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Kohaku

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Journal Entries posted by Kohaku

  1. Kohaku
    Newly edited and re-posted Owner's Comments for a legionary denarius struck by Marc Antony, part of The Roman Empire, an NGC Ancients Custom Set.
     
    This ancient coin was struck by Marc Antony at Patrae (modern day Patras, Greece) circa 32-31 BC.  Antony produced millions of similar coins, all bearing the obverse image of a galley, and the reverse image of two military standards (signa or vexilla) on either side of an aquila military standard. The aquila, or eagle, represented the specific military standard representing each Roman legion.  The reverse inscription on this particular denarius reads LEG II, in honor of the second Roman legion.  Also produced were more than a score of other variants (honoring different legions, praetorian cohorts and speculatores), collectively referred to as Antony’s “legionary denarii,” along with a very limited volume of related gold coinage.


     
    Antony produced these coins to pay his legions and his fleet.  To support such a large volume of production, Antony had to resort to lowering his coin’s silver content by the addition of copper (apparently foreshadowing a trend that the Romans would follow for the next several centuries).  Due to their debasement, these coins tended to circulate constantly (as opposed to being hoarded), and many survive only in highly worn state.  This legionary denarius, though among the more common variants, is relatively scarce since it retains an uncommonly high state of preservation of almost uncirculated. Also due to their debasement, many legionary denarii bear bankers’ assay marks.  For example, this particular specimen bears test cuts on its edge.


     
    It is interesting to note that the obverse inscription reads ANT AVG, denoting that Antony held the title of augur, one who interpreted the will of the gods.  The same title was previous held by Julius Caesar; Antony’s advertisement of the title was perhaps an attempt to associate himself with Rome’s murdered dictator.  Ironically, AVG later became associated with Augustus, Octavian’s new title upon defeating Antony and becoming Rome’s supreme ruler.  The obverse also bears the inscription III VIR R P C, denoting triumvir rei publicae constituendae, i.e., “one of three men for the restoration of the Republic."  The three men referenced Antony, Octavian, and Lepidus, even though by the time this coin was struck, their triumvirate had been dissolved.


     
    Antony struck his legionary denarii in preparation for what turned out to be his last campaign against Octavian.  The epic Battle of Actium took place on September 1, 31 BC.  Emerging victorious was Octavian, with assistance from his trusted general Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa.  In the aftermath, Antony committed suicide, and, shortly thereafter, so did his famous lover, Cleopatra.


     
    Surviving Antony were his highly recognizable legionary denarii, although they were probably unpopular at the time due to their debasement.  They circulated for centuries; meanwhile, the silver content of Rome’s denarii declined to the point they came to equal the intrinsic value of Antony’s legionary coinage.  Thus the legionary denarii became more famous over time.  Elements of Antony’s design were replicated by many future Roman Emperors such as Nero, Galba, Titus, Domitian, Nerva, Trajan and Hadrian.  In 169 AD, Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus marked the two-hundredth anniversary of the Battle of Actium with a re-issue honoring Legio VI (interestingly, they decided to change AVG to AVGVR so as avoid any confusion between their title and Anthony's).


     
    Today, Antony’s legionary denarii are arguably the most recognizable and collectible group of ancient coinage, Roman or otherwise.


     
    Additional Reading: D Vagi, “Marc Antony legionary denarii iconic. Plentiful and historic coins highly collectible today,” Coin World, 01/27/12.


     
    Coin Details: ROMAN IMPERATORIAL, The Triumvirs, Mark Antony, Autumn 32-spring 31 BC, AR Denarius (16mm, 3.75 g, 6h), Legionary type, Patrae(?) mint, NGC Grade: AU, Strike: 5/5, Surface: 4/5, Obverse: Galley right, Reverse: LEG II, legionary aquila between two signa, References: Crawford 544/14; CRI 349; Sydenham 1216; RSC 27.



  2. Kohaku
    A daunting task for sure, yet one that has provided enormous fascination and personal satisfaction thus far – to discover the Roman Empire through numismatics.  That is my stated goal for my NGC Ancient Custom Set entitled “The Roman Empire.”  Initially, I contemplated constructing a typical set of “Emperors” coinage.  While such an effort is certainly worthy, I quickly discovered that Rome’s history, from the Republic to the Roman Empire to the Byzantine Empire, holds far more interest.  On the other extreme would be the attempt to build a comprehensive collection of coinage based on a certain subset, for example, imperatorial, imperial, provincial, or pseudo-autonomous coinage.  In the end, I embarked upon a quest (if I may call it that!) to represent not just Rome’s Emperors, but also Empresses, allies, usurpers, and more.  While admittedly constraining, I decided to build this set within NGC’s “Page” format, allowing for 15 coins grouped together thematically, if not roughly chronologically.  As a consequence, I have “missing” coins in the collection, which, if anything, helps provide context for other coins on the same page.
     
