Last additions - daverino |
Claudius of Antioch AD 41-54IMP TI CLAVD CAE AV GER, Laureate head right/ Large SC within Laurel wreath
25 mm diameter ; weight 15 gramsdaverinoJul 01, 2017
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Alexander III of Macedon Babylon Mint, 315-311 BCTetradrachm minted in Babylon, probably under Peithon.
Head of Herakles in Lionskin Headdress/ Zeus Aetophoros on Reverse, MTP in wreath in left field, PiDT monogram in circle below throne. BASILEUW below, ALEXANDROY to right.
Price 3733 (ref.Wildwinds), 16.6 grmsdaverinoMay 20, 2017
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Faustina Sr AE SestertiusOBV: Draped bust facing right, DIVA FAVSTINA
REV: Juno holding patera and scepter; IVNO, S-C
RIC 1145, 20.25 grams
A classic Roman profiledaverinoApr 23, 2016
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Julianus II AE3 361-363 AD Sirmium mintObverse: DN FL CL IULI-ANVS PF AVG; Helmeted, pearl-diademed, cuirassed bust left holding spear and shield
Reverse: VOT/X/MVLT/XX in four lines enclose by wreath, ASIRM in Exergue
RIC 108daverinoApr 17, 2016
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AE 1.5 Kharshapani of Pushkalavati ca 160 BCObverse: Elephant walking right with ghadya above
Reverse: Lion walking left in Incuse 'square' with ghadya before and swastika above.
11.2 grams, about 19x19mm
Pushkalavati was located near present day Peshawar in Pakistan, on the border area with ancient Bactria (Afghanistan)daverinoApr 14, 2016
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Copper Massa of Chola Sinhalese Dynasty 1208-9 ADObverse: King standing and sniffing lotus blossom in left hand and carrying lamp in right hand. Five balls or golas to right.
Reverse: Sitting king with lotus blossom and to right in 4 lines of Nagari script Sri Dharmasoka
Dharmasoka was a short-lived infant king of the Ponnaruwa kingdom which ruled Ceylon from the eighth to 13th centuries
The massa was a copper unit of about 4 grams. The basic design was retained for centuries and was used on both silver and gold issues as well. This coin is an exceptionally well preserved example of the typedaverinoApr 09, 2016
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Antoninus Pius (138-161 AD) AR Denarius ca 140 DObverse: Laureate head of Pius right; ANTONINVS AVG PIVS PP TR P COS III
Reverse: Bare head of Marcus Aurelius right; AVRELIVS CAESAR AVG PII F COS
RIC 415a (ref. Wildwinds) weight 3.5 grams
Two nice imperial portraits of Pius and his adoptive son M. Aurelius on the same coin. Not rare but scarce.daverinoMar 24, 2016
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Neapolis, Campania AR Nomos ca 320-300 BCDiademed head of nymph right, in necklace and earring; Pileus behind and monogram before/ NEOPOLITWN, Man-faced Bull walking right, above, Nike flying right placing wreath on man's head. Monogram below
SNGANS 322, SNGFr 799, SNGCop 403 (Ref. Wildwinds)
Weight 6.8 grams, holed and pluggeddaverinoMar 10, 2016
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AR Nomos of Neapolis, Campania c340-241 BCOBV: Head of nymph facing right, bunch of grapes(?) to left
REV: Man-faced Bull walking right, Victory overhead crowning with wreath.
Sambon 436, SNG ANS 366, weight 7.3 gms; 18 mm
A coin which has all the things that I like about the ancient Greeks - beautiful sense of natural form, balanced design, and whimsical imagination. The small flan cuts off some elements of the overall design and put it in range of my budget.daverinoMar 01, 2016
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Ptolemy XII Auletes [53 BC] AR Tetradrachm Svoronos 1837, SNG Cop 395. Paphos Mint, 11.9 grams
Obverse: Diademed head of Ptolemy I with feminine features.
Reverse:Eagle standing left with thunderbolt in claws and Isis crown to left, palm branch over its right shoulder. In the left field 'LKH' (=year 28); in right field 'PA' (=Paphos)/ BASILEWE PTOLEMAIOY (of King Ptolemy)
In 54 BC, Ptolemy XII returned to Egypt from a 3-year exile and issued new Tetradrachms for the last 27-30th years of his rule. They show the crown of Isis in the eagle's claw that recognized Cleopatra as his heir and likely co-regent. The Isis crown remained the symbol of Cleo VII on her coins following Ptolemy's death in 51 BC. This pattern remained unchanged for all of Cleopatra's tetradrachms though the quality of coins became very bad owing to the huge bribes that had to be paid for Roman "protection". For a great discussion of these attributions and coin history see the link: http://www.ptolemaic.net/cleopatra/4coin-isis.htm#p5bydelay.
This coin was issued by Ptolemy XII in his 28th regnal year (53 BC) when his daughter, Cleopatra was about 15.
daverinoMar 01, 2016
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Apollodotus I 174-165 BC AE Quadruple unitBASILEWS APOLLODOTOY SWTHROS legend, Apollo, radiate, standing facing, holding arrow and resting bow on ground / Kharosthi legend, Tripod, monogram at lower right.
