Ancient Greek Horse Rider 400 B.C.
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GUARANTEED Authentic: We do not sell fake or REPRODUCTION coins. If you find A price Somewhere that is too good to be true, it likely is. We have 20 years experience collecting coins, and now we offer a diverse selection mostly from our private collection. |
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*the two silver pics are bronze and lightened for the purpose to see details easier on a screen.
Want to wear your new treasure? No problem, most (not all) of our coins may be set in a sterling silver or 14k gold removable bezel set pendant. These are designed to allow you to remove the coin in the future, place a different coin of the same size for a change; all while not permanently altering you investment. Sterling silver 18mm sizes are always in stock due to their compatible size; all others are made to order. Please contact us if you would like one of our coins as a pendant. Thank you.
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Preface: As long as the world turns, there will always be a coin market. Sometimes it is stagnant, or depends on metal values; while other times the market is appreciating at a good tick, depending on the coinage. As a longtime collector of antique American and World coinage, ancient coins are finally seeing the dawn of their day in the spotlight. Ancient coins have been stagnant for too many years; but thanks to a good economy and a strong demand for rare older and more interesting coins; ones that tell a story - we predict ancient coins will have a long steady bull market for investment grade coins, which we will carefully focus on curating. Unlike many American coins, ancient coins are not affected by metal value; instead, they are affected by four things: collector strength, popularity, rareness, and finally condition. We will mainly focus on Roman, Greek, and Medieval coinage and will strive to have great examples at various price points, for the beginner or the professional collector. Helpful links include abbreviations used: Numismatic Abbreviations and the American Numismatic Society. -Adam *special purchase conditions and commentary policy toward bottom of page.
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This coin appears to be undocumented; or we are not able to find the reference that matches the description of the reverse; which is the real highlight of this coin. This coin is a bronze, denomination is Medallion, Weight 4.6 grams and is about 24mm in diameter.
Here is a beautiful example of an uncleaned silver Greekancient coin featuring Athena facing right helmeted on the obverse and perched owl on the reverse. Weight in 2.6 grams and the size is 18-19mm.
Very well stuck obverse bronze of Zeus facing right in great detail high relief. Reverse appears to be Athena standing upright facing right with mint marks. At 13.6 grams and 24mm in diameter, this is a nice heavy coin to add to your collection or these make great gifts for history buffs.
This is a genuine ancient Roman coin of the Emperor Julian II. Minted in Cyzicus between 361-363 AD. Size is 18.5mm; weight is 3.47 grams. Reference is RIC 130, A. It has the unusual mintmark of CYZA. Julian II is not common coin to find, and he was an important emperor and a very interesting person; which makes this coin desirable.
A member of the Constantinian dynasty, Julian was orphaned as a child. He was raised by the Gothic slave Mardonius, who had a profound influence on him, providing Julian with an excellent education. Julian became Caesar over the western provinces by order of Constantius II in 355, and in this role he campaigned successfully against the Alamanni and Franks. Most notable was his crushing victory over the Alamanni at the Battle of Argentoratum (Strasbourg) in 357, leading his 13,000 men against a Germanic army three times larger. In 360, Julian was proclaimed Augustus by his soldiers at Lutetia(Paris), sparking a civil war with Constantius. However, Constantius died before the two could face each other in battle, and named Julian as his successor.
In 363, Julian embarked on an ambitious campaign against the Sassanid Empire. The campaign was initially successful, securing a victory outside Ctesiphon, but his army was weak, possibly corrupted from within by hostile Christians. While campaigning deep into Persian territory, the Persians flooded the area behind him and Julian took a risky decision to withdraw up the valley of the Tigris River. During the Battle of Samarra, Julian was mortally wounded under mysterious circumstances, leaving his army trapped in Persian territory. Following his death, the Roman forces were obliged to cede territory in order to escape, including the fortress city of Nisibis.
Julian was a man of unusually complex character: he was "the military commander, the theosophist, the social reformer, and the man of letters". He was the last non-Christian ruler of the Roman Empire, and he believed that it was necessary to restore the Empire's ancient Roman values and traditions in order to save it from dissolution. He purged the top-heavy state bureaucracy, and attempted to revive traditional Roman religious practices at the expense of Christianity. His attempt to build a Third Temple in Jerusalem was probably intended to harm Christianity rather than please Jews. Julian also forbade the Christians from teaching classical texts and learning. His rejection of Christianity, and his promotion of Neoplatonic Hellenism in its place, caused him to be remembered as Julian the Apostate by the church. Source: wikipedia (much more to read about Julian II)
Excellent example of a choice grade antoninianus during the reign of Emperor Probus. This bronze coin is well struck and well centered; an important aspects of ancient coinage.
About Probus | Source: Wikipedia
Probus was born between 230 and 235 (exact date of birth unknown) in Sirmium (modern day Sremska Mitrovica), Pannonia Inferior, the son of Dalmatius. According to the Alexandrian Chronicle, he was born sometime in the year 232.
