DonnaML's Top Roman Imperial Coins for 2022 (in various sub-categories), plus bonus Top Greek Coin

[DonnaML]

As usual, please feel free to mention any coin you particularly like.

I'll start with my Top Greek Coin for the year, which wasn't difficult to choose because it was my only Greek coin purchased this year! I very much liked the little owl, and couldn't resist.

Tarentum, Calabria. AR Nomos, ca. 272-240 BCE. Magistrates Sy… and Lykinos. Obv. Nude youth on horse advancing to left, crowning horse with wreath held in right hand, holding reins in left hand; to right, ΣΥ; below horse, ΛΥΚΙ/ΝΟΣ in two lines / Rev. Phalanthos [not “Taras”; see https://coinsweekly.com/and-this-is-where-aristotle-was-wrong/] astride dolphin to left, his back half-turned to viewer, brandishing trident held in right hand, chlamys draped over left arm; ΤΑ-ΡΑΣ beneath dolphin; in right field, owl standing to left, head facing.. Vlasto 836-841 [all same type] at p. 95 & Pl. XXVII [Ravel, O.E., Descriptive Catalogue of the Collection of Tarentine Coins formed by M.P. Vlasto (London, 1947, reprinted 1977)]; HN Italy 1025 [Rutter, N.K., ed., Historia Numorum Italy (London, 2001)]. 19.5 mm., 6.47 g, 12 h. (“Reduced standard” compared to larger size of earlier coins, beginning after arrival of Pyrrhus in Italy ca. 280 BCE.) Purchased at Nomos Obolos Auction 22, 6 March 2022, Lot 39.

Now to my various Roman Imperial lists. First, the three Roman Imperial gold coins I purchased this year -- one aureus and two solidi.

1. Antoninus Pius AV Aureus, AD 150-151 [see fn], Rome Mint. Obv. Laureate head right, ANTONINVS AVG – PIUS P P TR P XIIII / Rev. On left, Ceres [possibly representing Faustina II] standing three-quarters facing, head right, holding two grain ears in right hand; on right, Proserpina standing facing, head left, next to her mother, holding pomegranate in extended left hand, the two gazing at and embracing each other [possibly celebrating birth of Lucilla in AD 151, and, as a result, the restoration of a granddaughter to the Imperial family; hence the reverse inscription naming Laetitia, the personification of joy; see fn.], LAETITIA – COS IIII.  19 mm., 6.89 g., 6 h. RIC III 199c [“Scarce”] (see http://numismatics.org/ocre/id/ric.3.ant.199C); Cohen 476; Sear RCV II 4008; BMCRE IV Antoninus Pius 725 & Pl. 15 No. 14; Strack 224 [Strack, Paul L., Untersuchungen zur römischen Reichsprägung des zweiten Jahrhunderts, Teil III: Die Reichsprägung zur Zeit Antoninus Pius (Stuttgart, 1937)]; Calicó 1556 [Calicó, E. Xavier, The Roman Avrei, Vol. I: From the Republic to Pertinax, 196 BC - 193 AD (Barcelona, 2003)]; Dinsdale 037180 [Dinsdale, Paul H, Antoninus Pius and Marcus Aurelius Caesar AD 138-161: Antonine Coinage (2nd Rev. ed., Leeds 2021) Ch. 18 at p. 421; photo at same page, indicating a probable obverse die match to my specimen] [see http://romanpaulus.x10host.com/Antoninus/old/18 - Antoninus Pius - TR POT XIIII Period - 150-151 (med_res).pdf.] * Purchased from Arete Coins [George Matev], Seattle, WA, Feb. 2022; ex. Classical Numismatic Group [CNG] E-Auction 360, Sep. 30, 2015, Lot 458 (from “Group SGF” Collection); ex. Jesús Vico, S.A., Auction 141, Mar. 5, 2015, Lot 121.**

*My example also appears to be an obverse die match to the specimen at the Münzkabinett Berlin; see http://numismatics.org/ocre/id/ric.3.ant.199C and photo of obverse at https://ikmk.smb.museum/image/18273198/vs_exp.jpg.
 
**This type (with its minor variations in the obverse portrait [see RIC 199a-b, Dinsdale 037150, 037160, 037170] as well as in the placement of “COS IIII” in the reverse exergue in some dies [see Dinsdale 037200]), is one of only two representations of Proserpina, with or without her mother Ceres, on Roman Imperial coinage. (The only other such representation is on the reverse of an antoninianus of Claudius II Gothicus, depicting the pair facing each other, each holding a long-handled torch; see MER-RIC V.1 No. 1072 [temp.], at https://ric.mom.fr/en/coin/1072?from=map&Mint=Antioch&mod=result&page=7&hpp=10.).

All attempts to date this issue have necessarily been based on the TR P XIIII in the obverse inscription, signifying the 14th annual renewal of Antoninus Pius’s tribunician power [“Tribunicia Potestas”]. (The “COS IIII” on the reverse is of no assistance, since Antoninus held the consulship for the fourth time in AD 145, and never held a fifth.) See the explanation at Sear RCV II p. 72 of the significance of renewals of tribunician power in dating Roman Imperial coins:

“As the emperor [Augustus] wished the tribunician power to be regarded as the basis for his authority it was natural that he should introduce the custom of reckoning the years of his reign by the date of its symbolic annual renewal. The precedent having thus been instituted, this became the normal practice of Augustus’ successors and the number of annual renewals of the tribunican power, appearing regularly in the inscriptions on the coinage, provide valuable evidence in establishing the numismatic chronology of each reign.”

According to the traditional chronology, Antoninus Pius’s 13th renewal of the tribunician power (TR P XIII) ran from 149-150, and his 14th  year (TR P XIIII) from 150-151, meaning that this aureus must have been issued in either 150 or 151. See the table of TR POT years for Antoninus Pius at Sear RCV II pp. 76-77.  More specifically: “The method employed for selecting the actual date of this annual renewal seems to have varied from reign to reign. Some emperors used the day of its initial conferment (June 27 in the case of Augustus), whilst others preferred the traditional Republican date for the appointment of the tribunes (December 10th). Yet another practice was to renew on January 1st, thus making the tribunician year coincide with the calendar year.” Id. p. 72.

In the case of Antoninus Pius’s tribunician day, according to Curtis L. Clay, “we know it was 10 Dec. by the end of his reign in 161, and that day has been assumed to go back to at least 147, when Marcus was voted that same power.” (See his Aug. 19, 2014 post on the Forvm discussion board, at https://www.forumancientcoins.com/board/index.php?topic=97313.msg601699#msg601699.)  Using that date, Antoninus’s 14th tribunician year ran from Dec. 10, AD 150 to Dec. 10, AD 151, and this aureus must have been issued during that period. See, e.g., Dinsdale, supra, Ch. 18 at p. 421, listing the aurei of Antoninus Pius’s “TR POT XIII Period, Dec. 150 – Dec. 151,” including this aureus (Dinsdale 037180).

However, in a post on Forvm Ancient Coins dated Aug. 22, 2014 (see https://www.forumancientcoins.com/board/index.php?topic=97313.msg601994#msg601994), as well as in a more recent post at Coin Talk on Nov. 22, 2020 (see https://www.cointalk.com/threads/questions-about-new-faustina-ii-denarius.370212/page-2#post-5143304), Curtis L. Clay has proposed that at the time of Antoninus Pius’s 13th-15th tribunician years, his tribunician day was instead the anniversary of Hadrian’s original conferral of tribunician power on Antoninus Pius when he adopted him and the Senate proclaimed him Caesar in AD 138, namely Feb. 25. See Aug. 22, 2014 post, supra (Antoninus’s tribunician day during this period was not Dec. 10 but “25 February, when Hadrian had adopted Antoninus”); Nov. 22, 2020 post, supra (“Perhaps Antoninus' tribunician day was . . . when his tribunician assembly met, 25 Feb. having been the day when Hadrian adopted him and the Senate proclaimed him Caesar”). Thus, Antoninus Pius’s 14th tribunician year would have run not from 25 Dec. 150 – 25 Dec. 151, but began and ended a few months later, running from 25 Feb. 151 to 25 Feb. 152, meaning that this coin was minted during that period.    

In both comments, Curtis L. Clay used this chronological discussion (and a parallel discussion of the dates of Marcus Aurelius’s tribunician years as Caesar, omitted here) to propose that the reverse of this aureus, depicting Ceres and Proserpina together with the legend LAETITIA (Joy), actually celebrates the birth of Lucilla to Faustina II on 7 March, 151 – after she and Marcus Aurelius had been childless for  a period of time, because their first two children, a girl born in 147 and a son born in 148-49, depicted together on a coin with crossed cornucopiae, had both died by March 149. See Aug 22, 2014 post, supra:   

“I think we can say with fair certainty that Lucilla was born on 7 March 151 not 152.

In the first place, Lucilla can hardly have been born on 7 March 152, since the Ostian Fasti record that in that same year Faustina also gave birth to a son, who however apparently immediately died; see text and discussion in Strack, pp. 117-8. But after 7 March 152 only nine months and three weeks remained before the end of 152, a very short time indeed in which to produce another child! Of course we should not exclude a premature birth, which might fit with the immediate death of the baby, but still it seems unlikely. Unfortunately the exact date of the baby's birth and death is lost from the fragmentary Fasti, but these events are recorded more towards the beginning than the end of the 15 lines of text devoted to the year 152.

Secondly, dating Lucilla's birth to 7 March 151 allows a rather attractive interpretation of the LAETITIA COS IIII type on Antoninus' aurei, showing Ceres embracing her daughter Proserpina (image below), which was apparently produced at exactly this time. The type belongs to the beginning of Antoninus' 14th tribunician year, which I think began on 25 Feb. 151, because though most of the surviving specimens are dated TR P XIIII, one has the numeral of the preceding year, TR P XIII. The type shows Ceres welcoming her daughter back from the underworld, a fitting analogy, it would seem, for Faustina II giving birth to another daughter, after the tragic deaths of her first daughter and son at very young ages!

The course of events, then, might have been:

On 25 Feb. 151 Antoninus began his 14th tribunician year; Marcus, still being childless, had renounced that power so continued calling himself TR P III. On 7 March 151 Faustina gave birth to Lucilla, an event which was commemorated by the LAETITIA type, mostly struck from TR P XIIII obv. dies, but also, erroneously, from one TR P XIII die which had remained in use in the new tribunician year.”  [Discussion of Marcus’s resumption of tribunician power in 152, as TR P VI, omitted.] (https://www.forumancientcoins.com/board/index.php?topic=97313.msg601994#msg601994; emphasis added.)

