Moneta's Temple and Gallery

China - Lead imitation cowrie

Moneta — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 17:30:58 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: The Chinese cataloger states that this is an early lead type from the Zhou Dynasty manufactured before 750 B.C.E. It's 13 x 30 mm and weighs 6.67 g. Hartill has a related type as H# 1.2, VF and retains burial deposits.

Rome - Aurelian & Vabalathus Antoninianus

Moneta — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 17:18:35 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Aurelian (270 - 275 A.D.) this coin struck between late 270 and early 272 AD. Antoninianus from the Antioch mint, 3rd Officina, 1st immission. Radiate & cuirassed bust of Aurelian on the obverse with 'S' below. Reverse features the laureate bust of Vabalathus (Palmyra) draped and cuirassed. g VF RIC V#381, BN1244-5. I'll update with a short history of this double portrait coin.

Rome - Legion X Fretensis Counterstamps (x2)

Moneta — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 17:06:03 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: The price of these Judean (Syria) Legionary counterstamps is high in the market but I try to acquire all Legion X Frentensis material that I can find. Countermarks were applied in the late 1st C. A.D. OB: Bust in oval countermark. Rev: galley in rectangular countermark on a Judea Capta bronze (?). For this exact type (perhaps this one) see Hendin # 6644. For the suspected host coin see Hendin 6472-4. Countermarks are VF on a fair host. The host may be a Judea Capta series coin of Vespasian from the mint of Caesarea Maritima, H#6472. It's ~ 22mm at 3.59 g.

Rome - Legion X Fretensis Counterstamps (x2)

Moneta — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 17:06:03 -0400

Rome - Legion X Fretensis Counterstamps (x2)

Moneta — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 17:06:03 -0400

China - Green Bone imitation cowrie, encased

Moneta — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 16:50:36 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Here's another green bone cowrie, this one encased in China. The label states "Pre-Qin [dynasty] Shanxi Bone Shell." This is 40.1 x 12.2 mm and weighs 1.39 g.

China - Green Bone imitation cowrie

Moneta — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 16:41:45 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Green bone cowries are scarcer than natural colored ones and are often well craved. The green color comes from being found in or near bronze burial vessels. This one has two small holes and is 32 x 21mm.

Italy - 5 Lire 1911 50th Anniversary of the Kingdom

Moneta — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 13:27:24 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: ITALY. Vittorio Emanuele III. (Emperor, 1900-1946). 1911-R AR 5 Lire. PCGS AU58, better than photo. 50th Anniversary of the Kingdom. Rome. Head left / Two classical figures standing. Italy - 5 Lire 1911 50 Years of Unification. In the field there are two figures: the female represents Italy and the male, seated on an altar, Rome. Behind the figures there is a giant steam warship adorned with festoons and with the Scudo Sabaudo on the bow. At the left of the figures is a plow covered with flowers with 1861-1911. Edge lettering: *FERT*∞*FERT*∞*FERT*∞. Medal alignment ^^. Engraver: Domenico Trentacoste. KM 53; Dav.-143; Gigante 71; MIR 1135a; Mont.-110; Pagani 707. This addition completes the 50th Anniversary of the Kingdom four coin commemorative set, all in AU - Unc. FERT was the motto of the house of Savoy, adopted by King Vittorio Amedeo II (1666-1732). It is thought to be an acronym, though what it stands for have been lost to time. Theories include: 1. Foedere Et Religione Tenemur (Latin, ‘treaty and religion bind us’) 2. Fortitudo Eius Rempublicam Tenet (Latin, ‘his bravery [or strength] preserves [or defends] the state’) 3. Fides Est Regni Tutela (Latin, ‘faith is the protector of [our] kingdom’) This seems to be the most likely meaning of the acronym FERT (ed). [Numista] Italy issued a series of beautiful coins to celebrate the 50th Year of the Kingdom (unified; 1861 - 1911). The silver 2 Lire is affordable, with a nice example here in the Moneta Museum, while the 5 Lire is very expensive in high grades, as is the gold 50 Lire, I had to settle for this exceptional AU 58. Only 60,000 of these were struck. See the 10 Centesimi here in the Museum, which is the only other coin in the 1911 Anniversary series. Obverse shows the portrait of the King of Italy, Vittorio Emanuele III. Reverse, are two standing figures: the female represents Italy and the male Rome. Behind the figures there is a giant steel WWI war ship. It's interesting to note that the 10 Centesimi and 2 Lire coins feature the wooden ship but the reverse design is changed for the 5 Lire and this 50 Lire piece with the war ship now changed to a steel war ship that is garlanded. Design by Italian designer D. Trentacoste and Luigi Giorgi INC. The ANA's "Numismatist" for Oct 2020 (p.39) has a nice little feature on the coins of Vittorio Emanuele III at this: http://onlinedigitalpublishing.com/publication/frame.php?i=673359&p=&pn=&ver=html5