Probus entered the army around 250 upon reaching adulthood. He rose rapidly through the ranks, repeatedly earning high military decorations. Appointed as a military tribune by the emperor Valerian, at a very young age, in recognition of his latent ability,[citation needed] he justified the choice by a distinguished victory over the Sarmatians on the Illyrian frontier. During the chaotic years of the reign of Valerian, Illyria was the only province, generaled by such officers as Claudius, Aurelian and Probus, where the barbarians were kept at bay, while Gaul was overrun by the Franks, Rhaetia by the Alemans, Thrace and the Mediterranean by the Goths, and the east by Shapur I. Probus became amongst the highest placed lieutenants of Aurelian, reconquering Egypt from Zenobia in 273 A.D. Emperor Tacitus, upon his accession in 275, appointed Probus supreme chief of the east, granting him extraordinary powers in order to secure a dangerous frontier. Though the details are not specified, he is said to have fought with success on almost every frontier of the empire, before his election as emperor by the troops upon Tacitus' death of old age in 276, in his camp in Asia Minor.
According to the favorable treatment of Gibbon (whose account is largely derived from the Augustan History), Probus was the last of the benevolent constitutional emperors of Rome.While his successor Carus (Imp. 281-284) simply disdained to seek the senate's confirmation of his title, the latter's successor Diocletian (Imp. 284-305) took active measures to undermine its authority, and established the autocratic nature and divine derivation of the Imperial power. Never again, after Diocletian's reforms, would the Roman senate play an active role in the management of the empire. On the military sphere, Probus' victories continued the succession of martial Illyrian emperors begun by Claudius Gothicus, which restored the military supremacy of Rome after defeats sustained during the crisis of the third century.
Here is a very pleasing coin depicting one of my favorite of most interesting people, Julia Domna. Ancient Roman Empire silver Denarius with Julia Domna (193-217 AD) - Severus' wife and mother of Caracalla. Almost Uncirculated condition with well-struck full bust on obverse, typical crude planchet cracks on the rim; weights 3.15 gm. Not cleaned; attractive light-gray, silver and golden tones patina. Almost uncirculated is our opinion.
This silver (actual silver) Crusader coin is well struck featuring a temple with the Knights Templar Maltese Cross. Many different types of Templar coins were minted during many different Medieval Christian crusades, in many different principalities. Finding well struck coins bearing the Knights Templar cross are being increasing more collected; we believe they are at the bottom of a bullish market for good examples.
Beautiful and rare silver Stater of Aspendos / PAMPHYLIA 385-370 B.C. - Two nude athletes Wrestling grasping each other by the arms inscription between/ Slinger advancing right about to discharge sling; Triskeles before. Inscriptions behind.size is 1 inch and is 10.8 grams. The coin is nice and thick, very well struck - most examples are off strike on the reverse.
Interesting and pleasing to the eye, obverse: head of Athena, helmeted. Reverse: AMI-ΣO to left and right of sword in sheath and various other interesting items and symbols.
18.5 mm, 8.56 grams
This is a fantastic example of a rare medieval coin with a cleric (probably a knight)knelt in prayer on the obverse and a lion (or griffin) holding the Knights Templar's flag with the Maltese Cross struck on the top center. This one is uncommon.
Appears as a better grade in person, this early Roman bronze depicts the Emperor (under review) in nice high relief well stuck and centered. Eagle on reverse is in similar condition also in high relief. This coin is heavy and thick 23mm diameter.
This is a very well struck and well centered; showing excellent relief and details. Emperor Valentinian I in weath on obverse (this coin was struck shortly after a military victory), typically, you see the Emperor in full armor, demonstrating the readiness and military prowess. While the lesser seen victory coins are done more from a softer point of view of joy and victory. Valentinian was an important Roman Emperor and his coinage is highly revered. This coin is no exception considering how scarce it is. Recognized as the top honor for military or public officers, the triumph wreath was given to Romans as a reward and praise when completing a victory. There are different kinds of triumph wreaths, each made from different materials. A victorious general received a wreath consisting of gold and decorated jewels. This wreath was either worn if it wasn't heavy or just held over the head of the victor. This wreath was also given as a gift to commanders. The most honorable wreath, the Corona Triumphalis, was adorned with bay leaves or laurels. The triumph wreaths were heavily cherished by the Romans and a desired object by the Roman citizens. 16-17mm diameter 2.62gm in weight.
About Valentinian I | Souce Wikipedia
Valentinian IAugustus of the Western Roman Empire
Emperor of the Roman EmpireReign26 February – 28 March 364 (whole empire);
26 March 364 – 17 November 375 (emperor of the west)PredecessorJovianSuccessorValens, Gratian and Valentinian IICo-emperorValens (Eastern Emperor)BornJuly 3, 321
Cibalae, Pannonia Secunda(Vinkovci, present-day Croatia)Died17 November 375 (aged 54)
JustaFull nameFlavius ValentinianusRegnal nameImperator Caesar Flavius Valentinianus AugustusDynastyValentinianFatherGratian the ElderReligionNicene Christianity
Valentinian I (Latin: Flavius Valentinianus Augustus: Οὐαλεντινιανός; 3 July 321 – 17 November 375), also known as Valentinian the Great, was Roman emperor from 364 to 375. Upon becoming emperor he made his brother Valens his co-emperor, giving him rule of the eastern provinces while Valentinian retained the west.