See also Curtis’s discussion in his 2020 Coin Talk post, at https://www.cointalk.com/threads/questions-about-new-faustina-ii-denarius.370212/page-2#post-5143304:

“If I am correct about Marcus' temporary resignation from his tribunician power in 150-151 AD, then the birth dates of his first three children are likely to have been as follows: 1. A daughter, born 30 Nov. 147, resulting in the titles Augusta for Faustina and TR P for Marcus, as recorded in the Ostian Fasti. 2. A son, born between c. Sept. 148 (nine months after Faustina's first childbirth) and March 149, commemorated on the crossed cornucopias coins of Antoninus Pius as TR P XII. The children on the two cornucopias in this type are traditionally assumed to have been male twins, but there is no reason why the type should not commemorate the birth of a single son to join the earlier daughter, and on a couple of dies the portraits seem to be differentiated, with the daughter on the right having longer hair with a small bun (cf. Strack, pl. XIII, 1026). Both of these children had died, however, before March 149, for by that time Marcus was no longer numbering his TR P.  3. Lucilla, born 7 March 151, apparently commemorated by the LAETITIA COS IIII type (Ceres and Proserpina) on aurei of Antoninus as TR P XIIII. A longed-for daughter had now been restored to Faustina too, so the type seems appropriate. (Emphasis added.)

Thus, just as Proserpina was restored to Ceres at the conclusion of that myth (even if only for six months of the year, after consuming six pomegranate seeds!), the birth of Lucilla restored a daughter and granddaughter to the Imperial family. 
 
The one issue with identifying the Ceres and Proserpina depiction with a celebration of Lucilla’s birth is that obviously, if the Ceres & Proserpina design did actually originate not with Antoninus Pius’s 14th tribunician year but with his 13th tribunician year -- which ended either in Dec. 150 or February 151 regardless of whether one accepts Curtis L. Clay’s theory -- both those dates preceded the birth of Lucilla on March 7, 151, and the design could not have been originally intended to celebrate her birth. Curtis concedes the existence of one specimen bearing the TR P XIII date, from one die, but given that extreme rarity, argues that its production must have been “erroneous[], from one TR P XIII die which had remained in use in the new tribunician year.” Here is what I believe must be the one example he cites of the type with a TR P XIII legend, held by the British Museum since 1864: https://media.britishmuseum.org/media/Repository/Documents/2014_10/11_14/ef80efed_046e_4223_9331_a3c100ecd091/mid_00658499_001.jpg.  (This type has been cataloged as RIC III 190 [citing British Museum example], BMCRE IV Antoninus Pius 714 & Pl. 15 No. 7 [see also https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/C_1864-1128-70], Dinsdale Ch. 16 036130 at p. 414 [illustrated with British Museum example], Strack III 215, Calicó 1555.)

In fact, at least one other specimen of the type exists, sold by LHS Numismatick AG, Auction 95, Lot 813, on 25 Oct. 2005. See photo at https://www.acsearch.info/image.html?id=261692. However, this second specimen appears to me to be a double die match to the British Museum specimen, which would mean that it’s still true that only a single die of this type is known. Therefore, I don’t think the existence of the second specimen materially detracts from the plausibility of @CurtisLClay’s theory, and I’m still comfortable adopting his theory that the depiction of Ceres and Proserpina on the reverse of this aureus – one of only two such numismatic depictions during the Roman Empire – symbolizes the joy of the Imperial family in the birth of Lucilla. Particularly given the frequent designs on other coins (issued both by Faustina II herself and by her grandfather Antoninus Pius), symbolically depicting Faustina II and her various children.

Finally, it should be noted that @CurtisLClay was not the first or only scholar to identify Ceres and Proserpina as depicted on the aurei of Antoninus Pius with Faustina II and Lucilla. Paul L. Strack, writing in 1937, also appears to have made that identification. See Dinsdale, supra p. 414 n. 1, citing Strack 215. 

2. Valentinian I, AV Solidus, 365 AD [Sear, Depeyrot] (reigned 364-375 AD), Antioch Mint, 3rd Officina. Obv. Rosette-diademed (with square & round rosettes separated by ovoid pearls), draped, & cuirassed bust right, D N VALENTINI-ANVS P F AVG [Dominus Noster Valentinianus Pius Felix Augustus] / Rev. Valentinian, in military attire, standing facing, head right, holding labarum or vexillum ornamented with “T” [uneven/Tau cross?] in right hand* and, in outstretched left hand, Victory standing left on globe, holding up crowning wreath towards emperor, RESTITVTOR – REIPVBLICAE around; in exergue, ANTΓ [Antioch Mint, 3rd Officina**].  RIC IX (1951) Antioch 2b (var. unlisted) ***; Sear RCV V 19267 at p. 294 (rosette-diademed, with no cross in the reverse left field, no stars or dots in the reverse exergue, and known from Officina 3, as well as Officina 10) (citing Depeyrot); Depeyrot II Antioch 23/1 Valentinian I (p. 281) (examples with this mint-mark, without stars or dots, & monogrammed cross in labarum rather than Chi-Ro, known from Officinas 3 & 10) (citing 1966 sale of this coin as the one example from 3rd Officina, with one other from 10th Officina) [Depeyrot, George., Les Monnaies d'Or de Constantin II à Zenon (337-491) (Wetteren 1996)]. 21.2 mm., 4.44 g. Purchased from Odysseus Numismatique [Julien Cougnard], Montpellier, France, Feb. 2022, “from an old Parisian collection”; ex Maison Vinchon Auction Sale, Mon. 25 April 1966, Hotel Drouot, Paris, Lot 257 (sold for 780 French francs, = $159.16 in 1966 U.S. dollars).

*Technically, the term “labarum” refers only to “a type of Roman cavalry standard, a vexillum with a military ensign marked with the Christogram (Greek monogram of Christ)” (see https://www.forumancientcoins.com/numiswiki/view.asp?key=Labarum), although it is also commonly used for a vexillum with an ensign marked with other Christian symbols such as a cross. Thus, if the “T” in the ensign on this coin is not a Christian symbol but is actually a “T” (with an unknown meaning) -- rather than simply an uneven cross without the top portion, known as a “Tau Cross” – then it should properly be referred to as a vexillum, not a labarum. If it is intended as a Christian symbol, note the combination of the Christian labarum in Valentinian’s right hand and the pagan Victory in his left hand.

**The two well-known forgeries of Valentinian I solidi from Antioch are from officinae H and I (8 and 10), and don't very much resemble this coin in other respects.

***RIC IX Antioch at pp. 269-271 lists 38 different variants of the Valentinian I “RESTITVTOR REIPVBLICAE” solidus for the Antioch mint alone, differing, among other things, in the officina numbers, on whether Valentinian's bust is rosette-diademed like this coin or pearl-diademed, on the presence or absence of a cross in the reverse left field, on the precise form of the device inside the labarum or vexillum, and on the presence or absence of various stars and/or dots in the exergue (and/or above it) in addition to the officina number. This specific variant is unlisted in RIC. Cf. RIC IX Antioch variant xi at p. 269 (variant has “T” in labarum/vexillum, but has pearl-diademed bust and is from Officina A); see also rosette-diademed example from Officina H [8] sold by cgb.fr in 2019, at https://www.acsearch.info/search.html?id=5728298 (image at https://www.acsearch.info/image.html?id=5728298) (appears to have “T” in labarum/vexillum on reverse).

3. Valens (younger brother of Valentinian I, reigned as Emperor in East AD 364-378), AV Solidus, Treveri (Trier) Mint, 1st Officina, issued 376 - mid-377 AD after death of Valentinian I [see Depeyrot pp. 77, 121]. Obv. Pearl-diademed (with double band of pearls held by single rosette gem at top), draped, and cuirassed bust right, DN VALENS – PF AVG / Rev. Valens & Gratian enthroned facing in single large throne, each with left leg uncovered and right hand on a globe between them; above and behind, Victory facing with wings spread; palm-branch on ground between them; VICTOR – IA AVGG around; in exergue, mintmark TROBC [TR = Treveri Mint; OB = “obryzum, which means refined or pure gold, and is the Greek numeral 72. Thus the . . . OB . . . may be read ‘1/72 pound pure gold’” (see https://www.forumancientcoins.com/numiswiki/view.asp?key=CONOB); C = Capita, for 1st Officina (see Depeyrot p. 52)]. 19.5 mm., 4.42 g., 6 h.  Depeyrot, Trèves [Trier] 45/1 Valens at p. 121 (45th emission for city since AD 337) (26 examples of type from 1st Officina; 33 overall) [Depeyrot, George, Les Monnaies d'Or de Constantin II à Zenon (337-491) (Wetteren 1996)]; RIC IX 39(d)1 at p. 21; Sear RCV V 19578 (obv. ill. p. 324). Purchased from CNG (Classical Numismatic Group, LLC) Electronic Auction 525, 20 Oct. 2022, Lot 1319; ex. “Conti Collection.”*

*This is my only example of a solidus bearing the reverse legend “VICTORIA AVGG” (“To the Victory of the Two Emperors,” see https://www.forumancientcoins.com/numiswiki/view.asp?key=VICTORIA AVGG), depicting two reigning emperors enthroned together on the reverse. This type was “for more than a quarter of a century . . . the main gold currency of the western empire,” issued in the names of all the co-emperors during that period, beginning with Valentinian I and Valens in the 360s AD. See RIC IX p. 5 (introduction to Treveri Mint section.)

Despite relying on Depeyrot and correctly describing the obverse as depicting Valens with a pearl-diademed bust, CNG’s lot description for this coin was erroneous in several respects. Thus, CNG identified the coin as Depeyrot 43/2 rather than the correct 45/1, even though the obverse of 43/2 is identified in Depeyrot (see p. 119) with a code signifying a rosette-diademed bust rather than the code for a pearl diadem, used for 45/1 (see p. 121). As a result of this relatively minor error, and because 43/2 was issued before the death of Valentinian I, CNG incorrectly dates the coin to the period from mid-373 to April 375 AD, and incorrectly identifies the two emperors on the reverse of the coin as Valentinian I and Valens, rather than Valens and Gratian. 

As it happens, Depeyrot 43/2 overall is about four times as common as 45/1 (126 examples cited compared to 33), but the number of cited examples from the 1st Officina, with TROBC in the exergue, is approximately the same (28 as compared to 26). So I doubt that the price of this coin was materially affected by CNG’s errors in identifying it. Although I should point out that CNG’s citation of RIC IX 39b.1 for this coin also appears to be incorrect, independently: as far as I can tell, that type is coded as a coin of Valentinian I rather than Valens. Hence, my citation to a different type. 
 

