Collection of ancient coins

King of Persia –SiglosKing of Persia –SiglosKing of Persia –SiglosKing of Persia –Siglos

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Obverse: The Great King kneeling right holding spear and bow. Classic symbols of power, hunting, and war. Reverse: Incuse Punch. This ‘Type’ precedes the idea of sculpting a reverse image (intaglio) ‘die’ on the end of the reverse punch so a coin had front and back images instead of just a front with a ‘punched indentation’ on the reverse.

Persian silver Siglos of ‘The Great King’. 486-450 B.C.E. Cabinet SB 4678v Seabee Catalogue. The coin is ‘Type III’ of four types, or styles. In this case, Full body Great King kneeling with bow in one hand and spear in other. King could be Darius I, Xerxes I, or Artaxerxes as the coins were of four somewhat similar styles regardless of the king. A Siglos is 1/20 of a gold Daric (After Darius!) The name Siglos is likely related the Shequel, the Babylonian unit of weight that later became the name of the major Phoenician and Hebrew denominations. Note: it is interesting that it was 20 of these silver Sigloi to a gold Daric. So the ratio of silver to gold was 20 to 1. Comparison Coin Wildwinds.com

Persian Kings Phoenicia1/16th Silver Silver Shekel

Phoenicia, Sidon. Circa 435-420 BC. AR Half Shekel.

Obverse Obverse: Galley sailing left; two waves

below. Reverse: King of Persia standing right,

drawing bow against attacking Lion.

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Cyzicus, Mysia Hemiobol 5th Cent. B.C.E.

Cyzicus, Mysia Hemiobol 5th Cent. B.C.E.

Comparison Coin Wildwinds.com

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Obverse: Forepart of boar left., tunny fish behind boar. “A Superb Tunny fish!” Reverse: Lion's head left., star above. 0.32gr. Nice toning. Not round, so some parts of the coin strike are off-center. Note: The ‘Wildwinds’ archive coin overall is extremely fine, but the Tunny fish on the top right coin is superior. It is difficult, given the ‘hand made’ nature of striking lumps of metal between an anvil (with an Obverse die on it) and a Punch (with a Reverse die) to find a coin with all elements rendered perfectly.

Mysia, Cyzicus. Hemiobol, 5th Century B.C.E.. Hemiobol (Diameter 7-9mm). That’s a VERY small coin! But it is also beautiful. The Fish behind the wild Boar is called a ‘Tunny Fish’, which is a Tuna. A Tunny Fish is the Badge or Logo of the city of Cyzicus. E.g.: A Rose is the symbol of Rhodes (and an intentional pun); it’s a turtle for the island of Aegina, an Owl for Athens, etc. SNG Cop.49. From Dr. M. Dieterle.

Thracian, Chersonesus HemidrachmThracian, Chersonesus Hemidrachm


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Obverse: Forepart of a lion facing right, head facing left. Hint of flat strike on the body of the lion. Small portion of Test cut showing on edge of the Obverse. Reverse: Quadrapartite incuse square with a monogrammed ‘Alpha-Gamma & Pellet’ and a torch within the shallower depressions. VF with some dark patination.

Thrace, Chersonesus. AR (Silver) Hemidrachm. Lion. Weber 2407, McClean 4092. 400 - 350 B.C.E.. AR Hemidrachm. 1.94g. Test Cut on edge shows very strongly but does not significantly impact the esthetics, or value, of the coin. Chersonesus, which today is called the Gallipoli peninsula and is part of Turkey, is the peninsula in the northeast Aegean Sea on which the cities of Kardia/Cardia and Lysimachia were situated. The finest of these relatively common coins were minted there.

Hieron II of SyracuseBronze

Hieron II of SyracuseBronze

Sicily, Syracuse. Hieron II. 274-216 B.C. ﾆ18 mm (6.60 g, 7').

Obverse: Diademed head of Zeus facing left. Reverse: Trident. Fine, brown patina.

It would not be hyperbolic to refer to Hieron as ‘The Great’. Hieron led a group of mercenaries in a coup against the civil authorities of the great Greek (colonial) city of Syracuse in Sicily. When his Mercenaries became largely uncontrollable, Hieron sent them into a battle he knew they would lose (especially when he refused to send in Reserves.) Hieron ruled for 60 years and is thought to have been a relative of Archimedes. Hieron is said to have asked Archimedes to create a number of clever devices of war to protect, and grant advantage, over three empires that wanted to claim Syracuse for itself: the Romans, the Carthaginians, and the

Greeks.

Sicily, Syracuse. Hieron II. 274-216 B.C. ﾆ18 mm (6.60 g, 7').

Obverse: Diademed head of Zeus facing left. Reverse: Trident. Fine, brown patina.

It would not be hyperbolic to refer to Hieron as ‘The Great’. Hieron led a group of mercenaries in a coup against the civil authorities of the great Greek (colonial) city of Syracuse in Sicily. When his Mercenaries became largely uncontrollable, Hieron sent them into a battle he knew they would lose (especially when he refused to send in Reserves.) Hieron ruled for 60 years and is thought to have been a relative of Archimedes. Hieron is said to have asked Archimedes to create a number of clever devices of war to protect, and grant advantage, over three empires that wanted to claim Syracuse for itself: the Romans, the Carthaginians, and the

Greeks. Comparison Coin Wildwinds.com

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Agathocles Greek Syracuse (Sicily)Agathocles Greek Syracuse (Sicily)

Period III, Circa 304-289 B.C.E.. AE-20. Bronze coin with some minor Verdigris. SICILY, SYRACUSE. Agathocles 317-289 B.C.E..AE.21.

Obverse: Bust of Artemis facing right with quiver at shoulder.

Reverse: Winged Thunderbolt with Agathocles Basileoy, or Agathokleos King in Greek. Obviously, Thunderbolt = Lighting; this is a standard representation of ‘lightning’ seen across cultures and centuries.

Again, museum coin is exquisite and gives idea of the beauty.

Period III, Circa 304-289 B.C.E.. AE-20. Bronze coin with some minor Verdigris. SICILY, SYRACUSE. Agathocles 317-289 B.C.E..AE.21.

Obverse: Bust of Artemis facing right with quiver at shoulder.

Reverse: Winged Thunderbolt with Agathocles Basileoy, or Agathokleos King in Greek. Obviously, Thunderbolt = Lighting; this is a standard representation of ‘lightning’ seen across cultures and centuries.

Again, museum coin is exquisite and gives idea of the beauty.

Near Perfect example of same coin: Bust of Artemis right , in front Σ ｽ ΤΙΡΑ. Reverse. Agathokles Basilaeus, above and

below thunderbolt. Ref: SNG Cop 779.

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Greek Macedonian Kings Perseus

Greek Macedonian Kings Perseus

Obverse: Head of King Perseus right, wearing winged helmet with a griffin’s head top; with a harp, called a harpa, over his shoulder.

Reverse: Eagle standing left on a plow, head right; branch before, Sigma between legs. SNG Copenhagen #1273. Good VF. Soft obverse. Thick, brown patinated surface.

King Perseus, implying his namesake with winged helmet, 178-168 B.C.E.. 24mm , 8.93gm. Perseus was the son of Phillip V. Phillip was the very capable King of of the Antigonid Dynasty for Macedon (Antigonus was one of Alexander the Great’s Generals who ‘won’ Macedon after Alexander’s death). He managed to keep his kingdom together even after losing conflicts to the Romans. But his son Perseus became ‘The Last King of Macedonia’ when he lost his Kingdom to the Romans. Bronze Greek coins are less common, surprisingly, than Silver.

Obverse: Head of King Perseus right, wearing winged helmet with a griffin’s head top; with a harp, called a harpa, over his shoulder.

Reverse: Eagle standing left on a plow, head right; branch before, Sigma between legs. SNG Copenhagen #1273. Good VF. Soft obverse. Thick, brown patinated surface.

King Perseus, implying his namesake with winged helmet, 178-168 B.C.E.. 24mm , 8.93gm. Perseus was the son of Phillip V. Phillip was the very capable King of of the Antigonid Dynasty for Macedon (Antigonus was one of Alexander the Great’s Generals who ‘won’ Macedon after Alexander’s death). He managed to keep his kingdom together even after losing conflicts to the Romans. But his son Perseus became ‘The Last King of Macedonia’ when he lost his Kingdom to the Romans. Bronze Greek coins are less common, surprisingly, than Silver.

Note: The lettering on the Reverse appears to be BA of ‘Beta - Alpha’ at the top (first two letters for Greek Basilaeus (King)). But the two letters bottom row are not completely legible,. The first could be ‘pi’ (first letter of Perseus), the second does not appear in any way to be an E or Epsilon. More investigation on this is required.

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Celtic TetradrachmDanube Region


Obverse: Head imitating Phillip II of Macedon. ‘Crude Head’ of ‘Simplified type’. Phillip II Tetradrachms were used by Phillip to pay ‘Celtic Mercenaries’ for his very successful armies. The mercenaries came home, spent the ‘money’ and created demand for more. Local Celts imitated the figure and form of real Phillip II Tetradrachms.

Reverse: Horse Left. CCCBM I, 39ff; De La Tour 9883. Toned VF

Danube Region Celts. Coin is Oltenia Type Tetradrachm (Oltenia refers to an area situated between the Danube, the Southern Carpathian Mountains, and the Olt River including much of modern day Romania.) Circa 2nd Century B.C.E.. AR (Silver) Tetradrachm 8.10 Grams. Almost Scyphate (Cupped).

Obverse: Head imitating Phillip II of Macedon. ‘Crude Head’ of ‘Simplified type’. Phillip II Tetradrachms were used by Phillip to pay ‘Celtic Mercenaries’ for his very successful armies. The mercenaries came home, spent the ‘money’ and created demand for more. Local Celts imitated the figure and form of real Phillip II Tetradrachms.