Hungary - 100 Korona 1908

Moneta — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 12:48:18 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Emperor Franz Joseph I; (18 Aug 1830 – 21 Nov.1916) he was Emperor of Austria, King of Hungary, and the ruler of the other states of the Habsburg monarchy from 2 December 1848 until his death in 1916. In the early part of his reign, his realms and territories were referred to as the Austrian Empire, but were reconstituted as the dual monarchy of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1867. From 1 May 1850 to 24 Aug 1866, he was also president of the German Confederation. I'm not sure yet how you tell the difference between the originals and the 1974 restrikes. Numista shows the K.B. mintmark implying that's the original but doesn't show any of the past sales without the KB. The original 1908 has a mintage figure of 4,038 while the unmarked restrikes have a mintage of 475.859 K! That's a big difference but for past sales I'm not seeing that scarcity difference showing up in sales prices. Further research req. to determine how to tell the difference between the two strikes.

USA - Morgan Eagle Dollar tribute of The Smithsonian Collection

Moneta — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 19:33:34 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: The Smithsonian Collection (Washington DC) has minted many varieties of coins, and coin patterns, etc. as restrikes. It's an amazing variety of reproductions but most are not per the originals and do not display 'COPY'. Most are seldom seen for sale and I can't find a list of what has been minted over the years. It would appear that the mintages, especially in the precious metals, are fairly scarce. One exception is are the restrikes of the Confederate States of America one cents that are available readily in platinum, gold, silver and copper. This Morgan Dollar is .5 ounce of .999 gold (15.552 g AGW) in an NGC holder of Proof 70 Ultra Cameo. This is the original Stacks & Bowers auction photo.

Anglesey Pary's Mines 1790 Boulton Dumarest Pattern

Moneta — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 19:51:15 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Amlwch, Parys Mines Company; D&H 380, Boulton’s pattern halfpenny by Dumarest struck in copper, 13.07g. A highly collectible bronzed issue, with just a few struck. About uncirculated. An important issue with the title of being the first regular sized token, in collar, manufactured by steam press at Boulton’s Soho Mint. The edge is: PAYABLE IN ANGLESEY OR LONDON (with remainder engrailed). More to come on this important issue. Purchased from The Last Druid Auction (1/24) Lot #20 at ~$470.00

French Rev. - 5 Sols Silver, Monneron & Boulton 1792

Moneta — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 21:51:16 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: More to come on the detailed description. Reynaud 2d type w/o last "T" of DEPARTMEN(T)S on the edge, petit coin strike that's a hair short 28 g. This is a silver plating made during manufacture in Birmingham U.K. (Monneron) rather than the phony types silvered later. It's clear to me that the official silver plated ones are far scarcer than the official gold plated rarities.

Mexico - 50 Pesos 1947 Matte Restrike

Moneta — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 19:18:13 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: MEXICO. 50 Pesos Restrike, "1947" also known as a "Centenario" from the Mexico City Mint. NGC MS-69. Designed by Emilio del Moral, the coins feature an image of Winged Victory signifying the Angel of Independence. In her right hand, she holds a laurel crown, representing victory. In her left hand, she holds broken chains symbolizing freedom. This image also represents the famed statue, fondly called El Ángel, that the people of Mexico erected in 1910 in central Mexico City to celebrate 100 years since the beginning of their war for independence from Spain. The reverse showcases the Mexican Coat of Arms as well as an eagle atop a cactus devouring a serpent. Fr-172R; KM-481. AGW: 1.2057 oz. Restrike issue from new dies. A nearly flawless example of this iconic large gold type with velvety surfaces and an enticing rich golden color. During 1949-1972 a total of 3,975,654 pieces, most likely dated 1947, were restruck an an additional 473,900 pieces dated 1947 were restruck during 2000-2017. In 1996 matte restrikes were produced. NGC: 48 graded MS 69; twelve higher.

Mexico - 50 Pesos 1947 Matte Restrike

Moneta — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 19:18:13 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: MEXICO. 50 Pesos Restrike, "1947". Mexico City Mint. NGC MS-69. Fr-172R; KM-481. AGW: 1.2057 oz. Restrike issue from new dies. A nearly flawless example of this iconic large gold type with velvety surfaces and an enticing rich golden color. During 1949-1972 a total of 3,975,654 pieces, most likely dated 1947, were restruck an an additional 473,900 pieces dated 1947 were restruck during 2000-2017. In 1996 matte restrikes were produced. NGC: 48 graded MS 69; twelve higher.