During his reign, Valentinian fought successfully against the Alamanni, Quadi, and Sarmatians. Most notable was his victory over the Alamanni in 367 at the Battle of Solicinium. His brilliant general Count Theodosius defeated a revolt in Africa and the Great Conspiracy, a coordinated assault on Roman Britain by Picts, Scots, and Saxons. Valentinian was also the last emperor to conduct campaigns across both the Rhine and Danube rivers. Valentinian rebuilt and improved the fortifications along the frontiers, even building fortresses in enemy territory.
Due to the successful nature of his reign and the rapid decline of the empire after his death, he is often considered to be the "last great western emperor". He founded the Valentinian Dynasty, with his sons Gratian and Valentinian II succeeding him in the western half of the empire.
AE As (26mm, 10.68 grams) of Tiberius Claudius Drusus 41-54 AD, Son of Nero Claudius Drusus & Antonia. VF with choice surfaces and olive green tone. Nice portrait coin of one of the Twelve Caesars. This is a very nice complete strikes and well centered.
Source: Wikipedia .
Claudius (Tiberius Claudius Caesar Augustus Germanicus; 1 August 10 BC – 13 October 54 AD) was Roman emperor from 41 to 54. A member of the Julio-Claudian dynasty, he was the son of Drusus and Antonia Minor. He was born at Lugdunum in Gaul, the first (and until Trajan, only) Roman Emperor to be born outside Italy. Because he was afflicted with a limp and slight deafness due to sickness at a young age, his family ostracized him and excluded him from public office until his consulship, shared with his nephew Caligula in 37.
Claudius' infirmity probably saved him from the fate of many other nobles during the purges of Tiberius's and Caligula's reigns; potential enemies did not see him as a serious threat. His survival led to his being declared Emperor by the Praetorian Guard after Caligula's assassination, at which point he was the last man of his family. Despite his lack of experience, Claudius proved to be an able and efficient administrator. He was also an ambitious builder, constructing many new roads, aqueducts, and canals across the Empire. During his reign the Empire began the conquest of Britain (if the earlier invasions of Britain by Caesar and Caligula's aborted attempts are not counted). Having a personal interest in law, he presided at public trials, and issued up to twenty edicts a day. He was seen as vulnerable throughout his reign, particularly by elements of the nobility. Claudius was constantly forced to shore up his position; this resulted in the deaths of many senators. These events damaged his reputation among the ancient writers, though more recent historians have revised this opinion. Many authors contend that he was murdered by his own wife. After his death in 54 AD (at the age of 63), his grand-nephew, step-son, and adopted son Nero succeeded him as Emperor. His 13-year reign (slightly longer than Nero's) would not be surpassed by any successors until that of Domitian, who reigned for 15 years.
He was a descendant of the Octavii Rufi (through Gaius Octavius), Julii Caesares (through Julia Minor and Julia Antonia), and the Claudii Nerones (through Nero Claudius Drusus). He was a step-grandson (through his father Drusus) and great-nephew (through his mother Antonia Minor) of Augustus. He was a nephew of Tiberius through his father, Tiberius' brother. Through his brother Germanicus, Claudius was an uncle of Caligula and a great-uncle of Nero.
These Greek Akarnania Leukas AR Stater's are in high demand, drying up and seem to keep on appreciating. Here we have a fine example well struck in high relief of Athena wearing helmet obverse; not centered but complete strike; reverse reveals a strike error in which the pegasus head is unfortunately decapitated. Very scarce version of this coin.
This coin was struck under the authority and reign of Constantine The Great or The First and has a very nice desert/clay patina; uncleaned.
OBVERSE – Helmeted bust of Roma wearing Imperial mantle
REVERSE – She-wolf suckling Romulus & Remus
TURNING POINT IN THE HISTORY OF THE WORLD
A mysterious decision by Constantine in October 312 can be seen now as one of the turning points of history. He is camped just north of Rome, about to do battle with his rival for control of the western empire. He decides that his men shall wear on their shields a Christian symbol - the monogram known as the Chi-Rho, formed from the first two Greek letters of the word Christ. Constantine wins the battle of the Milvian Bridge. His rival dies fleeing back over the Tiber when a bridge of boats collapses. In Constantine's mind he has won this crucial engagement in alliance with the god of the Christians. The results are dramatic. Formally acknowledged by the senate as the Augustus of the west, Constantine immediately takes steps to favor the persecuted Christians. He restores confiscated church property and offers public funds to churches in need.
Within a year or two of suffering severe persecution, the Christians suddenly find themselves a favored group within the empire. They win tax concessions, and Roman basilicas are constructed for their use as churches. There are career advantages within Constantine's administration if one is a professing Christian. Many conversions to Christianity happened during this time. This coin is about 17.5mm in diameter and weight 2.8gm.