Reverse: Horse Left. CCCBM I, 39ff; De La Tour 9883. Toned VF

Danube Region Celts. Coin is Oltenia Type Tetradrachm (Oltenia refers to an area situated between the Danube, the Southern Carpathian Mountains, and the Olt River including much of modern day Romania.) Circa 2nd Century B.C.E.. AR (Silver) Tetradrachm 8.10 Grams. Almost Scyphate (Cupped).

The ‘Trade Dollar’ of the time. Phillip II (382-386 B.C.E). Tetradrachm.

Father of Alexander the Great. Wildwinds.com

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LEUCI France Tulum (Toul).LEUCI France Tulum (Toul). Obverse: Bald head looking left. Reverse: Boar l. LT—, BMC 426-432. VF,

green-grey glossy patina.

“Bald Head” Potin. c.80-50 B.C.E.. 4.22g. Possibly belonging to the Bellovaci. Unlike most of the other ancient coins in this collection, this coin was cast instead of struck. You can tell this by the ‘sprue’ along the edge that shows how the molten base metal was poured into a mold that held several coin forms. When cooled, the mold was broken and the connected blank coins would be cut from each other.

The Reverse is fine to very fine. But the obverse is poor. The auction description said that it is BMC 426-432. I looked in La Tour II and #9180 is the closest I could find but that is not it. Will update when I find the correct identification.

Obverse: Bald head looking left. Reverse: Boar l. LT—, BMC 426-432. VF,

green-grey glossy patina.

“Bald Head” Potin. c.80-50 B.C.E.. 4.22g. Possibly belonging to the Bellovaci. Unlike most of the other ancient coins in this collection, this coin was cast instead of struck. You can tell this by the ‘sprue’ along the edge that shows how the molten base metal was poured into a mold that held several coin forms. When cooled, the mold was broken and the connected blank coins would be cut from each other.

The Reverse is fine to very fine. But the obverse is poor. The auction description said that it is BMC 426-432. I looked in La Tour II and #9180 is the closest I could find but that is not it. Will update when I find the correct identification. This is a similar coin whose obverse is in better

condition that shows how the worn front of my coin might look.

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Celtic Gaul Gold ¼ StaterCeltic Gaul Gold ¼ StaterCeltic Britain, Imported Coinage, Geometric Type; 58 – 50 BCE, Gold Quarter Stater, 1.44 g. Van Arsdell 63.3.

Obverse: Two people in Boat. (Van Arsdell #69-3 Gaule Belgique V #116. ). Some sources say Obverse is “Crescent with two appendages”.

Reverse: Geometric pattern with tree. Van Arsdell 69.1; SCBC 46. Good VF. (No mention of 'Import' in this short, catalogue note.)

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Comparison CoinMuseum Quality

Celtic Horse & Boar Celtic Horse & Boar

Obverse: Great head of ‘Ogmios’, the Celtic prime deity, analogous to Zeus, looking right. (Follows Phillip II Tetradrachm style).

Reverse: Horse and Boar. Rider has the Tennis Racquet Type head and horse has a Double-Beaded Tail. c.60-56 B.C.E.. AR stater. Fox Snouted horse r. boar below. Gd VF, bright silver, highly ornate tail. Note: highly stylized “razorback” boar is underneath horse, between front and rear legs.

“Great Head” Coin from Coriosolites tribe. Flan was cracked in the original strike of the coin. This Celtic Tribe is from what is today the Saint-Brieuc, Dinan, Corseul of Modern France. The Coriosolites were coastal folk and the wavelike curls cresting the head may echo their proximity to the sea .De la Tour 6598, D & T 2340, SCB 15. LT 6598, Rybot 32, Hooker no.90. Weight 6.42 grams, 21 x 22 mm. Note: This could have been minted when Julius Caesar was invading, and writing his famous book, ‘The Gallic War’ as the Celtic tribes of Gaul needed to mint money to raise armies to fight the Romans.

Obverse: Great head of ‘Ogmios’, the Celtic prime deity, analogous to Zeus, looking right. (Follows Phillip II Tetradrachm style).

Reverse: Horse and Boar. Rider has the Tennis Racquet Type head and horse has a Double-Beaded Tail. c.60-56 B.C.E.. AR stater. Fox Snouted horse r. boar below. Gd VF, bright silver, highly ornate tail. Note: highly stylized “razorback” boar is underneath horse, between front and rear legs.

“Great Head” Coin from Coriosolites tribe. Flan was cracked in the original strike of the coin. This Celtic Tribe is from what is today the Saint-Brieuc, Dinan, Corseul of Modern France. The Coriosolites were coastal folk and the wavelike curls cresting the head may echo their proximity to the sea .De la Tour 6598, D & T 2340, SCB 15. LT 6598, Rybot 32, Hooker no.90. Weight 6.42 grams, 21 x 22 mm. Note: This could have been minted when Julius Caesar was invading, and writing his famous book, ‘The Gallic War’ as the Celtic tribes of Gaul needed to mint money to raise armies to fight the Romans.


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Obverse: Stylized head facing right.

Reverse: Rx: Human or bird-headed horse r., lyre or comet below.

Celtic. Gallic Tribes. Amorica. Coriosolites; c. 75-50 BC, Billon Stater, 6.48g. Rudd, Ancient British Coins-67. Spink-17-19. De La Tour-6703. Allen-p.19-20, pl. 16, 221 var.

Amorica region, originally Aremorica "country by the sea", included Brittany, lower Normandy, almost all of Pays de la Loire, and the Channel Islands (Rudd, p. 30). Purchased from Harlan J. Berk, 176th Buy=Bid Sale August 2011.

Obverse: Stylized head facing right.

Reverse: Rx: Human or bird-headed horse r., lyre or comet below.

Celtic. Gallic Tribes. Amorica. Coriosolites; c. 75-50 BC, Billon Stater, 6.48g. Rudd, Ancient British Coins-67. Spink-17-19. De La Tour-6703. Allen-p.19-20, pl. 16, 221 var.

Amorica region, originally Aremorica "country by the sea", included Brittany, lower Normandy, almost all of Pays de la Loire, and the Channel Islands (Rudd, p. 30). Purchased from Harlan J. Berk, 176th Buy=Bid Sale August 2011.


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Tetradrachm Alexander III The Great

Tetradrachm Alexander III The Great

Obverse: Alexander (Suggesting Hercules) Facing Right wearing Lion-Head as Headdress with Lion skin knotted at neck.

Reverse: Zeus seated left holding eagle and scepter, monogram in wreath to left, MI below throne. Muller 734. Greek “Basileus Alexandroy” King Alexander. Zeus suggests Phiedias’ Cryselephantine statue of Zeus at Olympus; one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World.

AR (Argentum) Silver Tetradrachm of Alexander III, The Great. 336-323 B.C.E.. Heavy 17.10 Grams. Note: Consider the obverse image of Alexander wearing a Lion Headdress with the lions mouth covering the back of his head, teeth under his ears; what a powerful image for the populations he conquered! This is a good example of the use of coins for propaganda and for social or political manipulation of the masses.

Obverse: Alexander (Suggesting Hercules) Facing Right wearing Lion-Head as Headdress with Lion skin knotted at neck.

Reverse: Zeus seated left holding eagle and scepter, monogram in wreath to left, MI below throne. Muller 734. Greek “Basileus Alexandroy” King Alexander. Zeus suggests Phiedias’ Cryselephantine statue of Zeus at Olympus; one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World.

AR (Argentum) Silver Tetradrachm of Alexander III, The Great. 336-323 B.C.E.. Heavy 17.10 Grams. Note: Consider the obverse image of Alexander wearing a Lion Headdress with the lions mouth covering the back of his head, teeth under his ears; what a powerful image for the populations he conquered! This is a good example of the use of coins for propaganda and for social or political manipulation of the masses.

Comparison Coin

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Tetradrachm of Ptolemy IITetradrachm of Ptolemy II Obverse: Ptolemy II, Diadem Head

Right. (A diadem is simply a long piece of white cloth wrapped around the crown of the head and draping the nape of the neck signifying ‘Royalty’.)

Reverse: Eagle Standing Left on Thunderbolt 14.10 Grams. Greek Letters, “Ptolemy Basilaeus” (Ptolemy King)

Silver Tetradrachm, AR (Argentum) 285-246 B.C.E.. 14.10 Grams. Svornos Catalog 371. Near Extremely Fine. Some marks on the coin ‘fabric’ of the reverse caused by rust on the dies used when the coin was made (or struck). Ptolemy II was instrumental in developing Alexandria as the center of Mediterranean world culture. He created the famous Library of Alexandria and gave financial support to scholars that made it an intellectual haven.

Obverse: Ptolemy II, Diadem Head Right. (A diadem is simply a long piece of white cloth wrapped around the crown of the head and draping the nape of the neck signifying ‘Royalty’.)

Reverse: Eagle Standing Left on Thunderbolt 14.10 Grams. Greek Letters, “Ptolemy Basilaeus” (Ptolemy King)

Silver Tetradrachm, AR (Argentum) 285-246 B.C.E.. 14.10 Grams. Svornos Catalog 371. Near Extremely Fine. Some marks on the coin ‘fabric’ of the reverse caused by rust on the dies used when the coin was made (or struck). Ptolemy II was instrumental in developing Alexandria as the center of Mediterranean world culture. He created the famous Library of Alexandria and gave financial support to scholars that made it an intellectual haven.