Next, my favorite new siliquae purchased this year:`

4. Constantius II (son of Constantine I), AR reduced Siliqua, Lugdunum (Lyon) Mint, 360-361 AD. Obv. Rosette-diademed [despite description by all dealers as pearl-diademed], draped, and cuirassed bust right, D N CONSTAN-TIVS PF AVG / Rev. Victory advancing left, holding wreath in right hand and palm frond in left, both wings visible [despite description by all dealers as one wing visible], VICTORIA DD NN AVG; in exergue, mint mark LVG (Lugdunum). 17 mm., 2.06 g. RIC VIII 211 at p. 193 [both wings visible]; RSC V 259b (ill. p. 131) [rosette-diademed; both wings visible, = RIC VIII 211]; Sear RCV V 17948 (ill. p. 165) [applicable to RIC 210-211 & 214]. Purchased from Herakles Numismatics, July 2022; ex. Triskeles Auction 31, 27.03.2020, Lot 344; ex Spink Auction 16006, 26-27 Sep 2016, East Harptree Hoard Sale, Part of Lot 2929 (see https://www.numisbids.com/n.php?p=lot&sid=1689&lot=2929); from 1887 East Harptree hoard (one of 49 coins of this type in hoard; see article with inventory, “On a Hoard of Roman Coins Found at East Harptree, Near Bristol,” The Numismatic Chronicle (Vol. VIII, London 1888), pp. 22-46 at pp. 39-40; available at https://archive.org/details/thirdnumismatic08royauoft/page/40/mode/1up).*

* The East Harptree hoard was discovered in 1887 on the land of Mr. W. Kettlewell of Harptree Court, while a search for a new spring was being conducted. Mr. Kettlewell kindly made them available for study at the British Museum, and they were written up by John Evans for the Numismatic Chronicle of 1888, pages 22-46. The British Museum was given a few of the most interesting coins, and the rest were returned to the owner. Many years later they were given to the father of the consignor by Mr. Kettlewell's son, and they have remained in their packing ever since. Evans noted "The coins when found were to some extent coated in dirt, and with what was probably a little chloride of silver. When carefully washed and brushed their remarkably good preservation became apparent, and there were none but what could be attributed to the emperor under whom they were struck." The coins offered here are as they were when returned from the BM in 1887/1888. Many exhibit light deposit, which could be easily removed by a competent conservator, but at the expense of the mint bloom that is apparent on many. The overall quality is remarkable, and few, if any, are clipped. Large numbers look ordinary to the naked eye, but when tilted towards the light, or examined under magnification, reveal extraordinary quality. (See https://www.numisbids.com/n.php?p=lot&sid=1689&lot=2858 .)
 

5. Julian II (nephew of Constantine I), AR reduced Siliqua,* AD 362-363, Antioch Mint. Obv. Pearl-diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust right, bearded, FL CL IVLIA-NVS PF AVG / Rev. VOT X MVLT XX in four lines within wreath; in exergue, ANT [Antioch]. 2.17 g., 19.33 x 18.40 mm., 6 h. RIC VIII 213 (p. 531), RSC V 147a, Sear RCV V 19128 (p. 279), Ghey 22 (this coin) [Ghey, E., “Vale of Pewsey, Wiltshire,” unpublished catalogue held by British Museum]. Purchased 17 May 2022 from Noonans (f/k/a Dix Noonan Webb) Auction, “The Vale of Pewsey Hoard of Late Roman Silver Coins,” Lot 11; ex Vale of Pewsey Hoard, discovered in Wiltshire 12-13 Sep. 2020, Portable Antiquities Scheme Hoard ID BM-7D34D9 (see https://finds.org.uk/database/hoards/record/id/3305).**

*See Sear RCV V at p. 271: “in AD 357 the weight of the [siliqua] denomination was reduced by one-third to 2 scripula or 2.25 grams.”

**See Noonans Auction Catalogue, at https://www.noonans.co.uk/media/auction_catalogues/Coins 17 May 22.pdf, p. 3:

"Presented here for sale is a hoard of fourth and early fifth century Roman silver coins, recovered in September 2020 from farmland in the Vale of Pewsey, Wiltshire, by a team of three avid metal detectorists. Over the course of two days Rob Abbott, Dave Allen and Mick Rae discovered a total of 160 silver coins and coin fragments, which were subsequently submitted to the relevant authorities for processing according to the Treasure Act 1997
(PAS BM–7D34D9, BM 2020 T702).

No container has been recovered from the site and the coins’ dispersal over an area of around 30 metres across the field suggests that the original parcel was disrupted in recent times by agricultural activity. A few of the recovered coins were badly chipped, broken or fragmentary. Most of these breaks look fresh and it would seem that this unfortunate damage has resulted from regular ploughing of the field for agricultural purposes.

We should be enormously grateful, therefore, that the hoard was recovered when it was before more coins succumbed to a similar fate. Numismatists and historians alike should appreciate the diligent efforts of these three finders in rescuing the Vale of Pewsey Hoard and ensuring that this important group was properly recorded for future study.

Following assessment and appraisal the British Museum decided to acquire two Miliarensia from the group for the Nation’s collection. The remaining coins were disclaimed and returned to the original finders, who have now chosen to sell the hoard so that private scholars and numismatists may have the opportunity to acquire examples for their own collections. Only those pieces in fragmentary state have been retained by the finders, and all 142 complete, or near complete, coins are listed in this catalogue; eighteen Miliarensia and 124 Siliquae.

Amongst them are numerous rare and beautifully preserved specimens which will appeal to specialist Roman collectors and general numismatists alike."

The breakdown of the 142 lots is as follows (see id. p. 10):

CONSTANS (337–350) 1
CONSTANTIUS II (337–361) 2–7
JULIAN II (360–363) 8–11
VALENTINIAN I (364–375) 12–14
VALENS (364–378) 15–33
GRATIAN (367–383) 34–49
VALENTINIAN II (375–392) 50–59
THEODOSIUS I (379–395) 60–74
MAGNUS MAXIMUS (383–388) 75–92
FLAVIUS VICTOR (387–388) 93–95
ARCADIUS (383–408) 96–118
EUGENIUS (392–394) 119–133
HONORIUS (393–423) 134–142

See also https://finds.org.uk/database/hoards/record/id/3305, noting that “Most of the coins have been only lightly clipped to remove silver from the edges of the coins, unlike many hoards with a deposition date into the fifth century AD. There are also few obviously irregular coins in the group. The total weight in silver of the late Roman coins submitted is 328.76g, remarkably close to a Roman pound in silver.”
 

6. Jovian, AR Reduced Siliqua,* Nicomedia Mint (now Izmit, Turkey), AD 363-364. Obv. Pearl-diademed, draped, & cuirassed bust right, D N IOVIAN-VS P F AVG / Rev. VOT/V/MVLT/X in four lines within laurel wreath; in exergue: SMN [Nicomedia]. 18 mm., 2.11 g., 7 h. RIC VIII 127 (p. 485), RSC V Jovian 33Ae (ill. p. 147), Sear RCV V 19209 (ill. p. 287). Purchased from Leu Numismatik AG, Winterthur, Switzerland, Web Auction 21, 19 Jul 2022, Lot 5522, ex Collection of Dipl.-Ing. [ = Engineering Master’s Degree] Adrian Lang, b. Germany 1956.**

*See Sear RCV V at p. 271: “in AD 357 the weight of the [siliqua] denomination was reduced by one-third to 2 scripula or 2.25 grams.”

**See https://leunumismatik.com/source/images/auction/36/pdf/b2acb9be-1e8d-4395-a863-6c5c7c37ed4b.pdf (from catalog to an earlier Leu Numismatik auction, as translated by DeepL Translator): “Adrian Lang was born on May 23, 1956, the second of five children in Weiden in the Upper Palatinate. Early on, the boy showed an interest in his environment and spent his free time studying insects, recognizing bird calls and making secret forays along nearby waters, always in search of the best fishing grounds. At the age of 13, through the acquaintance of a local historian, Adrian Lang first came into contact with the world of minerals. Numerous excursions to surrounding sites now channeled the collecting passion of the young man and laid the foundation for the development of a significant mineral collection. . . . This was followed by the study of civil engineering in the old Roman city of Roman city of Regensburg, where later as a young construction manager he was with historical artifacts from the Stone Age to the Middle Ages. But the numismatic spark was not to ignite yet, and and with his marriage to his great love Angelika in 1982, Adrian Lang moved to Schwarzenfeld in the Upper Palatinate, where their son Bernhard was born the following year. Here he found himself in the heart of a mining district in decline, and built up an important collection of collection of minerals from the Wölsendorf fluorspar district, which eventually became part of the famous mineral collection "Krügerhaus" of the Technical University Bergakademie Freiberg near Dresden.

In the 1990s Adrian Lang threw himself with his characteristic passion into his new passion, ancient numismatics. Quickly crystallized in him interest in coins of the Boians and Vindelicans - many of these rarities have already been auctioned by Leu Numismatik - but his true love was for the portrait coins of the Roman emperors. Over the next twenty-five years, he steadily built up a collection of several thousand pieces, ranging from the early Republic to late antiquity. He placed particular emphasis on the 3rd century AD, thus
he was particularly interested in the transition from denarius to antoninianus coinage under Gordian III (238-244 AD) and the family of Philip I the Arab (244-249 A.D.), but also numerous rare coins of ephemeral usurpers are represented. Adrian Lang paid great attention to the style and preservation of the imperial portraits; silver coins should also ideally be minted fresh and finely toned, and bronze coins should have a patina that is as untouched as possible. He also attached great importance to provenances. At the age of 56, Mr. Lang gave his life a new direction and and in 2012 left his previously stressful job in the management of a major construction company in order to fulfill his multifaceted life desires. This
reorientation also gave him more time to pursue his hobbies, first and foremost the search for beautiful portrait coins of the Roman emperors. With increasing age, Mr. Adrian Lang has now decided to decided to part with his coin collection and to entrust it to Leu Numismatik for auction, in order to return his treasures to the circle of numismatic enthusiasts. The 647 coins presented in this catalog have been selected together with Dipl.-Ing. Adrian Lang for the Leu Auction 12: they represent the core of his collection and are intended to permanently preserve the character of the same in printed form for posterity. The second part of Mr. Lang's collection will finally be offered on June 25, 2022 in the
2022 in the Leu Web Auction 20. Although it is difficult to say goodbye, every ending is a new beginning. and we wish Mr. Lang all the best for his future.

