.  Second is the size of the flan, or blank seal, which apparently captured an impression from part of the matrix surrounding the die on the reverse.  Third is the shape of the letter "I", on the obverse, which appears to be in the form of a phallus, and is positioned between the first and third letters rather than evenly spaced as one might expect if it were indeed intended as a fourth letter.  Any ideas regarding these unusual features, or explanation of the inscription, would be most appreciated.  Thanks, V-drome.

BCC LSR19
Rectangular Lead Seal
Roman 1st-3rd Century CE
Obv: A"I"GN   Rev: LIV
The most unusual feature of this seal is the size of the flan which seems to
bear the impression of part of the matrix surrounding the reverse die.  The
second unusual feature is the "I" in the obverse inscription, which appears to
be in the form of a phallus, positioned between the first and third letters.
1.8 x 1.1 x 0.4cm 3.39gm. Axis:0
Surface find Caesarea Maritima, 1977
(click for larger pics)

Joe Sermarini:
The big flan really makes this an attractive example. Thanks for posting.

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