Alexander the Great took Egypt from the Persians in 332 B.C.E.. On his death in 323 B.C.E., one of his Generals, Ptolemy, claimed Egypt as Pharaoh. He was called that by the Egyptians themselves. Ptolemy thus started the Ptolemaic dynasty that lasted until 30 B.C.E. at the death of Cleopatra VII (last of the ‘Ptolemies’). Ptolemy I proclaimed on the famous ‘Satrap Stele’, that he would “….restore to Horus…the territory of Patanut [Egypt], from this day forth for ever….” Egypt largely prospered under Ptolemaic, Roman, and Byzantine rule.

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Ptolemy II Tyre MintPtolemy II Tyre Mint Obverse: Laureate head of Apollo right,

with long curls. Reverse: Eagle standing left on

thunderbolt; club in field to left with what appears to be a Gamma above. Some scholars believe the obverse portrait on this coin is that of Alexander III, ‘The Great’ though minted more than 50 years after Alexander; such might have been the value in linking the current regimes to Alexanders.

EGYPT: PTOLEMY II. 285-246 B.C.E.. Bronze -15mm minted in 269/8 B.C.E.(4.27 gm). cf. Svornos 641/SNG. Cop 481 (Tyre mint). Scarce and Very fine‘SNG Cop’ stands for “Sylloge Nummorum Graecorum: The Royal Collection of Coins and Medals, Danish National Museum Copenhagen”. It’s a multi-volume catalogue of ancient Greek coins.

Obverse: Laureate head of Apollo right, with long curls.

Reverse: Eagle standing left on thunderbolt; club in field to left with what appears to be a Gamma above. Some scholars believe the obverse portrait on this coin is that of Alexander III, ‘The Great’ though minted more than 50 years after Alexander; such might have been the value in linking the current regimes to Alexanders.

EGYPT: PTOLEMY II. 285-246 B.C.E.. Bronze -15mm minted in 269/8 B.C.E.(4.27 gm). cf. Svornos 641/SNG. Cop 481 (Tyre mint). Scarce and Very fine‘SNG Cop’ stands for “Sylloge Nummorum Graecorum: The Royal Collection of Coins and Medals, Danish National Museum Copenhagen”. It’s a multi-volume catalogue of ancient Greek coins.

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Tyre Mint Coins (with Club)Tyre Mint Coins (with Club)Club Symbol - Tyre Mint An extended denomination series of Ptolemy III occurs with a distinct club symbol in the left field. There are also a few coins of Ptolemy IV with the same symbol types (identifiable as Ptolemy IV by the leg monograms). There are also some coins of Ptolemy II with the club symbol in the same position, usually with a different style of presentation. There are also club-symbol coins that have additional symbols and for those, see below. Also shown in these photos of 'club-only' coins is a club symbol type accompanied by an ivy leaf countermark. This kind of variety is possible when every coin die is unique, and you can only make a small number of coins with a particular die before the dies break or wear out.

www.ptolemybronze.com

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Bronze ‘Cartwheel’Ptolemy II or III

Bronze ‘Cartwheel’Ptolemy II or III

Obverse: Zeus facing Right. Note the central divot or hole in the coin. It is not known exactly what causes this on these coins, but it is consistent, and thought to involve the minting process in some way.

Reverse: Eagle with wings held out. Cornucopia in field. Auctioneer speculated this was a test cut that mars the area to the left of the Eagle’s Body. “Ptolemoy Basilaeus”, Ptolemy King however….

‘Bronze Cartwheel’ of Ptolemy IV. 221-205 B.C.E.. These coins are called, hyperbolically, Cartwheels’ because they are so large and heavy. They crossed several reigns and they did not name a particular Ptolemy. But differences in design, style, and fabric allow this one to be dated more closely to either the reign of Ptolemy II or III.

Obverse: Zeus facing Right. Note the central divot or hole in the coin. It is not known exactly what causes this on these coins, but it is consistent, and thought to involve the minting process in some way.

Reverse: Eagle with wings held out. Cornucopia in field. Auctioneer speculated this was a test cut that mars the area to the left of the Eagle’s Body. “Ptolemoy Basilaeus”, Ptolemy King however….

‘Bronze Cartwheel’ of Ptolemy IV. 221-205 B.C.E.. These coins are called, hyperbolically, Cartwheels’ because they are so large and heavy. They crossed several reigns and they did not name a particular Ptolemy. But differences in design, style, and fabric allow this one to be dated more closely to either the reign of Ptolemy II or III.

It’s interesting that Eagle’s right wing on both examples have similar ‘damage’. They are

‘countermarks’ or ‘banker’s marks’ instead of test cuts. This series is famous for it’s ‘Trident’ Countermarks

though these look like cornucopia.

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Didrachm Ptolemy VIPhilometor

Didrachm Ptolemy VIPhilometor

Obverse: Ptolemy VI Right with diadem. Reverse: Eagle on thunderbolt. Ptolemoy

Basilaeus, Ptolemy King in ‘connect a dot’ lettering. By the way, the ‘dots’ are caused by small ‘bow-drills’ used to make lettering easier.

Silver Didrachm (2 Drachmas) of Ptolemy VI from. Minted in Phoenicia around 153/2 B.C.E.. Ptolemy Philometor was a child when his father died and his mother, Cleopatra I (not the famous Cleopatra VII), ruled as Regent. Therefore, when he ascended to Pharaoh, he was called Philometor (One who loves his mother). He married his Sister, Cleopatra II which was de rigueur for Egyptian Royalty at that time.

Obverse: Ptolemy VI Right with diadem. Reverse: Eagle on thunderbolt. Ptolemoy

Basilaeus, Ptolemy King in ‘connect a dot’ lettering. By the way, the ‘dots’ are caused by small ‘bow-drills’ used to make lettering easier.

Silver Didrachm (2 Drachmas) of Ptolemy VI from. Minted in Phoenicia around 153/2 B.C.E.. Ptolemy Philometor was a child when his father died and his mother, Cleopatra I (not the famous Cleopatra VII), ruled as Regent. Therefore, when he ascended to Pharaoh, he was called Philometor (One who loves his mother). He married his Sister, Cleopatra II which was de rigueur for Egyptian Royalty at that time.

Museum quality comparison immediately above. Not same coin dies, but elements are same: Obverse. Ptolemy VI Head Right, Rev. “Eagle standing left on thunderbolt”. Svoronos

1490; SNG Copenhagen.

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What is a Headdress of Isis?What is a Headdress of Isis?

This picture depicts the goddess Isis. Isis is seated on a throne. Isis was the wife of Osiris and mother of Horus; therefore, the mother of the gods. The characteristics that allow us to know the seated goddess is Isis are the horned headdress and the vulture on her head. The Ptolemies & Seleucids both paid homage to the Egyptian gods wherever they were worshiped. This showed the pragmatism of many successful conquerors.

The horns support a

‘Sun Disk’ though it can be a disk or a

ball.

Comparisons: The two plumes rising from the disk may derive from a later merging, or syncretism, of Isis with Mut, who

sometimes wore a twin-plumed headdress.

From My Cabinet 1 From My Cabinet 2

Antiochus VII Eurgetes Headdress of Isis


Obverse: Winged bust of Eros facing Right, wreathed with myrtle. Dotted Obverse to avoid ‘clipping’.

Reverse: ‘Two Plume” Head-dress of Isis. Symbol and date; BASILEWS ANTIOCOU EUERGETOU.

Seleucid Kingdom. Antiochos VII Eurgetes (yoo-erg-et'-ace). AE (Bronze) 18. 138-129 B.C.E. Struck in Antioch. SNG Spaer 1901. DNG/159. Rev. S, star and EOR (= 138/7 B.C.). Cf. SNG Spaer 1900-1903 ID: SNG uk 1301 0618.



Seleucid Kingdom. Antiochos VII Eurgetes (yoo-erg-et'-ace). AE (Bronze) 18. 138-129 B.C.E. Struck in Antioch. SNG Spaer 1901. DNG/159. Rev. S, star and EOR (= 138/7 B.C.). Cf. SNG Spaer 1900-1903 ID: SNG uk 1301 0618.

Comparison Coin.

My Cabinet 1

Ptolemy IX Soter Headdress of IsisPtolemy IX Soter Headdress of Isis Obverse: Diademed head of Zeus Ammon right

Poor obverse due to deterioration while buried. Reverse: Two eagles standing facing left on

thunderbolt; to left is “Single Plume” headdress of Isis above monogram. Lettering visible read Basilaeus (King) Fine. Pretty good overall reverse. Cleopatra III & Ptolemy IX Soter II (Lathyros). 116-107 B.C.E.. Æ Obol (6.29 g, 12h). Uncertain mint on Cyprus. Svoronos 1482; cf. Weiser 171-172; SNG Copenhagen 682-683. VF, flat strike. Rare. Soter means Savior.

Obverse: Diademed head of Zeus Ammon right Poor obverse due to deterioration while buried.

Reverse: Two eagles standing facing left on thunderbolt; to left is “Single Plume” headdress of Isis above monogram. Lettering visible read Basilaeus (King) Fine. Pretty good overall reverse. Cleopatra III & Ptolemy IX Soter II (Lathyros). 116-107 B.C.E.. Æ Obol (6.29 g, 12h). Uncertain mint on Cyprus. Svoronos 1482; cf. Weiser 171-172; SNG Copenhagen 682-683. VF, flat strike. Rare. Soter means Savior.

Comparison Coin WildWinds.comPicture from Coinarchives.com

My Cabinet 2





Seleucid Kingdom. Antiochos VII Eurgetes (yoo-erg-et'-ace). AE (Bronze) 18. 138-129 B.C.E. Struck in Antioch. SNG Spaer 1913, 1914, 1915 BR111. Rev. S, star and EOR (= 138/7 B.C.). 5.99g



Seleucid Kingdom. Antiochos VII Eurgetes (yoo-erg-et'-ace). AE (Bronze) 18. 138-129 B.C.E. Struck in Antioch. SNG Spaer 1913, 1914, 1915 BR111. Rev. S, star and EOR (= 138/7 B.C.). 5.99g

Comparison Coin.