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)
 

7. Magnus Maximus [Emperor in West AD 383-388 by usurpation from Gratian], AR reduced Siliqua*, AD 383-388, Trier Mint. Obv. Pearl-diademed, draped, and cuirassed bust right, DN MAG MAX-IMVS PF AVG [AV ligatured] / Rev. Helmeted Roma seated facing on throne, head left, holding globe in right hand and reversed spear in left hand, VIRTVS RO-MANORVM; in exergue, TR PS [TR = Trier Mint; PS = Pvsvlatvm (struck from refined, purified silver; see Sear RCV V, Introduction p. 7)]. 1.90 g., 16.32 x 16.08 mm., 12 h. RIC IX 84(b)(1) (p. 29), RSC V 20b (ill. p. 176), Sear RCV V 20644 (p. 422); Ghey 56f (this coin) [Ghey, E., “Vale of Pewsey, Wiltshire,” unpublished catalogue held by British Museum]. Purchased 17 May 2022 from Noonans (f/k/a Dix Noonan Webb) Auction, “The Vale of Pewsey Hoard of Late Roman Silver Coins,” Lot 82; ex Vale of Pewsey Hoard, discovered in Wiltshire 12-13 Sep. 2020, Portable Antiquities Scheme Hoard ID BM-7D34D9 (see https://finds.org.uk/database/hoards/record/id/3305).** 

* and **: [See footnotes to Julian II reduced siliqua from Vale of Pewsey Hoard.]

Finally for now, my four favorite Roman Imperial bronze coins purchased this year:

8. Nero, AE As, 65 AD Rome Mint. Obv. Laureate head right, NERO CAESAR  AV-G • GERM IMP / Rev. Victory alighting left, wings spread, holding shield inscribed SPQR, S|C across fields. RIC I Nero 312, BMCRE I Nero 241, Sear RCV I 1976 (ill. p. 391), Cohen 288. 28 mm., 11.9 g., 12 h. Purchased from Robert Morris (Numi Numismatic), Brighton MI, 29 Oct. 2022, ex. Gerhard Hirsch Nachfolger Auction 375, 22 Sep 2022, Lot 1310. 

9. AE (Orichalcum) Sestertius, AD 238-239, Rome Mint. Obv. Laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind, IMP CAES M ANT GORDIANVUS / Rev. Pax standing front, head left, holding branch in her right hand and transverse scepter in her left, PAX AVGVSTI; S – C across fields.  30 mm., 18.37 g., 12 h. RIC IV 256a, Sear Gordian III RCV III 8721, Cohen 176. Purchased from Leu Numismatik AG, Winterthur, Switzerland, Web Auction 22, 21 Aug. 2022, Lot 185, ex Collection of Dr. Max Blaschegg (1930-2021) (Austria & Switzerland) and that of his father, Dr. Karl Blaschegg (1892-1951) (Austria) (see https://coinsweekly.com/whoswho-sammler/blaschegg-dr-med-max-1930-2021/) (with collector’s ticket stating “von Vater,” so acquired before 1951). Leu description notes “light doubling on reverse.”

I include this next one because I like the fact that it's actually believable as the portrait of a child:

10.  Licinius II Caesar, AE follis, Cyzicus Mint (1st Officina), AD 318-324. Obv. Helmeted and cuirassed bust left, holding round shield over left shoulder and spear over right shoulder, DN VAL LICIN LICINIVS NOB C / Rev. Jupiter standing facing, head left, chlamys over left shoulder, holding crowning Victory with right hand and eagle-tipped long scepter with left hand; at his feet to left, another eagle standing left, head right, holding wreath in beak; at his feet to right, bound captive with beard, seated right, head turned back to left; IOVI CONS-ERVATORI around; X/IIμ [μ = lower-case M or mu] in right field [mark of value signifying 12 ½?*]; in exergue, mintmark SMKA (Cyzicus, 1st Officina). 19 mm., 3.48 g., 12 h. RIC VII Cyzicus 18[A] at p. 646; Sear RCV IV 15409, Cohen 21. Purchased from London Ancient Coins, Feb. 2022. Reverse die match (see https://www.wildwinds.com/coins/ric/licinius_II/_cyzicus_RIC_018_A.jpg) to example posted at Wildwinds,com, which is ex. CNG March 2015. 

11. Aelia Flaccilla (first wife of Theodosius I and mother of Arcadius & Honorius), AE maiorina, AD 383-386, Alexandria mint, 2nd Officina. Obv. Draped bust of Aelia Flaccilla right, wearing necklace, earrings, and elaborate headdress with diadem, AEL FLAC-CILLA AVG / Rev. Empress standing facing, head right, her arms crossed on her breast, SALVS REI-PVBLICAE; in exergue, ALEB [mint mark ALE = Alexandria; B = 2nd Officina]. 24 mm., 6.62 g. RIC IX 17 (p. 302); Sear RCV V 20622; Cohen 6; LRBC II 2897 [R.A.G. Carson, P.V. Hill, & J.P.C. Kent, Late Roman Bronze Coinage, A.D. 324-498 (London 1972)]. Purchased Nov. 2022 from Kirk Davis, Claremont, CA, Cat. No. 80, Fall 2022, Lot 79; ex. Ira & Larry Goldberg Coins & Collectibles, Inc., Los Angeles, CA, Auction 75, 09.24.2013, Lot 2652.

With the Tarentum coin, that makes 12, which I think is enough for now. Still to come: one or more lists of my favorite Imperial denarii and antoniniani bought this year.

Edited December 12, 2022 by DonnaML

[kevikens]

I can see why you chose the Tarentum Greek. So often these coins are struck with a  good portion of the design off the flan. You have a good eye for well struck coinage.

[Qcumbor]

Again, a fabulous list of coins I would gladly welcome home. I like #11 the most, followed by 4, 2 and 9, in this order !

Q

[DonnaML]

Once again, I forgot to include something on a list, in this case one more Imperial bronze I bought this year that I really liked. (I'm not quite the Faustina fan that @Roman Collector is, but I do like her coins, especially the ones depicting her children!)

12. Faustina II [Junior] (wife of Marcus Aurelius & daughter of Antoninus Pius), AE As or orichalcum Dupondius, Rome Mint, 161 AD. Obv. Draped bust right, hair in chignon behind, FAVSTINA AVGVSTA / Rev. Two infant boys seated on draped throne (pulvinar), each raising an arm towards the other, with hands touching, SAECVLI FELICIT; S - C across fields. RIC III [Marcus Aurelius] 1666, BMCRE IV Marcus Aurelius 991, Cohen 194, RCV II 5302, Dinsdale 006660 [variety without stars above boys’ heads] [Dinsdale, Paul H., The Imperial Coinage of the Middle Antonines: Marcus Aurelius with Lucius Verus and Commodus, Ch. 4, Faustina II - Undated, 158-176 (2020) at p. 69; photo at p. 75 (see http://romanpaulus.x10host.com/Marcus/04 - Faustina II - Undated, 158-176 (med_res).pdf)]. 25 mm., 11.5 g. Purchased from Incitatus Coins (Steve McBride), St. Johns, NL, Canada, May 2022.*

* The two infant boys are Faustina II’s twin sons b. 31 Aug 161 AD: Titus Aurelius Fulvus Antoninus (the older twin, d. 165 AD) and Commodus, the ninth and tenth children of Marcus Aurelius and Faustina II.

[Romismatist]

Another great list with wonderful coins. My favourite would definitely be the Tarentum nomos, as I collect coins of that city (and surrounding Messapian mints) and have a similar example, although not as well-struck as yours.

[DonnaML]

My next "sublist" of favorite Roman Imperials purchased this year consists of 10 denarii and antoninianii, non-Hadrian category. (I have so many Hadrians -- about 35 at last count, including quite a few bought this year -- that they're going to require their own sublist.)

13. Augustus AR Denarius, 11-10 BCE, Lugdunum (Lyons) Mint. Obv. Laureate head right, banker's mark[?] below ear, AUGVSTVS downwards behind, DIVI • F upwards in front / Rev. Bull butting right, right forefoot raised, lashing tail over back, IMP • XII in exergue. RIC I Augustus 187a (2d ed. 1984), RSC I Augustus 155 (3rd ed. 1978), BMCRE I Augustus 472 at p. 81 & Pl. 11 No. 19 (see https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/C_1866-1201-4186). 19 mm., 3.69 g. Purchased from Kölner Münzkabinett, Jan. 2022.

14. Trajan AR Denarius, AD 107 [Sear RCV II], Rome Mint. Obv. Laureate bust right, slight drapery on far shoulder, IMP TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P / Rev. Danuvius (the Danube), naked to waist, reclining with left elbow on rocks amidst reeds, looking right, cloak billowing out in circle behind head, right hand resting on ship behind him with prow in shape of bird’s head (swan?), COS V P P S P Q R OPTIMO PRINC; in exergue, DANVVIVS. RIC II Trajan 100, RSC II 136 (ill. p. 88), Sear RCV II 3138 (ill. p. 102), BMCRE III 395. 19 mm., 3.05 g. Purchased from Silbury Coins, UK, Jan. 2022.*

*According to Foss at p. 100 [Clive Foss, Roman Historical Coins (Seaby, London, 1990)], this coin (Foss, Trajan No. 22), together with two other types (RIC II 542-544 and RIC 556-569), commemorate the preparations for the second Dacian war in AD 106, including “crossing into Dacia by a bridge and with the aid of the god of the Danube who helped to overcome Dacia.” 

15. Trajan AR Denarius, AD 107-108, Rome Mint. Obv. Laureate bust right, slight drapery on far shoulder, IMP TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P / Emperor standing in triumphal quadriga to right (decorated with image of Trajan standing left erecting trophy to right), holding branch with right hand extended and eagle-tipped scepter with left hand, COS V P P S P Q R OPTIMO PRINC. RIC II 139 corr. (bust type); BMCRE III Trajan 349 at p. 78; RSC II 94; Sear RCV II 3131. Purchased Jan. 6, 2022 at Roma Numismatics E-Sale 93, Lot 974. 19 mm., 3.03 g., 6h.

16. Trajan AR Denarius, AD 114, Rome Mint. Obv. Laureate & draped bust right, seen from three-quarters behind; IMP TRAIANO OPTIMO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS VI PP / Rev. Trajan’s column, with spiral bands enclosing large dots on face, placed on decorated base with door in center, flanked by two eagles with beaks facing inwards, and surmounted by statue of Trajan standing facing, holding long scepter in left hand [right arm not visible]; SPQR OPTI-MO PRINCIPI. 17.5 mm., 3.06 g., 6 h. RIC II Trajan 293, RSC II Trajan 558 (laureate bust draped but rev. var.: OPTIMO rather than OPTI-MO), BMCRE III Trajan 455 & Pl. 17 No. 2 (laureate bust draped, OPTI-MO); Sear RCV 891 (3rd ed. 1981) [not in Millennium Edition]. Purchased from cgb.fr Internet Auction, 26 April 2022, Lot 95.

