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Last comments - Optimo Principi
427G394Rustia.png
Cr 389/1 AR Denarius L. Rustius74 BCE
o: Helmeted head of Minerva or Mars right, SC behind, star (value mark) below chin
r: Ram standing right, L RVSTI in ex
Crawford 389/1. Rustia 1
3.86g. (5h)
2 commentsPMah05/11/19 at 06:55Optimo Principi: Absolutely beautiful example of this, one I would ...
228-1-Blk.jpg
C. VALERIUS FLACCUS XVI - Denarius, RRC 228/1Denomination: Denarius
Era: c. 140 BC
Metal: AR
Obverse: Helmeted head of Roma R; Behind, XVI downward. Border of dots


Reverse: Victory in biga r., Holding reins in l. hand and whip in r. hand; above FLAC; below monogram of C. VAL.C.F. Line border

Mint: Rome
Weight: 4.03 gm.
Reference: RRC 128/1
Provenance: Aureo & Calico Alba Longa sale, November 7, 2018, Lot 710; Ex. NFA XXVII, Dec 4-5, 1991, Lot 343.

Sear plate coin for this type in Roman Coins and their Values. This issue is one of the five issues listed in RRC with the mark of value XVI instead of X, signaling the re-tariffing of the denarius. Beautiful toning, well centered and Superb EF.
3 comments01/30/19 at 19:24Optimo Principi: Lovely shimmering tone on this one.
Philippus.jpg
Philippus I ArabsPhilip I AR Antoninianus.
22 mm 3,74g
Obv. IMP PHILIPPVS AVG, radiate, draped & cuirassed bust right
Rev. SAECVLARES AVGG, lion walking right, I in ex.
RIC 12, RSC 173.
1 commentsMarsman01/30/19 at 19:23Optimo Principi: That lion is a real joy!
619NN404.jpg
Cr 421/1 AR Denarius M. Nonius Sufenascirca 57- 59 b.c.e., 17.5mm., 3.97gms.
o: SVFENAS – S·C Head of Saturn r.; in l. field, harpa and conical stone
r: PR·L·V·P·F Roma seated l. on pile of arms, holding sceptre and sword, crowned by Victory standing behind her; in exergue, SEX·NONI·. Nonia 1.
The reverse inscription expands as : PR[aetor] L[vdos] V[ictoriae] P[rimus] F[ecit]. Interesting back-story crammed into a busy reverse. The moneyer's father (or grandfather) while Praetor, was the First to "Make" the Games of Victory [of Sulla]. The son's willingness to advertise this on his coins was rather aggressive, considering Sulla's reputation was rapidly declining and his father was a mere partisan despite sponsoring one round of games, and he himself no more popular even though he became praetor, somewhat underlined by this being the first and only "Nonia" issue. Presumably he had faith in Pompey, who was the most enduring and successful of the Sullan partisans and seen as the senior in the power-sharing "First Triumvirate". This bet seemingly did not work out well, but the specifics are not available.
3 commentsPMah01/21/19 at 11:06Optimo Principi: Great example of the type!
189.jpg
Roman Republic, Anonymous AR Didrachm (Quadrigatus) - Janiform head and Jupiter in Quadriga (Crawf. 30/1)AR Didrachm (Quadrigatus)
Uncertain mint, 225-214 BC
6.57g, 22mm

Obv: Laureate head of youthful Janus or Dioscuri

Rev: Jupiter holding sceptre and brandishing thunderbolt, in quadriga driven to right by Victory; ROMA incuse on raised tablet below.

Crawford 30/1; RSC 23; Sydenham 64b

Roma Numismatics Auction XVI, 498
From a private Swiss collection, outside of Italy prior to January 2011.
7 commentsOptimo Principi09/28/18 at 06:01Kained but Able: Well spotted, Carausius. Have amended.
00740.jpg
Augustus (RIC 479, Coin #740)RIC 479 (R2), AR Cistophori, Ephesus, 25 BC.
OBV: IMP CAESAR; Bare head right.
REV: AVGVSTVS; Garlanded altar sculpted with two confronting
deer, linear border.
SIZE: 26.6mm, 11.80g
6 commentsMaynardGee04/01/18 at 17:43Kained but Able: Great coin - deserves a higher quality photograph.
803_P_Hadrian_Emmett1103_21.jpg
6233 EGYPT, Alexandria. Hadrian Hemidrachm 136-37 AD Pharos lighthouseReference.
Dattari-Savio Pl. 95, 1935 (this coin). RPC III, 6233/5; Emmett 1103.21

Issue L KA = year 21

Obv. ΑΥΤ ΚΑΙС ΤΡΑΙΑΝ - ΑΔΡΙΑΝΟС СƐΒ
Laureate draped and cuirassed bust of Hadrian, r., seen from rear

Rev. L KA
Pharos lighthouse surmounted by two Tritons, each blowing a trumpet, between a lantern surmounted by a statue, holding situla and scepter; entryway below.

11.31 gr
30 mm
12h
2 commentsokidoki02/28/17 at 16:45Kained but Able: Great acquisition from a historic collection, cong...
Caracalla_RIC_240.jpg
Caracalla RIC 240Silver Denarius ( 20mm - 3.17g)
obv. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG GERM
laureate head right
rev. P M TR P XVII - COS IIII P P
Jupiter standing left , holding sceptre and thunderbolt; at feet, eagle
RIC 240
Rome mint
2 commentsHolgerG02/28/17 at 16:42Kained but Able: Wow, sharp coin. Love the detail on Jupiter!
774_P_Hadrian_Emmett918.jpg
5959 EGYPT, Alexandria Hadrian Drachm 134-35 AD Asclepius standingReference.
Emmett 918.19; RPC III, 5959/4; Dattari-Savio Pl. 76, 1625

Issue L ƐΝΝƐΑΚ·Δ = year 19

Obv. ΑΥΤ ΚΑΙС ΤΡΑΙΑΝ - ΑΔΡΙΑΝΟС СƐΒ
Laureate draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from rear

Rev. L ENNEAK Δ
Asclepius standing facing head right, holding long serpent-staff.

25.91 gr
35 mm
12h
3 commentsokidoki01/23/17 at 18:09Kained but Able: Great type and provenance.
RIC_T_265_Domitianus.jpg
RIC 0265 DomitianusObv: CAESAR DIVI F DOMITIANVS COS VII, Laureate hea right
Rev: PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS, Lighetf and garlanded altar
AU/Aureus (19.76 mm 6.785 g 6h) Struck in Rome 80-81 A.D.
RIC 265 (R, Titus), BMCRE 91 (Titus), BNF 74-75 (Titus), Trier Hoard 1809 (same dies)
ex Roma Numismatics Auction XII lot 706
2 commentsFlaviusDomitianus10/25/16 at 11:44Kained but Able: An incredible addition. Very pleased for you, addi...
Trajan_RIC_291Black.jpg
Trajan RIC 291Trajan 98-117 A.D. AR Denarius. Rome Mint. 113 A.D. (3,3 gr, 20 mm, 7h) Obv: IMP TRAIANO AVG GER DAC PM TRP COS VI PP, Laureate bust right, slight drapery on left shoulder. Rev: SPQR OPTIMO PRINCIPI, Trajan on horseback left with spear.
RIC 291

Ex: Gitbud & Naumann
1 commentsPaddy08/22/16 at 15:09Kained but Able: One of the finest style equestrian reverses I have...
NewestCamelpanorama.jpg
Trajan ProvincialTrajan 98-117 AD. AR Drachm. Bostra Mint. 112-117 AD (COS VI). (3.3g, 15mm) Obv: (AVTOKP KAI)C NER TRAIANO APICTW CEB GERM DAK, Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust to right. Rev: DHMARC EX UPATO V, Bactrian (two-humped) camel advancing left.
SNGANS 1159

Ex: Aeternitas Numismatics
6 commentsPaddy08/22/16 at 15:07Kained but Able: Looks like some high relief on this desirable type...
20150910_181120-horz_(2).jpg
Trajan RIC 355; Woytek 524vTraian. AD 98-117. AR Denarius. Rome mint. Late 114-early 116 AD. (3,16g; 19.39mm) Obv: IMP CAES NER TRAIANO OPTIMO AVG GER DAC, Laureate draped bust right. Rev: P M TR P COS VI P P SPQR, Virtus standing right, holding spear & parazonium, foot on helmet.
Woytek 524v; RIC 355; RSC 274.