22 mm, 10.5 gramsdaverinoFeb 13, 2016
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Philip I AE Sestertius 244-249 ADObverse: Laureate draped and cuirassed bust right; IMP M IVL PHILIPPUS AVG
Reverse: Annona standing left holding grain ears over modius and cornucopia; ANNONA AVGG, S-C in fields
Rome RIC 168a
15.16 gms, 27.4 mm
A common coin but with a really nice portrait of Phillip - a tough characterdaverinoDec 28, 2015
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AE Drachm of Syracuse Time of Dionysus I, ca 400 BCObverse: Head of Athena facing left wearing a Corinthian helmet with an olive wreath on the bowl, inscription S Y R A
Reverse: 8-pointed Seastar between two dolphins
Calciati 62 (ref. Wildwinds) 28 mm. 34 grams
The coin has some damaged spots but overall shows the Greek love of beautiful forms. My Christmas present to myself this year.daverinoDec 06, 2015
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Severus Alexander AE SestertiusObverse: Laureate bust right with drapery over the far shoulder; IMP ALEXANDER PIUS AVG
Reverse: Providentia (or Anonna) standing with corn ears over a modius and holding a cornucopia; PROVIDENTIA AVG, S-C in fields
RIC IV 642, Cohen 503 (ref. Wildwinds) 18.5 grams
A very nice portrait coin of Sevvy Alexander with a deep green patina daverinoDec 06, 2015
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Vologases IV (147-191 AD) Billon Tetradrachm 187 ADOBVERSE: bust left with long, tapered beard with square cut end; wearing tiara with hooks on crest, horn on side and long, curved earflap. Lock of hair representing royal wart on forehead; earring visible, Î’ behind head. Diadem with loop at top and four ends
REVERSE: king seated left on throne; Tyche standing right before him, giving him diadem and holding scepter. Greek legend
Date: Theta(9)Koppa(90)Upsilon(400) =499 of the Seleucid era = 187 AD
ex Malter Galleries, weight 13.1 gms, 26 mm
Sellwood 84.89 , Shore 432 (ref. Parthia.com)
The Parthians were successors to the Persian Empire of the Achaemenids. They achieved this by defeating Seleucus, one of Alexander's successor generals. Their empire continued until early in the third century AD after which they were supplanted by the Sassanids. They were constantly battling the Romans, usually over the province of Armenia,daverinoJul 23, 2015
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AE Sestertius of Trebonianus Gallus 251-252 ADOBV: Laureate, draped, cuirassed bust right; IMP CAES C VIBIVS TREBONIANVS GALLVS AVG
REV: Concordia standing left holding patera and double cornucopia; CONCORDIA AVGG, S-C in fields
RIC 105a, weight 16.2 grams, app. 27 mmdaverinoJul 22, 2015
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Billon Tetradrachm of Trajan Decius, Antioch 250-51 ADOBV: Laureate, Draped and cuirassed bust right, 4 dots below bust (4th Officina); AYT K G ME TRAIANOC DEKIOC CEB
REV: Eagle standing left on palm branch, head left, tail right, wings spread holding wreath in beak; DHMARX EXOYCIAC, SC in exergue
Prieur 576; weight 11.4 gms
a little pitted in spots but otherwise a nice portrait coin.daverinoJul 22, 2015
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Trebonianus Gallus (251-253 AD) AE 24 of ViminaciumObverse: Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right: IMP C GALLVS P FELIX AVG
Reverse: Moesia standing facing, hands outstretched over a lion and a bull: PMS - COL VIM, Year 14 (252/3 AD) AN XIV below
AMNG 168daverinoJul 15, 2015
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Greek, Mithradates I (171-138 BC), AR DrachmAn 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 11.1daverinoJul 13, 2015
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Trebonianus Gallus AE30 of Antioch, Syria 251-253 ADOBV: Laureate, Draped and cuirassed bust right; AVTOK K G OUIB TREB GALLOC CEB
REV: Tetrastyle temple of Tyche of Antioch, river god Orontes swimming at her feet; above shrine ram leaping right, head left; ANTIOCEWN MHTRO KOLWN, D-E, S-C in exergue
BMC 64daverinoJul 13, 2015
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AE Sestertius of Maximinus I (Thrax) 138-135 ADOBV: Laureate bust right, draped and cuirassed; IMP MAXIMINUS PIVS AVG
REV: Victory advancing right bearing wreath and palm, VICTORIA AVG S-C
RIC 67, Cohen 100. A Classic Roman profile
wt 18.9 gmsdaverinoJul 13, 2015
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AR Drachm of Mithradates I (171-138 BC)Obverse: Bearded bust left wearing diadem with circular reel and pellet border.
Reverse: Beardless archer sitting right on omphalos wearing cloak and bashlyk, 3 line Greek inscription BASILEWS MEGALOY ARSAKOY
A nice portrait of the king done in realistic style probably near the end of his long reign
Sellwood 11.1daverinoJul 13, 2015
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Antoninus Pius (138-161 AD) Bronze DuponduisObverse: Radiate head right; ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P COSIII
Reverse: Slus standing left feeding snake coiled around altar and holding scepter; SALUS AVG S-C
RIC 668, Cohen 714 Diam 27 mm, wt 15.0 gmdaverinoMay 01, 2015
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Nero(54-68 AD) Bronze As 65 ADObverse: Laureate Head right; NERO CAESAR AVG GERM IMP
Reverse: Temple of Janus, doors to the right; PACE PR TERRA MARIQ PARTA JANUM CLVSIT, S-C across field
RIC I 306, Sear 1974 diam 25 mm, wt 7.6 gm
Although history has given Nero a bad press he was a popular emperor in his time, notably because of his lavish expenditures on entertainment and the general peacefulness of his reign which he memorialized by showing the temple of Janus with doors closed signifying that Rome was at peace. Unfortunately empires are built on wars and conquest, not peace, and it is likely that the dissatisfaction of the army was the cause of his overthrow.daverinoMay 01, 2015
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Septimius Severus AE Sestertius 194 ADObverse: Laureate Head Right; L SEPT SEV PERT AVG IMP III
Reverse: Africa standing right holding out drapery containing fruits, Lion standing at right: AFRICA S-C ,RIC 668, Cohen 26
Diam 26 mm, Wt 18 gmdaverinoApr 11, 2015
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Athens AR Classical Tetradrachm 454-431 BCOBVERSE: Helmeted head of Athena right
REVERSE: Owl perched right, Olive leaves and crescent moon in left field; ethnic [AOE] in right field obscured by obverse test punch.
This type of owl is from the high point of Athens' domination of the Greek world. According to Reid Goldsborough's classification it is distinguished by the confident smile on the face of Athena, her full rounded features and, on the reverse, the short legged owl. The coin is somewhat crystallized as seen by the surfaces and its low conductivity. Crystallization is rarely found in Owls, I suspect because their high relief required heating the planchet strongly before striking. Not a perfect coin but the character of Athena nicely represents the opinion that the Athenians had of themselves in their heyday.
weight 16.95 gmsdaverinoNov 11, 2014
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Billon Tetradrachm of Phillip II, Antioch 249 ADOBVERSE: Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind. AVTOK K M IOVLI PhILIPPOCOC CEB
REVERSE: Eagle standing lef with wings spread holding wreath in beak. DHMAPXEEOVCIACVPiATO D, ANTIOXIA SC below
Prieur 473, wt 12.3 grams Purchased for Forvm CoinsdaverinoOct 31, 2014
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Alexander the Great AR Tetradrachm 332-323 BCObverse: Head of Herakles in Lion Skin Headdress
Reverse: Zeus enthroned holding eagle and staff, ALEXANDROY in right field., Rooster mint mark in left field.
A lifetime issue minted at Amphipolis, the coin cracked in antiquity due to silver crystallization and is held together by carbonate encrustation. It was left uncleaned. A handsome coin nonetheless. Price 79 (ref. Wildwinds) Weight 16.6 grams
daverinoOct 31, 2014
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AR Drachm of Sinope in Paphlagonia ca. 425-410 BCOBVERSE: Head of sea eagle facing left with dolphin below.
REVERSE: Double-Incuse punch with pellets in center
Sinope was originally founded by Greek colonists from Miletus ca 725 BC. Bithynia, Paphlagonia and Pontus bordered the southern shore of the Black Sea. It remained an important port, as indicated by the maritime themes on its coinage, for many centuries. Recently near- perfectly preserved remains of Byzantine-era vessels, probably bound for Sinope, have been found at the bottom of these anoxic waters.