Mexico - 50 Pesos 1947 Matte Restrike

Moneta — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 19:18:13 -0500

John Wilkinson Penny 1787 - The First

Moneta — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 22:52:39 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Warwickshire (Warks), Willey 1787. John Wilkinson, The "Iron Master" copper, 14.06g. This important issue is believed to be the first of the Wilkinson issues. The reverse features a man working at a drop hammer. The edge lettering is "WILLEY SNEDSHILL BERSHAM BRADLEY." The big distinction variety here is the window on the back wall, no other Wilkinson issue features this window. It’s assumed that these were actually made with the intent of being penny denominations but merchants, given the size of the tokens, refused to accept them. Notice there is no denomination on Wilkinson tokens, unlike the Anglesey pennies and halfpennies issued in the same year. Also, this appears to be the only Iron Master token that doesn't have rim denticles. This example has some scattered handling, Scarce. The following from Jon Lusk's book "British and Irish Tradesmen and Their Copper Tokens 1787 - 1805": John Wilkinson (1728-1808) was truly an iron master. He was also heavily involved financially, in the copper industry. (Adding copper to cast iron increases its strength and corrosion resistive properties.) He held shares in Cornish copper mines such as United Mines, North Downs, Consolidated Mines, Poldice, Scorrier, Wheal Bussy, Tresaven, and Chasewater. He held patents for a number of processes, one being the boring of iron cannons. In 1787 he launched the first iron barge, mocked by the locals until it actually floated. (ed. as the ancient prognostication states "Iron in the water shall float As easy as a wooden boat.") See the other reverse types that depict an sailing river barge or a figure of Vulcan hammering at an anvil. Die sinker and manufacturer is John Hancock.

Belgium - Ghent 1915 2 Franken, thick '2' both sides copper

Moneta — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 19:27:05 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Emergency money for Belgium and the Flemish Ghent (Gent) region during WWI German occupation (1915 - 1918). Designed by the famous sculptor Georges Verbanck. These were somehow used/issued by the Germans to encourage the Flemish separatist movement from Belgium. Beautiful execution of an iron planchet that should be plated with brass and copper, but here there's an error and both sides are copper. Additionally, this appears to be an undocumented variety that has a THICK '2', similar to the variety of a thick '50' in the Centimes series. Compare this example to a regular issue 2 Franken here in the Museum. Other denominations exist in this series (1 Frank, 50 Centimes), some are round. There seems to be a wide variation of prices asked for these in the European market. I've seen asking prices of over $500 (high grade). Generally, I'd say paying more than about $100 would be a mistake. Half that amount is about right and the various denominations, shapes, etc. seem to be equally available. An iron coin with bras plating on the obverse and copper on the reverse to help prevent counterfeiting. In the series the 2 Franken is the most common and doesn't seem to have any varieties available. Year and value within circle and diamond. Lettering along edges, in Dutch above, in French below. Lettering: UITBETAALBAAR OP 1 JANUARIJ 1918 1915 2 FR REMBOURSABLE LE 1 JANVIER 1918 Translation: Refundable on January 1, 1918 1915 2 Francs Refundable on January 1, 1918 VIEW & DOWNLOAD: Here's a link to the article I wrote for the "NI Bulletin" [Sep/Oct 2023], the bimonthly publication of Numismatics International. It explores the conditions of the WWI minting of these unusual emergency coins of Ghent, Belgium - click this: www.moneta-coins.com/library/Ghent%20Belgium%20Emergency%20Coins%201915.pdf

Belgium - Ghent WWI Emergency Money, 10 Centimes

Moneta — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 18:31:45 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: City of Ghent (Province of East Flanders) under King Albert I (1909-1934), in exiled government in London. Woman in center, surrounded by flowers and the heraldic lion in front and bottom. Not physically in the Moneta Museum. Lettering: STAD GENT; Translation: City of Ghent. Reverse lettering: UIT BETAALBAAR 10c JANUARI 1920 [Translation:] Exchangeable 10c January 1920 In early 1918, the occupation government requisitioned all available metal. The municipal administration was then forced to order 10 and 25 cent cardboard coins. The artist who designed these monetary tokens is René Decramer. They were printed by the Vanderpoorten institutions. Reference cited is Laurens Aernout, 2017; "Catalgus van Belgische Numismaticsche Uitgiften: 1831 - 2017" VIEW & DOWNLOAD: Here's a link to the article I wrote for the "NI Bulletin" [Sep/Oct 2023], the bimonthly publication of Numismatics International. It explores the conditions of the WWI minting of these unusual emergency coins of Ghent, Belgium - click this: www.moneta-coins.com/library/Ghent%20Belgium%20Emergency%20Coins%201915.pdf