Ex: Marc Walter
1 commentsPaddy08/22/16 at 15:04Kained but Able: Some incredible toning here.
Trajan_Adoptio.jpg
Trajan Relation - Hadrian RIC 3eHadrian 117-138 AD. AR Denarius. Rome Mint. 117 AD. (2.91g; 19.04mm) Obv: IMP CAES TRAIAN HADRIAN OPT AVG GER DAC, Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right. Rev: PARTHIC DIVI TRAIAN AVG F P M TR P COS P P / ADOPTIO, Trajan and Hadrian standing facing one another, clasping right hands.
RIC 3e

Ex: Münzen & Medaillen GmbH Erworben bei der Münzen und Medaillen AG Basel, Liste 170, Juli 1957, Nr. 226, am 1. 8. 1957.

These coins were minted not long after the death of Trajan and I seem to remember reading that there was some suspicion that Plotina had some part in making Hadrian successor. The succession was always a predicament inside the framework of the principate, because it remained important to keep up the appearance of a Res Publica, a republic. In reality it was an autocracy.


2 commentsPaddy08/22/16 at 15:03Kained but Able: Very historic type, always love seeing these.
Elizabeth_I_sixpence.jpg
Elizabeth I, 1558 - 1603England, Elizabeth I, 1558 - 1603. Silver sixpence, Spink 2578B, North 2015, tun mintmark, VF, light scratches, toned, Tower mint, weight 2.838g, maximum diameter 27.5mm, die axis 270o, 1592. Obverse: ELIZAB D'G' ANG'FR:ET:HIB REGI, crowned bust left, rose behind; Reverse POSVI DEV ADIVTOREM MEV (I have made God my helper), quartered coat-of-arms (passant lions and fleurs-de-lis) on long cross fourchée, 1592 above shield; ex A.H. Baldwin & Sons Ltd., Autumn Argentum Auction 2009. Ex FORVM.

Elizabeth I, 1558 - 1603
Elizabeth Tudor is considered by many to be the greatest monarch in English history. When she became queen in 1558, she was twenty-five years old, a survivor of scandal and danger, and considered illegitimate by most Europeans. She inherited a bankrupt nation, torn by religious discord, a weakened pawn between the great powers of France and Spain. She was only the third queen to rule England in her own right; the other two examples, her cousin Lady Jane Grey and half-sister Mary I, were disastrous. Even her supporters believed her position dangerous and uncertain. Her only hope, they counseled, was to marry quickly and lean upon her husband for support. But Elizabeth had other ideas.
She ruled alone for nearly half a century, lending her name to a glorious epoch in world history. She dazzled even her greatest enemies. Her sense of duty was admirable, though it came at great personal cost. She was committed above all else to preserving English peace and stability; her genuine love for her subjects was legendary. Only a few years after her death in 1603, they lamented her passing. In her greatest speech to Parliament, she told them, 'I count the glory of my crown that I have reigned with your love.'

http://englishhistory.net/tudor/monarchs/eliz1.html
Edited by J.P.Fitzgerald, Jr.
1 commentsCleisthenes06/26/16 at 14:54Kained but Able: Beautiful coin and great information
66-Elizabeth-I.jpg
66. Elizabeth I.Shilling, 1592-1595; London mint.
Obverse: ELIZAB D G ANG FR ET HIB REGI / Crowned bust, left.
Reverse: POSVI DEV ADIVTOREM MEV / Royal shield over cross.
Mint mark: tun (small barrel) on both sides.
5.95 gm., 29 mm.
North #2014; Seaby #2577.

Dating: Fifth issue = 1582-1600; tun mint mark = 1592-1595.
2 commentsCallimachus06/26/16 at 14:42Kained but Able: Beautiful shilling.
79667q00.jpg
Roman Empire, Otho, Denarius CERES AVG SH79667. Silver denarius, Muona Otho 10b; Butcher-Ponting-Muona 6; ANSCD 1958.217.1; BnF III 1; RIC I 1 (7 spec. known, all minted with the same die-pair), Nice VF, the best portrait and most attractive of the seven known specimens, light rose toning, a few light marks and spots of porosity, Rome mint, weight 3.272g, maximum diameter 17.5mm, die axis 180o, 9 Mar - 17 Apr 69 A.D.; obverse IMP OTHO CAESAR AVG TRP, bare head right; reverse CERES AVG, Ceres standing left, grain-ears raised in right hand, cornucopia in left hand; from the Jyrki Muona Collection

This is the rarest Otho denarius type and one of the rarest 1st century Roman denarii. Only two museums, Paris and ANS, hold examples. A further specimen was found in archeological context in Denmark in 1990s. Besides these, four additional specimens are known. This coin has the best portrait and is clearly the most attractive of the seven known. Jyrki Muona obtained it in 2002 at the NYINC from Glenn Woods.

Otho minted three separate issues. The first and second issues followed Galba's standard of 90% silver. Otho's third issue was debased to 80% silver. All coins of the third issue share the reverse legend PONT MAX, perhaps to make it easy to distinguish the debased coins. One might think our rare coin is simply a reverse legend error for Otho's third issue, PONT MAX Ceres type. However, as Butcher et al. have shown, this is not the case. If CERES AVG was a simple reverse legend error, the flan would be 80% silver. This CERES AVG type was struck on second issue 90% silver flans, probably during planning for the third issue, and perhaps only for testing. The type was apparently not distributed, and was withdrawn, and melted when it was decided to debase the coinage and use the PONT MAX legend. It appears a small number were released, most likely by mistake.
4 commentsJoe Sermarini06/11/16 at 09:34Kained but Able: Incredibly precise context on a stunning Otho coin...
Marcus_Lepidus.jpg
Marcus Lepidus ImperatorLaureate head of Roma (?) right

M LEPIDVS
Below equestrian statue of M. Aemelius Lepidus (consul 187 and 175 BC) right, carrying trophy

Rome, 61 BC

3.79g

Rare!

Sear 371, RPC 419/1, CRR 827-828b

Freed from a NGC Holder, graded strike 4/5; surface 4/5.

Marcus Lepidus strikes this coin early in his career as moneyer. After Julius Caesar's assassination he became Pontifex Maximus and formed the Second Triumvirate with Antony and Octavian. He would keep his post as Pontifex Maximus until his death. The office then became the sole procession of the Emperors.
7 commentsJay GT405/25/16 at 19:58Kained but Able: Great to see the name of Lepidus, very historic!
539_P_Hadrian_RIC510.jpg
1386 Hadrian, Cistophorus SARDIS Lydia Cult statue of Kore Reference.
RIC II 510; Metcalf 47; RSC 279; RPC III, 1386/18

Obv. HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS P P
Bare head Right.

Rev. COS III
Cult statue of Kore standing facing; stalk of grain to left, stalk of grain and poppy to right.

9.98 gr
27 mm
12h
2 commentsokidoki05/15/16 at 17:29Kained but Able: Think I have one from the same dies, check my gall...
D657.jpg
RIC 657 DomitianAR Denarius, 3.23g
Rome mint, 88-89 AD
Obv: IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: IMP XVII COS XIIII CENS P P P; Minerva stg. r. on capital of rostral column, with spear amd shield; to r., owl (M2)
RIC 657 (R). BMC 148. RSC 247. BNC 139.
Acquired from Zurqieh, April 2016

Domitian did not take the consulship in 89, so this rare denarius is dated by TR P VIII between September 88 and September 89. The date can be further narrowed down by the 17th imperial acclamation. A military diploma dated 7 November, 88 records Domitian as IMP XVII, so this issue must have been struck briefly at the end of 88, perhaps just a month or so due to the rarity of the acclamation number on the denarii and the fact they were being awarded at a fairly rapid pace due to increased military activity along the Danube.