My Cabinet 3

Trajan Headdress of IsisDichalkon (Roman Egypt)

Obverse: Trajan: Laureate head right Reverse: “Two Plume” Headdress of

Isis; across field, L I-S. Milne -; Emmett 710.

Near VF, dark green patina with earthen deposits. Very rare. Donated to the ‘Ancient Coin Collectors Guild’ Auction, August 17, 2008.Comparison coin is a Trajan Dichalkon that is in Trajan’s ‘Regnal Year’ 17. (Written LIZ). Whereas the more rare, ‘Regnal Year 16’ is LIS.

Emperor Trajan. Roman Egypt. Trajan. A.D. 98-117. ﾆ Dichalkon (13 mm, 1.73 gm 12'). Alexandria, Regnal Year (year of Trajan’s reign) 16 (A.D. 112/3).

Obverse: Trajan: Laureate head right Reverse: “Two Plume” Headdress of

Isis; across field, L I-S. Milne -; Emmett 710.

Near VF, dark green patina with earthen deposits. Very rare. Donated to the ‘Ancient Coin Collectors Guild’ Auction, August 17, 2008.Comparison coin is a Trajan Dichalkon that is in Trajan’s ‘Regnal Year’ 17. (Written LIZ). Whereas the more rare, ‘Regnal Year 16’ is LIS.

Emperor Trajan. Roman Egypt. Trajan. A.D. 98-117. ﾆ Dichalkon (13 mm, 1.73 gm 12'). Alexandria, Regnal Year (year of Trajan’s reign) 16 (A.D. 112/3).

Comparison Coin.

My Cabinet 4

M. Aquillius DenariusM. Aquillius Denarius Obverse: Radiate Head of Sol right. X

under chin. X is Roman Numeral 10. One Silver Denarius = 10 Bronze ‘Ases’.

Reverse: Luna in biga (two horse Chariot), three stars and 1/4 Moon above; one star below. “Man. Aquill/Roma” in Exergue.

Manius Aquillius Silver Denarius, Rome Mint, 108/109 B.C.E. Crawford Catalog #303/1. Manius became Consul in 101 B.C.E.. Later, in 88 B.C.E., he was a consular legate in the war against Mithridates VI, ‘The Mad Genius’. Manius Aquillius was captured and executed by Mithridates VI who, it is said, had molten gold poured down his throat.

Obverse: Radiate Head of Sol right. X under chin. X is Roman Numeral 10. One Silver Denarius = 10 Bronze ‘Ases’.

Reverse: Luna in biga (two horse Chariot), three stars and 1/4 Moon above; one star below. “Man. Aquill/Roma” in Exergue.

Manius Aquillius Silver Denarius, Rome Mint, 108/109 B.C.E. Crawford Catalog #303/1. Manius became Consul in 101 B.C.E.. Later, in 88 B.C.E., he was a consular legate in the war against Mithridates VI, ‘The Mad Genius’. Manius Aquillius was captured and executed by Mithridates VI who, it is said, had molten gold poured down his throat.

Comparison Wildwinds.com.

My Cabinet

L. Thorius Balbus DenariusObverse: Head of Juno Sospita r. wearing goat skin headdress; I.S.M.R (Juno Sospita Mater Regina…J was pronounced like an I or Y) downwards behind. Juno Sospita, or Juno the Preserver; also called Lanuvina (because she had a temple and statue at Lanuvium) was worshiped as the Royal Mother.

Reverse: Bull charging r., Letter E above Bull is a ‘control mark’; below L.THORIVS, in exergue BALBVS. VF.

I was attracted to this coin originally from the 'cartoon aspect' of Juno Sospita. Her image looked ‘Celtish’ in execution. The Goat skin headdress on Juno is appealing to me, as are all headdresses. Imagine the political messages sent. “Juno the Savior is on our side!” And to drive the message home; a forward charging bull with its gaze turned at the viewer. ‘

Obverse: Head of Juno Sospita r. wearing goat skin headdress; I.S.M.R (Juno Sospita Mater Regina…J was pronounced like an I or Y) downwards behind. Juno Sospita, or Juno the Preserver; also called Lanuvina (because she had a temple and statue at Lanuvium) was worshiped as the Royal Mother.

Reverse: Bull charging r., Letter E above Bull is a ‘control mark’; below L.THORIVS, in exergue BALBVS. VF.

I was attracted to this coin originally from the 'cartoon aspect' of Juno Sospita. Her image looked ‘Celtish’ in execution. The Goat skin headdress on Juno is appealing to me, as are all headdresses. Imagine the political messages sent. “Juno the Savior is on our side!” And to drive the message home; a forward charging bull with its gaze turned at the viewer. ‘ Comparison Coin Wildwinds.com

My Cabinet

The Three Roman Moneyers 90 B.C.E. The Three Roman Moneyers 90 B.C.E.

The Year 91 B.C.E. saw the beginning of the Social War, or ‘Marsic War’ where Rome and the nominally independent Italian city states that paid her tribute fought a war for control of all of Italy. In the first full year of this war. 90 B.C.E. the three moneyers (The ‘triumviri monetales’) were Q. Titianus, L. Piso Frugi, and C. Vibius C.F. Pansa. The number of coins struck in this year was very high to pay for the war. This was especially important because Rome lost two great battles that year, against the Marsi (thus Marsic War) and later against the Samnites. The war was eventually ‘won’ by Rome after offering Roman citizenship to all Italians who hadn’t fought against Rome or who would lay down their arms. Ironically, Roman citizenship for Italians was proposed by Livius Drusus, consul, in 91 B.C.E. For daring to propose this, he was assassinated. His assassination precipitated the war.

The Year 91 B.C.E. saw the beginning of the Social War, or ‘Marsic War’ where Rome and the nominally independent Italian city states that paid her tribute fought a war for control of all of Italy. In the first full year of this war. 90 B.C.E. the three moneyers (The ‘triumviri monetales’) were Q. Titianus, L. Piso Frugi, and C. Vibius C.F. Pansa. The number of coins struck in this year was very high to pay for the war. This was especially important because Rome lost two great battles that year, against the Marsi (thus Marsic War) and later against the Samnites. The war was eventually ‘won’ by Rome after offering Roman citizenship to all Italians who hadn’t fought against Rome or who would lay down their arms. Ironically, Roman citizenship for Italians was proposed by Livius Drusus, consul, in 91 B.C.E. For daring to propose this, he was assassinated. His assassination precipitated the war.

L. Piso Frugi from my Cabinet

C. Vibius C.F. Pansa from my Cabinet

Quintius Titius from my Cabinet

Quintius Titius Silver Denarius

Quintius Titius Silver Denarius

Q. Titius 90 B.C.E. Silver denarius, Pegasus 17 mm.

Obverse: Head of Mutinus Tutunus (or Priapus) right, bound with winged diadem.

Reverse: Pegasus rearing right on inscribed tablet: ‘QTITI’ Below. From Rome mint. Crawford 341/1; Sydenham 691; Titia 1. Formerly in Robert Kutcher collection.

The photograph at upper right does not do this coin justice. This Denarius has a smooth, rich ‘cabinet toned’ patina that is by by far the best in my collection. Note the sculptural aspect to Pegasus. Looking at the previous slide that shows examples of coins from all three moneyers in 90 B.C.E. it appears as if a Greek artist from three hundred years earlier was resurrected to cut the dies for this one. A sumptuous coin and one of my favorites.

Q. Titius 90 B.C.E. Silver denarius, Pegasus 17 mm.

Obverse: Head of Mutinus Tutunus (or Priapus) right, bound with winged diadem.

Reverse: Pegasus rearing right on inscribed tablet: ‘QTITI’ Below. From Rome mint. Crawford 341/1; Sydenham 691; Titia 1. Formerly in Robert Kutcher collection.

The photograph at upper right does not do this coin justice. This Denarius has a smooth, rich ‘cabinet toned’ patina that is by by far the best in my collection. Note the sculptural aspect to Pegasus. Looking at the previous slide that shows examples of coins from all three moneyers in 90 B.C.E. it appears as if a Greek artist from three hundred years earlier was resurrected to cut the dies for this one. A sumptuous coin and one of my favorites.

My Cabinet


L. Calpurnius Piso Frugi Silver Denarius

L. Calpurnius Piso Frugi Silver Denarius

Obverse: Laureate head of Apollo r., arrow behind. Arrow was there as Apollo as Archer was important given the beginning of the Social War.

Reverse: Horseman r, palm over shoulder; below, L PISO FRVGI / CIIII. Palm of Victory. Honoring the Games of Apollo. Message: Romans Win!L. Calpurnius Piso Frugi; Denarius, Rome, 90 B.C.E., 3.89g. Cr-340/1, Syd-663. My eye was drawn at first to the long hair locks of Apollo, but I was even more attracted to the spare image of the galloping horse and rider! The image is clean on the surface and gives a vibrant sense of speed. Marvelous piece. A common coin, but exciting nonetheless.

Obverse: Laureate head of Apollo r., arrow behind. Arrow was there as Apollo as Archer was important given the beginning of the Social War.

Reverse: Horseman r, palm over shoulder; below, L PISO FRVGI / CIIII. Palm of Victory. Honoring the Games of Apollo. Message: Romans Win!L. Calpurnius Piso Frugi; Denarius, Rome, 90 B.C.E., 3.89g. Cr-340/1, Syd-663. My eye was drawn at first to the long hair locks of Apollo, but I was even more attracted to the spare image of the galloping horse and rider! The image is clean on the surface and gives a vibrant sense of speed. Marvelous piece. A common coin, but exciting nonetheless.