Belgium - Ghent WWI Cardboard Emergency Money, 25 Centimes

Moneta — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 18:26:41 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: City of Ghent (Province of East Flanders) under King Albert I (1909-1934), in exiled government in London. Woman in center, surrounded by flowers and the heraldic lion in front and bottom. Not physically in the Moneta Museum. Lettering: STAD GENT; Translation: City of Ghent. Reverse lettering: UIT BETAALBAAR 25c JANUARI 1920 [Translation:] Exchangeable 25c January 1920 In early 1918, the occupation government requisitioned all available metal. The municipal administration was then forced to order 10 and 25 cent cardboard coins. The artist who designed these monetary tokens is René Decramer. They were printed by the Vanderpoorten institutions. Reference cited is Laurens Aernout, 2017; "Catalgus van Belgische Numismaticsche Uitgiften: 1831 - 2017" VIEW & DOWNLOAD: Here's a link to the article I wrote for the "NI Bulletin" [Sep/Oct 2023], the bimonthly publication of Numismatics International. It explores the conditions of the WWI minting of these unusual emergency coins of Ghent, Belgium - click this: www.moneta-coins.com/library/Ghent%20Belgium%20Emergency%20Coins%201915.pdf

Rome - Aes Formatum Cockle Shell - ca. 5th-3rd centuries BCE

Moneta — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 15:17:31 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Not as impressive as the the other, larger, Aes Formatum cockle shell shown here in the Moneta Museum, but this one is in the Museum. It took a long while to hammer one down for the collection. Heritage description: Anonymous (ca. 5th-3rd centuries BC). AE aes formatum (26mm, 11.02 gm). As made. Cast leaded bronze in the form of a cockle shell. Thurlow & Vecchi p. 20. From the Salassi III Collection. These have been found in various places around the Mediterranean Sea, including Spain and Croatia, all places trading with Rome. The Aes Formatum are the sucessor of the Aes Rude (unshaped cast bronze pieces) and the predecessor to the Aes Grave (large heavy bronze coins). These are formed pieces of cast bronze, imitating actual objects or taking on recognizable shapes. Because the Aes Formatum system did not have a standard value, the values were determined based on the weights of the individual pieces. The Shell shape has confirmible weights varying from 5 to 121 grams. 400 BC - 201 BCE [Numista] Fifth century Rome saw the official valuation of bronze at equivalents of oxen and sheep, when in c. 450 the decemvirs codified the Roman Law in the famous 'Twelve Tablets' which recognized the bronze currency in use in central Italy (i.e., 1000 Asserae= 1 ox, 100 lbs of bronze = 1 ox, 10 Asserae= 1 sheep, etc). A system of barter with copper objects had long existed in central Italy where copper was plentiful and valued while silver was rare and gold nearly non-existent. The Italic population had produced Aes Rude from very early times and they are often found in hoards of votive deposits to divinities of fountains and rivers from the first half of the 1st millennium B.C. down to the end of the 4th century B.C. Called aes formatum by Haeberlin, this very rare bronze currency was a precursor to the issues of aes grave but later than aes rude. [Agora Auctions; Agora Sale 28 #74. and Sale 101 #270] VIEW: A great source of information on this very early form of "Coinage" is the NumisWiki at this https://www.forumancientcoins.com/numiswiki/view.asp?key=aes%20formatum

France - 5 Decimes Regeneration Fountain LAn 2

Moneta — Mon, 22 May 2023 18:29:49 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: The Egyptian fountain statue (goddess Isis) emit the waters of restoration and a gentleman helps the poor citizen to drink of the essence of rejuvenation. More to follow, see below. OB: "REGENERATION FRANCAISE" around, in exergue "10 AOUT 1793." which translates as '10 August 1793' with the revolutionary symbol of a masons level below. Stacks Bowers sale of May '23. These are rare but occasionally obtainable. PCGS AU cleaned. Engraved by the premier designer Dupre, his name is engraved on the statue base and indicated with the Libetry Cap privy mark. Auction description: FRANCE. 5 Decimes, L'An 2-A (1793). Paris Mint. PCGS Genuine--Cleaned, AU Details. Gad-390; Maz-261. Known as the "Regeneration" 2 Sols, indicating that just as the goddess Isis regenerates water from her body to give to a citizen to drink, so does the new Franc regenerate from the Revolution. Another site describes this as: Convention, 5 Decimes regeneration, Year L'AN 2, 1793 Paris. A/ REGENERATION – FRENCH. Nature in the guise of Isis causes the water of Regeneration to spring from her bosom. The President of the Assembly gives this water to drink to a citizen; signature Dupré and in the exergue: AUGUST 10, 1793 and square. R/ .(cap). FRENCH REPUBLIC. .(Workshop).. Crown, center: 5/ DECIMES/ YEAR 2. Maz.261 – G.390/1 – F.172A. Copper – 25.14 g – 35.3 mm – 6 h. Inscribed edge: ÉGALITÉ. LIBERTÉ. INDIVISIBILITÉ; [EQUALITY. FREEDOM. INDIVISIBILITY]. This coin of 5 Decimes (or 50 Centimes or 1/2 Franc) is recognized as official by Mazard. Indeed, there is a manufacturing decree and it has been regularly put into circulation. It is now classified as a FRANC (.5 fractional). Only 154,278 struck (this seems very high as they're not that common, not KM listed). And yet another description: Obverse description: an envoy of the primary assemblies, carrying a flag, receives a cup from the President of the Convention who holds a branch in his left hand in front of a fountain, surmounted by a statue of Isis, making water gush from her breasts of Regeneration; a leopard (also a Privy mark) on its left side and signed DUPRE on the base; below are inscribed the words 10 AOUT 1793; at the bottom is expressed the privy mark from the director (masons level) & (PHRYGIAN BONNET). Reverse legend: FRENCH REPUBLIC. / .AT.. Reverse description: in the center within a wreath formed of a laurel branch on the left and an oak branch on the right in four lines: 5 / DÉCIMES / - / L'AN 2.. Liberty Cap symbol: Augustin Dupré, general engraver of currencies , Paris (1793-1794). Masons level symbol: Jean-Jacques-Joseph Anfrye, Manufacturing Director of the Mint , Paris (1793-1794). Following the implementation of the new units of measurement by the decree of May 26, 1791, the first decimal coin was minted under the Convention, it was the 5 DECIMES Year 2 of Dupré (commemorating August 10, 1793) whose production began on January 20, 1794. Under the Republican Conventional Calendar Year L'AN II of the Republic: is from September 22, 1793 to September 21, 1794. This calendar will be adopted by decree of October 5, 1793. September 22, 1792, the first day of the Republic and day of the autumnal equinox was established as the first of L'AN I. The names of the days and months were chosen by the poet Fabre d'Eglantine. Napoleon will restore the Gregorian calendar to January 1, 1806. The site InfoNumis [ http://www.infonumis.info/historique&description/Convention/index.htm ] describes this coin in great detail, including 7 varieties, most very rare. There the different mintage figures (954, 77k, 155k) written by various authors, is settled at the 77k figure, which still seems way too high for the numbers seen in the market.