Solid portrait struck on good metal. Much better in hand.
2 commentsDavid Atherton05/13/16 at 08:42Kained but Able: Great when you can get such a precise date. Helps ...
622Hadrian_RIC535b.JPG
0035 Hadrian Sestertius, Roma 117 AD Concordia Reference.
RIC cf535b; BMC cf1104; Strack cf502; Banti 145; RIC 35

Bust A4 with Balteus strap

Obv. IMP CAES DIVI TRAIAN AVG F TRAIAN HADRIAN OPT AVG GER,
Laureate bare bust with drapery, and balteus

Rev DAC PARTHICO P M TR P COS P P, CONCORDIA and S C in field
Concordia seated left on throne, holding out patera and resting on a figure of Spes; cornucopia under throne

24.78 gr
35 mm
6h


When he became emperor following the death of Trajan in 117 AD, questions immediately arose regarding the validity of Hadrian's succesion. Although it is clear from Hadrian's early career and marriage to Sabina (Trajan's grand-niece) that the emperor brought his young kinsman within the imperial court, Trajan, unlike Nerva before, made no move to adopt Hadrian formally, instead possibly preferring others. This fact prompted Hadrian, in the early days of his reign to emphasize his legitimacy to the succession. Hadrian declared Trajan divus and ordered his ashes installed in the Column of his newly complete Forum. Trajan's name and titles were incorporated into the new imperial nomenclature, a privilege reserved solely for legitimate heirs. At the same time, coins were struck to associate the new reign with the previous administration and declare a peaceful transferral of power. The legend DAC PARTHICO (in the dedicatory dative), clearly refers to Trajan, while the Concordia reverse type (to date, uncommon with the addition of Spes), emphasized by the inclusion of CONCORDIA in the exergue, demonstrated Hadrian's potential willingness for the time to continue Trajan's policies, thereby insuring continued political harmony, something which disintegrated as Hadrian's reign progressed.
1 commentsokidoki05/01/16 at 11:28Kained but Able: Love the heroism of the early Hadrianic bust and t...
Tiberius_Drachm.jpg
TiberiusSilver drachm, RPC I 3620; Sydenham 42; BMC Cappadocia p. 46, 11, Caesarea mint, weight 3.498g, maximum diameter 18.0mm, die axis 0o, obverse TIBERIOS KAISAR SEBASTOS, laureate head right; reverse QEOU SEBASTOU UIOS, Mount Argaeus, surmounted by radiate and nude statue holding globe in right and scepter in left.
The imperial mint at Caesarea was founded by Tiberius c. 30 AD. This is the only coin of Tiberius issued solely in his name at Caesarea.
7 commentsNemonater03/09/16 at 17:17Kained but Able: Stunning! Is this the first appearance of Mt Argae...
1_2.jpg
Trajan AR DenariusTrajan ar denarius AD 103-111
3.54g Rome mint
Obv: IMP TRAIANO AVG GER DAC PM TRP COS V PP
Laur. head right
Rev: SPQR OPTIMO PRINCIPI
Genius stg. L. with patera & cornucopiae, altar before
dotted border
RIC 184, RSC 394.

4 commentssean c205/03/15 at 18:19Kained but Able: Great coin of the best emperor, congrats!
017~1.JPG
Massalia, Gaul4th Cent. B.C.
Silver Obol
0.79 gm, 11 mm
Obv.: Youthful head of Apollo
Rev.: Wheel of four spokes, M – A in two of the quarter
Sear 72,
[De La Tour 580]
1 commentsJaimelai06/04/13 at 06:02Kained but Able: Such tiny coins!
D601.jpg
ROMAN EMPIRE, Domitian RIC 601AR denarius
Rome mint, 88 AD
RIC 601 (C), BMCRE 135, RSC 73
Obv - IMP CAES DOMIT AVG GERM P M TR P VIII; Head of Domitian, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev - COS XIIII LVD SAEC FEC inscribed on column; to r., incense burner, further r., Herald stg. l., with wand and shield
10 commentsDavid Atherton03/06/13 at 12:57Kained but Able: Awesome historic type.
TrajanHerc.jpg
Trajan Hercules denariusIMP CAES NERVA TRAIAN AVG GERM
Laureate bust of Trajan right

PM TR P COS IIII PP
Statue of Hercules facing with lions skin on head and arm, club in hand

Rome 101-102 AD

3.27g

Ric II 49

Scarce
ex-Calgary Coin

SOLD AT FORUM AUCTIONS
1 commentsJay GT401/31/13 at 13:26Kained but Able: Solid example of this great type. Well done Jay!
Nerva.jpg
NervaAD 96-98. AR Denarius (17mm, 3.47 g, 7h). Rome mint. Struck AD 97.
O: IMP NERVA CAES AVG P M TR P COS III P P, Laureate head right
R: CONCORDIA - EXERCITVVM (Agreement of the Armies) around clasped hands. RIC II 14; RSC 20

The reverses of Roman coins often reveal the issues of the time. Nerva would not need to advertise that he had achieved concord with the army unless the relationship had been a problem. Often coins conveyed hope for progress not yet achieved and sometimes reverse types were completely fictional. In this case, Nerva's adoption of Trajan, a general on the German frontier, as Caesar and heir, successfully established harmony with the army.
3 commentsNemonater11/15/12 at 19:10Kained but Able: Stunning portrait!
T40.JPG
RIC 040 TitusAR Denarius, 3.40
Rome mint, 79 AD
Obv: IMP TITVS CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r.
Rev: TR P VIIII IMP XV COS VII P P; Ceres std. l., with corn ears and poppy and torch
RIC 40 (C). BMC 23. RSC 287. BNC 19.
Acquired from Helios, November 2012.

The common seated Ceres reverse from the third issue of 79. Coins from this issue are somewhat rarer than those from the previous two.

A solid example of the type, struck in good metal and decent style.
5 commentsDavid Atherton11/13/12 at 19:38Kained but Able: A classic Titus! Pleasing details all round.
RPC5359_3B.jpg
RPC5359Tetradrachm, Eleutheria, no simpulum. This coin was included in a as yet unpublished study. It shows nicely the minting method used in Egypt at the time. The silver content of the metal used is low and the surface has been treated with acid to remove the copper and then restruck to solidify the silver. The same method was in use in Rome during the last month of Otho´s reign, but as the silver content was much higher, the "purified" surface cannot be observed as easily. [5.67 gr], die-axis 12.4 commentsjmuona11/07/12 at 19:15Kained but Able: Wow, really interesting!
Celtic-Ag-Tetradrachm-_Q-001_26mm_13,86g-s.jpg
Celtic AR-Tetradrachm, #1,Celtic, AR-Tetradrachm,
avers: Laureate head of Zeus right.
reverse: A rider is advancing to the left. Several cutting tests on the surface.
exergue: -/-//--, diameter: 26,0mm, weight: 13,86g, axes: h,
mint: Celtic, date: , ref: ,
Q-001
3 commentsquadrans11/05/12 at 16:20Kained but Able: Wow, someone has really attacked this coin. Intere...
markianopolis_macrinus_diadum_HrJ6_24_14_2+.jpg
Moesia inferior, Markianopolis, 24. Macrinus & Diadumenian, HrJ (2013) 6.24.14.02 (plate coin)Macrinus & Diadumenian, AD 217-218
AE 28, 12.14g, 27.51mm, 180°
struck under governor P. Furius Pontianus
obv. AVT K OPELLI CEV MAKREINOC KM OPELLI ANTWNEINOC
Confronting busts of Macrinus, draped and cuirassed, laureate, r., and Diadumenian,
draped, bare-headed, l.
rev. VP PONTIANOV MARKIANOPOLEITWN (OV ligate)
Herakles Farnese, bearded, nude, stg. r., r. hand behind back, resting with r. arm on club
covered with lion's skin set in arm pit stg. on rocks (?)
in l. field E
ref. a) AMNG I/1, 753 (2 ex., St.Petersburg, Sestini)
b) Varbanov (engl.) 1291 corr. (writes in error different obv. legend and describes bust
wrongly)
c) Hristova/Jekov (2013) No. 6.24.14.2 (plate coin)
d) Pfeiffer 254 (same dies)
e) Megaw MAR5.29c (this coin)
scarce, VF, black green patina
pedigree:
ex coll. Lars Rutten (thanks!)