My Cabinet

Horse from DaVinci Notebook

C. Vibius C.f. Pansa Silver Denarius

C. Vibius C.f. Pansa Silver Denarius

Obverse: Laureate head of Apollo Right. “Pansa” behind his head almost off the flan of the coin. Uncertain symbol below chin.

Reverse is Minerva in Quadriga with C Vibius CF in Exergue. Vibius is the more important ‘Family Clan Name’.The comparison coin shows what a less worn, and better executed, Pansa Denarius could look like. Stunning. Silver (AG) Denarius. Gaius Vibius C.F. Pansa was a Moneyer in 90 B.C.E., along with L. Calpurnius Piso Frugi & Quintus Titius. Also he was Military Tribune twice. This Denarius is standard weight for the time of 3.96g. This one is listed in Crawford-342/5b, Sydenham-684 Vibia 2.

Obverse: Laureate head of Apollo Right. “Pansa” behind his head almost off the flan of the coin. Uncertain symbol below chin.

Reverse is Minerva in Quadriga with C Vibius CF in Exergue. Vibius is the more important ‘Family Clan Name’.The comparison coin shows what a less worn, and better executed, Pansa Denarius could look like. Stunning. Silver (AG) Denarius. Gaius Vibius C.F. Pansa was a Moneyer in 90 B.C.E., along with L. Calpurnius Piso Frugi & Quintus Titius. Also he was Military Tribune twice. This Denarius is standard weight for the time of 3.96g. This one is listed in Crawford-342/5b, Sydenham-684 Vibia 2.

My Cabinet

Wildwinds.com Virtual Coin Archive.

C. Hosidius C.f. Geta Silver Denarius

C. Hosidius C.f. Geta Silver Denarius

Obverse: Diademed bust of Diana (Artemis) right; bow and quiver over shoulder. GETA in field right.

Reverse: Wild boar of Calydon right, pierced by spear and attacked by dog.

C. Hosidius C. f. Geta. 64 B.C. AR denarius (16 mm, 3.48 g). Crawford 407/2; Sydenham 903; Hosidia 1. Toned Fine THE HUS KALYDONIOS (or Calydonian Boar) was a gigantic boar sent by Artemis to ravage the countryside of Kalydon to punish King Oineus for neglecting her in the offering of the first fruits to the gods.The king summoned heroes from throughout Greece to hunt down the beast. The famed Calydonian Boar Hunt Excellent example of same type coin lower right. However, the ‘rough’ look of my coin was an attraction and I find both beautiful in different ways.


My Cabinet

Aulus Plautius Silver DenariusAulus Plautius Silver Denarius Obverse. Cybele facing right.

Reverse. ”Bacchius” kneeling with camel at side surrendering Judaea to Rome. Near EF. In 55 BC the moneyer Aulus Plautius issued a denarius whose obverse bears a turreted head of Cybele, likely a reference to the Megalesian games sponsored by Rome's curule aediles, a title Plautius included on his coin. Reverse shows a man kneeling beside a camel, extending an olive branch. The legend on the reverse is "BACCHIVS IVDAEUS" (Bacchius, King of the Jews). Enigmatic; no Bacchius King in Judea.

Auction Example

My Cabinet/Gift from Sue Malone

Auction Example

Enigma of Roman Numismatics? “Bacchius of Judea, on the reverse of the denarius of

Aulus Plautius, can with confidence be identified as Aristobulus II, High Priest of Judea. The coin shows that Plautius and the Senate either equated YHWH with Bacchus or believed that Aristobulus worshiped Bacchus* or equated these gods. That Aristobulus did in fact equate Bacchus and YHWH seems plausible, if not probable, based on Josephus, 2nd Maccabees and archaeological evidence. Thus it is likely that the coin's reverse inscription, "BACCHIUS IVDAEVS," accurately reflects the defeat and capture of a Jewish high priest of Bacchus.**

* Storage notes elsewhere that Judea in 55 BCE had been a highly Helenized, and divided, region.

** http://www.rome101.com/Bacchius/

The big question is who is Bacchius? The traditional coin Roman motif when Rome conquered or intimidated a region into paying tribute was to show the king of the country in a subordinate aspect such as kneeling and extending an olive branch of peace to the Roman ‘conquerors’. The problem is that there is no record of a King Bacchius in Judea, ever.

Scholars disagree, but theories run from the Moneyer Plautius, conflating YHWH with Bacchus (AKA Dionysus) and to conflating the name Bacchius with Aristobulus, Jewish high priest (suitable for recognition as a Jewish king).

William Storage sums up his conclusion succinctly as…

Three years before Plautius, Scaurus put Camel motif on Obverse of his coin.

Three years later, Plautius put same Camel motif on Reverse of his coin.

Antoninus Fulvius Pius Denarius

Antonius Pius AD 138-161, AR Denarius, 19mm, 3.21gm. old cabinet toning, C. 199, Ex: Mount Angel Abbey Collection

Obverse. . Laureate head right. Reverse. Vesta standing left.

Vesta was the Roman Goddess of the Hearth. That is, Goddess of the fireplace. The Temple of Vesta had a hearth that was tended by the Vestal Virgins. It was located in the Forum.

Each new years day, March 1 back then, the fire was put out and restarted in a big ceremony. If the fire went out any other day, it was considered disastrous to Rome.

Comparison Coin

My Cabinet

Diocletian AntoninianusDiocletian Antoninianus Obverse: IMP DIOCLETIANVS AVG,

radiate, draped & cuirassed bust right Reverse: IOVI AVGG, Jupiter seated left

holding Victory on globe & scepter, ‘I’ in exergue. Reverse is Excellent.

Diocletian ‘Silver’ Antoninianus was ‘silver washed’ when new, but no silver is left on this one. So this is a bronze, AE, Antoninianus. Ca; 290-294. Lyon mint?

Early Republican silver coins were pure and carefully weighed. This was when the Republic was powerful and its coinage reflected that power. As various later emperors suffered economic troubles, they first adulterated the silver with more bronze/copper, then when things were really bad, they washed the now all bronze coins with silver, as if people were fooled. They were not.

Obverse: IMP DIOCLETIANVS AVG, radiate, draped & cuirassed bust right

Reverse: IOVI AVGG, Jupiter seated left holding Victory on globe & scepter, ‘I’ in exergue. Reverse is Excellent.

Diocletian ‘Silver’ Antoninianus was ‘silver washed’ when new, but no silver is left on this one. So this is a bronze, AE, Antoninianus. Ca; 290-294. Lyon mint?

Early Republican silver coins were pure and carefully weighed. This was when the Republic was powerful and its coinage reflected that power. As various later emperors suffered economic troubles, they first adulterated the silver with more bronze/copper, then when things were really bad, they washed the now all bronze coins with silver, as if people were fooled. They were not. This ’Museum’ sample still has Silver Wash mostly

Intact. RIC 34, Cohen 169.

My Cabinet

Marcus Ulpius Trajanus SestertiusMarcus Ulpius Trajanus Sestertius

Obverse: The images show: head of Trajan facing right. Bronze Sestertius, RIC 503. British Museum Catalog BMC 800.

Reverse: Pax (Peace) holding a branch & cornucopia; trampling down Dacia. If you look carefully at the feet of the goddess on the top coin, you can see a "blob" that is the head & shoulders of a captive from Dacia. Modern Romania is the nearest location to the area known as Dacia. SC stands for Senatus Consulto (By order or authority of the Senate. Trajan was Emperor, but a nice piece of propaganda.)

Interesting note: Professor Wutheridge, played by Monty Wooly, in film The Bishop’s Wife, with Gary Grant, Loretta Young, and David Niven, in 1947, gave The Bishop’s Wife this type coin for the bishop’s “cathedral fund”. Though the movie called it ‘The Widows Mite’ weighing in at 22.5g and being 37mm wide, it’s hardly a ‘mite’.

Obverse: The images show: head of Trajan facing right. Bronze Sestertius, RIC 503. British Museum Catalog BMC 800.

Reverse: Pax (Peace) holding a branch & cornucopia; trampling down Dacia. If you look carefully at the feet of the goddess on the top coin, you can see a "blob" that is the head & shoulders of a captive from Dacia. Modern Romania is the nearest location to the area known as Dacia. SC stands for Senatus Consulto (By order or authority of the Senate. Trajan was Emperor, but a nice piece of propaganda.)

Interesting note: Professor Wutheridge, played by Monty Wooly, in film The Bishop’s Wife, with Gary Grant, Loretta Young, and David Niven, in 1947, gave The Bishop’s Wife this type coin for the bishop’s “cathedral fund”. Though the movie called it ‘The Widows Mite’ weighing in at 22.5g and being 37mm wide, it’s hardly a ‘mite’.

Near Perfect Museum Quality

My Cabinet

Trajan Bronze Follis

Syria, Laodicea ad Mare: Trajan AD 98-117 (Yr. 162 = AD 114/5). AE 26mm, 12.43gm.

Obverse. Laureate bust right Reverse. Turreted Crown and draped bust of

Tyche right, Date in legend around. VF, SNG Cop.346. Trajan AE 28mm of Laodikeia ad Mare. Syria.

114/5 AD. Laureate bust right, draped on left shoulder / IOULIEWN TWN KAI LAODIKEWN, Veiled and turreted bust of Tyche right.

Another example

My Cabinet

Trajan Bronze Provincial Syria Antioch Trajan AD 98-117. AE-29mm, 16.29gm. Laureate head right / SC within wreath. Fine, GIC 1078.