17. Trajan AR Denarius, ca. AD 114, Rome Mint. Obv. Laureate & draped bust right, IMP TRAIANO OPTIMO AVG GER DAC P M TR P / Rev. Mars, helmeted, naked but for cloak behind, advancing right, holding transverse spear, pointing up to right, with right hand and trophy over left shoulder with left hand, COS VI P P S P Q R. RIC II Trajan 299, RSC II Trajan 103, BMCRE III Trajan 516. Purchased Jan. 6, 2022 from Herakles Numismatics at NYINC 2022. 20 mm., 3.41 g. 

18. Marcus Aurelius AR Denarius, 165-166 AD, Rome Mint. Obv. Laureate head right, M ANTONINVS AVG - ARMENIACVS* / Rev. Roma, helmeted and draped, seated left with round shield at side, holding Palladium [statue of Pallas Athena taken to Rome by Aeneas] in her extended right hand and short vertical scepter (or spear) in left hand, P M TR P XX - IMP III COS III.  RIC III Marcus Aurelius 155 corr. (erroneously describes Roma as seated on shield and identifies Palladium as Victory); RSC II Marcus Aurelius 490 at p. 210 (Palladium and short spear); BMCRE IV Marcus Aurelius 392 at p. 438 & fn. (Palladium and short spear); https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/C_1937-0708-53 (same specimen as BMCRE 392, with same description); Sear RCV II 4923 (Victory and spear). 18 mm., 3.14 g., 6 h.  Purchased at Nomos Obolos Auction 22, 6 March 2022, Lot 610.**

*See Edward A. Sydenham, Historical References on Coins of the Roman Empire (1968 ed.; orig. pub. 1917) at p. 109, explaining that Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus assumed the title of Armeniacus after the defeat of the Parthians and the recovery of Armenia (placing a new vassal on the Armenian throne), a victory achieved in 163 by Statius Priscus while Marcus Aurelius remained in Rome and Lucius Verus, dispatched from Rome in command of the troops, spent the time in Antioch “in luxury and dissipation, relegating the conduct of the war to his generals.”

**Nomos AG characterized this type as “rare” in its auction description. I have found only five other specimens in ACSearch, two describing the figure held by Roma as the Palladium, and three as Victory. I believe that all are depictions of the same figure – which looks to me like the Palladium, not Victory -- identified differently by different authorities and dealers, rather than two actual variants. Similarly, with respect to the issue of whether Roma holds a short scepter or spear in her left hand, I detect no actual difference between the objects identified as one or the other. (I lean towards the scepter interpretation, because I see no spear point on any of the examples, although admittedly the tip of the object is concealed by the reverse legend.) In any event, I am not sure I agree with Nomos’s statement in its auction description that there is more than one real variant of this type, i.e. that “This type can be addressed as a variant of RIC 155, with Roma holding the Palladium and a sceptre instead of Victory and a spear.”  
 

19. Lucius Verus AR Denarius, Rome Mint AD 165-169 [RSC] / AD 165 [Sear RCV II]. Obv. Laureate head right, L VERVS AVG ARM PARTH MAX / Rev. Captive Parthia, wearing breeches and peaked cap, seated right on ground with hands tied behind back; to right in front of captive, quiver, bow, and shield; TRP V IMP III COS II. 19 mm., 3.26 g. RIC III 540, RSC II 273 (ill. p. 231), Sear RCV II 5358, BMCRE IV 385. Purchased from Savoca 133rd Silver Auction, 15 May 2022, Lot 370.  

20. Geta Caesar (son of Septimius Severus) AR Denarius 200 AD. Obv. As young boy, bare-headed and draped bust right, P SEPT GETA CAES PONT / Rev. Geta in military dress standing facing, head left, holding baton with right hand and long sceptre with left hand, trophy of arms behind him to right, PRINC IV-VENTVTIS. RIC IV-1 18, RSC III Geta 157b (ill. p. 97), Sear RCV II 7196. Purchased on Jan. 14, 2022 from Keith Candiotti (Miami, FL) at NYINC 2022. 19 mm., 3.2 g. 

21. Plautilla (wife of Caracalla; issued under Septimius Severus & Caracalla), AR Denarius, AD 202-205 [Sear: AD 204], Rome Mint. Obv. Draped bust right, hair in nearly vertical waves* and drawn into coiled plait at neck, PLAVTILLA AVGVSTA / Rev. Venus Victrix standing half-left, holding apple in outstretched right hand and palm frond in left hand, resting left arm on large oval shield set on ground; to left, Cupid standing left, holding helmet in outstretched left hand, VENVS VICTRIX. RIC IV (Caracalla) 369, RSC III (Plautilla) 25, Sear RCV II 7074 (ill. p. 549), BMCRE V (Septimius Severus & Caracalla) 429 (p. 238).  19 mm., 3.65 g., 5 h. Purchased from Classical Numismatic Group, LLC (CNG) E-Auction 515, May 4, 2022, Lot 589.

*Another variety of the same type shows Plautilla's hair in horizontal waves.
 

Finally, I'm choosing one coin to represent the half-dozen Gallienus Zoo and Legionary coins I bought this year. As is almost always the case with Gallienus, the condition and eye appeal of these coins aren't really comparable to most of the ancient coins I like to buy. Their appeal to me lies more in their historical interest (especially the Legionary series) and in my fondness for ancient coins depicting animals, real or mythical.

22. Gallienus (son of Valerian I), Billon Antoninianus, 260-261 AD [Sear], 260 AD [Reinhardt], 258 AD [RIC], Mediolanum [Milan] Mint, 2nd emission (Göbl and Reinhardt), Legionary Issue. Obv. Radiate and cuirassed bust right, two ribbons behind, GALLIENVS AVG / Rev. Capricorn springing right, LEG I ADI VI P VI F ( = Legio I Adiutrix [“Rescuer”], VI Pia, VI Fidelis [see fn.]). RIC V-1 315j [joint reign], RSC IV 447 (ill. p. 77), Sear RCV III 10252, Göbl MIR [Moneta Imperii Romani] Band 36, No. 982r [ill. with other legionary series coins at http://www258.pair.com/denarius/cgi-bin/erfind.pl?sstring=legio+milan (Ed Flinn’s site Coinage of Gallienus and Family), and at Reinhardt p. 180, no. 5 (Frank Reinhardt, José de Sousa, & Heidemarie Bieker, Gallienvs Antoninianii, The Antoninianii Collection of Gallienus by Frank Reinhardt (Eng. trans. 2022), available at https://www.academia.edu/77282280/GALLIENUS_ANTONINIANII_English_version_PDF )]. 22 mm., 2.8 g, 12 h.  Purchased from Leu Numismatik AG, Winterthur, Switzerland, Web Auction 21, 19 Jul 2022, Lot 4869; ex Collection of Dipl.-Ing. [ = Engineering Master’s Degree] Adrian Lang, b. Germany 1956 [see https://leunumismatik.com/source/images/auction/36/pdf/b2acb9be-1e8d-4395-a863-6c5c7c37ed4b.pdf for biography]; ex Jesus Vico Auction 133, 15 Nov. 2012, Lot 2549.*

* A capricorn was the emblem of Leg. I Adiutrix -- just as the animals or other figures shown on the reverses of the other coins of the Gallienus legionary series served as the emblems or badges of those legions. See Jones, John Melville, A Dictionary of Ancient Roman Coins (London, Seaby, 1999) at p. 166 [entry for Legio]); RIC V-1 at p. 34. See also the list of the legions and their emblems depicted in the Gallienus legionary series at http://www258.pair.com/denarius/cgi-bin/erfind.pl?sstring=legio+milan (Ed Flinn’s site). Note that if this theory is correct, then several animals served as the emblem of more than one legion -- e.g., the bull for three legions [VII, VIII, and X].  

Leg. I Adiutrix wasprimarily based, during the third century AD, at Brigetio in Pannonia (modern Szöny, northwest Hungary) (See the article at https://www.livius.org/articles/legion/legio-i-adiutrix/ , a website on ancient history written and maintained by the Dutch historian Jona Lendering. For an index to articles about other legions, see https://www.livius.org/articles/legion .) 

The general consensus is that the P and F stood for Pia Fidelis. See Jones, John Melville, A Dictionary of Ancient Roman Coins (London, Seaby, 1999) at p. 166 [entry for Legio] (“the correct explanation seems to be that the legions were being commended for the virtues of piety and fidelity”). Note that “P F” can also stand for Pius Felix (see RIC V-1 at p. 32), but that term is usually associated with the emperor himself, and “faithfulness” seems a more appropriate appellation for the legions than “happiness.”  

There is also controversy about the year(s) of issue of the legionary series, relating to the meaning of the Roman numeral VI preceding both the P and the F in the reverse legend (as well as concerning the meaning, in various other examples of the legionary series, of the numerals V or VII instead of VI preceding P and F).  In RIC V-1 at p. 34 (published in 1927), the editor Harold Mattingly cited the work of Sir Charles Oman supporting the theory that the Roman numerals refer to the regnal years of Gallienus’s joint reign with his father in which the coins were issued -- i.e., years V-VII, or 157-159 AD -- despite the fact that “the obverse inscription is usually GALLIENVS AVG, a form of legend which does not generally appear until 260.”  According to Mattingly, Oman “conclusively points out that Gallienus would, at no date after 259, have celebrated the piety and loyalty of the Rhine legions [several of which, such as Leg VIII Augusta, are included in the legionary series], which had assisted the rebel Postumus to overthrow his authority in Gaul and to slay his son” (Saloninus). Jones agrees, stating in his Dictionary at p. 166 that “the numbers indicated the years of the emperor’s reign.”

However, the more modern authorities all seem to disagree with this interpretation, and place the legionary series near the beginning of Gallienus’s sole reign. See Sear RCV III at p. 293, where David Sear states in a note to No. 10252 (the Legio I Adiutrix capricorn coin above) that the legionary series of Gallienus “was issued early in his sole reign [i.e., after Valerian I’s capture by the Persians in 260] at Milan [Mediolanum], the base of the recently established field army commanded by Aureolus. The units honoured were the Praetorian Cohort and the seventeen legions which had furnished detachments for the field army. The numerals ‘VI’ and ‘VII’ appearing in the reverse legends [VI for my examples] may refer to the victories achieved by Aureolus over the usurpers Ingenuus and Regalian.”  See also Zach Beasley’s article on this subject at http://beastcoins.com/RomanImperial/V-I/Gallienus/Gallienus.htm  (“In 260, following the defeats of the revolts, Gallienus produced Antoniniani at Milan, honoring his different legions.  Each legion or cohort is featured through the legionary badge on the reverse, along with the victory number and P F for Pia Fidelis.  One coin type was issued for each of the three battles in which the unit participated.  Victory V was against the Alemanni, VI was against Ingenuus and VII was against Regalianus”).  Neither Sear nor Beasley provides any source for the theory that the three Roman numerals can be tied to specific victories.  Nor do they address Mattingly’s argument (derived from Charles Oman) that Gallienus would not have honored and praised the Rhine legions after the usurpation of Postumus in the summer of 260. 