*Sear 3894v
This is a scarce coin used and circulated during the crusades of the Knights Templar. The coin was struck during a precarious time when the Knights Templars fleet home base was in danger and temporarily moved to Paris. The obverse depicts two Knights standing praying at an altar with the Maltese Cross above. Reverse is mostly design it appears; however, there may be an animal center left. The coin is well struck and well centered.
Coins from this period are some of the first coins we see with the image of Jesus Christ on the obverse. This particular coin has one of the most pleasing depiction of Christ and is said to be very accurate to his actual human appearance. Very well struck with great details.
Struck during the reign of Nicephorus III - 24 March 1078 - 4 April 1081 A.D.
Reference: Sear 1889
Bust of Jesus Christ facing, wearing nimbus crown, pallium and colobium, and raising right hand in benediction, in left hand, the book of Gospels, IC to left, XC to right; within border.
Latin cross, with X at center, and globule and two pellets at each extremity; in lower field, on either side, floral ornament; in upper field, on either side, crescent.
For more than a century, the production of Follis denomination Byzantine coins had religious Christian motifs which included included Jesus Christ, and even Virgin Mary. These coins were designed to honor Christ and recognize the subservient role of the Byzantine emperor, with many of the reverse inscriptions translating to "Jesus Christ King of Kings" and "May Jesus Christ Conquer". The Follis denomination coins were the largest bronze denomination coins issued by the Byzantine empire, and their large size, along with the Christian motif make them a popular coin type for collectors. This series ran from the period of Byzantine emperors John I (969-976 A.D.) to Alexius I (1081-1118 A.D.). The accepted classification was originally devised by Miss Margaret Thompson with her study of these types of coins. World famous numismatic author, David R. Sear adopted this classification system for his book entitled, Byzantine Coins and Their Values. The references about this coin site Mr. Sear's book by the number that they appear in that work. The class types of coins included Class A1, Class A2, Class B, Class C, Class D, Class E, Class F, Class G, Class H, Class I, Class J, Class K. Read more and see examples of these coins by reading the JESUS CHRIST Anonymous Class A-N Byzantine Follis Coins Reference.
Very tough to find, this silver Templar coin depicts two creatures standing on hind legs with large Maltese Cross near center and another smaller one on center top. The reverse depicts a KnightsTemplar battle scene.
Great early Greek Bronze or Copper from the Apulia, Arpi region dating 325-275 B.C. The coin is well centered and struck, although circulated; my opinion of the grade is Fine Choice. Obverse shows Laureate head of Zeus facing left, thunderbolt to the right. The reverse shows a boar running/striding, above the boar is a spearhead. I assume the symbolism here depicts a hunting scene. Very nice coin, slightly oval in shape. The reverse is one of my favorites and it is less common to see a boar.
*CNG 94, 10 SNG ANS 635
This is a fantastic coin which is very well struck and centered. The obverse is of a bee and the reverse a horse standing, probably grazing w/ a palm tree. The coin is approximately 17mm in diameter and 3.6gm weight.
In Greek Mythology, Aristaeus was the god of bee-keeping. After inadvertently causing the death of Eurydice, who stepped upon a snake while fleeing him, her nymph sisters punished him by killing every one of his bees. Witnessing the empty hives where his bees had dwelt, Aristaeus wept and consulted Proteus who advised him to give honor in memory of Eurydice by sacrificing four bulls and four cows. Upon doing so, he let them rot and from their corpses in which rose bees to fill his empty hives. Later on, bees are continued to be a discussion in Greek mythology; mostly in the context or hurting someone and so goes the story. These are the types of coins that display artistry, tells stories and in great uncleaned condition.
Hard to find Pontos, Amisos. Mithradates VI Eupator, 120-63 BC, struck c. 85-63 BC. Aegis with Gorgoneion / Nike. Strike is good on both sides - this coin shows much nicer in person, and I do not say that on every listing.
This is not an easy coin to find. This crusader coin features the classic Maltese Cross on the obverse, with hallmarks from a mint on the reverse, in which coins from this mintare tough to find. The coin is about 16mm in diameter.
Here is a very well circulated tough to find coin from Vatican City. This coin would have been minted under the authority of Pope Clement XII and was recognised by the Papal States. Clement XII was an important Pope with many accomplishments during his 9+ year reign. This coin show much better in person.
This stunner is a genuine Roman Imperial coin of the Emperor Claudius II Gothicus, who was only a 2 year emperor; and a very important person in history. Also known at just "Claudius", he raised to taught to be a great soldier in the Roman Empire; and that he was. As Claudius matured, both in age and military experience, he was moved up the ranks fairly quickly due to his military prowess and leadership skills. The world may look a lot different if it wasn't for many successful military campaigns led by Claudius. As emperor, and with some luck, Claudius was a successful Emperor, who won many important battles. It is said that he was very respected by his military and subjects; however, he was known as being a cruel person.
This Emperor also has another interesting story attached to his name. Source History Channel: On February 14 around the year 278A.D., Valentine, a holy priest in Rome in the days of Emperor Claudius II, was executed.