Obverse: Laureate head right. Reverse: SC (Ex Senatus Consulto: By

decree of the Senate) within wreath. Trajan of Antioch, Syria. IMP KAIC NEP

TPAIAN, laureate head right / large SC, small D below, all in wreath.

Comparison Examples

My Cabinet

http://www.wgs.cc/store/image/cache/data/WGS-252-700x700.jpg

Jewish Prutah

Obverse: Umbrella-like canopy with fringes, Agrippa Basilaeus. Agrippa King.

Reverse: Three ears of barley growing between two leave, flanked by date 41-42 CE. Really “Year 6” of Agrippa I’s reign.

Catalogued as Hendin #553. From Hendin’s Guide to Biblical Coins, 3rd Edition. “This is apparently the sole coin of Agrippa I that was struck for use in those of his territories largely populated by Jews. Indeed, archaeological evidence bears this out. The other coins of Agrippa I are rarely found in the territory of ancient Judea, but instead are found in the far north of Israel and in Jordan. Note: Agrippa I was savvy in that he did not put ‘graven images’ of the Roman Emperor or other deities on coins meant for Jewish consumption.

Obverse: Umbrella-like canopy with fringes, Agrippa Basilaeus. Agrippa King.

Reverse: Three ears of barley growing between two leave, flanked by date 41-42 CE. Really “Year 6” of Agrippa I’s reign.

Catalogued as Hendin #553. From Hendin’s Guide to Biblical Coins, 3rd Edition. “This is apparently the sole coin of Agrippa I that was struck for use in those of his territories largely populated by Jews. Indeed, archaeological evidence bears this out. The other coins of Agrippa I are rarely found in the territory of ancient Judea, but instead are found in the far north of Israel and in Jordan. Note: Agrippa I was savvy in that he did not put ‘graven images’ of the Roman Emperor or other deities on coins meant for Jewish consumption.

Comparison Coin from Harlan Berk Buy/Bid Sale number 155.

My Cabinet

Philip V - Macedonia Obverse: Macedonian shield with circular pattern

within border of dots.

Reverse: Plumed helmet with ear of grain and K below. 4.3g, 14mm, 1h. SNG Cp 1253v. Not very sharp detail. Reverse in poor shape.

Greek Macedonia AE14, Philip V 220-179 B.C.E.. Italy, was weakened by Hannibal, so Philip tried to take the Roman holdings in Illyria. He made a treaty with Hannibal in 215 which began the 1st Macedonian War with Rome (215-205), which Philip won. Philip aligned, in 202, with Antiochus III to expand in the Aegean by plundering the possessions of Ptolemy V but Rhodes and Pergamum asked Rome for help. This started the 2nd Macedonian War (200) which ended when Titus Quintus Flaminius beat Philip at Cynoscephalae (now Khalkodhonion) Hills in 197. After that, Philip collaborated with the Romans.

Obverse: Macedonian shield with circular pattern within border of dots.

Reverse: Plumed helmet with ear of grain and K below. 4.3g, 14mm, 1h. SNG Cp 1253v. Not very sharp detail. Reverse in poor shape.

Greek Macedonia AE14, Philip V 220-179 B.C.E.. Italy, was weakened by Hannibal, so Philip tried to take the Roman holdings in Illyria. He made a treaty with Hannibal in 215 which began the 1st Macedonian War with Rome (215-205), which Philip won. Philip aligned, in 202, with Antiochus III to expand in the Aegean by plundering the possessions of Ptolemy V but Rhodes and Pergamum asked Rome for help. This started the 2nd Macedonian War (200) which ended when Titus Quintus Flaminius beat Philip at Cynoscephalae (now Khalkodhonion) Hills in 197. After that, Philip collaborated with the Romans.

Good Quality Example

My Cabinet

Constantius II Follis

Obverse: FL IVL CONSTANTIVS NOB C (Flavius Julius Constantius Noblisimus Caesar) laureate and cuirassed bust right.

Reverse: GLORIA EXERCITVS, (The Glory of the Army) two soldiers, each holding spear and shield on ground, flanking two standards, DSIS in ex.

Bronze Follis (AE) 3, RIC 221, VF, Siscia mint, 1.54g, 18.5mm, 330 - 331 A.D. Highly cleaned so ‘brassy looking’. Museum comparison coin has nice protective green patina.

Obverse: FL IVL CONSTANTIVS NOB C (Flavius Julius Constantius Noblisimus Caesar) laureate and cuirassed bust right.

Reverse: GLORIA EXERCITVS, (The Glory of the Army) two soldiers, each holding spear and shield on ground, flanking two standards, DSIS in ex.

Bronze Follis (AE) 3, RIC 221, VF, Siscia mint, 1.54g, 18.5mm, 330 - 331 A.D. Highly cleaned so ‘brassy looking’. Museum comparison coin has nice protective green patina.

Comparison CoinNear Original Mint State

My Cabinet

Otacilia Severa AR Antoninianus

http://ettuantiquities.com/Philip_1/Otacilia-3.htm

Sear - 2629Seaby - 39VM - 10RIC - 115Obverse: "OTACIL SEVERA AVG" Diademed and draped bust right, on crescentMint and Year: Rome - undated (AD 248)Weight: 4.51 grams Die axis: 170 degreesRarity: common Reverse: "PIETAS AVGG"

Pietas (Piety, Dutifulness) standing half-left, holding box of perfume and raising right hand over altar; Greek character delta in field..Note This coin, with the Greek mint mark in field is part of the series of her husband and son.

Comparison example

My Cabinet

http://ettuantiquities.com/Philip_1/Otacilia-3.htm

Constantine I (The Great) AE-3 Bronze AE-3 (Follis). 20 mm widest

point. 2.82gms. Siscia Mint. AD 320. AE-3 (Follis) Obverse. Helmeted and cuirassed bust right

Constantine I. Reverse. VIRTVS EXERCIT, two captives

seated either side of banner inscribed VOT XX, S left, F right, BSIS* in exergue.

RIC (Roman Imperial Coinage) Volume VII. Number 109. Rarity Rating 3 (Very Rare).

Constantine was sole Roman Emperor at this time. He had not yet moved the capital of the empire to Byzantium. He didn’t dedicate that city, which he called ‘New Rome’ until 330. Siscia was the Latin name of today’s Sisak in Croatia. It lies on a more or less direct land line from northern Italy to Constantinople.

Museum quality example

My Cabinet

Constans AE 2 Centenionalis.


NicomediaRIC VIII 70

Constans AE Centenionalis. 348-351 AD. DN CONSTANS PF

AVG, diademed, draped & cuirassed bust left holding globe / FEL TEMP REPARATIO, soldier dragging young barbarian from hut

tree, SMNB in ex.,

Constans 333-350 AD As Augustus Ae Centenionalis 4.86g 20mm

Obverse: Diademed, draped & cuirassed bust right, holding globe. DN CONSTANS PF AVG

Reverse: Emperor leading barbarian from hut beneath palm tree. FEL TEMP REPARATIO Mint SMNB Nicomedia Sear 3976 Per scan. Though great detail, especially the reverse, the obverse is porous on the right side.

My Cabinet

Constantine II

Wildwinds.com example Mintmark: SMALB. RIC VII Alexandria 59, rated scarce.

Constantine II AE3. CONSTANTINVS IVN NOB C, laureate cuirassed bust right / GLORIA EXERCITVS, two soldiers holding spears & shields, two standards between them, *

Obv: CONSTANTINVS IVN NOB C, laureate, cuirassed bust right

Rev: GLOR-IA EXERC-ITVS, two soldiers holding spears and shields with two standards between them.

My Cabinet

Justinian (527-565) 40 Nummi

Justinian (527-565) 40 Nummi

Obverse: Justinian facing, holding globus cruciger (Globe with cross), and a shield decorated with a rider, cross in the right field. DN IVSTINIANVS PP AVG

Reverse: ANNO-XII, M in the center, cross above, B in the center, NIK (Nikomedia Mint) in exergue. Superb huge coin, dating to 538/9.

Very large bronze follis of Justinian (527-565 AD), measuring 45 mm X 43mm in diameter. , 18 g.

Obverse: Justinian facing, holding globus cruciger (Globe with cross), and a shield decorated with a rider, cross in the right field. DN IVSTINIANVS PP AVG

Reverse: ANNO-XII, M in the center, cross above, B in the center, NIK (Nikomedia Mint) in exergue. Superb huge coin, dating to 538/9.

Very large bronze follis of Justinian (527-565 AD), measuring 45 mm X 43mm in diameter. , 18 g.

Comparison Example

My Cabinet

Justin II & Sophia (565-578)Justin II & Sophia (565-578) Obverse: Justin II and Sophia facing. (Aelia

Sophia died c. 601 was his Empress consort. She was also Co-Emperor’ esp.. when Justin II suffered bouts of ‘insanity’. She ruled with great strength & was the smart one.) Justin Left with Globus Cruciger. Sophia Right with Cross. Latin inscriptions: Justinianus, PPAVG (“Justin Pater Patriae, father of his country, Augustus, Emperor).

Reverse: The "M" is the denomination. M=40. This is a 40 Nummi follis. Above the "M" is a Christian cross. On left "ANNO," means year, and the year of their reign is ‘regnal year’ is on right ” That is, year 5. CON means it was minted in Constantinople.

Follis AKA. 40 Nummis. 28 mm. VF. The nephew of Justinian he was selected for succession before his uncle’s death. Justinian left many problems due his overambitious plans. Within 5 years Italy was lost to Lombard invaders & Spain was lost to Visigoths. He started a war with Khusru by refusing to pay tribute. He abdicated to Tiberius (not that one).