The historian Jona Lendering offers a different interpretation. At https://www.livius.org/articles/legion/legio-ii-parthica/, in the article on Legio II Parthica, named on my “centaur with club” coin (as well as in other articles about other legions), the author implicitly rejects both the view that the Roman numerals V, VI, and VII represent regnal years, and the view that they refer to specific victories, asserting instead that legends such as “VI Pia VI Fidelis” simply honor a given legion for having been faithful and loyal on the specified number of occasions: “it is certain that in the conflict between the emperor Gallienus and his rival Postumus (260-268), the Second Parthian legion supported the first-mentioned, for which it was rewarded with surnames like Pia V Fidelis V (‘five times faithful and loyal’), Pia VI Fidelis VI, and finally Pia VII Fidelis VII.”

In short, even assuming that the modern authorities are correct that the legionary series was issued after the commencement of Gallienus’s sole reign, there is no generally-agreed answer to the questions of precisely what the V, VI, or VII on these coins signify – i.e., whether they refer to specific victories (numbered in an unknown fashion), or simply to the number of times a given legion proved itself to be faithful and loyal. 
 

One more Imperial sub-list to follow, later tonight or tomorrow, consisting of some of my favorite Hadrian Imperial coins purchased this year.

Edited December 12, 2022 by DonnaML

[Curtisimo]

All great coins @DonnaML! My favorites are the Tarentum and the A-Pi aureus.

I think your Aelia Flaccilla deserves special mention for its great eye appeal relative to other bronzes of that era.

It looks like you have had a fruitful 2022.  Hope 2023 is just as good. 

[AncientJoe]

Very hard to pick a favorite: I like the look of the Plautilla, the strike/style of Trajan's Column is great, the Nero as is a very artistic example, and I can't post without mentioning a Pius aureus considering my avatar! Congratulations on a great year!

[Roman Collector]

Wow!! What wonderful acquisitions, @DonnaML!! Absolutely lovely. My very, very favorite is the Antoninus Pius aureus. I also like the Nero as, the Augustus denarius and the Gallienus antoninianus with the capricorn reverse. My 2023 be just as good for your collection! 

[happy_collector]

Such wonderful selections, Donna. Beautiful coins! The reverse design of your Antoninus Pius aureus is superb. Your Aelia Flaccilla has such a nice portrait. Your Valentinian I solidus is my other favorite. Thanks for sharing. 😊

[David Atherton]

Exquisite choices! Hard to pick a favourite, but I'll go with the Pius aureus ... hard not to like a superb gold coin!

[ambr0zie]

From the first list, my favorites are the Tarentum Nomos (an example is on my bucket list but I will probably try to get one with an owl, like yours, as it adds beauty to an already beautiful design); of course the Pius aureus and the Faustina dupondius  - I like this type a lot and I don't think I have seen it too often on this denomination.

From the second list, it's very difficult to choose. Would love an Augustus denarius with the bull and I find the condition excellent. I like coins showing circulation wear but keeping their design clearly visible - it remembers me that I'm looking at an ancient coin.

I also like the 3 Trajan denarii, especially the DANVVIVS denarius (1 year and a half ago I made a bad decision letting one go in an auction even if it was a great deal) and - of course - the Column denarius, one of the most iconic Trajan coins.

The Gallienus legionary antoninianus is also an excellent coin - great portrait, great centering, pleasant design. Zoo series are very popular but legionary coins are at least at the same level of artistry/importance.

Edited December 13, 2022 by ambr0zie

[Limes]

Great list @DonnaML, lovely coins! My favorite by far is the the AP aureus. Not because simply its an aureus, but because that despite the little wear, the portrait remains very strong and life like and the reverse is very charming. Overall a great coin. I also like the details on the reverse of your coin showing the column of Trajan. 

Maybe you mentioned it somewhere, but how many coins did you score this year?? These lists, together with the others lists and the large number of Hadrians you mentioned, your coin cabinet must be getting too small 🙂 (In wanted to say "uit zijn voegen barsten", but I dont know how to say it English, according to google translate its bursting at the seams?)

Edited December 13, 2022 by Limes

[Ancient Coin Hunter]

A very nice haul in 2022 Donna. My favorite is the AP aureus (as many have expressed so far). Curious to see what else you have acquired this year.

[DonnaML]

8 hours ago, ambr0zie said:

From the first list, my favorites are the Tarentum Nomos (an example is on my bucket list but I will probably try to get one with an owl, like yours, as it adds beauty to an already beautiful design); of course the Pius aureus and the Faustina dupondius  - I like this type a lot and I don't think I have seen it too often on this denomination.

From the second list, it's very difficult to choose. Would love an Augustus denarius with the bull and I find the condition excellent. I like coins showing circulation wear but keeping their design clearly visible - it remembers me that I'm looking at an ancient coin.

I also like the 3 Trajan denarii, especially the DANVVIVS denarius (1 year and a half ago I made a bad decision letting one go in an auction even if it was a great deal) and - of course - the Column denarius, one of the most iconic Trajan coins.

The Gallienus legionary antoninianus is also an excellent coin - great portrait, great centering, pleasant design. Zoo series are very popular but legionary coins are at least at the same level of artistry/importance.

Thanks! I was afraid that people wouldn't appreciate the Augustus denarius with bull, because it shows circulation wear. As you say, that just shows it's ancient, while leaving the design almost entirely intact. Besides, it probably would have cost twice as much in more pristine condition.

Thanks also for understanding why I put one of my Gallienus purchases on the list. Here's the other Gallienus legionary denarius I bought this year that I considered putting on the list; I ended up choosing the capricorn instead rather arbitrarily, largely because it has a better obverse. On the other hand, who can't appreciate a centaur swinging a baseball bat? (I kind of think he's holding something in his other hand as well, although the auction description doesn't mention anything. I am not sure what it could be.)

Gallienus (son of Valerian I), Billon Antoninianus, 260-261 AD [Sear], 260 AD [Reinhardt], 258 AD [RIC], Mediolanum [Milan] Mint, 2nd emission (Göbl and Reinhardt), Legionary Issue. Obv. Radiate and cuirassed bust right, two ribbons behind, GALLIENVS AVG / Rev. Centaur with beard galloping right, raising his right hand in salute and holding club in left hand, LEG II PART VI P VI F ( = Legio II Parthica,* VI Pia, VI Fidelis). RIC V-1 336j [joint reign], RSC IV 483, Sear RCV III 10262 (ill. p. 294), Göbl MIR [Moneta Imperii Romani] Band 36, No. 997r [ill. with other legionary series coins at http://www258.pair.com/denarius/cgi-bin/erfind.pl?sstring=legio+milan (Ed Flinn’s site Coinage of Gallienus and Family), and at Reinhardt p. 187, no. 6 (Frank Reinhardt, José de Sousa, & Heidemarie Bieker, Gallienvs Antoninianii, The Antoninianii Collection of Gallienus by Frank Reinhardt (Eng. trans. 2022), available at https://www.academia.edu/77282280/GALLIENUS_ANTONINIANII_English_version_PDF )]. 22 mm., 2.8 g, 12 h.  Purchased from Leu Numismatik AG, Winterthur, Switzerland, Web Auction 21, 19 Jul 2022, Lot 4872; ex Collection of Dipl.-Ing. [ = Engineering Master’s Degree] Adrian Lang, b. Germany 1956 [see https://leunumismatik.com/source/images/auction/36/pdf/b2acb9be-1e8d-4395-a863-6c5c7c37ed4b.pdf for biography] .

* Leg. II Parthica was primarily based, during the third century AD,  on the Alban mountain near Rome. (See the article about this legion at https://www.livius.org/articles/legion/legio-ii-parthica/,

[DonnaML]

9 hours ago, Limes said:

Great list @DonnaML, lovely coins! My favorite by far is the the AP aureus. Not because simply its an aureus, but because that despite the little wear, the portrait remains very strong and life like and the reverse is very charming. Overall a great coin. I also like the details on the reverse of your coin showing the column of Trajan. 

Maybe you mentioned it somewhere, but how many coins did you score this year?? These lists, together with the others lists and the large number of Hadrians you mentioned, your coin cabinet must be getting too small 🙂 (In wanted to say "uit zijn voegen barsten", but I dont know how to say it English, according to google translate its bursting at the seams?)

Thanks! Just as with the Augustus denarius (see my previous comment), the Antoninus Pius aureus would have cost at least twice as much in noticeably better condition. And I don't think that the visible wear really detracts from its eye-appeal very much, if at all. Plus, I happen to be very fond of that type of reverse theme in the first place!

In answer to your question, and without actually counting, I think I probably bought about 110 ancient coins this year (for a current total of 394, mostly collected over the last 5 years). So an average of 2-3 per week, maybe. Although it didn't feel like quite that many when I was buying them. And yes, it seems that I'm ending up putting about half of them on my various "top coins" lists. It's hard to choose!

Plus I bought another 35-40 non-ancient World coins and medals, to add to the many hundreds I had already accumulated over the last 40+ years, and still retained after selling many of the more expensive ones back in 2015-18. This was the first year I actively collected more of them since about 2013. 

Running out of storage isn't a problem. Except for some of the medals that I display vertically on individual coin stands (in or outside of glass display cases), I keep most of my coins and medals in the infinitely stackable Lindner/Lighthouse coin boxes I've written about before, with a couple of those boxes displayed vertically themselves.

Running out of money is a bigger potential problem! I haven't posted in the "coin budget" thread, but I've read it, and if I don't cut down on my purchases this coming year I'll have to either unretire, or sell some of my collection! I do agree with one of the posters in that thread -- I think it may have been @sand -- that the coins I buy are simply a form of investment, and a lot prettier and more enjoyable than stocks and bonds, even if less liquid. I don't think it's anything like spending money on cigarettes or alcohol or travel, or on fast-depreciating assets like cars or expensive clothing or furniture.  None of which is among my expenses (other than my recent trip to upstate NY and Toronto, my first venture outside the borders of NYC in almost three years). And I don't buy coins that I don't think I could resell at auction, if I had to, for something approaching what I spent on them, if not more.

I will try very hard never to let myself get in a position again, as I was a number of years ago when I quit my last law firm job without having another one lined up (long story, but I found myself in a "straw that broke the camel's back" situation), of being so desperate for immediate cash that I had to sell coins to a dealer directly, for around 30% of market value. My financial position is easier to predict now that I'm retired, and know I have X in savings and Y in Social Security income, and, on the other hand, my monthly expenses including rent and healthcare (Medicare) are relatively foreseeable. So if I ever do need to sell some of my collection, I'll be able to begin the process at least a year in advance. 