France - 5 Centimes Rejuvenation Fountain LAn 2

Moneta — Mon, 22 May 2023 18:29:49 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: I believe this is an early French Revolution trial piece of 1791. I'm still looking for the detailed description of this coin. The Egyptian fountain statue emit the waters of restoration and a gentleman helps the poor citizen to drink of the essence of rejuvenation. More to follow. Stacks Bowers sale of May '23. These are rare but occasionally obtainable. PCGS AU cleaned.

Service on the Mexican Border 1916

Moneta — Mon, 08 May 2023 19:34:56 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: This is good luck pocket piece given to soldiers, usually by family members to take on deployment. This NGC MS63 brown (and probably antiqued) is in unusually good condition and quite rare thus. Many of these soldiers were part of General Pershing push into Mexico to stop border incursions and Pancho Villa. While I have a few examples here in the Moneta Museum, this photo was borrowed from on-line sources in order to display an undamaged example, carried in a pocket, most examples are beat up and worn. There seems to be undocumented varieties. See NGC Census for all Mexican War Types (these are not documented in published books yet). As shown below the catalog reference for these dollar-sized pieces is HK ["So-Called Dollars"; by Harold E. Hibler and Charles V. Kappen]. The catalog number range for these similar pieces is HK, showing the same WWI type soldier aiming a rifle, but those are WWI and this type is for Border Wars of 1916 - 1917. WWI types in HK are: 892 - 894, in bronze (892, 35mm), brass (893) and white metal (894). There's more to learn because it's clear that this specimen in bronze or copper. Recently an 'SH' reference became available for some in the series, by Jeff Shevlin & Bill Hyder. There's an on-line HK now available at this: https://www.so-calleddollars.com/index.html

Czechoslovakia - 1 Koruna 1929

Moneta — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 14:31:03 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: This is a companion to the 1938 I also have posted here. That one has such an unusual color for the same CN (copper - nickel) piece that this one is. It also fits into my special series on National Folk Maidens and/or Ceres (Demeter) theme coins. 5 M struck for this year.

Czechoslovakia - 1 Koruna 1929

Moneta — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 14:31:03 -0400

Gallienus - Vict Germanica antoninianus

Moneta — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 23:23:47 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Bust of Gallienus, radiate, cuirassed, left, holding spear in right hand and shield in left hand. Obverse lettering: GALLIENVS AVG GERM V; Translation: Gallienus Augustus Germanicus Quintus. Emperor (Augustus) Gallienus, conqueror of the Germans for the fifth time. Reverse: Victory, winged, draped, walking or running right, holding wreath in right hand and trophy in left hand. Rx. lettering: VICT GERMANICA; Translation: Victoria Germanica; Victory over the Germans. It's 2.67 g. at ~ 21mm. Mint: Lugdunum, Gaul, modern-day Lyons, France. Choice Superb EF. Lustrous. Toned. RIC V.1# 43, OCRE# ric.5.gall(1).43; Cohen 1061; MIR 893h; RIC 44. See this Numiswiki article for a great history presentation at this: https://www.forumancientcoins.com/numiswiki/view.asp?key=The%20Age%20of%20Gallienus