    For each coin in the collection, I conduct some basic research, or at least make some attempt.  This allows me to provide my own Owner’s Comments, whose historical accuracy should be taken with a grain of salt.  Where it gets particularly fun is when synergies exist with my non-numismatic interests.
     
    At the moment, I am still awaiting NGC's grading of the last 10 coins that I acquired.  Among those is the infamous “Coin That Killed Caesar,” and once I get that one slabbed I will have reached a milestone - first “Page” complete of my collection!
  3. Kohaku
    Newly Edited and Re-Posted Owners Comments posted on an ancient bronze featuring Deiotarus, King of Galatia, part of the Roman Empire Custom NGC Ancients Set...
     
    In 3rd century BC, a conglomeration of Celtic tribes migrated from Europe into central Asia Minor, eventually founding their own realm of Galatia, the “land of the Gauls.” Due to their central location, Galatians factored in local power struggles, often opposing Rome. Of particular note was Manlius Vulso’s infamous 189 BC genocide at Mount Olympus. Tens of thousands of Galatian men, women, and children were massacred by Romans, with a similar number of survivors enslaved.

    When the First Mithradatic War began around 88 BC, powerful Galatia logically allied itself with Pontus against Rome. Even so, Pontic King Mithradates VI doubted Galatia’s loyalty, and increasing paranoia led to drastic action. Mithradates hosted Galatia’s leaders at a grand banquet, and took the opportunity to slaughter his guests. Among the handful of Galatia’s royalty absent, and thus fortuitously surviving the pogrom, was a prince named Deiotarus, the “divine bull.”

    Seeking retribution and possessing innate leadership and military skills, Deiotarus mustered an army that expelled Pontus from Galatia. Next, he challenged Mithradates’ forces in nearby Phrygia and Cilicia. As Fortuna would have it, he now shared a common goal with Rome. Over the next couple decades, the Galatians supported the Romans in a series of wars against Mithradates and his Armenian ally, Tigranes the Great. Eventually, Deiotarus achieved his revenge; Mithradates and his Pontic Kingdom were terminated.

    For his efforts, Deiotarus was acknowledged as King of an expanded Galatian realm. To celebrate and advertise his status, Deiotarus issued coins, such as this extremely rare bronze struck sometime in mid first century BC. Unlike the abstract artistry employed by many other contemporary Celts, Galatian designs reflect Hellenistic influence. On this coin, the obverse depicts a laureate Zeus, and the reverse an eagle standing on a thunderbolt. The eagle was also an important symbol to the Romans; for example, each Roman Legion bore a standard displaying the raptor's image, known as the Aquila. It is interesting to note that Deiotarus’ forces eventually formed Rome’s Legio Vigesima Secunda Deiotariana (the 22nd Deiotaran Legion). In addition to the eagle, the coin’s reverse also depicts Deiotarus’ monogram, completing the association of the Galatian leader, his forces, and their loyalty to Rome.

    Despite his track record supporting Rome, Deiotarus’ situation turned precarious when the Republic plunged into civil war. In particular, the Galatian King was renown as friend to Pompey the Great, who ultimately opposed Caesar as Rome’s dictator. After Pompey's demise, Deiotarus was summoned and brought before Julius Caesar on accusations of a murder plot. Luckily for Deiotarus, coming to his defense was none other than Marcus Tullius Cicero, one of Rome’s all-time greatest lawyers and orators. Circero presented a brilliant speech that provides fascinating reading, as illustrated in the following excerpt.

    Pardon Deiotarus, pardon him, I entreat you, O Caesar, if he, though a king, yielded to the authority of that man whom we all followed, and on whom both gods and men had heaped every sort of distinction, and on whom you yourself had conferred the most numerous and most important honors of all. Nor, indeed, does it follow that, because your exploits have thrown a cloud over the praises of others, we have, therefore, entirely lost all recollection of Cnaeus Pompeius. Who is there who is ignorant how great the name of that man was, how great his influence, how great his renown in every description of war, how great were the honors paid him by the Roman people, and by the Senate, and by you yourself? He had surpassed all his predecessors in glory as much as you have surpassed all the world. Therefore, we used to count up with admiration the wars and the victories, and the triumphs, and the consulships, of Cnaeus Pompeius. But yours we are wholly unable to reckon.

