"Blob" of metal on Denarius.

[Michael C9]

Hello All,

I have a silver denarius [Julia Maesa RIC 271] that appears to have a large blob of metal on the reverse RHS 2Hrs. Is this very common and does anyone know how it is formed?

Thank you for your advice. This site is really good, especially for those of us starting out collecting Ancient Coins, as you have far more answers than I have been able to find anywhere else on the Net. Appreciate you experience and knowledge.

kind regards

Michael

Coin Details: Wt 2.55g; Diameter: 19.1mm; Thickness 1.9mm; Specific gravity 8.5g/cc; Die Axis 0

[Joe Sermarini]

I have seen similar blobs on coins that have gone through a fire. A bubble of air within the flan expanded in the heat forming the bubble. I have also seen blobs due to die damage. It is likely one or the other. If it is fire damage, you likely will see other signs of damage. I don't see any in the photo.

[SC]

I agree with Joe.  A blob like this could be from fire damage but not when it i the only sign.  The rest of the surface is in fact in very good condition.  Fire damage can't be that localized.

So other options:

- sign it is a cast??  I see no other signs jumping out at me but has to be considered and examined.
- evidence of a weird pit in the die??  If so a very odd one.
- could it be a blob of molten silver that dropped on it from another coin or object that melted near/above it??  Starting to stretch occam's razor here......

SC

[Joe Sermarini]

I think it has strong evidence that it was not cast. I don't see any reason to suspect it is not genuine. Can we see the other side?

[Michael C9]

Thank you for your advice. It is appreciated. Below is the reverse. I can not see any obvious signs of casting and the edge looks fine.

[Michael C9]

Yes.... the Obverse. What a forum to make such a basic error!