Mongols, The Great - Ghenghis Khan Gold Dinar

Moneta — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 19:22:00 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Great Mongols. Temp. Chingiz Khan (603-624AH / 1206-1227AD); AV dinar, 4.8 g. Style of Badakhshan mint. Clear date 618AH (in margins at 13 o’clock – 18 o’clock on the REVERSE). OBVERSE: “la ilah illa allah muhammad rasulu allah” (there is no deity except God, Muhammad is the messenger of God). Surat At-Tawbah, Verse 33, in margins REVERSE: “al-nasir al-din allah amir al-mu’minin” (al-Nasir al-Din Allah Commander of the faithful). Mint formula in margins: “bismillah ‘darb ha’da fi sana thaman ‘ashra sittmi’a” (in the name of God this was struck in the year eighteen six hundred) Choice XF to AU. Dated dinars of early Great Mongols’ issues are EXTREMELY RARE. Illustration purposes only, this coin is not physically in the Moneta Museum.

Carthage - Tanit & Horse Head, Sardinia

Moneta — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 19:36:36 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Head of Astarte (Persephone) (Tanit in Phoenician - Carthage mythology), wearing wreath of barley or wheat and wearing 3 prong earrings. Rx: Horses head right in front of Phoenician letter 'I'. Probably from the mint in Sardinia. 5.18 g and ~ 25 mm. Catalog references: A.57 m - Cop.175 var. - CNP.252 ah - Müller305 variety. The obverse type is traditionally described as the head of Tanit, a North African goddess adopted by the Carthaginians as a local form of the Phoenician deity, Astarte. She became the chief goddess of the Carthaginian pantheon as the consort of Ba'al-Hammon, the supreme male deity of Carthage. She was a goddess of fertility as well as of war, which made her an appropriate figure to appear on money struck for military purposes. The benefaction of Tanit was sometimes invoked through the terrible rite of child sacrifice. Infants were placed alive into the sloping hands of her cult statue, only to roll down into a fire pit below. This ultimate sacrifice was thought to bring great blessings upon worshippers of the goddess, but was generally condemned by Greeks, Romans, and Persians. Ironically, the depiction of the very un-Greek Tanit is strongly influenced by the representations of Persephone popular on the silver coinage of Greek Syracuse in the fourth century B.C. Over the course of the long struggle between Carthage and Syracuse for control of Sicily, the Carthaginians were exposed to Syracusan coinage and took it as a model for their own. The horse on the reverse may refer to the foundation myth of Carthage ("New City" in Phoenician). It is reported that when the Tyrian queen, Dido, set out to establish her new city, diggers initially uncovered the head of an ox. This was interpreted as a sign that a city built on that site would be wealthy but subject to others. Unsatisfied, she had her builders consider a different site. When work began on the new site, the excavators dug up the head of a horse. This omen was read as a sign that a city there would become great in war. It was therefore decided to found Carthage on the second site. Thus, the horse on Carthaginian coins can be understood to have a double usage, both as an emblem of the city and as an appropriate symbol for a military coinage. (source: Numismatica Ars Classica, Auction 110 Catalog)

Cappadocia - Ariobarzanes III

Moneta — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 22:17:34 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Silver drachm (52 - 42 B.C.) of Ariobarzanes III (Eusebus Philoromaios). Obverse legend: Anepigraph (none) Obverse description: Diademed and slightly bearded head of Ariobarzanes III right. Reverse description: Athena Nicephorus standing left, helmeted and draped, holding Nike in right hand and spear in left, leaning on her shield; in the left field, lunisolar symbol Reverse legend: ΒΑΣΙΛΕΩΣ ΑΡΙΟΒΑΡΖΑΝΟΥ ΕΥΣΕΒΟΥΣ ΚΑΙ ΦΙΛΟΡΩΜΑΙΟΥ Reverse translation: (from king Ariobarzanes pious and who loves the Romans). He was of Persian and Greek ancestry. The Roman Senate agreed that he was to be the successor of his father, Ariobarzanes II of Cappadocia; Cicero, Roman governor of Cilicia, noted that he was surrounded by enemies who included his mother, Athenais. Originally highly supportive of Pompey despite the cost, he was maintained in his position after Julius Caesar won the civil war in Rome, even gaining territory with the addition of Lesser Armenia. The liberator Cassius Longinus had him executed in 42 BC because he would not allow more Roman intervention in his kingdom. He was succeed by his brother, Ariarathes X of Cappadocia.

Judea - Pontius Pilate Prutah - Year 16 (29 - 30 A.D.)