Obverse: Justin II and Sophia facing. (Aelia Sophia died c. 601 was his Empress consort. She was also Co-Emperor’ esp.. when Justin II suffered bouts of ‘insanity’. She ruled with great strength & was the smart one.) Justin Left with Globus Cruciger. Sophia Right with Cross. Latin inscriptions: Justinianus, PPAVG (“Justin Pater Patriae, father of his country, Augustus, Emperor).

Reverse: The "M" is the denomination. M=40. This is a 40 Nummi follis. Above the "M" is a Christian cross. On left "ANNO," means year, and the year of their reign is ‘regnal year’ is on right ” That is, year 5. CON means it was minted in Constantinople.

Follis AKA. 40 Nummis. 28 mm. VF. The nephew of Justinian he was selected for succession before his uncle’s death. Justinian left many problems due his overambitious plans. Within 5 years Italy was lost to Lombard invaders & Spain was lost to Visigoths. He started a war with Khusru by refusing to pay tribute. He abdicated to Tiberius (not that one).

Example for comparison of Justin II and Sophia; note onBottom coin, NIKO on Reverse in exergue (under the line On the bottom of the reverse) says NIKO, Vs CON under

the top coin. Top coin was struck at Constantinople mint and Bottom coin was struck at mint in Nikomedia.

My Cabinet

ConstantinopleCoins of the Latin Kings

ConstantinopleCoins of the Latin Kings

3 Byzantine AE trachea. Latin rulers. The Latin Rulers were the result of the Fourth Crusade gone horribly wrong.

These coins are various Latin rulers of Constantinople and Thessalonica. This “Era of the Latin Kings” was from 1204-1261 AD. These coins actually have pretty good surfaces and detail for these issues.

Diameters of these ‘Scyphate’ or highly ‘cupped’ coins are 24mm approx. Compare to this Museum Quality Piece These are about as good as they get!

3 Byzantine AE trachea. Latin rulers. The Latin Rulers were the result of the Fourth Crusade gone horribly wrong.

These coins are various Latin rulers of Constantinople and Thessalonica. This “Era of the Latin Kings” was from 1204-1261 AD. These coins actually have pretty good surfaces and detail for these issues.

Diameters of these ‘Scyphate’ or highly ‘cupped’ coins are 24mm approx. Compare to this Museum Quality Piece These are about as good as they get!

ContinuedNextPage

There were five Latin Kings of Constantinople from 1204-1261 AD, and there is

documentary evidence that they minted coins. But

no coins have their names or other

identifying marks on them. (Probably due to control from Venice.) The three coins shown, are

images of Christ or the Archangel

Michael on front, with the King and the Virgin on the

back.

Latin Emperors of

Constantinople

1204-5 Baldwin I/Flanders

1206-16 Henry*/Flanders

1217 Peter of Courtenay

1217-19 Yolande (Regent)

1221-28 Robert***/Courtenay

1228-1261 Baldwin II***

1231 -37 John de Brienne

From Previous Page

My Pictures of same coins

*Henry, Brother of Baldwin**Yolande, wife of Peter/Courtenay

Mother of Robert & Baldwin II.***Robert & Baldwin were sons of Yolande & Peter.

Andronicus II & Michael IXGold Hyperpyron

Andronicus II & Michael IXGold Hyperpyron

ObverseObverse: Bust of the Virgin Orans within the : Bust of the Virgin Orans within the walls of Constantinople.walls of Constantinople.

ReverseReverse: Andronicus II & Michael IX : Andronicus II & Michael IX kneeling on either side of Christ who is kneeling on either side of Christ who is crowning both emperors. crowning both emperors.

AU, Gold, Hyperpyron of Andronicus II & Michael IX. Constantinople Mint. Romaion (Byzantine) Circa 1295 -1320 CE. 2.90g. Andronicus II was raised to co-emperor status by his father Michael VIII in 1272. Andronicus II inherited the throne in 1282. He elevated his son, Michael IX to share the throne in 1295. Michael died in 1320. A civil war ensued between Andronicus II and his grandson, Michael’s son, Andronicus III with whom he eventually shared power but not until the empire was further weakened. Note: Again, politics and propaganda, Virgin Mary (Orans) inside the gates of Constantinople protecting all within, and Christ blessing the two ‘new’ emperors.

ObverseObverse: Bust of the Virgin Orans within the : Bust of the Virgin Orans within the walls of Constantinople.walls of Constantinople.

ReverseReverse: Andronicus II & Michael IX : Andronicus II & Michael IX kneeling on either side of Christ who is kneeling on either side of Christ who is crowning both emperors. crowning both emperors.

AU, Gold, Hyperpyron of Andronicus II & Michael IX. Constantinople Mint. Romaion (Byzantine) Circa 1295 -1320 CE. 2.90g. Andronicus II was raised to co-emperor status by his father Michael VIII in 1272. Andronicus II inherited the throne in 1282. He elevated his son, Michael IX to share the throne in 1295. Michael died in 1320. A civil war ensued between Andronicus II and his grandson, Michael’s son, Andronicus III with whom he eventually shared power but not until the empire was further weakened. Note: Again, politics and propaganda, Virgin Mary (Orans) inside the gates of Constantinople protecting all within, and Christ blessing the two ‘new’ emperors. From Harlan J. Berk Auction

My Cabinet

The coin designs of my Andronicus II/Michael IX Basilikon (top right), Ivan Alexander Bulgarian Grosche (center right) share the same style/design with my Doge Soranzo Grosso (bottom right). The reasons for this are many:

1. Constantinople was the most stable of the countries in the area for nearly 1,000 years….so their money was recognized far outside their, shrinking, sphere of influence. Rapine by the Fourth Crusade allowed for the rise of the Bulgarian Empire and the Venetian trading empire.

2. Ivan Alexander, the Bularian Emperor, had created a similar coin intended to put the Bulgarian Empire on a par with both powers.

3. The Venetians had created a coin very similar in design to the Basilikon as they controlled most of the major Mediterranean ports formerly controlled by Byzantium.

4. The following quote is from the Fourth International Numismatic Congress meeting in 2004. “A close review of the types (of Bulgarian Grosche) shows that the immediate model for these coins was actually the Byzantine basilikon denomination of the Palaeologan emperors Andronicus II and Michael IX, rather than the Venetian grosso”.

5. So the order was likely “Basilikon, Grosche.” Still awaiting die studies to see where Grosso is in this mix.

The coin designs of my Andronicus II/Michael IX Basilikon (top right), Ivan Alexander Bulgarian Grosche (center right) share the same style/design with my Doge Soranzo Grosso (bottom right). The reasons for this are many:

1. Constantinople was the most stable of the countries in the area for nearly 1,000 years….so their money was recognized far outside their, shrinking, sphere of influence. Rapine by the Fourth Crusade allowed for the rise of the Bulgarian Empire and the Venetian trading empire.

2. Ivan Alexander, the Bularian Emperor, had created a similar coin intended to put the Bulgarian Empire on a par with both powers.

3. The Venetians had created a coin very similar in design to the Basilikon as they controlled most of the major Mediterranean ports formerly controlled by Byzantium.

4. The following quote is from the Fourth International Numismatic Congress meeting in 2004. “A close review of the types (of Bulgarian Grosche) shows that the immediate model for these coins was actually the Byzantine basilikon denomination of the Palaeologan emperors Andronicus II and Michael IX, rather than the Venetian grosso”.

5. So the order was likely “Basilikon, Grosche.” Still awaiting die studies to see where Grosso is in this mix.

Constantinople, Bulgaria, & VeniceConstantinople, Bulgaria, & Venice

Grosche of Bulgarian Empire

Basilikon of Constantinople

Grosso of Venice

Three ‘Empires’ co-incident and contemporary.

Andronicus II & Michael IXRomaion (Byzantine)Romaion (Byzantine) Silver Basilikon

Andronicus II & Michael IXRomaion (Byzantine)Romaion (Byzantine) Silver Basilikon

Obv. Christ seated on throne, his right hand in sling of his cloak with his left on book of Gospels. Letters IC to the left of Christ’s head, and XC to the Right.

Rev. Greek: “ANKOCOPI MXALHVO P (Andronicus II King). Andronicus has a fork-shaped beard. He is to the right with a beardless Michael IX who is standing facing & holding a patriarchal cross on a step between them.

Andronicus II & Michael IX; Basilikon, Constantinople, c. 1295-1320 AD, 1.70g. Sear-2402. Areas of flat striking, otherwise aEF. Sear Byzantine Coins and their Values # sb2400. Andronicus II and Michael IX. 1295-1320 AD. AR Basilikon. 1.70g. Sear - sb2400. Constantinople Mint. Christ enthroned / AVTOKPATOPEC POMEON, Andronicus and Michael standing, holding labarum between them.

Obv. Christ seated on throne, his right hand in sling of his cloak with his left on book of Gospels. Letters IC to the left of Christ’s head, and XC to the Right.

Rev. Greek: “ANKOCOPI MXALHVO P (Andronicus II King). Andronicus has a fork-shaped beard. He is to the right with a beardless Michael IX who is standing facing & holding a patriarchal cross on a step between them.

Andronicus II & Michael IX; Basilikon, Constantinople, c. 1295-1320 AD, 1.70g. Sear-2402. Areas of flat striking, otherwise aEF. Sear Byzantine Coins and their Values # sb2400. Andronicus II and Michael IX. 1295-1320 AD. AR Basilikon. 1.70g. Sear - sb2400. Constantinople Mint. Christ enthroned / AVTOKPATOPEC POMEON, Andronicus and Michael standing, holding labarum between them.