This is the famous Herakles Farnese of Lysipp. The depiction of the rock is strange. Pick writes: "According to Sestini's description the club rests on four apples. This could be true for the ex. from St.Petersburg too." But on this specimen it is obviously neither a rock nor four apples!
2 commentsJochen10/28/12 at 19:36Kained but Able: Wow, love the detail on Herakles!!
domitcasco.jpg
ROMAN EMPIRE, DOMITIAN as Caesar.AR denarius. 80-81 AD. 3.39 grs. 6h. Laureate head right. CAESAR DIVI F DOMITIANVS COS VII / Corinthian helmet on draped seat. PRINCEPS IVVENTVTIS.
RIC 271 (Titus). RSC 399a

3 commentsbenito10/28/12 at 17:40Kained but Able: Stunning detail on the helmet reverse!
RIC56_LugdunumB.jpg
Lugdunum_RIC563,41 gr., max 18 mm, die-axis 7.3 commentsjmuona10/22/12 at 20:13Kained but Able: One of many stunning coins! Love your gallery.
RIC25_TarracoB.jpg
Tarraco_RIC253,17 gr., max 20 mm, die-axis 6.1 commentsjmuona10/22/12 at 16:34Kained but Able: Great depiction of Mars!
RIC103_RomeB.jpg
Rome_Germ_RIC1033,22 gr., max 20 mm, die-axis 6.2 commentsjmuona10/21/12 at 12:42Kained but Able: Wow, a dream coin! Great detail on his two sons (?...
hadiranAET.jpg
Hadrian denariusIMP CAESAR TRAIAN HADRIANVS AVG
Laur. bust of Hadrian right with light drapery on far shoulder

AET AVG (in field) P M TR P COS DES III
Aeternitas standing left holding heads of Sol and Luna

Rome 135 AD

3.39g

Rare
Sear 3458
Ric 48

Ex-ancient Caesar

SOLD April 2017
4 commentsJay GT410/20/12 at 17:37Kained but Able: Such a symbolic reverse, Eternity holding the Sun ...
Hadriensestertius.jpg
Hardiran SestertiusHADRIANVS AVG COS III P P
Laur head of Hadrian right

SC
Diana standing left holding Bow and Arrow

Scarce

Rome 136 AD
29.43g

Sear 3645

Ex-Arcade Coins

SOLD to Calgary Coin June 2017
1 commentsJay GT410/20/12 at 17:11Kained but Able: Any Diana type is good in my book. A graceful depi...
macrinus~0.jpg
MacrinusIMP C M OPEL SEV MACRINVS AVG
Laureate and cuirassed bust of Macrinus right

FELECITAS TEMPORVM
Felicitas standing left holding long caduceus and cornucopiae

Rome 217 AD
2.37g

Sear 7331, RSC 19a, RIC 62

Scarce/Rare: 5 specimens in Reka Devnia Hoard (Cohen 19)

Ex-ANE

Wildwinds speciman #2


Macrinus was the Praetorian prefect during the reign of Caracalla. After hearing a prophecy that he would become Emperor Macrinus feared that Caracalla would have him killed. In order to save his life he arranged Caracalla's assassination and he and his son Diadumenian seized power and were accepted by the senate. Macrinus concluded an unfavourable peace with the Persians. This disgrace, magnified by propaganda of Julia Maesa, Caracalla's aunt, inspired the Syrian legions to revolt. In the ensuing conflict Macrinus was defeated. He fled, only to be betrayed and executed.

SOLD to Calgary Coin June 2017
2 commentsJay GT410/20/12 at 17:10Kained but Able: Lovely type and great historical detail.
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Rome_RIC1453.44 gr., max 20 mm, die-axis 6-1 commentsjmuona10/20/12 at 17:07Kained but Able: Stunning detail on the equestrian reverse and what...
RIC22A_TarracoB.jpg
Tarraco_RIC22A3.41 gr., max 19 mm, die-axis 6. Not in RIC I, but added in Sutherland (1984).1 commentsjmuona10/20/12 at 17:06Kained but Able: Wow, what a striking portrait! Amazing.
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0061 - Denarius Petilia 43 BCObv/ Eagle on thunderbolt r.; above, PETILLIVS; below, CAPITOLINVS.
Rev/ Temple of Jupiter Capitolinus; roof is decorated with armed figure at each side and cuadriga at apex; within pediment, uncertain figure; between central four columns, hanging decorations; on l., S; on r., F.

Ag, 18.0 mm, 3.85 g
Moneyer: Petilllius Capitolinus
Mint: Rome.
RRC 487/2b [dies o/r: 85/74 (all var.] - BMCRR Rome 4222
ex-Spink, auction march 2008, lot 994 (ex-Glendining, auction april 1980, lot 159)
1 commentsdafnis10/16/12 at 15:59Kained but Able: Stunning type. Just needs a brighter pic to show o...
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C.MARIUS C.f. CAPITOAR denarius. 81 BC. 3.75 gr. Draped bust of Ceres right,head bound with corn wreath. CAPIT CXXXXI behind,symbol (jellyfish) before. / Plowman with yoke of oxen left. CXXXXI above; C.MARI.C.F./SC in exergue. Border of dots.
RSC Maria 9; Craw. 378/1c.
I & L Goldberg 2002. Ex Lejeune collection.
1 commentsbenito10/10/12 at 16:51Kained but Able: That's the first Jellyfish I've seen on a ...
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Macrinus AR DenariusMacrinus AR Denarius. Rome, AD 217-8. IMP C M OPEL SEV MACRINVS AVG, laureate and cuirassed bust right / IOVI CONSERVATORI, Jupiter standing left, holding thunderbolt in right hand and sceptre in left. RIC 73; BMC 66. 3.06g, 20mm, 5h3 commentsTLP10/05/12 at 17:01Kained but Able: Wow, love the detail on Jupiter!!
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ROMAN EMPIRE, Vitellius, Denarius - Vesta (RIC 107)AR Denarius
Rome 69 AD
3.40g

Obv: Laureate bust of Vitellius (R)
A VITELLIVS GERM IMP AVG TR P

Rev: Vesta seated right, holding scepter and patera.
PONT MAXIM

RSC 72, BMC 34.
5 commentsOptimo Principi10/05/12 at 14:49Kained but Able: Yes, I imagine this was soon after his accession, ...
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TRAJANAR denarius. 112-114 AD. 3,36 grs. Laureate bust right, slight drapery on far shoulder. IMP TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS VI P P / Via Traiana reclining left, left elbow on rock, holding wheel and reed. S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI. In exergue VIA TRAIANA.
RIC 267.
2 commentsbenito09/04/12 at 18:31Kained but Able: Nicely centered example.
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OTHO (69 AD), AR denarius, CeresObverse- IMP OTHO CAESAR AVG TR P, bare head right.
Reverse- PONT MAX, Ceres standing left, holding corn ears in right hand, cornucopia in left.
Silver version of RIC 20 (an aureus), 3.1 g.
NGC F (Strike 3/5, Surface 3/5), cert. #4095350-003.
Ex- Harlan J. Berk, Ltd., November, 2007.
Comments: "Rare second issue of reign", according to HJB. This was the keystone of my original Roman Imperial collection, and the only coin for which I crossed the $500 threshold. When forced to sell my collection after a 2008 layoff, I put it on eBay and took a loss. It went to a buddy, however, and he let me buy it back in August of 2010. I was always fascinated by this short-lived emperor who only lasted three months, and this coin is probably tied with my Zeno solidus as my favorite Roman.
4 commentslordmarcovan07/16/12 at 08:46Kained but Able: Very cool portrait!
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Nero, RIC 143, Sestertius of AD 64-66 (Triumphal arch) Æ Sestertius (24.3g, Ø35mm, 6h), Rome mint, struck AD 64-66.
Obv.: NERO CLAVD CAESAR AVG GER P M TR P IMP P P, laureate head of Nero facing right with aegis.
Rev.: S C (in field), Triumphal arch is surmounted by a quadriga facing with Pax, standing on the left, and winged Victory, on the right. At the angles of the entablature are soldiers. The front piers of the arch are decorated with sculptures in three tiers of panels; in the niche on the left is a statue of Mars.
RIC 143; Sear 2000 (RCV) 1962var.; Foss (RHC) 67:14

Nero erected a triumphal arch on the Capitoline Hill while the Parthian war was in progress in Armenia, with Corbulo capturing the Armenian capital Artaxata in AD 58. The arch was rededicated or completely dismantled after Nero's death in AD 68, and this monument is only known from coins.
2 commentsCharles S07/10/12 at 09:53Kained but Able: Fine detail - is that a garland hanging across the...
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Nero, RIC 164, Sestertius of AD 64-66 (Decursio)Æ Sestertius (28.7g, Ø37mm, 6h), Rome mint, struck AD 64-66.
Obv.: NERO CLAVD CAESAR AVG GER PM TR P IMP P P, laureate head of Nero left.
Rev.: DECVRSIO (in ex.) S C (in field), Nero on horseback riding left, holding spear; behind mounted soldier riding left with vexillum.
RIC 164 (S); Cohen 92; Sear (RCV 2K) 1957var.
ex G.Henzen