Under the rule of Claudius the Cruel, Rome was involved in many unpopular and bloody campaigns. The emperor had to maintain a strong army, but was having a difficult time getting soldiers to join his military leagues. Claudius believed that Roman men were unwilling to join the army because of their strong attachment to their wives and families.
To get rid of the problem, Claudius banned all marriages and engagements in Rome. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret.
When Valentine’s actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death. Valentine was arrested and dragged before the Prefect of Rome, who condemned him to be beaten to death with clubs and to have his head cut off. The sentence was carried out on February 14, on or about the year 270.
Legend also has it that while in jail, St. Valentine left a farewell note for the jailer’s daughter, who had become his friend, and signed it “From Your Valentine.”
For his great service, Valentine was named a saint after his death.
In truth, the exact origins and identity of St. Valentine are unclear. According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, “At least three different Saint Valentines, all of them martyrs, are mentioned in the early martyrologies under the date of 14 February.” One was a priest in Rome, the second one was a bishop of Interamna (now Terni, Italy) and the third St. Valentine was a martyr in the Roman province of Africa.
At the end, records indicate that Claudius died of a plague, which is likely why his reign as emperor was short but eventful. In these days, it was also common for enemies to plot an assassination, although it is not certain as his cause of death.
Minted in Antioch between 268-270. Size is 20mm; weight is 4.09 grams; uncleaned, well struck and centered, beautiful desert patina.
*RIC 212.
Excellent rare Pontos, Amisos - very well struck with a pleasing olive patina on the fields. Amisos lies within the region referred to by Greeks as the Pontos; the northeast portion of Turkey adjacent to the Black Sea. This coin is a classic ancient Greek coin of Pontos, Amisos 100-85 BC. The obverse of the coin features a bust of a young Ares, God of War, wearing a crested helmet. The reverse is quite busy - "AMI-ΣO" to left and right of sword in sheath, SNG & BMC ;Black Sea 1162; BMC 18.5 mm, 8.56 grams . To understand abbreviations, visit the American Numismatic Society. Overall, this rare piece is very fine, well centered and well struck and very pleasing to the eye. Estimates from auctions are up to $500.
I really love this coin because it has it all; well centered, well struck and uncleaned with a stunning desert patina. Constantine I and his sons issued a few different types of commemoratives from 330-346. These were issued to mark the foundation of Constantinople and to also reaffirm Rome as the traditional center of the Empire. This coin is a fairly rare type of these coins.
Thirteen mints produced these types: Trier, Lugdunum (Lyons), Arelate (Arles), Aquileia, Rome, Siscia (this coin was minted here in Siscia), Thessalonica, Heraclea, Constantinople, Nicomedia, Cyzicus, Antioch and Alexandria. The female figure of the Goddess Roma on the obverse is the personification of Constantinople and Rome. The wolf and twins type depict Romulus and Remus (the founders of Rome) being suckled by the she-wolf. The two stars on the reverse represent the dioscuri ( the twins Castor and Pollux).
Antiochus Grypus was crowned as a teenager in 125 BC after his mother Cleopatra Thea had killed his elder brother Seleucus V Philometor, ruling jointly with her. After Antiochus defeated usurper Alexander II Zabinas in 123 BC his mother tried to poison him with wine, but the suspicious king forced her to drink the cup herself. (The story may have been inspired by the fact that Grypus was interested in toxicology; some poems about poisonous herbs believed to have been written by him are quoted by the famous physician Galen). Either he or his half brother Antiochus IX Cyzicenus is probably identical with the ephemeral child ruler Antiochus Epiphanes, who was crowned by Cleopatra Thea after the death of Antiochus VII but before Demetrius II returned to Antioch. The child Antiochus Epiphanes, who is known from coins, was deposed—but not killed—when Demetrius II was restored in 129 BC.
Despite political shortcomings, Grypus was a popular king. His ugly, lazy appearance on coins (common among the last Seleucids), together with stories of his lavish banquets, made posterity believe his dynasty was degenerated and decadent. This was however a conscious image, an invocation of the Hellenistic idea Tryphe - meaning good life, which the last Seleucids strove to be associated with, as opposed to the exhausting civil wars and feuds which troubled their reigns in reality.
A story of his luxurious parties claims he sent food home with guests who attended banquets, complete with a camel as beast of burden, as well as a with attendant to carry the guest himself. This should certainly have caused some strain on the already depleted treasury.
Excellent relief and clay patina on this coin makes it unique and stunning compared to other examples. 20mm and 7gm.
*Sear 7154
Here is a great example of a silver Drachm, struck under the reign of Alexander III The Great; often referred to as Alexander The Great, King of Masedon, an important ancient Greek Kingdom. The coin features the head of Herakles looking right, wearing a lion skin in very high relief on the obverse. The reverse reveals Zeus Aëtophoros seated left; in left field, Demeter, holding torches, standing facing; monogram below throne. There are many books, movies, etc..of just about all these characters, which is what makes this coin so appealing. Imagine, this coin may had been handled by Alexander himself. Unfortunately, we don't know these things, but the mere significance of the time, mint and artistry of this coin makes it one of the most sought after coins minted during theHellenistic period.