SNG BMC 1367 Black Sea (ref. Wildwinds), wt 5.99 gm (ex-Forvm coins)daverinoOct 25, 2014
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AR Nomos of Kroton, Bruttium 500-480 BCOBVERSE: KPO upwards on left, Tripod with legs terminating in lion's feet, heron standing left on right.
REVERSE: Incuse tripod.
A slightly chipped example. Bruttium was in the toe of Italy (Calabria). It is believed to have been settled by Greek colonists from Crotona, hence the KPO legend. The followers of the cult of Pythagoras resided here and the tripod/inverse tripod design may have been inspired by their ideas or, more likely, it depicts a trophy in Olympic events. The Greeks were mainly farmers then (and now) and were more attracted to homely themes like scenes from nature and sporting competition than philosophy as subjects on their coins.
SNG ANS 269 (5.99 gm) ex-Forvm CoinsdaverinoOct 25, 2014
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Maximinus I Denarius 235-236 ADObverse: IMP MAXIMINUS PIUS AVG; Laureate draped bust right
Reverse: FIDES MILITUM; Fides standing left holding two standards.
A very nice, rather idealized portrait coin without the usual pointed jaw and bulging forehead.
RIC 7A, weight 3.30 gramsdaverinoSep 09, 2014
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Geta AR Tetradrachm of Antioch, Seleucis and Pieria 209-211 ADOBVERSE: Laureate bust right; AYT.KAI.GETAC.CEB.
REVERSE:Eagle standing facing on leg and thigh of animal, head and tail right with wings spread holding wreath in its beak. DHMAPX.EH.YPiA.TO.B.
McAlee 719, Prieur 210, VF
27 mm, 10,13 gmdaverinoAug 18, 2014
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Philip I AE30 of Viminacium 244/245 ADOBVERSE: Laureate, draped bust of Philip right; IMP M IVL PHILIPPVS AVG
REVERSE: Moesia standing facing left between confronted bull and lion; P M S COL VIM above, ANVI (regnal year 6) in Exergue
Moushmov 36,VI SNG Cop 152, 14.5 gm
The mascots of the VIIth legion (Claudia) and of the IVth Legion (Flavia) were the bull and the lion. Viminacium was a Roman military camp and colony in Moesia (Serbia) for nearly 400 years.
daverinoAug 17, 2014
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Bronze Republican As 180-80 BCObverse : Heads of Janus
Reverse : Prow of Galley, ROMA below, PT or TP above
Weight 29.83 gms,
Crawford 177/1. Sydenham -353 (r4)
ex Harlan Berk, inventory # cc19828daverinoAug 10, 2014
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AR Stater of Tarsos, Cilicia in the name of the Satrap Mazaios 361-334BCOBVERSE: Baal of Tarsos enthroned left, holding eagle, corn-ear with bunch of grapes in right hand and lotus-headed scepter in left; Aramaic legend to right Baal Tarz.
REVERSE: Lion on the back of a kneeling bull which it attacks with teeth and claws., above is Aramaic legend Mazdai all within circles of dots.
Sear 5650 B.M.C. 21.171,21
Mazaios was the Satrap of Cilicia under the Persian monarchs. He made the wise decision of allying himself with Alexander when he showed up on the frontier of his territory. Alexander could be very generous to local rulers when they saw things his way and Mazaios was given a position in the new order. The coin is particularly interesting because the mage of Baal is clearly the prototype for 'Zeus Aetophoros' on the subsequent Alexandrine coinage.
Most test cuts are probably done by striking with a sharp chisel. The very deep and shaped cut here must have been done with some kind of highly levered tool like a modern bolt cutter.
Weight 10.8 gramsdaverinoJul 24, 2014
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Antiochus VII (138-129 BC) AR Tetradrachm, Tyre MintObverse: His diademed and draped bust right;
Reverse: BASILEWS ANTIOXOY to right and left of eagle standing left on prow; IE at upper left above Tyre monogram and club; A vC over AOP in right field. Monogram between eagle legs.
Weight 13.0 grams. Diameter 27 mm
I love the beautiful atmospheric style of these Seleukid Tetradrachms. I wish I could afford more of them!daverinoJul 22, 2014
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AR Nomos of Taras (Tarentum) in Calabria ca. 275-240 BCOBVERSE: A naked youth placing wreath on horse walking right. An indeterminate symbol between the horse's front legs and the bearded head of Poseidon below. The letter A is in the field behind the rider
REVERSE: Naked Taras astride dolphin left, holding kantharos. "TARAS" to the right
Weight 6.1 grams; diameter ~20 mmdaverinoJun 09, 2014
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Alexander the Great AR Tetradrachm 325-320 BCOBVERSE: Head of Herakles clad in the skin of the Nemean lion
REVERSE: Zeus Aeotophoros enthroned left, ALEXANDROY in right field, Cornucopia in left field.
This classic type was probably minted at Amphipolis in Macedon at or near the end of Alexander's brief reign (333-323BC). The lion was the symbol of Persia and the obverse likely represents his conquest of that Empire. The Figure of Zeus enthroned is almost the same as that of Baal on the silver shekels of the Persian satraps. The significance of the conquest of the East by Greeks was not lost on Alexander or his contemporaries
Price 104 (ref.Wildwinds) Weight 17.1 gmdaverinoMay 30, 2014
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AE Prutah of Herod Agrippa I Year 6 (41/42 AD)Obverse: Fringed Triangular Umbrella with legend BACILEWC AGRIPA
Reverse: 3 Ears of Barley with leaves at the base; Year L -- S (6) to right and left
Herod Agrippa was the grandson of Herod the Great. He was admired by the Jews as a strong supporter of their traditions but hated by the early Christian for the execution of James and the imprisonment of Peter.
Hendin 553 (ref. Wildwinds) wt 2.6 gmsdaverinoMay 16, 2014
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AE15 of Ake-Ptolemais, Seleucid Empire, 2nd Century BCObverse: Jugate heads of the Dioscuri
Reverse: Cornucopia and palm branch(?) with partially legible inscription ANTIOXEWN TWN EN PTOLEMAIDI (of Antioch in Ptolemaides).
This small copper was minted in various slightly different forms through much of the first and second centuries BC. This coin is most similar to Rouvier 962 (ref. Wildwinds)
weight 2.2 gmdaverinoMay 16, 2014
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AE 26 Civic Issue of Tarsus in Cilicia after 164 BCObverse: City goddess (Tyche) seated right on a throne holding an ear of grain, at her feet swims the river god Kyndos.