    True to his reputation, Cicero successfully defended Galatia’s King, stressing that the alignment with Pompey was to protect the authority of the Senate, the freedom of the people of Rome, and the dignity of the Republic (not to mention the savvy Cicero simultaneously manages to flatter Pompey and Caesar). Interestingly, Caesar invoked these same traditional Roman values as he launched the civil war that led to his establishment as Rome’s strongest dictator ever.

    On the ides of March 44 BC, Caesar was famously murdered, and Deiotarus became embroiled in the tumultuous aftermath. Deiotarus ensured his continued rule with a reportedly large bribe to Caesar’s ally, Mark Antony. Subsequently, Deiotarus provided support to Caesar’s murders, notably Brutus and Cassius. However, after the latter duo fell at the Battle of Philippi, Galatia changed its allegiance in favor of Caesar’s heir, Octavian.

    Deiotarus ruled over Galatia until his death, sometime around 40 BC. A quindecennium later, Octavian incorporated Deiotarus' Kingdom as a Province, and, for the next several centuries, the Galatians steadfastly strove for the glory of Rome.

    Additional Reading: M T Cicero “Speech in Behalf of King Deiotarus,” 45 BC.

    Coin Details: KINGDOM OF GALATIA, Deiotarus, Circa 62-40 BC, Æ (18-19 mm, 6.2 g), NGC Grade: VF, Strike: 5/5, Surface: 4/5, Obverse: Laureate head of Zeus facing right, Reverse: Eagle standing left, head right, on thunderbolt; monogram to left, References: E.T. Newell, Un monnayage de bronze de Déjotarus 2; SNG France -; RPC I p. 356, 2.


  4. Kohaku
    The latest update on my Roman Empire is that I added another Page (grouping of 15 coins). 
     
    This time, I added a new Page at the end, entitled "Epilogue", here is the synopsis..."After the deposition of the last claimant to Rome's throne, various successor states (e.g., Ostrogoths, Vandals, and Lombards) vie with Constantinople for dominion over the West."
     
    I decided to add this Chapter after I learned more about what happened *after* the fall of the Western Roman Empire.  As I learned more, it became clear that Rome not such much fell, as was absorbed into various "Romanized barbarian" tribes.  In many ways, this period in history is at least equally as fascinating as the preceding period.  Here is a quick description of the coins I choose to include, and why they choose them...
     
    Odovacar - The first "King", albeit a Germanic one, to rule over Italy since before the Republic. He was a remarkable fellow with a remarkable history (it will take me some time to finish my research and get that posted).  Odovacar's coins are extremely rare and apparently extremely desirable.  I have been trying to land one of Odovacar's coins for several years.  Finally, I managed to land this one at auction after a number of failed attempts.  This bronze graded a highly respectable XF, Strike 4/5, Surface 4/5.
     
    Gunthamund - King of the Vandals from 484 to 496 AD.  He ruled over the Vandals around the time of the so-called "Vandal Renaissance".  I used this opportunity to also give an example of the unexpected richness of the culture at that time, one of the "Vandal literati", Dracontius, who was imprisoned by Gunthamund and wrote several works while in prison to try and apologize for offending the King.  For more details, read my Owner's Comments I already posted for this one.  This 25 denarii coin graded VF, Strike 4/5, Surface 3/5.  Not the greatest grade, but a rare coin though.
     
    Thrasamund - King of the Vandals from 496 to 523 AD.  He ruled over the Vandals at their apex.  Still researching this one, stay tuned for my Owner's Comments.  This 50 denarii coin graded a highly respectable XF, Strike 4/5, Surface 3/5.
     
    Theodoric - King of the Ostrogoths from 493 to 526 AD.  He ruled over the Ostrogoths at arguably the height of their power and culture.  Read my Owner's Comments for details of his interesting history. This decanummium graded a highly respectable XF, Strike 4/5, Surface 5/5. Again, a rare coin in any grade.
     