What a beautiful very early coin this is. This coin has a dark patina, has a perfectly centered nice strike and high relief. The name of Gambrion is seen first in the book of Anabasis of Xenophon which gives knowledge about the region in 399 BC. At that time the ruler of the city was Gorgion. The obverse has an excellent bust of Apollo while the reverse has G-A-M between four of the rays of a 12 point star. It is an uncommon type. 17mm diameter and just about 4gm weight.
Apollo was an extremely important God in Greek Mythology. He is the Son of Zeus and Leto.
Medicine and healing are associated with Apollo, whether through the god himself or mediated through his son Asclepius, yet Apollo was also seen as a god who could bring ill-health and deadly plague.
Apollo favors and delights in the foundation of towns and the establishment of civil constitution. Hence is associated with dominion over colonists. Apollo is the giver and interpreter of laws. He presides over the divine law and custom along with Zeus, Demeter and Themis.
He is the patron defender of herds and flocks. He is also connected with the fertility of cattle.
As the leader of the Muses (Apollon Musegetes) and director of their choir, Apollo functions as the patron god of music and poetry. Hermes created the lyre for him, and the instrument became a common attribute of Apollo. Hymns sung to Apollo were called paeans. Apollo is the god who affords help and wards off evil. He delivered men from the epidemics. Various epithets call him the "averter of evil". As an agricultural deity, Apollo protects the crops from diseases, especially the rust in corns and grains. He is also the controller and destroyer of pests that infect plants and plant harvests.
This is a stunning bronze with very fine choice detail. Strike and fields are excellent. Rare mint mark.
Obverse
IMP C C VAL DIOCLETIANVS P F AVG: Bust of Diocletian, radiate, draped, right, or bust of Diocletian, radiate, draped, cuirassed, right.
Reverse
CONCORDIA MILITVM: Diocletian, draped, cuirassed, standing right, holding parazonium in right hand and receiving Victory on globe from Jupiter; Jupiter, standing left, holding sceptre
This is an excellent well preserved copper or bronze AE17 (17mm) 4.9gm of a Thessalian horse rider of which I presume is carrying behind him a vessel on wheels. The vessel appears to be a hydria, which is used for water. This is the type of coin is one of the coins I speak about in my commentary. Yes, you really don't see it around, but the real value is in the depiction and condition. Very pleasing dark brown patina, from BCD collection.
This is a super cool coin with a very unusual depiction on the obverse, appears to be a horse and it is riding on a dolphin. It's hard to believe that in 300- B.C., people had such imagination. The artistry on this coin is excellent, as is the strike. The missing head is not wear, but likely taking some silver off the coin during the original mint due to overweight.This type is uncommon and rarely seen on the market. City Issue AR Tetrobol or Hemidrachm (weight: 2.55g; max diameter: 16mm) Byzantion mint, circa 357-340 BC
Obverse: Horse standing on dolphin, both facing left; ΠY above
Reverse: Quadripartite incuse mill-sail pattern with granulated dots
*Sear 1582
This is a Campania, Neapolis City Issue of an AR Nomos/Didrachm (weight: 7.20g; max diameter: 20mm)
Neapolis mint, circa 300-275 BC
Obverse: Female head facing right, wearing ribbon in hair, and pendant earring; astragalos in left field; XAPIΛE underneath
Reverse: Human-headed bull walking to the right, being crowned by Nike flying above; K under bull; NEOΠOΛITΩN in exergue
*SNG ANS 359
Kingdom of Sicily, Agathokles as King of Sicily, and Tyrant of Syracuse
AE Uncertain Denomination (weight: 8.63g; max diameter: 24mm; axis: 9h)
Syracuse mint, circa 295 BC
Obverse: ΣΩTEIΡA, Bust of Artemis facing right, quiver over shoulder
Reverse: AΓAΘOKLEOΣ BAΣIΛEOΣ, Winged thunderbolt
*Sear 1200; Calciati 142
When curating coins, especially ancients, we try to find some high-end investment grade coins - this is one of those coins. Let's start with the obvious that makes this coin special, it was struck under the authority of Tiberius, while he was living and during the time that Tiberius ordered the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. That alone makes this coin very valuable and highly sought after. The condition of the coin is excellent; the coin is centered with a strong strike, especially of Tiberius on the obverse. His image is quite detailed and in nice high relief. The reverse is also struck nicely, but not as strong and seems to have more wear than the obverse. Nevertheless, this coin is one of our best considering several factors. This silver Denarius coin was minted at Lugdunum in the Gallia region.
We have one more very nice coin of Tiberius minted slightly later.