Reverse: Jupiter Nikephoros seated right holding staff. TARSEWN (of the Tarsians) in the right field
The obverse symbolizes the city on the banks of the Kyndos river, holding the symbol of its prosperity. Tarsos was the birthplace of the Apostle Paul. In the Roman era the figure of Jupiter has replaced the ancient God, Sandan.
SNGLev979m(ref. Wildwinds), w.t 14.7 gms daverinoMay 16, 2014
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Maximianus Herculius (286-305 AD) Silvered AE Follis ca. 300ADOBV. Maximian's Laureate head right. IMP MAXIMIANUS PF AVG
REV: Moneta standing left holding scales and cornucopia. SACRA MONET AVGG ET CAESS NOSTR with star in left field and G(amma) in right. SIS in exergue
A common coin but nicely silvered. Moneta was the representation of the mint which conferred many benefits and was justly managed. The "sacred money of our Augusti and Caesars" referring to the two Augusti, Diocletian and Maximian, and their two Caesars, Constantius and Galerius. Minted at Siscia
RIC 134
Diameter ~ 26 mm, weight 10.1 gmdaverinoMay 01, 2014
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Antoninus Pius, Billon Tetradachm of Alexandria 15 1 ADObverse; Laureate draped and cuirassed bust right, CEB EV CEB ANTWNINOC
Reverse: Nilus facing left wearing a leafy headdress and a with cornucopia behind his right shoulder. in fields L -ID (regnal year 14)
Diameter 22 mm, weight 12.1 grams.daverinoApr 30, 2014
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AR Stater of Aspendos in Pamphylia 420-370 BCObverse: Two wrestlers grappling, dotted circular border
Reverse: Slinger throwing right with triskeles in field. Square dotted border. {ES} TFED{PYS} the ethnic name of Aspendos in vertical letters to left.
The activities depict Olympic events of the time. The weight of 10.9 grams represents 2 siglos(~5.5 gm), the Persian standard of weight rather than the Greek drachm standard. SNGFr 54 (ref. Wildwinds)daverinoApr 27, 2014
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Mattathia Antigonus AE 25, Hasmonean kings of Judaea, 40-37 BCObverse; Double cornucopia with Hebrew "Mattatayah the High Priest and Council of the Jews" around and between horns
Reverse: Ivy Wreath tied at top with ribbons hanging down inscribed around; BACILWS ANTIGONOY (of King Antigonus)daverinoApr 27, 2014
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Severus Alexander AE Sestertius 223 ADOBV: Laureate draped bust right; IMP CAES M AVR SEV ALEXANDER AVG
REV: Providentia standing left, legs crossed, holding wand over globe and cornucopia and leaning on a column; PONTIF MAX TR P II COS PP ; S -C in field
RIC 404; ex-HJB; lightly tooled on the obverse, 21.7 gmdaverinoApr 27, 2014
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Caracalla Billon Tetradrachm of Antioch, Syria 205-07 ADObverse: Laureate bust right; AVT K M ANTWEINOC
Reverse: Eagle with open wings standing facing left, holding wreath in beak, " star" between legs; DHMAPX EX YPATOC TO B
Probably SGI 2650 or a variant. The eagle facing left is somewhat unusual. wt 15.6 gm, 26 mmdaverinoApr 27, 2014
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Commodus(180-192 AD) AE 27 of Caesarea struck 190 ADObverse: Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right; M KOMO ANTWNINOC
Reverse: Agalma of Mt. Argaeus on altar inscribed ETIA (year 11); MHTPO KAICAPEIAC
Diam 27 mm wt 14.8 gm, OrichalcumdaverinoApr 27, 2014
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Julia Domna AE As 211-217 ADObverse: Draped and Diademed bust right: JVLIA PIA FELIX AVG
Reverse: Venus seated left with extended left hand and scepter: VENUS GENETRIX, SC in Exergue below
Diam 26 mm, Wt 10.9 gm RIC 605daverinoApr 26, 2014
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Elagabalus AE 26 (4 Assaria) of Markianopolis, Magistrate SeleucusObverse: Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind: AVT K M AYPHALI ANTWNEINOC
Reverse: Nemesis standing left, holding scales and scepter: YPi IOYL ANT CELEYKOY MAPKIANOPiOLITWN
Wt - 8.9 gm, similar to Moushmov 633daverinoApr 26, 2014
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Phillip II of Macedon AR Tetradrachm ca 340 BCOBVERSE: Laureate head of Zeus, right
REVERSE: Nude youth on horseback holding laurel branch, PHILIPOY in upper field
A rather worn example of one of the great coins of antiquity.
wt. 13.65 gm, dim. 24 mmdaverinoDec 15, 2013
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Koinon of Macedon AE26 Severan timesOBV: Head of Alexander; ALEXANDROY (indentation on cheek)
REV: Alexander carrying spear charging right on Bucephalus with dog below; KOINON MAKEDONWN B NEOWKOPWN.
SNG Cop. 1363 (ref. Wildwinds) 10.1 gmdaverinoSep 07, 2013
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Sestertius of Commodus 186 ADOBV:M COMMODVS ANT P FELIX AVG BRIT; Laureate head right
REV:PM TRP XI IMP VII COS V PP S-C; Commodus seated left on curule chair holding globe; Victory flying behind crowning him
RIC III, 463, Cohen 506, Sear5, #5782
wt. 18.1 gm, ~26mmdaverinoAug 30, 2013
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Cistophoric Tetradrachm of Apamaeia- Attalid Empire 145-139 BCOBV: Cista Mystica with half open lid from which a serpent emerges; all within an ivy wreath
REV: Two coiled serpents with heads erect; between them an ornamental bow-case with strap at right and bow projecting to the upper left. In field to left- monogram of Apameia. In right field Head of an elephant. In lower coils of the snakes: to left initials MI and to right - Delta H.
The coin is listed in Kleiner and Noe's (The Early Cistophoric Coinage; ANS Numismatic studies. No 14, NY 1977) as part of Series 23. The cistophori of Apameia were minted at Pergamum. Kleiner believes the initials on cistophori represent mint officials at Pergamum. This identification is entirely the work of djmacdo ("Mac") on the Forum.
Weight 12.6 gmdaverinoAug 08, 2013
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AR Tetradrachm of Antioch, Roman Syria 46/45 BCOBVERSE: Diademed head of Philip Philadelphos right
REVERSE: BASILEUS PHILIPPOY EPIPHOYS PHILADELPHOY, Zeus seated left holding Nike and Sceptre, Antioch monogram to inner left. D (date) in Exergue off flan - year 4 of Caesarian era.
RPC_4128, Prieur 5. McAlee 5(b)/1 same dies
Diameter ~26 mm, wt 14.3 gms, some porosity.