Edited December 13, 2022 by DonnaML

[CPK]

Hands down, my favorite is that exquisite Antoninus Pius aureus. 

Second place probably goes to the Trajan's Column denarius.

Hard to pick favorites though! They are all great coins. 

[ambr0zie]

1 hour ago, DonnaML said:

Thanks! I was afraid that people wouldn't appreciate the Augustus denarius with bull, because it shows circulation wear. As you say, that just shows it's ancient, while leaving the design almost entirely intact. Besides, it probably would have cost twice as much in more pristine condition.

Thanks also for understanding why I put one of my Gallienus purchases on the list.

You won't see me commenting against a circulated coin especially if it's 1.) with the design clearly visible including legends 2.) (bonus) a scarcer and pleasant type. I can't speak for others though. I would add that denarius in my collection without hesitation if the price is right. I can't afford one in pristine condition and I will probably buy a similar coin (even if I would prefer one with anepigraphic obverse). 

As for the Gallienus, I consider it a very decent and interesting type. As a coincidence, my first Gallienus coin was also a legionary type (initially I thought it's from the Zoo series). Unfortunately, the condition is below average. Still a coin I like. as I do with all my coins.

Edited December 13, 2022 by ambr0zie

[DonnaML]

OK, it's time to finish up my "top Imperials" list with my ten favorite Hadrian Imperials purchased this year. Six of them belong, or are at least adjacent, to the "Travel Series."

The first on the list isn't notably attractive, but it's both rare and historically important:

23. Hadrian, AR Denarius, AD 117 (Aug-Dec), Antioch Mint. Obv. Laureate and cuirassed bust right with exposed upper part of breastplate visible with balteus strap, IMP CAE DI TRA PAR F DI NER NEP TRA HADRIANO AVG / Rev. Trajan standing right, clasping hands with Hadrian standing left, Trajan holds scroll in upraised left hand, [TRIBVNIC][off flan] POTESTAS; in exergue, ADOPTIO. RIC II.3 2960 at p. 278 (ill. Pl. 49) (frequency “R2”) (2019 ed.)vul; old RIC II 22C (1926 ed.) (leg. corr.); RSC II Hadrian 7a (Antioch); Strack *4 corr. [citing example in Vienna Kunsthistorisches Museum (No. 8668); see RIC II.3 2960 at p. 278 n. 1442, correcting Strack’s erroneous rendition of legend]; BMCRE III Hadrian, p. 243 No. 3 [citing example in Vienna Kunsthistorisches Museum (No. 8668)]. 17x18 mm., 2.64 g. Purchased at St. James’s Auctions, Auction 65, 21 Sep 2022, Lot 1039.*

*This unusual “Eastern” Imperial denarius was issued together with RIC II.3 2959 at the beginning of Hadrian’s reign, when he was the governor of Syria, headquartered in Antioch. See McAlee p. 216 [Richard McAlee, The Coins of Roman Antioch (2007)]:

“When Hadrian succeeded Trajan as emperor in August 117 he was the governor of Syria, so that province and its capital, Antioch, were at the center of the political events at the beginning of Hadrian’s reign. [Discussion of Hadrian’s early Syrian tetradrachms, including the transfer of the provincial mint from Tyre to Antioch before the end of the year 117, omitted.] . . . . Hadrian also struck denarii in Syria, and was the first emperor to do so since Vespasian [who was himself the first emperor to strike Roman imperial aurei and denarii in Syria; see id. p. 152]. (Not coincidentally, Vespasian also came to power while he was a Roman governor in the east.) The earliest type – presumably struck in 117 – has a legend with the honorific titles adopted from Trajan and a reverse showing Trajan and Hadrian standing together and clasping hands, with ADOPTIO in the exergue. The legend and portrait style are similar to those seen on the first issue of tetradrachms with eagle on club ([McAlee] no. 529), attributed here to Tyre.”  See this example of the obverse portrait on McAlee 529 (taken from specimen # 14 at RPC III Online 3684):

There is certainly a similarity in style to the portrait of Hadrian on the obverse of my denarius (RIC II. 3 2960).

In terms of rarity, RIC II.3 classifies this type as “R2” (“very rare”), by contrast to RIC II. 3 2959, which is classified as only “R” (rare). (Note that unlike the old RIC, the frequency analysis is based not only on museum collections, but on the frequency of specimens sold on the market.) The only museum specimen listed either in RIC II.3 or in OCRE (and cited in Strack) is this example at the Vienna Kunsthistorisches Museum (No. 8668):

 
The British Museum does not appear to have an example of this type; instead, as noted above, it cites the Vienna specimen. (See BMCRE III Hadrian, p. 243 No. 3 & fn.)  Other than my example, I have found only four other specimens listed on ACSearch. Therefore, I believe that I was lucky to be able to obtain my example at what I consider a reasonable price; I am surprised that it did not get more attention given its rarity and historical significance. Perhaps one explanation is that the only reference cited by St. James’s Auctions in its lot description was the old RIC II 22C, rather than the new RIC II.3 2960, with its detailed discussion. 

24. Hadrian, AR Denarius, AD 120-121, Rome Mint. Obv. Laureate bust right, bare chest, slight drapery on far shoulder, IMP CAESAR TRAIAN HADRIANVS AVG / Rev. Hadrian, togate, seated left on platform at right, extending right hand towards citizen standing right below platform, holding out fold of toga to right to receive gift [bag of coins?] tossed to him by Hadrian, P M T - R P - COS III; in exergue, [L]IBERAL AV[G / III] in two lines. RIC II.3 Hadrian 309 (2019 ed.) [see http://numismatics.org/collection/1911.23.111 (ANS) for similar example]; Old RIC II 129b (1926 ed.); RSC II Hadrian 909; BMCRE III Hadrian 292 [matching rev. legend break]/293 [matching obv. portrait] at pp. 275-276. 17 mm., 2.96 g, 6 h. Purchased 6 Jan. 2022  from Roma Numismatics E-Sale No. 93, Lot 982. [Commemorates third liberalitas (gift or donation) by Hadrian to citizens of Rome, on anniversary of Rome’s founding.]

The next two make a nice pair:

25. Hadrian, AR Denarius, Rome Mint AD 126-127 [see RIC II.3 p. 132: Group 6]. Obv. Laureate bust right with slight drapery on far shoulder, HADRIANVS – AVGVSTVS / Rev. Seven stars (septentriones)* within and above crescent moon (points of crescent upwards), COS III above. RIC II.3 852 (ill. Pl. 19) (2019 ed.), old RIC II 202 (1926 ed.), RSC II 466, BMCRE III Hadrian 464, Sear RCV II 3485. 18 mm., 3.18 g. Purchased from Noonans Auction 13-14 July 2022, Lot 949; ex Seaby (retail purchase 1979).

*Referred to as such at RIC II.3 p. 853. The septentriones were the seven brightest stars within the Ursa Major constellation, forming an asterism currently known in the USA as the “Big Dipper,” and in the UK as the “Plough.” See https://oikofuge.com/septentrionate/;   https://www.britannica.com/place/Ursa-Major.

26. Hadrian, AR Denarius, Rome Mint AD 126-127 [see RIC II.3 p. 132: Group 6]. Obv. Laureate bust right with slight drapery on far shoulder, HADRIANVS – AVGVSTVS / Rev. Six-pointed star within crescent moon (points of crescent upwards), COS III above. RIC II.3 864 (ill. Pl. 20) (2019 ed.), old RIC II 200 (1926 ed.), RSC II 460, BMCRE III Hadrian 457, Sear RCV II 3484 (ill. p. 145). 18x19 mm., 3.27 g.  Purchased from cgb.fr, 13 May 2022.

Now for the Travel Series/Travel Series adjacent coins:

27. Hadrian AR Denarius [sometimes considered part of Travel Series], ca. 130 AD (according to RIC II.3 p. 168: Group 9, “time of the visit to Egypt”), Rome Mint. Obv. Laureate bust left, with slight drapery on far (right) shoulder, HADRIANVS AVG COS III P P / Rev. Galley sailing left with four rowers, pilot facing left seated in shelter at stern, acrostolium* at prow, FELICTATI // AVGVSTI (in exergue).  RIC II.3 Hadrian 1401 & Pl. 28 (Head type A2) (2019 edition), old RIC 240 (1926 ed.), RSC II 713a, BMCRE III Hadrian 625, Foss 108a [Clive Foss, Roman Historical Coins (Seaby, London, 1990)]. 18 mm., 3.26 g., 6 h. Purchased at Nomos Obolos Auction 22, 6 March 2022, Lot 602 (“Scarce issue with Hadrian facing to the left”).

*See https://www.forumancientcoins.com/numiswiki/view.asp?key=Acrostolium: “An ornamental extension of the stem post on the prow of an ancient warship. Often used as a symbol of victory or of power at sea.” 

28. Hadrian AR Denarius, Travel Series, Rome Mint, 130-133 AD (according to RIC II.3 p. 173: Group 10, “Provinces Cycle”) [134-138 AD according to Mattingly & Sydenham in old RIC II]. Obv. Bare head left, HADRIANVS - AVG COS III PP / Rev. Africa reclining left, leaning with left elbow on rock, wearing elephant-skin headdress, holding scorpion with extended right hand and cradling cornucopiae with left hand and arm, basket of grain-ears to left at her feet, AFRICA. RIC II.3 Hadrian 1497 & Pl. 31 (2019 edition) (see http://numismatics.org/ocre/id/ric.2_3(2).hdn.1497); old RIC II Hadrian 299 (1926 ed.) var. (head right), RSC II Hadrian 137, Sear RCV II 3459 obv. var. (laureate head left), BMCRE III Hadrian 821 var. (this type cited at BMCRE 821 fn. at p. 344); Foss 81 at p. 117 (dating Hadrian’s travels in the province of Africa to AD 128) [Clive Foss, Roman Historical Coins (Seaby, London, 1990)]. 18 mm., 3.31 g. Purchased from Akropolis Ancient Coins [Pete B.], Jan. 2022.

29. Hadrian AR Denarius, Travel Series, Rome Mint, 130-133 AD (according to RIC II.3 p. 173: Group 10, “Provinces Cycle”) [134-138 AD according to Mattingly & Sydenham in old RIC II]. Obv. Bareheaded and draped bust right, viewed from back or side, HADRIANVS - AVG COS III PP / Rev. Alexandria, draped, standing left, holding sistrum in extended right hand and basket in left hand with snake emerging from it and situla (water pail) hanging below*; ALEX-AN-DRIA. RIC II.3 Hadrian 1504 & Pl. 31 (2019 edition), old RIC II 300 (1926 ed.), RSC II 156, BMCRE III Hadrian 826, Foss 94a, Sear RCV II 3460 (obv. var.). Purchased from Dix Noonan Webb Auction 253, 13 March 2022, Lot 1408; ex B.A. Seaby Ltd. London, retail purchase 1990 (with coin envelope from Seaby).