*RIC I (second edition) Tiberius 26
Early coins, such as this stunning bright silver coin of a lion, lying down looking left, head reverted on the obverse and a classic early Greek design on the reverse featuring quadripartite incuse square with alternating raised and sunken quarters. Pieces such as these are much more uncommon as compared to most Roman coins, Great eye catching examples are highly sought after and can demand a premium over average examples. This is a great example with both sides struck very well and centered. The lion on the obverse is extra high relief; with both side having great detail with little wear. Stunning artistry went into making these dies that struck this coin; and we are lucky enough that we had a mint worker who cared about his work. Prior to the modern era, coin dies were manufactured individually by hand by artisans known as engravers. This is why you find slight variations of the same coin from the same mint. Dies did not last forever, many artists were commissioned to do this fantastic work that we are so lucky to have today.
Chersonesos is an ancient Greek colony founded approximately 2,500 years ago in the southwestern part of the Crimean Peninsula. The colony was established in the 6th century BC by settlers from Heraclea Pontica.
The ancient city is located on the shore of the Black Sea at the outskirts of Sevastopol on the Crimean Peninsula, where it is referred to as Khersones. It has been nicknamed the "Ukrainian Pompeii". The site is now part of the National Preserve of Tauric Chersonesos. The name Chersonesos in Greek means "peninsula", and aptly describes the site on which the colony was established. It should not be confused with the Tauric Chersonese, the name often applied to the whole of the southern Crimea.
Chersonesos was for a time ruled over by Athens, which enrolled it into the Delian League in 478 BC. The Athenians established a number of cleruchies on the Thracian Chersonese and sent an additional 1,000 settlers around 448 BC. Sparta gained control between 431 BC-404 BC, but the peninsula subsequently reverted to the Athenians. In the 4th century BC, the Thracian Chersonese became the focus of a bitter territorial dispute between Athens and Macedon, whose king Philip II sought possession. It was eventually ceded to Philip in 338 BC. The Size is 13.0mm and 2.28gm
As of the time of this listing, we cannot find any of this type for sale; although there are examples on display online; interesting that most of the examples found are inferior in grade as ours. We believe this is a great value at $275.
*BMC Thrace p. 183, 11
Gryneion as one of the eleven ancient cities of Aeolis. This coin is of average rarity; however, it is often found with a high amount of wear or off center strike. When collecting coins, I cannot stress the importance of investing in the best example you can find at the budget you can afford. That said, take a look at this coin, and see how much detail there is, along with an excellent strong centered strike. I would bet the die used to strike this coin was fairly new because both sides; especially the reverse (mussel shell) is done is very high relief. Apollo is depicted nicely with very good artistry for the era.
Speaking of Apollo, in general, was not as common to see on ancient coinage as lets say Athena or Zeus. Apollo is on of the most important and diverse of the Olympian deities. Apollo has been recognized as God of light and sun, truth and prophecy, healing, music, medicine and more.
The purpose of the mussel shell on the reverse is not clear; however, since the area is next to a sea, mussels were likely an abundant source of food and perhaps medicine. Apollo is being honored or worshiped for providing these provisions. This coin measures 10mm in diameter and 1.95gm; is made of bronze and has a pleasing dark patina. Note that ancient coins with sea shells are highly sought after.
*Sear 4208
Scarce excellent example of this coin, much better than most; with a sea / maritime theme highly sought after. This is a beautiful Ancient Crab Coin of Sicily, Akragas 425-406 B.C. AE Tetras, Eagle. AKPA, eagle, with head lowered, standing right on hare; crab behind / Crab, crayfish left below; three pellets below crab. Size and weight are 19 mm, 7.83gm.
*SNG ANS 1037; Calciati I pg. 178, 50; SNG Copenhagen -; SNG Morcom -;
Laffaille -; Virzi 603,
This coin is struck and centered excellent, and has very little wear, almost mint state. The coin has a pleasing color and patina, silver / grey with near perfect fields. There are a few pictures that show the coin with a golden tone. This is some sort of reflection when taking the photo at an angle. The coin is a silver grey color. This Roman Denarius is about 19mm in diameter, and 3.1gm weight. As emperor, Alexander's peacetime reign along with new governing policies, was extraordinaryprosperous. However, Rome was militarily confronted with the rising Sassanid Empire and growing incursions from the tribes of Germania. He managed to check the threat of the Sassanids. But when campaigning against Germanic tribes, Alexander attempted to bring peace by engaging in diplomacy and bribery. This alienated many in the Roman Army and led to a conspiracy to assassinate and replace him.
Typological Description
Mint: Rome
Region: Italy
Portrait: Severus Alexander
*RIC IV Severus Alexander 83a
This ancient Roman Imperial coin has great eye appeal and the obverse features Theodosius I, a very Important Emperor with a long reign. The reverse I translated as, vowing 10 years as Emperor and hopefully 20 years.
As mentioned already Theodosius the Great, was Roman Emperor from AD 379 to AD 395, as the last emperor to rule over both the eastern and the western halves of the Roman Empire. On accepting his elevation, he campaigned against Goths and other barbarians who had invaded the empire. His resources were not sufficient to destroy them, and by the treaty which followed his modified victory at the end of the Gothic War, they were established as Foederati, autonomous allies of the Empire, south of the Danube, in Illyricum, within the empire's borders. He was obliged to fight two destructive civil wars, successively defeating the usurpers Magnus Maximus and Eugenius, not without material cost to the power of the empire.