This coin is particularly interesting because it shows the change in style that came about as Roman cultural influence followed conquest of the Hellenic world. The flabby and self-indulgent features of the real Philip as portrayed in his lifetime have become idealized as a warrior-hero which he never was. daverinoJul 23, 2013
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Attalus I AR Tetradrachm 241-197 BCOBV: Diademed head of Philetairos, founder of the Pergamene dynasty, to right
REV: Athena enthroned left resting left arm on shield and placing a wreath on the name of PHILETAIROY with her extended right arm. 'A' in field below Athena's arm - likely Sear 7720
Philetairos was a eunuch trusted by Seleukos to guard the treasury at Pergamon. This he did for many years before eventually striking out on his own and founding a dynasty by adoption. Attalus I, one of his successors was a loyal ally of Rome in its wars with Macedon.
The coin is worn but it still retains much of its original portrait quality. The engravers of royal Greek tetradrachms often tried to capture a subtle atmospheric effect by fading the profile into the fields.
Diam 27.6 mm, wt 15.6 gmdaverinoMay 27, 2013
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Greek, Ptolemy II Philadelphus AR TetradrachmObverse: Diademed head of Ptolemy I Soter
Reverse: Eagle with folded wings standing on thunderbolts. PTOLEMAIOY SOTHROS; Regnal Year 31 (255/54 BC) of Ptolemy II (285-246 BC) Monograms and control marks of the Gaza mint in the fields
Many of the portraits of Ptolemy Soter (the Savior) are little more than caricatures on the tetradrachms that are commonly for sale. Perhaps after engraving the same features for centuries the man behind the image became lost. I think this coin portrait has great quality and I imagine it looks a lot like the original Ptolemy I although cut about thirty years after his death. Ptolemy I may have been regarded as the George Washington of his day and the the notion of "father of his country" is exemplified in this portrait.
It is ironic that his patron, Alexander, overthrew the Persian God-Kings and was a major factor in preserving the role of the individual in Western values. Ptolemy's dynasty generally followed the Egyptian model with family members succeeding family members for over two centuries rather than the highly competitive and dynamic model that shaped Western politics and history.
Gaza mint; Svoronos 828; wt 13.7 gm daverinoMay 27, 2013
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AR Drachm of Thasos 510-490 BCOBVERSE: Satyr running right carrying off a protesting nymph
REVERSE: An incuse square with bar pattern
Thasos was blessed with silver mines and some of the finest wineries in the Mediterranean. They also knew how to have fun as this popular series of coins demonstrates. Actually it is not entirely certain that these coins were minted in Thasos since there is no inscription but it seems a very good guess. It is impossible to imagine anyone producing a coin like this today. The Greeks had an earthy sense of humor. The design of the coin is like a pinwheel of arms and legs which is based on the triskeles motif but here is used to create a whole picture. This coin has a very deep strike and the expressions on the faces of the nymph and satyr suggest she isn't protesting too much and the whole thing isn't to be taken too seriously.
Sear 1358, wt 3.82 gm, diam 17 mmdaverinoApr 14, 2013
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AR Drachm of Khusro II, 618 ADOBVERSE: Right facing crowned bust of Khusro II whose name appears in Pahlavi script to his right and honorifics to the left. Astral symbols (star and crescent at 3,6 and 9 o'clock. Two rings surrounding.
REVERSE: Fire Altar with two attendants with hands resting on swords. To the right is mintmark SW (Khuzistan) and to the left is the regnal year 28 which dates the coin to 618 AD. Three rings surrounding
Weight 3.0 grams. The coin has been severely clipped since these usually weigh about 4 grams.
The Sassanid were succesors to the Parthian (Arsacid) dynasty which they conquered in the third century AD. The Sassanids were Zoroastrians who followed the teachings of their prophet Zoroaster (Zarathustra) and their God was Ahura-Mazda - the God of light (or fire) and hence the reverse theme on Sassanid coins. Their rule was centered in what is Iraq and Iran and extended eastward. It lasted until the coming of Islam in the later 7th century. The ancient cultural heritage of Persia is quite distinct from that of their Semitic neighbors to the west and has repercussions in the religous and political conflicts of today.
daverinoMar 23, 2013
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AR Tetradrachm of Messana, Sicily 461-445 BCOBVERSE: seated charioteer holding reins of slow biga of mules to right. Nike flying above crowning mules with wreath. Olive leaf in Exergue
REVERSE: Hare springing right with legend MESSAN I ON with 'C' above the hare.
The charioteer theme on the obverse was introduced by the Tyrant Anaxilas in 480 BC to celebrate his victory in the races at the Olymics of either 480 or 484 BC. Anaxilas died in 475 BC but his sons succeeded him until they were expelled in 461, at which time the winged Nike was added to the obverse. The earliest of the Nike/charioteer types had A, B, C or D above the hare and the old style Greek S in the legends (not visible on this coin)
A bit rough but within my price range! The coin has an elegant design and illustrates the homely subjects that caught the eye of the Greeks and which they rendered so beautifully on their coins
Weight 17.5 gms, Diameter 25-27 mmdaverinoMar 23, 2013
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Elagabalus (218-222 AD) Billon Tetradrachm of Antioch, Syria 219 ADOBV: AVTK M A ANTWEINOC CEB; Laureate bust right, drapery on left shoulder.
REV: DHMAPX EE YPi A TOC TOB; Eagle standing facing, wings spread, head right, wreath in beak; D - E across upper fields, star between legs.
wt 12.65 gm, app. 25 mm, Prieur 254, Mc Alee 761
Purchased from Forvm Ancient Coins
An early youthful portrait of Elagabalus but stylized and not very realistic. Elagabalus gained a reputation as a pervert but this may have been due more to his religious unorthodoxy than the fantastic excesses described by Roman historians. Only 13 when he rose to power, his imperium was a creation of his wealthy and ambitious aunt, Julia Maesa. In addition to his youth he apparently lacked any qualities of leadership. By trying to insert his strange brand of sun worship over the traditional Roman gods he further antagonized the public and was overthrown and murdered after a few years in office. daverinoMar 03, 2013
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Phraates IV (38 -2 BC) AR Tetradrachm 286 SE /26 BCObv: Phraates diademed and cuirassed bust left with long pointed beard - no royal wart on forehead.
Rev: The king enthroned r. being presented with a palm branch by Tyche, standing l. before him holding cornucopiae with pellet above arm. Seleucid date 286 (C Pi Sigma) above palm. Greek inscription in 7 lines BASILEOS/BASILEON; on r. ARSAKOY/EUERGETOY' below [DIKAOY]; on l. EPIPHANOUS/PHILELLANOS; month off flan below
Wt 14.1 gm, 26.3 mm, Sellwood type 55
The coin could be that of Tiridates I who also ruled for a few months in 26 BC. The features of the king on this coin are much closer to that of Phraates than of much rarer Tiridates I according to a reclassification of Sellwood types by deCallatay and this is the most believable. The lower lines of the inscription would also settle the issue but are lost on this coin.