Museum Quality

My Cabinet

Ivan Alexander & Michael AsenBulgaria Silver Grosche

Silver Groshe, Bulgarian Empire 1331-1355 AD, Ivan Alexander and Michael Asen.

Obverse: Christ nimbate and enthroned facing, both hands raised in benediction. 21mm, 1.50 grams

Reverse: Ivan on left, his son Michael. (Tsar Ivan Alexander (left) and his co-emperor Michael Asen (right); banner between them. At their feet, at each side of the staff are stars.

Ivan Alexander ruled as Emperor (Tsar; from Caesar) of Bulgarian Empire from 1331 to 1371. The date of his birth is unknown. He died on February 17, 1371. The long reign of this extremely competent leader is considered to be a key transitional period in Bulgarian history. He started his rule by dealing with internal problems and external threats from Bulgaria's neighbors, the Byzantine Empire and Serbia. He also carried Bulgaria into a period of economic recovery and cultural and religious renewal.


My Cabinet

Doge Soranzo & St Mark Venice Silver Grosso

Venice, AR grosso - Giovanni Soranzo, 1312-1328 AD. 20mm, 2.16 grams

Obverse: Christ on a throne holding book of Gospels between IC - XC

Reverse: IO' SVRANTIO - DVX S M VENETI Doge (military governor) and St. Mark standing facing, holding standard between them, DVX vertically to left of pole. St. Mark is holding a book of Gospels as well.

Product of the Zecca, the Medieval Venetian Mint. This particular coin has a relatively strong strike on Christ's features for this issue. Also, significant clipping around the edges. The Iconography of Christ is the same as used by the Russian Orthodox church. Museum quality example

My Cabinet

Spalapati Deva Drachm “Bull

& Horseman”

Spalapati Deva Drachm “Bull

& Horseman” Obverse: Brahma Bull reclining left, Sri

Spalapati Deva in Nagari script above. Reverse: Horseman advancing r., Corrupt

Brahmi script, Shahi Deva (?) to right. Kabul mint.

Hindu Shahis Silver (AR) drachm or jital (19mm) Sri Spalapati Deva c. 750-900 AD. Size: 22 mm Weight: 11.71 g, Spalapati Deva is a title equivalent to "Military Commander". Note the ‘Brahma Bull’s hump. Horse has an almost ‘Iberian Celtic’ style. A relatively common, but interesting, silver coin.

Obverse: Brahma Bull reclining left, Sri Spalapati Deva in Nagari script above.

Reverse: Horseman advancing r., Corrupt Brahmi script, Shahi Deva (?) to right. Kabul mint.

Hindu Shahis Silver (AR) drachm or jital (19mm) Sri Spalapati Deva c. 750-900 AD. Size: 22 mm Weight: 11.71 g, Spalapati Deva is a title equivalent to "Military Commander". Note the ‘Brahma Bull’s hump. Horse has an almost ‘Iberian Celtic’ style. A relatively common, but interesting, silver coin.

Comparison Coin

My Cabinet

‘Seals of Solomon’‘Seals of Solomon’

Solomon's Seal from a 3rd century Synagogue.

In the year 1536, Sultan Suleiman (Soloman) the Magnificent ordered extensive restorations on the Temple Mount and converted the church which had been built on Mount Zion during the Crusader conquest into a mosque. By building this mosque, Suleiman linked himself both to Solomon the son of David and the Davidic Messiah who, according to Christian belief, is Jesus. It was Sultan Suleiman's messianic consciousness which led him to develop the link between himself and King Solomon. He incorporated the ‘Seal of Suleiman in his rebuilding efforts.



The coinage of various Islamic cultures incorporated the Seal as their own and put on their coinage. Jews did not adopt re-adopt this seal as their symbol until nationalist sentiment began to coalesce among the various groups of the Diaspora. This began in earnest in the 18th Century. So most ‘ancient coins’ (really from time time of Mohammed) that have Seals of Solomon on them have actually been found from about the 9th Century through the 20th!

Coin is from 1211 AH (Islamic CalendarWhich is 1796 CE

‘Seals of Solomon’‘Seals of Solomon’





My Cabinet

Library“Buy the book, before the coin”

Library“Buy the book, before the coin”

The premier price guide for coins from the United Kingdom and England. Totally updated for 2007 with color pictures and a new numbering system.Good for British Celtic, Roman Celtic, Dark and Middle Age British Coins.Gift from SDZ December 2007.

The premier price guide for coins from the United Kingdom and England. Totally updated for 2007 with color pictures and a new numbering system.Good for British Celtic, Roman Celtic, Dark and Middle Age British Coins.Gift from SDZ December 2007.

LibraryLibrary

David Vagi's award-winning two-volume reference Coinage and History of the Roman Empire. Volumes 1 & 2.Good for coin information & Roman history of Late Republican (82 B.C.E.) to Late Western Empire 480 AD.

David Vagi's award-winning two-volume reference Coinage and History of the Roman Empire. Volumes 1 & 2.Good for coin information & Roman history of Late Republican (82 B.C.E.) to Late Western Empire 480 AD.

LibraryLibraryLibraryLibrary

La Tour II is the premier illustrated reference for Continental Celtic Coins. It contains 1,939 coin drawings by Leon Dardel, including 198 British Celtic Coins. Size British A5. This edition is fully revised with improved illustration printing.

La Tour II is the premier illustrated reference for Continental Celtic Coins. It contains 1,939 coin drawings by Leon Dardel, including 198 British Celtic Coins. Size British A5. This edition is fully revised with improved illustration printing.

Library

British Iron Age Coins in the British Museum is the only comprehensive catalogue of this outstanding collection. Hardback, 246 pages, 137 black and white plates, 4,581 coins illustrated and described in full detail, summary of Celtic coinages in seven regions, map and list of all the main Celtic hoards found from 1781 to 1991. Out of print. Essential reference for all collectors. £50

British Iron Age Coins in the British Museum is the only comprehensive catalogue of this outstanding collection. Hardback, 246 pages, 137 black and white plates, 4,581 coins illustrated and described in full detail, summary of Celtic coinages in seven regions, map and list of all the main Celtic hoards found from 1781 to 1991. Out of print. Essential reference for all collectors. £50

LibraryThe most widely used reference in the field of ancient Biblical and Jewish Coins. It lists more than 500 different coins. This edition has numerous plates of all the coins and weights that were money, or served as money, or were related to trade during Biblical times. Hendin compiles the knowledge he has gained over 35 years of collecting Biblical Coins. He is also a recognized expert in Fake Biblical coins. Due to the extraordinary interest in coins from the time, and locations, referenced in the Bible, Biblical coins are some of the most frequently faked coins. This book is considered to be essential for any Ancient Coin Collectors library.

LibraryEditor’s Description: An Untold number of books have chronicled--and even pictured--the history of money. These range from scholarly economic treatises to lavishly illustrated works to John Kenneth Galbraith's sweeping Money: Whence It Came, Where It Went (1975). This new look at the growth and development of ancient monetary systems and the origins of coinage occupies a niche somewhere in between. Williams is a curator in the Department of Coins and Medals at the British Museum and a specialist in Roman and Iron Age coins. In the context of today's increasingly "cashless society," this is a fascinating survey of the roles played by various cultures in the concept and evolution of money and exchange. Williams traces the rise and diversity of various mediums of exchange and coinage in Mesopotamia, ancient Greece and Egypt, the Roman world, medieval Europe, Islamic lands, and Asia, Africa, and Oceania. The text is superbly enhanced by more than 500 illustrations, more than 200 of which will be in color. David Rouse --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Editor’s Description: An Untold number of books have chronicled--and even pictured--the history of money. These range from scholarly economic treatises to lavishly illustrated works to John Kenneth Galbraith's sweeping Money: Whence It Came, Where It Went (1975). This new look at the growth and development of ancient monetary systems and the origins of coinage occupies a niche somewhere in between. Williams is a curator in the Department of Coins and Medals at the British Museum and a specialist in Roman and Iron Age coins. In the context of today's increasingly "cashless society," this is a fascinating survey of the roles played by various cultures in the concept and evolution of money and exchange. Williams traces the rise and diversity of various mediums of exchange and coinage in Mesopotamia, ancient Greece and Egypt, the Roman world, medieval Europe, Islamic lands, and Asia, Africa, and Oceania. The text is superbly enhanced by more than 500 illustrations, more than 200 of which will be in color. David Rouse --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

LibraryHarlan J. Berk, The 100 Greatest Ancient Coins, Whitman Publishing Company, 2008

Harlan J. Berk, the founder and president of Harlan J. Berk Ltd., has created the most important literary work of his long career. The coins covered in this volume range from the first type-less electrum struck in Asia Minor in the 7th Century B.C.E. to the desperate silver issues of the last Byzantine emperor, Constantine XI, in 1453. Coins of major rarity are discussed as well as common issues that had a strong social, political or economic impact on their time. This is one of the few books that covers the entire time frame of ancient numismatics. While it is a useful book for beginners, it is also worthwhile for experienced numismatists since a number of newly discovered coins and new interpretations are part of this 140 page book.

Harlan J. Berk, The 100 Greatest Ancient Coins, Whitman Publishing Company, 2008

Harlan J. Berk, the founder and president of Harlan J. Berk Ltd., has created the most important literary work of his long career. The coins covered in this volume range from the first type-less electrum struck in Asia Minor in the 7th Century B.C.E. to the desperate silver issues of the last Byzantine emperor, Constantine XI, in 1453. Coins of major rarity are discussed as well as common issues that had a strong social, political or economic impact on their time. This is one of the few books that covers the entire time frame of ancient numismatics. While it is a useful book for beginners, it is also worthwhile for experienced numismatists since a number of newly discovered coins and new interpretations are part of this 140 page book.

Education

Collection of ancient coins