*See Strack (1933) at p. 164, stating that the round object beneath the basket is a situla, Isis' normal two-part water pail or container, hanging from her left wrist in the coin type: "am Handgelenk hängt das der Isis eigene zweiteilige Wassergefäss." It certainly makes sense that Alexandria would have some more of the attributes of Isis in Romano-Egyptian iconography -- just like "Aegyptos" -- given that she already holds a sistrum.

Wikipedia describes a situla as a bucket or pail, and specifically mentions it as an attribute of Isis. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Situla:

"The term is also used for pails carried by figures in other art forms; according to Plutarch and other sources this was a sign of a devotee of Isis, who herself is often shown carrying one (containing water from the sacred Nile), of a rather different shape, with a rounded bottom, and sometimes lidded. This rounded shape, often with a "nipple" at the bottom (see Luristan example in gallery), is believed to have represented the female breast.[14] These were also donated to temples as votive offerings by devotees."

30. Hadrian AR Denarius, Travel Series, Rome Mint, 130-133 AD (according to RIC II.3 p. 173: Group 10, “Provinces Cyle”) [136 AD according to Sear RCV II p. 146]. Obv. Laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right with drapery covering cuirass, viewed from behind, right shoulder forward, HADRIANVS – AVG COS III PP / Rev. Germania standing facing with head right, holding spear in right hand and resting left hand on shield, GER – MANIA. RIC II. 3 1525 & Pl. 32 (2019 ed.), RSC II 806b, BMCRE Hadrian 839, Strack 301, Sear RCV II 3496 (obv. bust var.). 17.5 mm., 3.15 g. Purchased from Gorny & Mosch Auction 289, 11 Oct. 2022, Lot 819.

31.    Hadrian AR Denarius, Travel Series, Rome Mint, 130-133 AD (according to RIC II.3 p. 173: Group 10, “Provinces Cycle”) [136 AD according to Sear RCV II p. 150]. Obv. Laureate bust right, slight drapery on far shoulder, HADRIANVS – AVG COS III PP / Rev. Hadrian togate, standing left, holding volumen (scroll) in left hand; with his right hand, clasping right hand of Africa and about to raise her from her kneeling position, right; she wears elephant skin headdress and holds grain ears with her left hand; between them, two stalks of grain; RESTITUTORI – AFRICAE. RIC II.3 Hadrian 1569 & Pl. 34 (2019 edition); old RIC II Hadrian 322 (1926 ed.); RSC II Hadrian 1223a; BMCRE III Hadrian 871; Sear RCV II 3533; Foss 80 at p. 117 (dating Hadrian’s relevant trip to AD 128) [Clive Foss, Roman Historical Coins (Seaby, London, 1990)]. 17x19 mm., 3.41 g.  Purchased from Noonans Auction 13-14 July, 2022, Lot 988. 

32.    Hadrian AR Denarius, Travel Series, Rome Mint, 130-133 AD (according to RIC II.3 p. 173: Group 10, “Provinces Cycle”) [136 AD according to Sear RCV II p. 150]. Obv. Laureate and draped bust right, viewed from behind, HADRIANVS – AVG COS III PP / Rev. Hadrian togate, standing left, holding volumen (scroll) in left hand; he clasps right hands with Hispania to raise her from her kneeling position, right, holding an olive branch over her left shoulder, with a rabbit crouching between them, right; RESTITVTORI – HISPANIAE. RIC II.3 Hadrian 1582 (at p. 180)  & Pl. 35 (2019 edition); old RIC II Hadrian 327 (1926 ed.); RSC II Hadrian 1260a (rev. ill. p. 152); BMCRE III Hadrian 890 [BM Collection 1939,0109.10]; Sear RCV II 3535 (obv. bust var., rev. ill. p. 150). 16.5 mm., 3.32 g., 6 h. Purchased from CNG (Classical Numismatic Group, LLC) Electronic Auction 525, 20 Oct. 2022, Lot 1140; ex. “Cloudsley Collection,” originally purchased at retail from Spink & Son, Ltd. (with old Spink ticket & envelope).

A very nice, huge rabbit! More recognizable as such than most examples of the type, I think.

I don't think any of these coins, from the Travel Series or otherwise, is spectacular in its own right, but I think they make a nice group taken collectively. Especially if I were to show them together with the three Hadrian "Travel Series" coins I already had before this year (Aegyptos, Asia, and Adventvs Avg, representing the final return to Rome). 

I actually bought fewer Roman Republican coins this year, only a dozen or so, than in the last few years, but there are four I haven't even written up yet. So it will be a while before I can post that list, which will be the last of my 5 main categories of "top coins/medals" posts for 2022 -- World coins, World medals, Roman Provincials, Roman Imperials, and Roman Republicans. Plus the one Greek coin I bought!

Edited December 13, 2022 by DonnaML

[Octavius]

 What a great year!!! I just love everything about that Antoninus Pius aureus. Also, I'm just a sucker for all things Nero, and that As is a great coin - well struck, nice round , full flan. The Aelia Flaccilla has such nice even color   - so appealing.

I'm nuts about the denarius of Trajan's column (because my favorite restaurant is located just across from it!)

Congrats, enjoy, and Happy New Year!

[Tejas]

On 12/12/2022 at 9:39 PM, DonnaML said:

11. Aelia Flaccilla (first wife of Theodosius I and mother of Arcadius & Honorius), AE maiorina, AD 383-386, Alexandria mint, 2nd Officina. Obv. Draped bust of Aelia Flaccilla right, wearing necklace, earrings, and elaborate headdress with diadem, AEL FLAC-CILLA AVG / Rev. Empress standing facing, head right, her arms crossed on her breast, SALVS REI-PVBLICAE; in exergue, ALEB [mint mark ALE = Alexandria; B = 2nd Officina]. 24 mm., 6.62 g. RIC IX 17 (p. 302); Sear RCV V 20622; Cohen 6; LRBC II 2897 [R.A.G. Carson, P.V. Hill, & J.P.C. Kent, Late Roman Bronze Coinage, A.D. 324-498 (London 1972)]. Purchased Nov. 2022 from Kirk Davis, Claremont, CA, Cat. No. 80, Fall 2022, Lot 79; ex. Ira & Larry Goldberg Coins & Collectibles, Inc., Los Angeles, CA, Auction 75, 09.24.2013, Lot 2652.

Wow, I love this coin: wonderfully elegant portrait, especially for this late period (not to speak about the beautiful surfaces). If I had seen this coin in auction, you would have had serious competition 🙂 The other coins are great too, but this one really caught my eyes.

[ComicMan]

My favorite are the Julian and Constantius II, is the rosette-diadem thing always that or is the pearl diadem right most of the time?

[Limes]

On 12/13/2022 at 7:25 PM, DonnaML said:

Thanks! Just as with the Augustus denarius (see my previous comment), the Antoninus Pius aureus would have cost at least twice as much in noticeably better condition. And I don't think that the visible wear really detracts from its eye-appeal very much, if at all. Plus, I happen to be very fond of that type of reverse theme in the first place!

In answer to your question, and without actually counting, I think I probably bought about 110 ancient coins this year (for a current total of 394, mostly collected over the last 5 years). So an average of 2-3 per week, maybe. Although it didn't feel like quite that many when I was buying them. And yes, it seems that I'm ending up putting about half of them on my various "top coins" lists. It's hard to choose!

Plus I bought another 35-40 non-ancient World coins and medals, to add to the many hundreds I had already accumulated over the last 40+ years, and still retained after selling many of the more expensive ones back in 2015-18. This was the first year I actively collected more of them since about 2013. 

Running out of storage isn't a problem. Except for some of the medals that I display vertically on individual coin stands (in or outside of glass display cases), I keep most of my coins and medals in the infinitely stackable Lindner/Lighthouse coin boxes I've written about before, with a couple of those boxes displayed vertically themselves.

Running out of money is a bigger potential problem! I haven't posted in the "coin budget" thread, but I've read it, and if I don't cut down on my purchases this coming year I'll have to either unretire, or sell some of my collection! I do agree with one of the posters in that thread -- I think it may have been @sand -- that the coins I buy are simply a form of investment, and a lot prettier and more enjoyable than stocks and bonds, even if less liquid. I don't think it's anything like spending money on cigarettes or alcohol or travel, or on fast-depreciating assets like cars or expensive clothing or furniture.  None of which is among my expenses (other than my recent trip to upstate NY and Toronto, my first venture outside the borders of NYC in almost three years). And I don't buy coins that I don't think I could resell at auction, if I had to, for something approaching what I spent on them, if not more.

I will try very hard never to let myself get in a position again, as I was a number of years ago when I quit my last law firm job without having another one lined up (long story, but I found myself in a "straw that broke the camel's back" situation), of being so desperate for immediate cash that I had to sell coins to a dealer directly, for around 30% of market value. My financial position is easier to predict now that I'm retired, and know I have X in savings and Y in Social Security income, and, on the other hand, my monthly expenses including rent and healthcare (Medicare) are relatively foreseeable. So if I ever do need to sell some of my collection, I'll be able to begin the process at least a year in advance. 

Thanks for responding, and that is quite a haul! Do take care with your expenditure of course! Your situation is very different compared to mine. My costs can also be somewhat unpredictable. A few days ago my daughter dropped the iPad, so, that has to be fixed and is very expensive. And daycare is unbelievably expensive... 

Regarding your Hadrians, that Germania coin is a beauty, very nicely detailed! Its also one of the travel series types one does not see in auction a lot. 

Have a good collecting year in 2023! 

 

[DonnaML]

1 hour ago, Limes said:

Regarding your Hadrians, that Germania coin is a beauty, very nicely detailed! Its also one of the travel series types one does not see in auction a lot. 

Thanks for the good wishes. As for the Germania, I agree that it's rarely seen for sale (at auction or at retail) compared to some of the more common ones. (I think perhaps I see Aegyptos for sale the most often.) Also, it's one of the very few, if not the only, provincial personifications in the Travel Series that's shown armed with a spear and shield, and not in a remotely subservient position. Which is interesting for what it says about the Roman view of Germania.

[DonnaML]

2 hours ago, ComicMan said:

My favorite are the Julian and Constantius II, is the rosette-diadem thing always that or is the pearl diadem right most of the time?

RSC V lists three different subtypes of that Constantius II siliqua: 259a is pearl-diademed, 259b (mine) is rosette-diademed, and 259c is both rosette-diademed and laurel-wreathed. I'm not sure about the relative commonness or scarcity of the three subtypes, but I do know that many dealers don't bother taking the time to distinguish them.