Early coins of the Parthian empire showed strong Greek empahasis on classical Greek forms and humanism which is gradually lost as the empire matured and finally decayed. The coins become schematic and emphasize suface ornament rather than sculptural quality. One senses from the portrait of Phraates that brutality was a prerequisite for Parthian kings who routinely bumped off fathers and brothers in their rise to power. Like the Spartans, they had a powerful empire in their time but its contribution to civilization was limited in the long term.daverinoJan 13, 2013
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AR Tetradrachm of Philip I, Antioch 244-248 ADObverse: AVTOK K M IOVL FILIPPOC CEB, Radiate draped and cuirassed bust right.
Reverse: DHMAPX EZOVCIAC (Holder of the tribunician power i.e. TR POT) S C in exergue. Eagle standing left on a palm branch facing left with wings spread and holding wreath in beak.
This coin has a little wear but must have been struck with new dies. Philip "the Arab" is portrayed as just that with very Semitic features notably the high cheekbones and full lips. It is very finely modeled and quite different from most portraits struck at Rome. Perhaps it reflects only the aesthetics of Syria or it may in fact be close to what Philip actually looked like
SNG CoP 263 (ref. Wildwinds), wt 11.5 gms ~27 mm
Purchased at the Bay State Coin Show, Nov 2012daverinoNov 14, 2012
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Philip I Philadelphos AR Tetradrachm 93-83 BC Seleucid EmpireObverse: Diademed Head of Philip
Reverse: Zeus seated left holding Nike offering him a wreath. Insciption in Vertical Columns : BASILEWS PHILIPOY EPIPHANOY PHILADELPHOY Greek letter in exergue in front of Zeus
Sear 3197
After Rome Took over in Syria this coin of Philip Philadelphos continued to be produced although the quality of the portraiture declined. The last of these were produced in about 4 BC, long after Philip's death perhaps because the Romans considered him to be the last legiimate Seleukid ruler . This coin has a particularly good portrait and is a believable image unlike most examples out there. I presume it is a lifetme image of this inept ruler.
Weight 14.5 gm diam 27 mm
daverinoOct 26, 2012
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Ptolemy II Philadelphus AR TetradrachmObverse: Diademed head of Ptolemy I Soter
Reverse: Eagle with folded wings standing on thunderbolts. PTOLEMAIOY SOTHROS; Regnal Year 31 (255/54 BC) of Ptolemy II (285-246 BC) Monograms and control marks of the Gaza mint in the fields
Many of the portraits of Ptolemy Soter (the Savior) are little more than caricatures on the tetradrachms that are commonly for sale. Perhaps after engraving the same features for centuries the man behind the image became lost. I think this coin portrait has great quality and I imagine it looks a lot like the original Ptolemy I although cut about thirty years after his death. Ptolemy I may have been regarded as the George Washington of his day and the the notion of "father of his country" is exemplified in this portrait.
It is ironic that his patron, Alexander, overthrew the Persian God-Kings and was a major factor in preserving the role of the individual in Western values. Ptolemy's dynasty generally followed the Egyptian model with family members succeeding family members for over two centuries rather than the highly competitive and dynamic model that shaped Western politics and history.
Gaza mint; Svoronos 828; wt 13.7 gmdaverinoOct 05, 2012
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Faustina Sr. AE Sestertius 146-148 ADOBV: DIVA FAVSTINA; draped bust right
REV: AETERNITAS; Ceres standing holding draperies with right hand and long torch with left hand, S - C in field
Faustina was the beloved wife of Antoninus Pius who died shortly into his long reign. Of several children by him only the daughter Faustina Jr survived to become the wife of Pius' successor, Marcus Aurelius. The DIVA series was started by Pius to commemorate his wife.
The image itself, particurly the elegant but commanding profile has influenced Western art and tastes for centuries.
RIC v.3, 1100, rated "Scarce" (thanks, *Alex, for the ID) Submitted to Wildwinds and added to their data base (Thanks, Dane).
Diam ~30 mm, wt 23.5 gmdaverinoJul 15, 2012
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Gordian III AE26 Pentassarion of OdessosOBV: AVT M ANTGORDIANOC AVG; Confronted draped busts of Gordian, laureate, and Serapis with modius on head and cornucopia to right.
REV: ODECCEITWN ('of the Odessians'); Coiled serpent with raised head and E ('5') in field.
Moushmov 1663 (ref. Wildwinds and Moushmov on-line)
The obverse inscription is incomplete on the coin but was taken from a die match to a pentassarion in the Wildwinds database. Odessos minted a very large coinage in the time of Gordian with at least thirty known reverse types listed by Moushmov for the Gordian/Serapis Pentassarion. The coiled snake motif is great and seems to say "Don't tread on me!" though the serpent also had allusions to health in ancient times. Unfortunately the reverse was preserved at the expense of the obverse by fusing to another coin.This coin has been added to the Wildwinds database.
wt 11.7 gmdaverinoJul 11, 2012
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Severus Alexander AE Sestertius AD 231OBV: IMP SEV ALEXANDER AVG; Laureate Bust right, drapery on left shoulder
REV: PM TR P X COS III PP, S - C across field; Sol radiate standing facing head left with right arm raised and holding whip in left hand
RIC 511 Cohen 413 (ref Wildwinds)
This coin was gilded in modern times and while I don't necessarily hold with this practice it really works well with this coin - especially on the golden figure of Sol.
Weight 15.8 grams
daverinoJun 11, 2012
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Philip I AE Sestertius 247-249 ADOBV: IMP M IVL PHILIPPVS AVG; Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right
REV: AEQVITAS AVGG; Equitas standing left with cornucopia and scales. S - C in field RIC 166a, Cohen 10
Weight 19.4 gm, diameter 30 mm
This sestertius is a fairly common type but examples are so often misshapen or split at the edges. Also it has one of the liveliest portraits of Philip the Arab that I have encountered. He seems to be keeping a watchful and sardonic eye on the viewer.daverinoMay 09, 2012
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Demetrius II Nikator AR Tetradrachm 129 BCOBV: Diademed Bust Right
REV: BASILEWS [DEMETPIOY] Eagle left on prow, Club with TYP- monogram on top (Tyre mint) to left and date I Pi P (SE 187 = 126/5 BC) in right field, I Pi P below. Other monogram between eagle's legs.
Houghton 467, Newell 156, BMC 11 (ref. Wildwinds)
wt 13.4 gm
Shekels (tetradrachmae) of Tyre were minted in almost pure silver and were the only ones acceptable for the Jerusalem temple tax. This coin has some horn silver (chlorargyrite ) deposits on it.daverinoApr 25, 2012
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Ptolemy XII Auletes AR Tetradrachm, 72 BCOBV: Diademed head right in aegis
REV: Eagle standing left on Thunderbolt; PTOLEMAIOY BASILEWS, [Pi A] in right field; Dated L.Theta (Year 9)
This coin was minted in the ninth year of Ptolemy XII Auletes. Svoronos originally ascribed this coin type to year 9 of Cleopatra VII (43 BC) but was reattributed by Regling to her father. This re-attribution is generally accepted. The coin is of relatively low-grade silver (ca 30%) and flat-struck on the obverse.