Moneta — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 19:35:29 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Judea under Roman Procurators, in this case the famous Pontius Pilate (26 - 36 AD). This example dated during the ministry of Jesus Christ, here displayed as Year 16= 29-30 A.D. Obverse: Libation ladle (simpulum); Lettering: ΤΙΒΕΡΙΟΥ ΚΑΡΙCΑΡΟC LΙς [Translation: of Tiberius Caesar, year 16]. Reverse: Three bound ears of grain, the outer two droop; Lettering: ΙΟΥ ΛΙΑ ΚΑΙCΑΡΟC, [Translation: Julia the Queen]. Hendin # 1341; Meshorer TJC 331. In VF condition at 1.90 g.; 15.9 mm. For a great article on the coins of Pontius Pilate be sure to check out this Numiswiki article at this: https://www.forumancientcoins.com/numiswiki/view.asp?key=Coins%20of%20Pontius%20Pilate

Justin II & Sophia Follis

Moneta — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 15:31:54 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Justin II (565 - 578 A.D.) with Queen Sophia, seated abreast on thrones. Constantinople mint, Officina 'B' (2nd). References describe as: Justin & Sophia, both Nimbate, Enthroned facing. Justin hold globus crucigar & Sophia holds Cruciform Scepter. Sear BCV# 360; D.O.# 36c. Nearly as struck, Regnal Date (9)= 573 - 574 A.D.

Justinian - Constantinople Follis, Side Portrait

Moneta — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 15:26:03 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Justinian (527 - 539 A.D.) - DN IVSTINIANVS PP AVG, early issue. Constaninople mint, Delta Officina (4th). Sear BCV# 158, D.O 28, BMC 28-32. 31mm 16.9 g, VF, solid green patina.

Justinian - on Throne, Antioch

Moneta — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 15:19:40 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Justinian, full image on throne type with the mintmark of THEUP (Antioch, Arabic Alphabet), Follis (40 Nummi). Officina Delta (4th), Star and Crescent type. Sear BCV# 214

Justinian - Constantinople, Follis

Moneta — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 15:13:57 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Justinian, profile portrait, Constantinople mint, 3rd Officina. 40 Nummi (Follis). Sear BCV# 158, F+, no regnal date.

Tetricus I - Fides Militum

Moneta — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 15:08:26 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Tetricus I (271 - 274 A.D.); IMP TETRCVS AVG. Reverse: FIDES MILITVM. RIC V.1# 71, VM# 3, C.40. Nice Portrait, obsured reverse. 19mm 2.25g

Zhou Silver covered Cowrie

Moneta — Sun, 19 Mar 2023 16:52:56 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: ZHOU: Anonymous, 1000-700 BC, silvered AE cowrie (6.09g), H-1, silvered bronze imitation cowrie shell money, usual encrustation, EF, ex Dr. Dirk Löer Collection. Cowrie shells, in Chinese called bèi, were used as money probably since around 2000 BC, from the Shang dynasty up through the Zhou dynasty. The cowries were an intelligent solution to make "small money" because they were collected in seas far south of China and only kings could afford to import them. Furthermore natural shells were impossible to counterfeit. Later imitations were made of various materials: bone, stone, jade, clay, bronze, and even silver and bronze with gold plating. [Steve Album Auction site for photo and text]. After many years of collecting these this is the first silver covered bronze cowrie I have ever seen (rather than plated or solid). So this is a borrowed photo to ensure I have the most complete Museum of cowries and their imitations on the web.

Vespasian (period) Judea, Ascalon w/ Legion 'X'

Moneta — Sat, 18 Mar 2023 13:20:24 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: A Judaean coin from Ascalon where the Tenth Legion was stationed after being moved from Syria. This is a Vespasian period coin, not Roman, it follows the design of coins issued by Phoenician cities in the area. Obverse: Veiled and turreted bust of Tyche, right; 'X' in incuse square countermark. Reverse: Galley sailing right w/ sOP date. Rosenberger 53, RPC 2204, SNG ANS 679-82; 16.11 mm, 3.89 g. VF-.

Commodus - LIBERTAS, denarius

Moneta — Sat, 18 Mar 2023 13:05:36 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Commodus (179 - 192 A.D.); M COMM ANT P FEL AVG BRIT PP. Reverse: Libertas with a Pileus (Liberty cap) and Scepter; legend: LIB AVG PM TR P XV COS VI. Van Meter (VM) RIC# 34; C.282 S 282. VF+

Victorinus - FIDES MILITVM

Moneta — Sat, 18 Mar 2023 12:57:33 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Victorinus (269 -271 A.D.) with scarce obverse legend: IMP C PIA V VICTORINVS PF AVG. Reverse: Fides standing, facing, holds a military standard in each hand; FIDES MILITVM. 19.9mm at 3.2 g. VF+; RIC 109, VM# 6, C.36

Constantine I, The Great - GENIO AVGVSTI, Follis

Moneta — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 23:08:31 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Constantine I (309 - 310 A.D., as Filus Augustorun in the East). I've been unable to find a reference for this type. Struck in Antioch, here Genius is holding a figure of Victory rather than the head of Serapis. OB: IMP C FL VAL CONSTANTINVS PP AVG. Reverse: GENIO AVGVSTI, with a Star and 'A' in the left & right fields; 'ANT' in exergue. Genius is standing facing left, he holds a figure of Victory, which itself is holding a wreath in his extended right hand, cornucopia in left arm.