The reverse legend DECVRSIO derives from DECVRRO (=run downwards, charge), a word applied to military or equestrian manoeuvres. On this type, it refers Nero leading a formal cavalry parade in the Circus Maximus.
1 commentsCharles S07/10/12 at 07:05Kained but Able: Out of this world! I love how the die maker almost...
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Trajan, RIC 761, for Matidia, Sestertius of AD 112-117 (Pietas)Æ Sestertius (25.51g, Ø35mm, 6h), Rome mint. Struck AD September 112-117.
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.); BMC 1088; MIR 730 var.1 (33 spec.); Strack 521; Banti 1 (20 spec.); 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, Pietas symbolizes Matidia 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.
5 commentsCharles S07/06/12 at 11:33Kained but Able: Oh my! Matidia, what a rare treasure!!
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CaligulaCaligula, as
RIC 38
11.15 g. 28 mm.
Obv. C CAESAR AVG GERMANICUS PON M TR POT; bare head left.
Rev. VESTA /S-C; Vesta seated left, holding patera and sceptre.
1 commentsMarsman07/06/12 at 08:25Kained but Able: Awesome detail on Vesta!
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RIC 1407 VespasianAR Denarius, 2.89g
Ephesus mint, 69-70 AD
Obv: IMP•CAES VESPAS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PACI ORB TERR AVG; Turreted and draped female bust, r.; below, horizontal Φ
RIC 1407 (R), BMC 437. RSC 291. RPC 813 (6 spec.). BNC 335.
Ex CNG E281, 20 June 2012, lot 301.

A unique to this mint denarius type minted early in the reign. The turreted female bust symbolises the world and the legend advertises the world peace brought by Vespasian. Flavian propaganda at its most positive.

Both portraits are in fine style and high relief.
12 commentsDavid Atherton07/03/12 at 11:03Kained but Able: Oh my! Exquisite portraits, lettering and symbolis...
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Moesia inferior, Nikopolis ad Istrum, 25. Diadumenian, HrHJ (2018) 8.25.13.04 (plate coin)Diadumenian, AD 217-218
AE 28, 12.99g, 27.72mm, 45°
struck under governor Statius Longinus
obv. KM OPPEL ANTWN DIADOVMENIANOC
bust draped, seen from behind, bare-headed, r.
rev. [VP CTATIOV] LONGI - NOV NIKOPOLITWN / PROC IC
Artemis as huntress advancing r., holding bow and drawing arrow from
quiver over r. shoulder; at her l. foot the hound leaping r.
ref. a) AMNG I/1, 1844 (1 ex., Gotha)
b) Varbanov (engl.) 3718 var. (has ANTWN)
c) Hristova/Hoeft/Jekov (2018) No. 8.25.13.4 (plate coin)
about VF+, glossy mid-dark green patina, strong bust of Diadumenian
added to www.wildwinds.com

In her character as sister of Apollo, Artemis is like her brother armed with a bow, quiver, and arrows, and sends plague and death to men and animals. As Apollo was not only a destructive god, but also averted the evils which it was in his power to in­flict, so Artemis at the same time cured and alleviated the suffer­ings of mortals.
3 commentsJochen07/02/12 at 18:07Kained but Able: Lovely detail on Artemis here!
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Moesia inferior, Nikopolis ad Istrum, 23. Macrinus, HrHJ (2018) 8.23.38.01 #1 (plate coin)Macrinus, AD 217-218
AE 27, 12.59g, 26.61mm, 195°
struck under governor Marcus Claudius Agrippa
obv. AV K OPPEL CEV - H.MAKREINOC
Bust, cuirassed with scale armour, laureate, r.
rev. VP AGRIPPA NI - KOPOLITWN PROC / ICTRW
Tyche in long double chiton and palla, wearing kalathos, stg. l., holding cornucopiae in l. arm and in r.
hand rudder set on globe
ref. a) not in AMNG
b) Varbanov (engl.) 3420 (same dies)
c) Hristova/Hoeft/Jekov (2018) No. 8.23.8.1 (plate coin)
EF, black green patina, Portrait!

One of the most beautiful Macrinus busts I have seen!
2 commentsJochen07/02/12 at 18:04Kained but Able: Wow, what a striking portrait! Amazing.
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Cast copy of Trajan, RIC 556, Sestertius of AD 106-111Cast copy of a sestertius (24.4g, Ø34mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 106-111.
Obv.: IMP CAES NERVAE TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS V P P laureate head of Trajan, facing right.
Rev.: S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI [around border,] S C [in ex.] The Danube river god standing left, holding reed and forcing Dacia to the ground with his knee.
RIC 556 [scarce]; Cohen 525 (fr.25); Foss (Roman Historical Coins): 100/23
offered for auction in 2008 as authentic
The edge of this coin have been hammered and smoothed to hide the filing marks, which are still visible in a very small area.
2 commentsCharles S06/22/12 at 11:47Kained but Able: Amazing reverse, never seen that design before. Ve...
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Antoninus Pius, RIC 733, As of AD 143-144 (Great Sow)Æ As (8.87g, Ø24.5mm, 12h). Rome mint. Struck 143-144 AD.
Obv.: ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P COS III, laureate head right.
Rev.: IMPERATOR II (around) S C (in ex.), Great Sow, seated right under oak suckling her young; in front, two more.
RIC 733; BMC 1624; Cohen 450; 942
ex iNumis, Paris

This issue belongs to a series minted in preparation of the 900th anniversary, on April 21st, AD 147, of the founding of Rome. This series depict scenes from ancient Roman legends.
2 commentsCharles S06/20/12 at 15:03Kained but Able: Holy So.w! Love this coin
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Trajan, RIC 575a, As of AD 106Æ As (10.1g, Ø29mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 106.
Obv.: IMP CAES NERVAE TRAIANO AVG GER DAC PM TR P COS V P P, laureate head of Trajan facing right.
Rev.: SPQR OPTIMO PRINCIPI (around), S C (below), octastyle temple, statue standing between columns.
RIC 575a (S); BMC 955; Cohen 553; Sear 2000 (RCV) 3236; Foss (RHC) 102:43
ex CNG auction

According to some, this was issued on the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the reign with celebration of temples which Trajan had restored. In fact it is unknown. The temple which is represented here has been a source of many speculations: Honos, Jupiter Victor, Pax and Venus Genetrix have all been proposed. Strack has many convincing arguments that the statue represents Genius and the temple is the one that Trajan dedicated to Divus Nerva.
1 commentsCharles S06/20/12 at 09:47Kained but Able: Beautiful temple!
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ROMAN EMPIRE, Trajan Denarius - Trajan and Nerva (RIC 28)AR Denarius
Rome 98-99 AD
3.16g

Obv: Laureate bust of Trajan (R)
IMP NERVA CAES TRAIAN AVG GERM P M

Rev: Trajan, togate, standing (L), receiving globe from Nerva (R)
R P COS II P P, PROVID below.

Rare
No examples in Reka Devnia Hoard

RIC 28 RSC 319a


After the revolt of the Praetorians in October 97 AD, Nerva was in need of a popular, youthful and vigourous heir. Stationed on the German frontier, Trajan soon received a handwritten note from Nerva, informing him of his adoption. Trajan was highly respected within the army and his adoption was the best possible remedy against the resentment much of the army felt against Nerva. But Trajan didn't come speeding back to Rome in order to help restore Nerva's authority. Rather than going to Rome he summoned the leaders of the earlier mutiny by the praetorians to Upper Germany. Instead of receiving a promised promotion, they were executed on arrival. Such ruthless actions made it quite clear that with Trajan as part of it, Rome's government was not to be messed with.

Nerva died on 28 January AD 98. His successor's eventual entry at Rome in AD 99 was a triumph. Jubilant crowds rejoiced at his arrival. The new emperor entered the city on foot, he embraced each of the senators and even walked among the ordinary people. This was unlike any other Roman emperor and perhaps grants us a glimpse of Trajan's true greatness.