He also issued decrees that effectively made Nicene Christianity the official state church of the Roman Empire.He neither prevented nor punished the destruction of prominent Hellenistic temples of classical antiquity, including the Temple of Apollo in Delphi and the Serapeum in Alexandria. He dissolved the order of the Vestal Virgins in Rome. In 393, he banned the pagan rituals of the Olympics in Ancient Greece. After his death, Theodosius's young sons Arcadius and Honorius inherited the east and west halves respectively, and the Roman Empire was never again re-united, though Eastern Roman emperors after Zeno would claim the united title after Julius Nepos' death in 480 AD. Source: Wikipedia and RIC IX Heraclea 19C. The coin is approximately 16mm and 1.3grams weight.
ANCIENT SILVER GREEK COIN OF MACEDONIAN KING PHILIP II. FATHER OF 'ALEXANDER THE GREAT'
THE REIGN OF PHILIP II EXTENDED FROM 336-359 B.C. This coin weighs 4 GRAMS and is about 20 MM
PHILIP WAS A FAMOUS, LOVED RULER IN HIS OWN RIGHT.
REV. IS HORSE OF OLYMPIC GAMES. RIDER WITH JAVELIN IN HAND. SOME SCRIPT CAN STILL BE SEEN BELOW AND ABOVE TAIL OF HORSE..OBVERSE M / OFTEN FOR 'MACEDON' ASSAYER USED TO AUTHENTICATE, OFTEN CALLED A CHOP MARK ON FRONT. A COLLECTORS BONUS. ADDS CHARACTER TO SUCH AN ANCIENT COIN. THIS IS A TOUGH TO FIND COIN AND IS RARELY SEEN ON THE MARKET.
THIS COIN IS IN A .925 STERLING SILVER BEZEL WITH A 16 INCH GENUINE LEATHER ROPE STYLE NECKLACE WITH .925 STERLING SILVER END FITTINGS. I ALSO HAVE BLACK AND BROWN UP TO 18 INCHES. IF YOU REQUIRE A LONGER NECKLACE, WE CAN ORDER AND RECEIVE THEM QUICKLY; JUST ASK US. THANK YOU. SORRY FOR THE ALL CAPS...I NOTICED WHEN I WAS JUST ABOUT DONE AND DIDN'T WANT TO REDO.
Fausta, daughter of Maximian, was the second wife of Constantine the Great and Mother of Constantine II, Constantius II and Constans. Her desire to see her sons become emperors probably explains her intrigue against her stepson Crispus; she launched a plot that led to his execution by Constantine. Apparently, Constantine realized he had been deceived by Fausta, because he later had her executed, too. Fausta is infamous for assassinating Crispus, but is also known to have changed the Roman Empire for years to come and possibly even modern times. Here are the details:
Ancient Roman Coin
(Bronze) AE3 of Fausta, A.D. 323-326
Thessalonica mint, A.D. 326-328
RIC 160. 18mm, 3.3gm.
This is an original "As" as the Romans called this denomination, it equaled one quarter of a Sestertius, from the ancient "Roman Empire". An "undated" type, it was struck at Rome sometime between 41 and 50 AD.
It was struck for the Emperor Claudius, the 5th of the "Twelve Caesars". He ruled the Roman World from January 24, of 41 until his death on October 13, in 54. He was the Roman Caesar who actually conquered Britain and established it as a Roman colony. Although this coin is undated and seems to be unlisted, very similar examples were struck during his reign.
Because he was afflicted with a limp and slight deafness due to sickness at a young age, his "Royal" family ostracized Claudius and excluded him from public office. Claudius' infirmity probably saved him from the fate of many other nobles during the purges of Tiberius and Caligula's reigns; potential enemies did not see him as a serious threat. His survival led to his being declared Emperor by the Praetorian Guard after Caligula's assassination, at which point he was the last adult male of the "Julio-Augustan" family.
Weight: 11.14 Grams, 29 Millimeter, Copper.This is an original "As" as the Romans called this denomination, it equaled one quarter of a Sestertius, from the ancient "Roman Empire". An "undated" type, it was struck at Rome sometime between 41 and 50 AD.
King seated on curule chair with foreparts of lions holding scepter and / + IЄRVSALЄM Є D' ChIPR, Cross of Jerusalem. A superb example of this Crusader issue. The flan is of good metal and the strike is sharp. Accentuating the devices is a particularly fine cabinet patina with prismatic overtones. Never cleaned, thus rare and uncommon. Auction comps average in the $800-$1000+ based on internal research.
Dated PYE 134 (AH 169 / AD 785).
Obverse: Crowned Sasanian-style bust right; “excellent” and “good” in 2nd and 3rd quarters of margin.
Reverse: Fire altar flanked by attendants; pellets flanking flames; star within crescent at cardinal points in margin and grouping of three pellets equidistant between. NGC Certified & Graded Ch XF (Choice Extremely Fine), good and bright metal, with remaining original luster in fields; nicer in hand.
*Ref. Malek 158.
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