Constantius II - Barbarian in Hut

Moneta — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 22:58:31 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Constantius II (Augustus 337 - 361 A.D.) Centenionalis AE2 issued after 348 AD. DN CONSTANTIVS PF AVG. Reverse: FEL TEMP REPARATIO; Constantius dragging a barbarian youth out of his hut beneath a tree, star above. 'ALEA' in exergue probably means Alexandria mint officina A. Desert patina. VM# 88,

Diocletian - Jupiter, antoninianus

Moneta — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 22:23:40 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Diocletian (284 - 305 A.D.), IMP C C VAL DIOCLETIANVS AVG. Reverse: Diocetian standing right, receiving Victory on Globe from Jupiter, 'B' between and 'XXI' in exergue. Rx legend: CONCORDIA MILITVM. Nearly full silvering on this XF+ coin. RIC v.2# 306.

Maximianus - Jupiter & Hercules

Moneta — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 22:10:19 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Maximianus, 1st Reign (286 - 305 A.D.); IMP C M AVR VAL MAXIMIANVS PF AVG. Reverse: IOV ET HERCV CONSER AVGG; Jupiter & Hercules, standing facing each other; Jupiter, on the left, is holding out a globe and holds a scepter. Hercules is holding out Victory while holding a club and lion's skin. 'TR' between and 'XXI' in exergue. Nearly full silvering remains, XF+. RIC v.2# 624F, VM# 24, C.311

Dioclectian - Jupiter & Hercules

Moneta — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 21:52:37 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Diocletian (284 - 305 A.D.); IMP CC VAL DIOCLETIANVS PF AVG. Reverse: Jupiter and Hercules standing and facing each other, Jupiter, on the left is holding a globe & scepter, Hercules is holding Victory, his club and Lion skin. In the field between the mintmark 'S' with upturned crescent; 'XXI' in exergue. Rx legend: IOV ET HERCV CONSER AVGG. RIC V.2# 323A

Gallienus - GERMANICUS MAX

Moneta — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 21:21:15 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Gallienus (253 - 268 A.D.); GALLIENVS P F AVG. Reverse: two captives seated before a large trophy; GERMANICVS MAX V; the commemorated event here is the 5th defeat for the Germans under Gallienus, this time in Milan. XF; Sear 2861, C.308, RIC 18, RSC IV/308.

Gallienus - Goat walking, antoninianus

Moneta — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 21:11:05 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Gallienus (253 268 A.D.), GALLIENVS AVG. reverse: Goat walking right; IOVI CONS AVG w/ 'C or S' (?) mintmark in exergue. Faint traces of silvering on this VF+ coin. VM# 100, C.344, RIC 149 & 207.

Gallienus - Antelope, antoninianus

Moneta — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 20:48:01 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Gallienus (253 - 268 A.D.) GALLIENVS AVG. Reverse: DIANAE CONS AVG; an antelope walking right, 'XII' in exergue. VM# 49/6, C. 162, some silvering remains.

Gallienus - Centaur antoninianus

Moneta — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 20:41:47 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Gallienus (253 - 268 A.D.), GALLIENVS AVG. Reverse: Centaur walking left, holds globe and Trophy; APOLLINI CONS AVG w/ 'H' mintmark in exergue. RSC IV/73, RIC s 164, VM# 19/2

Gallienus - Mars, MARTI PACIFERO

Moneta — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 19:19:25 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Gallienus (253 - 268 A.D.) GALLIENVS AVG. Reverse: Mars standing, holds a branch, shield & staff or whip; MARTI PACIFERO antoninianus. RSC IV# 614, RIC 151 & 236, VM# 169. RIC s236 & 492, XF bronze.

Aurelian - Soli Invicto, antoninianus

Moneta — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 19:09:34 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Aurelian (270 - 275 A.D.), IMP C AVRELIANVS AVG. Reverse: SOLI INVICTO.; Sol standing left, his right arm raised, in the other hand he hold a globe, 1 captive at his feet, star above. Silvered VF; this is a variety with only one captive rather than two. Similar to Sear 3169 & 11609, C.236, RIC 308 & 390; Tripolis mint. Aurelian made the painful decision to abandon Dacia (see Trajan) in 271 AD and then attacked Zenobia & Valabathus in Palmyra in 272 AD. He also took the Gallic Empire by defeating Tetricus. He was killed while preparing to invade Sassanian territory