5 commentsOptimo Principi06/19/12 at 04:57Kained but Able: Thanks guys, it may not look like much but this on...
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RIC 1412 VespasianAR Denarius, 3.28g
Ephesus mint, 70 AD
Obv: IMP CAESAR VESPAS AVG COS II TR P P P; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: PACI AVGVSTAE; Victory adv. l., with wreath and palm; at lower l., horizontal Φ
RIC 1412 (R). BMC p. 92 note. RSC 278a, RPC 820 (5 spec.). BNC -.
Ex Private Collection.

A fairly common reverse type from Ephesus that is rare with this mint mark. You could spend a lifetime collecting the mint mark variations for this mint!

Another wonderful high relief portrait, one of the best I've seen.
A bit off-center but with good details and fine style.
(Thanks kc!)
12 commentsDavid Atherton06/18/12 at 21:06Kained but Able: Absolute masterpiece, nothing less!
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ROMAN EMPIRE, Trajan AR DenariusObv.
His laureate head right
Imp Traiano Avg Ger Dac Pm Tr P Cos VI PP
Rev.
Trajan on horseback holding spear with small victory in hand left.
SPQR Optimo Principi

Year minted 113-114
RIC V. II 291
3.30 Grams
2 commentsJordan S206/18/12 at 05:11Kained but Able: Great example of the type!
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ROMAN EMPIRE, Vespasian, Rome mint, struck 74 AD, Æ DupondiusCAESAR VESPASIAN AVG laureate-headed bust left
PON MAX TR POT PP COS V CENS winged caduceus between crossed cornucopiae
RIC 798b, Cohen 377
10 comments06/15/12 at 15:57Kained but Able: Congrats Matthias, this coin is nothing less than ...
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Mark Antony Legionary Denarius LEG XII ANTIQVAEANT AVG III VIR R P C
Galley right mast with banners at prow

LEG XII ANTIQVAE
Legionary eagle between two standards

Patrae mint 32-31 BC
3.57g

SEAR 1480

Ex-Londinium Coins

This was Caesar's 12th legion, raised in 58 BC for the campaign against the Helvetii. It served throughout the wars in Gaul (58 to 49), Italy (49), and at Pharsalus (48). It was disbanded 46-45 BC and the colonists were settled at Parma. The legion was reformed in 44-43 BC most likely by Lepidus. The legion was then passed to Antony in 41-31 BC and was present at Actium. It appears on Antony's coinage as LEG XII ANTIQVAE. Colonists were settled at Patrai, Greece alongside men of Legio X Equestris, perhaps by Antony, more likely by Octavian soon after Actium.

The legion's whereabouts during most of Augustus' reign is unclear. The 12th was very possibly the unnamed third legion (with III Cyrenaica and XXII Deiotariana) stationed in Egypt. That unnamed legion disappears from Egypt at just about the same time that Legio XII Fulminata is first found in Syria. By early in the reign of Tiberius, the 12th legion was based at Raphanae.
4 commentsJay GT406/12/12 at 20:24Kained but Able: Great info about a coin you don't come across ...
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RIC 159Denarius, 103-111
Obv: IMP TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS V P P
Laur. r., aegis.
Rev: SPQR OPTIMO PRINCIPI
Mars in military dress standing r., holding spear and resting hand on shield supported by captive.
19mm, 3.69g
1 commentsklausklage06/12/12 at 17:41Kained but Able: Finding this one a tough type to track down. Good ...
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RIC 139Denarius, 103-111
Obv: IMP TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P
Laur. r.
Rev: COS V P P S P Q R OPTIMO PRINC
Trajan in quadriga r., holding laurel branch and sceptre.
2.79g, 18-19mm
1 commentsklausklage06/12/12 at 17:41Kained but Able: A type you don't come by often! Nice.
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Trajan, RIC 642, Sestertius of AD 116-117 (Conquest of Mesopotamia)Æ Sestertius (26.2g, Ø33mm, 7h). Rome mint. Struck AD 116-117.
IMP CAES NER TRAIANO OPTIMO AVG GER DAC PARTHICO PM TRP COS VI PP laureate and draped bust of Trajan facing right
ARMENIA ET MESOPOTAMIA POTESTATEM PR REDACTAE [around] S C [in field] Trajan standing right, holding spear and parazonium; on the ground, the reclining figures of Armenia, the Euphrates and the Tigris
RIC 642 [R]; Cohen 39; Foss (Roman Historical Coins): 105/71

Coin minted between 116 spring and 117 aug (PARTHICO in legend) on the occasion of the conquest of Mesopotamia in 115. Beginning in 114 AD, Trajan began his campaign against Parthia which had deposed the pro-Roman king of Armenia. By 115 AD Trajan had turned Armenia into a Roman province. He then moved southward through Mesopotamia, capturing the Parthian capital, Ctesiphon, in 116 AD.
1 commentsCharles S06/12/12 at 15:22Kained but Able: The symbolism on this reverse is awesome, all the ...
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Hadrian, RIC 568, Sestertius of AD 119 (Libertas restituta)Æ Sestertius (26.40g, Ø34.5mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 119.
Obv.: IMP CAESAR TRAIANVS HADRIANVS AVG, laureate bust of Hadrian facing right.
Rev.: PONT MAX TR POT COS III (around) LIBERTAS RESTI-TVTA (in ex.) S C (in field), Hadrian seated on Sella Curulis on a platform, extending his hand to a child held by a woman standing before him who places her hand on the head of a second child standing beside her.
RIC 568; BMCRE 1160; Cohen 949 (different description of women having one foot on a pedestal); Strack 526; Banti (I Grandi Bronzi Imperiali II-2) 517 (33 spec.).

ex H.D. Rauch (Wien), 83rd Coin-Auction (2008); ex. Hess-Divo AG auction 308 (2007)

The reverse legend 'LIBERTAS RESTITVTA' means 'Liberty restored'. The interpretation of this type varies. According to Clive Foss (Roman Historical Coins, 1990, Seaby, London) Hadrian faced considerable unpopularity at the beginning of his reign especially after the Senate, during his absence, had four high-ranking senators executed who were accused of conspiracy (even though he had promised never to execute a senator). He went to great lengths trying to gain the favour of the people. This included the cancellation of public debts and the expansion of Trajan's charity program to the poor children of Italy in AD 118, an act celebrated as the restoration of liberty.
1 commentsCharles S06/12/12 at 15:20Kained but Able: Exquisite and with a wonderful background story to...
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RIC 0039 VespasianAR Denarius, 2.69g
Rome mint, 71 AD
Obv: IMP CAES VES-P AVG P M; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: TRI POT II COS III P P; Mars adv. r., with spear and aquila
RIC 39 (R). BMC 59A. RSC 564. BNC 41.
Acquired from Forvm Ancient Coins, June 2012. Ex Maridvnvm Collection.

An exceedingly rare Vespasian denarius struck in 71. The reverse features the familiar Mars walking right with spear and aquila, but it is the shorter obverse legend used in early 71 and the (unique to this series) TRI POT II COS III P P reverse legend that makes this a rare denarius. Oddly enough, the only other denarius from the same series (Pax seated) was minted in copious amounts.

The coin itself has deep cabinet toning and good centring. Very nice in hand. Vespasian seems to be cracking a rare smile too.
7 commentsDavid Atherton06/12/12 at 14:09Kained but Able: Very pleasing tone and a kindly portait of Vespasi...
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RIC 25Quinarius, 98-99
Obv: IMP CAES NERVA TRAIAN AVG GERM
Laur. r.
Rev: PONT MAX TR POT COS II
Victory walking r. holding wreath and palm.