Svoronos 1856, Ref. Svoronos on-line
wt 13.8 gmdaverinoApr 25, 2012
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Probus AE Silvered Antoninianus, Tripolis mint AD 276-282OBV: IMP C M AVR PROBVS AVG; Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind
REV: CLEMENTIA T-EMP (no dot); Emperor standing right with scepter receiving globe from Jupiter, crescent between. KA in exergue
RIC v.2 928 (Ref. Wildwinds) wt. 3.8 gm
The silvering has tarnished to a black glaze on the obverse
daverinoApr 13, 2012
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AR Tetradrachm of Thasos, Roman imitative 148 -80 BCOBV: Head of Dionysos right wreathed with ivy leaves
REV :HPAKLEOYS SUTHPOS THASIUN (Hercules, Saviour of the Thasians); nude Heracles standing left holding club and lionskin; MH monogram to left
SNG Cop 1040, Dewing 1344, BMC 74 (Ref. Wildwinds)
These tet's were minted on Thasos off the coast of Thrace, and became an important international medium of exchange after Rome closed the Macedonian mints. The obverse celebrates the wine for which Thasos was renowned and the reverse may refer to a temple of Heracles. The type was widely copied among the Thracian tribes (imitatives) and the Celts (barbaric types).
According to Dr. Prokopov this coin is probably a Roman imitative, struck by Roman authorities between 148 and 80 BC, hence the fine classical style. The weight is right for the Rhodian standard. Holed and plugged.
Diameter ~30 mm, wt. 13.7 gmdaverinoMar 26, 2012
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Ptolemy VI Philometor AE 30 170-163 BCOBV; Diademed head of Zeus Ammon
REV: PTOLEMAIOY BASILIWS; Two Eagles standing left on thunderbolt with cornucopia in left field
The salt mined near the Oracle of Ammon in Egypt was known for its peculiar taste, hence we get the word "ammonia". The significance of the double eagle reverse as compared to the more typical single eagle on these bronzes is a matter of debate. Some think it refers to Ptolemy VI's joint reign with Ptolemy VIII, although his silver coins bear only one eagle. Others think it signified a denomination. Five different bronze 'double eagles' in the weight range about 5 -35 grams are attributed to Ptolemy VI although he also minted coins with a single eagle reverse.
Svoronos 1424, Sear 7900, SNG Cop. 309 (Ref. W'winds)
Diam ~30 mm, wt 27.1 gmdaverinoMar 26, 2012
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Maximianus Herculeus, Silvered AE Follis AD 295-296OBV: IMP C MAXIMIANUS PF AVG; Laureate head right
REV: GENIO POPULI ROMANI; Genius standing left holding patera and cornucopia with chlamys over left shoulder and modius on head. No mintmark.
RIC v.VI, 14b Lugdunum mint (Ref. Wildwinds)
The design of these folles had a number of political inspirations. It is thought that the 'big head' would magnify the dignity of the Emperor above ordinary humans and make him less vulnerable to being overthrown as the 'barracks emperors' often were. Mattingly believed that the Genio themes on the reverse were meant to counter the growing Christian influence in Roman culture.
At any rate the quality of this portrait head is superior to the caricature-like bigheads on most coins of the type.
Diam. ~27 mm, wt 9.4 gmdaverinoMar 23, 2012
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Vespasian AR Denarius Aug - Dec 73 ADOBV: IMP CAES VESP AVG CEN; Vespasian's laureate head, right
REV: SALVS AVG; Salus seated left holding patera.
A fine portrait of Vespasian, only lightly worn and within my price range.
RIC V.II 513(new edition) or 067(old edition), RSC 431
wt 3.0 gmdaverinoMar 19, 2012
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AE Trichalkon of the Thessalian League, 196-146 BCObv: Laureate head of Apollo right
Rev: Th E S S A/ L O N in vertical columns; Apollo Itonia standing right, throwing spear w/right arm and holding shield w/left. On top of Athena's spear to left the Greek letters Th R A and to right an Owl.
References: BMC 49; Rogers 20; Nomos 4, 1385
Diameter 19 mm, Wt 7.6 gms
The Thessalian League was a confederacy of northern Greek city-states centered in Larissa. The letters above Athena's spear refer to the authorizing magistrate - in this case (Th R A)sylos whose complete name is given on silver staters of the period. A die match to lot 838 in the Triton XV sale (ACsearch)daverinoJan 29, 2012
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Constantine I AE 3 327-329 AD Heraclea OBV: CONSTANTINUS AVG; Diademed head right, ladder shaped diadem with dots in segments, head looking upward (eyes-to-God)
REV: DN CONSTANTINI MAX AVG, VOT / XXX in two lines enclosed by laurel wreath, dot SMHA in exergue
For a small coin this one manages to have a wonderful monumental quality. Unlike his heirs', few of Constantine's coins have any direct reference to the new Christian faith that he adopted. Mostly he seems to have tried to reconcile the pagan forces with references to Sol and Jove. The eyes-to -God portrait is perhaps an ambiguous reference to Christianity, or perhaps is meant to symbolize his respect for all the religions within the Roman Empire.
RIC VII 92, Rated 'scarce'
weight 3.7 gm
daverinoJan 28, 2012
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Macedonian Kingdom, Antigonos Gonatas AE 17 277-239 BCOBV: Athena in Crested Corinthian Helmet
REV: Helmeted Pan erecting trophy with small human figure in between, ANTI monogram in left field with B(asiliews) in lower left and A(ntigonos) in lower right fields.
The coin is a rare variant of a type issued to commemorate Antigonos' victory over the Celts at Lysimachaeus in 277 BC. The victory was attributed to the divine intervention of Pan. The monogram in other Athena/Pan bronzes like this one is always placed between Pan's legs. Antigonos ruled Greece and Macedon until the age of 80. Most notably he defeated and killed Pyrrhus who was famed for "pyrrhic victories"
Lindgren III, 105; S#6786 (var) Added to the Wildwinds database
weight 5.9 gmsdaverinoJan 01, 2012
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Antoninus Pius As "COS DES II" 138 ADOBV: IMP T AEL HADRI - ANTONINUS AVG PIUS; Undraped bust right
REV: PM TR POT -- COS DES II; Pax standing left with olive branch and cornucopia, S - C in field.