1.83g, 15mm
2 commentsklausklage06/11/12 at 16:06Kained but Able: Oh my! Certainly one of the best quinarii I have s...
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Gaius ("Caligula"), RIC 46, Sestertius of AD 39-40 (oak wreath)Æ sestertius (30.4g, Ø35mm, 6h) Rome mint, struck AD 39-40.
Obv.: C·CAESAR·DIVI AVG·PRON·AVG·P·M·TR·P·III·P·P, laureate head of Gaius facing left.
Rev.: S·P·Q·R / P·P / OB·CIVES / SERVATOS in four lines oak wreath.
RIC 46 (R2); BMC 58; Cohen 25; Sear (RCV 2K) 1801; Foss (RHC) 61:13
Ex G. Henzen
Second issue to publicise the title PATER PATRIAE (father of the fatherland) awarded to him in A.D.38 by the Senate.
2 commentsCharles S06/11/12 at 10:19Kained but Able: One of the best Caligula portraits I've seen, ...
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MARKET, NERO, (Macellum Magnum)Orichalchum dupondius (14.5g, 31mm, 6h). Lugdunum mint. Struck AD 65.
NERO CLAVD CAESAR AVG GER P M TR P IMP P P laureate head of Nero facing left
M(AC) AVG / S C Frontal view of a building with a domed central section and
approached by steps, flanked by two-storied wings of unequal height, with porticoes adorned with guirlandes; above the steps, in the centre, a statue of a standing male figure holding a long sceptre.
RIC 402 (common); BMC 336; Cohen 129; Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 67:59

This type was issued upon the completion of the restoration of the Great Provision Market on Caelium Hill in A.D. 59: the Macellum Augusti, also known as the Macellum Magnum. It was built by Augustus and restored by Nero. Part of it was later transformed to church S. Stefano Rotundo by Pope Simplicius.
3 commentsCharles S06/09/12 at 14:56Kained but Able: A reverse of great historical importance as numism...
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Trajan * "PARTHICO-Felicitas" AD 98-117 * Silver Denarius
"Trajan begins his last campaign, the conquest of Parthia"

Obv: IMP CAES NER TRAIAN OPTIM AVG GER DAC- Laureate bust right, draped.
Rev: PARTHICO P M TR P COS VI P P SPQR - Felicitas standing left, holding caduceus and cornucopia.

Mint: Rome
Struck: 103-111 AD.

Size: 18.4 mm.
Weight: 3.8 grams
Die axis: 180 degs.

Beautiful luster, untarnished by the gentle wear.

RIC II, 332, page 268
Cohen 191
BMCRE 626
RSC 191
Sear RCATV (RCV 2000 Edition), #3141
(Van Meter 28/7, VB2)

2 commentsTiathena06/08/12 at 19:34Kained but Able: Dramatic, fully draped portrait style, love it.
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Claudius AE AsRIC 100, Cohen 83, BMC 149
12.04 g, 29 mm
TI CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG P M TR IMP, bare head left
S-C across fields, Minerva standing r., brandishing spear and holding shield on l. arm
Ex: HD Rauch Auction 87 Lot 353 (08-12-10); Roma Numis.
9 commentsMark Z06/08/12 at 18:35Kained but Able: Wow, a more elegant and sympathetic portrait of Cl...
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ElephantJulius Caesar denarius; Crawford 443/1; RSC 49; Van Meter 42 comments06/08/12 at 16:23Kained but Able: Nicely centered example.
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Gaius ("Caligula"), RIC 33, Sestertius from AD 37-38 (three sisters)Æ Sestertius (28.6g, Ø 34mm, 6h), Rome mint, struck AD 37-38
Obv.: C CAESAR AVG GERMANICVS PON M TR POT, laurate head left
Rev.: AGRIPPINA - DRVSILLA - IVLIA (left, above, and right) S C (ex.), Caligula's three sisters: Agrippina (Jr.), the eldest sister, as Securitas, leaning on column, holding cornucopiae, and placing left hand on Drusilla's shoulder; Drusilla, the middle sister, as Concordia, holding patera and cornucopiae; and Julia Livilla, the youngest, as Fortuna, holding rudder and cornucopiae.
RIC 33 (R); BMCRE 36, 37; Cohen 4 (25 Fr.); Sear (Roman Coins & their Values) 1800
ex Macho & Chlapovic Auction 2 (april 2012)

1 commentsCharles S06/07/12 at 16:05Kained but Able: The dream Caligula coin and with an amazing river ...
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Claudius, sestertius of AD 50-54Æ sestertius (24.6g, Ø37mm, 6h), Rome mint, struck AD 50-54.
Obv.: TI CLAVDIVS CAESAR·AVG P M TR P IMP P P, laureate head of Claudius facing right.
Rev.: SPES AVGVSTA / S C (in ex.), Spes advancig left, holding flower and raising her dress.
RIC 115 (C); Cohen 85; Sear (RCV 2K) 1854
1 commentsCharles S06/07/12 at 16:04Kained but Able: The detail on Spes' robes is beautiful.
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Nero, RIC 509, Sestertius of AD 66 (Decursion, scan)Æ sestertius (24.7g, Ø36mm, 7h), Lugdunum mint, struck AD 66.
Obv.: IMP NERO CAESAR AVG PONTIF MAX TRIB POT P P, laureate head of Nero facing right, globe below bust.
Rev.: DECVRSIO (in ex.) S C (left and right in field), Nero on horseback riding right, holding spear; behind mounted soldier riding right with vexillum.
RIC 509 (S); BMC 318; Sear (RCV 2K) 1957var.

The reverse legend DECVRSIO derives from DECVRRO (=run downwards, charge), a word applied to military or equestrian manoeuvres. On this type, it refers Nero leading a formal cavalry parade in the Circus Maximus.
3 commentsCharles S06/07/12 at 16:03Kained but Able: Thanks for the explanation of this reverse, have a...
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Gaius ("Caligula"), RIC 48, Sestertius of AD 40-41Æ sestertius (24.2g, Ø35mm, 6h) Lugdunum mint, struck AD 40-41.
Obv.: C CAESAR DIVI AVG·PRON·AVG·PM·TR P IIII P P, laureate head of Gaius facing left.
Rev.: ADLOCVT (above) COH (below) Gaius on a platform addressing five soldiers, four with legionary standards.
RIC 48 (S); Cohen 1; Sear (RCV 2K) 1799

Payment to the praetorian guard of the bequest of Tiberius. The minting of this sestertius was ordered directly by the emperor, hence the lack of the letters S C.
The legend TR.P.IIII is perhaps an indication that it was minted to pay the planned invasion of Brittania. This type was probably not in minted Rome (as attributed by RIC) but in Lugdunum.
3 commentsCharles S06/07/12 at 15:16Kained but Able: A cold stare from Gaius Shocked Love the detail.
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RIC 362 Divus Vespasian [Titus]AR Denarius, 3.08g
Rome mint, 79-80 AD
Obv: DIVVS VESPASIANVS AVGVSTVS; Head of Vespasian, laureate, r.
Rev: EX SC in exergue; Tensa r., surmounted by two Victories
RIC 362 (R2). BMC 117. RSC 147a. BNC 91. Hendin 1585a.
Ex eBay, May 2012.

I've been wanting to add this very rare Divus Vespasian denarius type to my collection for quite sometime. Minted under Titus in either 79 or 80 AD, the reverse shows a tensa facing right. The much more common variant of the type is the tensa facing left. The unique obverse legend, DIVVS VESPASIANVS AVGVSTVS, also differs from the other Divus Vespasian denarii, showing up only on this tensa facing right type. I've only seen two other examples of this type in trade, all (including my example and the RIC plate coin) from the same die pair, indicating just how rare this type is.

The gunmetal toning is really quite nice in hand.

4 commentsDavid Atherton06/06/12 at 17:09Kained but Able: Another rarity and a charming one at that. Love th...
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Roman Empire, Vespasian RIC 1066AR denarius
Rome Mint, 79 AD
RIC 1066 (R), BMC 253, RSC 560
Obv - IMP CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Vespasian, laureate, left.
Rev - TR POT X COS VIIII ; Radiate figure, naked standing facing, holding vertical spear in right hand and parazonium, projecting sideways, in left, on column with anchor on front and three 'rostra' projecting on either side.
1 commentsDavid Atherton06/01/12 at 11:44Kained but Able: Love the bullish portrait style and nice detail on...
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Roman Empire, Vespasian, AR DenariusAR denarius 3.49 grs , struck under Titus, 80-81 AD. Laureate head of Vespasian right. DIVVS AVGVSTVS VESPASIANVS / . Empty quadriga advancing left, ornamented with a miniature quadriga flanked by Victories at the top and two standing figures on the side. EX SC in exergue. BMC 119. RIC ( Titus) 361

7 commentsbenito06/01/12 at 08:15Kained but Able: One of the most detailed denarius reverses I have ...
gaius_RIC_I_14.jpg
04 Gaius (Caligula) RIC I 014Gaius (Caligula). 37-41 A.D. AR Denarius. Rome Mint, 37-38 A.D. (3.55g, 19.1m, 5h). Obv: [C CAE]SAR AVG GERM P M TR POT, laureate head right. Rev: AGRIPPINA MAT C CAES AVG GERM, Agrippina, bust, draped right, hair falling in queue down her neck. RIC I 14 (R), RSC 2. Ex personal collection Steve McBride.