RIC 526(a) (courtesy Pekka & Frans Diederik) Added to the Wildwinds database
Issued in 138 AD, the first year of Antoninus' twenty-three year reign when he was 'designatus' for his second consulship.
wt 12.8 grams.daverinoDec 29, 2011
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Roman, Caracalla AE 26 of Odessos, ThraceOBV: AVK MAV ANTWNINOC; Laureate, draped cuirassed bust seen from behind, REV:ODHCCEITWN; The Great God of Odessos offering sacrifice over a lighted altar.
The portrait of Caracalla as a youth is beautifully modeled and very idealized. Usually the provincial mints did not produce this quality of coin sculpture, superb even in a worn condition.
Moushmov 1610daverinoDec 14, 2011
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Caracalla AE 27 Tetrassarion of Odessos 198-217 ADOBV: AVK MAV ANTWNINOC, Laureate draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind.
REV: ODHCCEITWN; The Great God of Odessos standing left, holding a cornucopia and makining an offering from a patera over a burning altar.
The coin has a great portrait of Caracalla, in this case depicted in one of his rare good moods - or perhaps it was in his youth that the coin was minted. The deity on the back has sometimes been characterized as Zeus, but to whom would he be offering a sacrifice?
Odessos was a town on the Black Sea (today's Varna, Bulgaria) which had produced coins back to the 3rd Century BC. As a city in the Roman province of Moesia it first produced coins honoring Augustus, and later in the 2nd and 3rd century AD under Commodus, Verus and the Severans. It's greatest and final output of coins were minted under Gordian III.
Moushmov 1610 (Ref. Wildwinds)
Diam 27 mm, wt 9.64 gmdaverinoDec 14, 2011
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Alexander III of Macedon AR Tetradrachm ca 310 BCOBV: Head of Herakles with lionskin headdress
REV: Zeus Ateophotos seated left holding eagle and scepter, ALEXANDROY vertical to right of scepter. Obscure date or mintmark under eagle.
The style of the coin strongly suggests the Ake mint (possibly Price 3301 or similar) with bellcovers on the throne legs and the slanted footstool on which Zeus rests his feet. The posture and arrangement of his robes also was typical of Ake tetradrachmae in the decade following Alexander's death in 323 BC. The weight of Ake tetradrachms is almost uniformly 17.1 gm ( Newell: The Dated Alexander Coinage of Sidon and Ake) corresponding exactly to this coin.
Bought at the Baltimore coin show 2010
Diam 26 mm, wt 17.1 gmdaverinoDec 12, 2011
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Alexander III AR Drachm, Teos Mint, 310-301 BCOBV: Head of Herakles in lionskin headdress
REV: Zeus seated left with right knee raised, holding eagle in right hand and sceptre in left. ALEXANDROU written vertically to right of sceptre. Monograms HDelta in left field below eagle and O looped inside the letter PI below the throne.
Price 2290 (courtesy lloyd T and altamura). The mintmark below the throne also bears some similarity to Price 2292 in which the "o" is fully separate from the PI. Added to the Wildwinds database.
diam 17 mm, wt 4.00 gmdaverinoDec 10, 2011
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Philip II Pentassarian of Markianopolis AD 249OBV: M IOVLIOC PILIPPOC ;KAICAP(below) ;Confronted busts of Philip II and Serapis
REV: MAPKIANOPOLEITYN; Asklepios standing right head left, leaning on a serpent entwined staff, 'E' in right field.
One of the last (and scarce)issues of Marcianopolis which minted coins from the time of Commodus to Phillip. The E on the reverse and two busts on the obverse distinguished the coin from tetrassaria which were about the same size and weight. Asklepios was the god of health in the ancient world and snakes were used in many healing rituals.
The ancients record that once Phillip II of Macedonia (father of Alex the Great) paid a nocturnal visit to his wife, Olympias, and found a huge snake lying next to her in bed. Their marriage was never the same.
Moushmov 858, Varbanov 2090 (ref. W'winds)
diameter 27 mm, wt 12.5 gm
daverinoDec 03, 2011
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Elagabalus AE 26 of Markianopolis AD 222OBV: AVT K M AVPH ANTWNEINOC; Laureate bust right, seen from behind.
REV: VP CERG TITIANOY MARKIANOPOTWN; Nemesis standing left holding scales and cornucopia with wheel at her feet.
The coin is a tetrassarion (4 assaria) of Markianopolis, a city in what is now Bulgaria founded by Trajan and named after his sister, Marciana. The pentassarions generally featured two busts on the obverse (Elagabalus and J.Maesa). The governor of Moesia when this coin was minted (222 AD) was Sergius Titianus. The coin is similar to AMNG 846 (Seleucus)
Purchased at the Boston Coin show Nov 2011
Diam 26 mm, wt 13.4 gmdaverinoNov 24, 2011
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Severus Alexander Orichalcum SesteriusOBV: IMP CAES M AVR SEV ALEXANDER AVG, his laureate draped and cuirassed bust right.
REV: [MONETA AVG] USTI; Moneta standing left holding cornucopia and scales, at her feet what is probably a stack of coin dies. S-C in the field. Added to the Wildwinds database.
RIC 587, Cohen 179, Sear 7982 wt 19.4 gm
The reverse legend is incomplete but the stack of what may be coin dies distinguishes the coin from the more common Aequitas AugustidaverinoNov 19, 2011
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Severus Alexander Sestertius 228 ADOBV: IMP CAES M AVR SEV ALEXANDER AVG, Draped and laureate bust rt.
REV: PM TR P VII COS II PP; EMPEROR standing left sacrificing from patera over tripod altar holding scrollin left hand. S - C in field.
RIC 484, Cohen 358
wt 17.3 gmdaverinoNov 11, 2011
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Philip I AR Antoninianus 244-249 ADOBV: IMP M IVL PHILIPPUS AVG; Radiate bust right
REV: ADVENTVS AVGG; Philip on horseback left raising right hand
A nicely toned ex-Forum coin minted to celebrate the arrival in Rome of Philip as the new Emperor. Minted in Rome 244-247 AD RIC 26b, RSC 3
diam 22.1 mm wt 4.0 gmdaverinoSep 19, 2011
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Magnentius AE Centenionalis AD 351-352OBV: DN MAGNENTIUS PF AVG; Bare-headed draped bust right, 'A' behind head.
REV: GLORIA ROMANORUM; Emperor on horseback right holding spear, no shield riding down a fallen bare-headed enemy in front of horse, broken shield and spear beneath with star in upper right field. EXE; mintmark RQ, Rome mint
RIC VIII 209, rated 'scarce'
A nice large coin with a heroic portrait of the usurper Magnentius minted in Rome and resembling the style often used on coins of his contemporaries, Constans and Constantius II. It is much more idealized than that of my specimen from the Arles mint which shows him with a chubby face.
diameter 24 mm, wt 5.1 gmdaverinoSep 13, 2011
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