Agrippina “the elder” was Gaius’ mother. Falsely accused of wrongdoing by Tiberius, Agrippina was exiled and died of starvation, whether self-imposed or at the orders of Tiberius, is not clear. Upon ascending the throne, Gaius, recovered his mother’s ashes, and restored her name. This coin commemorates the veneration of his mother.
10 commentsLucas H05/31/12 at 19:40Kained but Able: Spectacular! Love Gaius' broad forehead, just ...
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Roman Republic, 77 BC, SatrienaAR denarius (4.0g, 18mm, 4h) Rome mint, struck 77 BC.
IIIXXXT behind, helmeted head of Mars right.
ROMA above, P.SATRIE-NVS in ex. below, She-wolf standing left
BMC 3209-37, Seaby (RSC): Satriena 1, RCV 283:125

Monneyer: P.Satrienus. Type refers to the foundation of Rome by Romulus and Remus with Mars, the father, and the she-wolf who suckled them.
1 commentsCharles S05/31/12 at 12:16Kained but Able: Great she-wolf and seems to be toning nicely!
CaligulaSest.jpg
Gaius ("Caligula"), RIC 37, Sestertius of AD 38 (oak wreath)Æ Sestertius (25,55g, Ø 34mm, 6h), Rome mint, struck AD 38
Obv.: C CAESAR AVG GERMANICVS PON M TR POT, laurate head left
Rev.: SPQR / P·P / OB·CIVES / SERVATOS, Text in oak wreath.
RIC 37 [R]; Sear (Roman Coins and Values) 1801; Foss (Roman Historic Coins) 13
First issue to celebrate the title PATER PATRIAE awarded to him by the senate in AD 38.
2 commentsCharles S05/31/12 at 12:14Kained but Able: Perfectly centered and a lustrous tone all over. W...
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Gaius ("Caligula"), RIC 33, Sestertius from A.D.37-38 (three sisters)Æ Sestertius (23.4g, Ø 33-34mm, 6h), Rome mint, struck AD 37-38
Obv.: C CAESAR AVG GERMANICVS PON M TR POT, laurate head left
Rev.: AGRIPPINA - DRVSILLA - IVLIA (left, above and right) S C (ex.), Caligula's three sisters: Agrippina (Jr.), the eldest sister, as Securitas, leaning on column, holding cornucopiae, and placing left hand on Drusilla's shoulder; Drusilla, the middle sister, as Concordia, holding patera and cornucopiae; and Julia Livilla, the youngest, as Fortuna, holding rudder and cornucopiae.
RIC 33 (R); Mattingly (BMCRE) 36, 37; Cohen 4 (25 Fr.); Sear (Roman Coins & their Values) 1800
ex Harlan J. Berk, Buy/Bid Sale 130 (2002)

Addtional information from H.J. Berk: This specimen in the style of a provincial branch mint, apparently rarer than those in Rome-mint style. Very slightly granular.

This type was produced on two occasions, a first issue in 37-38, and a second in 39-40. This example belongs to the first, issued when the three women were all still alive. Drusilla, Caligula's favourite sister (the one with whom he is said to have had an incestuous relationship), died tragically on June 10, 38, nearly three months after the last coins of the first issue were struck. By the time the second issue was produced (beginning March 18, 39), Drusilla had been accorded the status of a goddess, providing the curious circumstance of a goddess being portrayed in the guise of a personification. Life in the palace worsened after Drusilla's death and Caligula's affection for his remaining two sisters declined.
Drusilla married to Marcus Aemilius Lepidus, who had also been Caligula's lover. At least after Drusilla died, Lepidus extended his sexual liaisons to include Agrippina and Julia Livilla, his former sisters-in-law. By late in 39 this web of relationships seems to have evolved into a failed plot by Lepidus against Caligula, who executed Lepidus and sent his two sisters into exile out of their suspected complicity. All of this palace intrigue occurred in the midst of the second issue of 'three sisters' sestertii, the production of which Caligula probably halted immediately since of the three sisters shown, one was dead and two were in exile for having plotted against his life. Examples of this second issue are excessively rare (RIC 41:R4).
3 commentsCharles S05/31/12 at 12:12Kained but Able: Classic type! Great portrait of Gaius and nice det...
boeotia_thebes_AR_stater__~0.jpg
GREEK, Boeotia, Thebes AR stater (395-338 BC) o/ Boeotian shield.
R/ Decorated amphora with two handles; ΚΑ-ΛΛΙ
12.25g. 22.06mm
SNG Cop 340
8 commentsAugustin Caron05/29/12 at 17:34Kained but Able: Stunning detail on the amphora!
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TEMPLE, TRAJAN, Sestertius.Orichalcum sestertius (27,22g). Rome mint. Struck AD 105-107.
IMP CAES NERVAE TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS V P P laureate head of Trajan facing right.
S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI [/] S C Octastyle tempel with, on the pediment, a central figure seated facing flanked by two reclining figures; on roof, five statues; between columns, a figure on pedestal, naked to the waist, standing facing holding a long sceptre or spear, r. and a cornucopiae l..
RIC 575 (rare); Cohen 552; BMC 859; Foss (Roman Historic Coins) 103:43
ex Gorny & Mosch auction 170

Due to the lack of any specific legend on the reverse, there has been a lot of speculation as to which temple might be depicted here. Some argue the temple to be that of Honos which had been restored by Trajan a few years earlier. Others argue that it is the temple of Jupiter (later rededicated to Divus Traianus) also restored by Trajan. According to others still, it is the temple of Venus Genetrix as the pose of central figure resembles to statues of this divinity. Still others see Pax in the central figure and the temple is to be sought in the provinces. The central figure could well be Honos (compare with the left figure of the illustration in Numiswiki of HONOS ET VIRTUS).
1 commentsCharles S05/27/12 at 18:31Kained but Able: Wonderful detail on the temple, whichever one it i...
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106 AD: Trajan triumph in the second Dacian warorichalcum sestertius (24.9g, 35mm, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 106-111.
IMP CAES NERVAE TRAIANO AVG GER DAC PM TR P COS V PP laureate bust of Trajan with aegis (note the detail of the Medusa head on Trajan's chest)
SPQR OPTIMO PRINCIPI [/] S C [in field] Winged Victory standing right, holding shield insribed VIC DAC against a palm tree
RIC 528 [common]; C 454; Foss (Roman Historical Coins) 101-31b
1 commentsCharles S05/25/12 at 10:45Kained but Able: Sensational coin! the detail on the shield is a bi...
Hadrianus-Denar-TRANQ-RIC222.jpg
III-HADRIANUS -a- Denar RIC II/222Av) HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS
Bare head left

Rv) TRANQVILLITAS AVG COS III PP
Tranquillitas holding sceptre, standing left an leaning on cippus

Weight: 3,1g; Ø: 20mm; Reference: RIC II/222; ROME mint
1 comments05/10/12 at 18:09Kained but Able: Wow Shocked love the lefty portrait!
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III-HADRIANUS -a- Denar RIC II/038Av) IMP CAESAR TRAIAN HADRIANVS AVG
Laureate bust with drapea on left shoulder right

Rv) PM TRP COS II
Field: AET AVG
Aeternitas standing left, holding the heads of SUN and MOON

Weight: 3,3g; Ø: 20mm; Reference: RIC II/38; ROME mint, struck:118
1 comments05/10/12 at 17:47Kained but Able: One of my favourite reverses. Lovely example.
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II-TRAIANUS -a - Denar WOYTEK 0277Av) IMP TRAIANO AVG GER DAC PM TRP
Laureate bust with drapea on left shoulder right

Rv) COS V PP SPQR OTIMO PRINC
Abs.: DANVVIVS
Danuvius reclining left on rocks, above him there is a cloak floating, his left hand resting on an urn, the other one holding prora

Weight: 3,4g; Ø: 19mm; RIC II/100; WOYTEK page: 330/Nr.:277; ROME mint, struck 107-108
1 comments04/29/12 at 17:09Kained but Able: Great example of a great type, love the Danube!
IMG_2986q.JPG
Italy, Rome, Original ancient door from Curianow it is in Basilica of St. John Lateran ... seat of Pope until he moved to Vatican1 commentsJ. B.04/20/12 at 16:36Kained but Able: Wow, really? This should be in a museum!
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