    Ostrogoths - I saw this coin and I had to purchase it for the collection - it features many Roman elements, including Roma herself, even though it is an Ostrogoth coin. A great illustration of the concept of the barbarians' so-called Romanization. In any case, read my Owner's Comments if you want to learn more about the Ostrogoths.  This 40 nummi coin graded Ch VF, Strike 5/5, Surface 3/5.  A relatively rare coin in any grade.
     
    Anastatius I - Emperor of the Byzantine Empire from 491 to 518 AD.  He represents the first Emperor that NGC denotes as Byzantine (as opposed to Western Roman Empire). In my posted Owner's Comments for this coin, I review the transition of the Roman Empire to the Byzantine Empire.  This coin graded a spectacular Gem MS, Strike 5/5, Surface 5/5 (and I submitted myself as a "raw coin" - few numismatic experiences are as thrilling as that!)
     
    Hilderic - King of the Vandals from 523 to 530 AD.  Still researching this one, stay tuned for my Owner's Comments.  This 50 denarii coin graded AU, Strike 4/5, Surface 3/5. A very high grade for such a very rare coin.
     
    Athalaraic - King of the Ostrogoths from 526 to 533 AD.  Still conducting research on this coin as well. This quarter silique was struck in the name of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, and graded a highly respectable XF, Strike 4/5, Surface 5/5.
     
    Gelimer - King of the Vandals from 530 to 540 AD.  Still researching this one, stay tuned for my Owner's Comments.  This nummus graded VF, Strike 3/5, Surface 4/5.  A rare coin in any grade.
     
    Theodahad - King of the Ostrogoths from 534 to 536 AD.  Research also in progress.  This coin graded VF, Strike 4/5, Surface 3/5.  Another example of a rare coin in any grade. 
     
    Witigis - King of the Ostrogoths from 536 to 540 AD.  Research also in progress.  This half siliqua graded VF, Strike 4/5, Surface 2/5.  Another example of a rare coin in any grade (honestly, I was hoping for a higher surface grade, but I'm not the expert grader, NGC is...)
     
    Baduila - King of the Ostrogoths from 541 to 552 AD.  Research also in progress.  This coin graded Ch VF, Strike 4/5, Surface 3/5.  Once again, a rare coin in any grade.
     
    Justinian I - Byzantine Emperor from 527 to 565 AD.  To find out why he is the most deserving person to be called "the Last Roman", please read my Owner's Comments!  This gold solidus graded a very satisfying Ch MS, Strike 4/5, Surface 5/5.
     
    Lombards - This half siliqua coins was struck by the tribe that managed to gain rule over Rome in the power vacuum after the fall of all the other guys (Ostrogoths and Vandals in particular), and the retreat of Byzantium from the West. That would be the enigmatic Lombards.  This extremely scarce coin (one of few of its kind I have ever seen) was struck in name of Justinian I and graded Ch VF, Strike 4/5, Surface 5/5.
     
    Charlemagne - Last, but certainly not at all least...he was considered the "father or Europe".  He held sway over various tribes from the Franks to essentially recreate Rome's legacy under a new "Holy Roman Empire".  I submitted this as an ancient coin, NGC decided to grade otherwise.  In any case, despite its modest appearance, this is one of the most beautiful and important coins to me that I possess.  I still need to conduct my research and post Owner's Comments.  This denier graded AU.
     
    Here is a link to this Page in my Roman Empire Collection...
     
    https://coins.www.collectors-society.com/wcm/CoinCustomSetGallery.aspx?s=16365
     
     
     
     
  5. Kohaku

    Et Tu, KOSON?

    By Kohaku,

    Newly Edited and Re-Posted Owners Comments posted on an ancient Dacian/Thracian stater mimicking Brutus' designs,  part of the Roman Empire Custom NGC Ancients Set...
     
    Marcus Junius Brutus (85 – 42 BC) was the son of Brutus the Elder and Servilia Caepionis. Servilia was also mistress to Julius Caesar, prompting uncertainty regarding Brutus’ true biological father. The young Brutus started his career working for his uncle, Cato the Younger. He later held important political posts and made a fortune moneylending in the provinces, subsequently becoming one of Rome’s most influential Senators.

    In 49 BC when Caesar started a Roman civil war, Brutus initially aligned with Pompey (even though the pair were former enemies). After Pompey’s defeat, Brutus switched sides, and Caesar accepted him into his inner circle, even making him governor of Gaul. While Brutus appreciated Caesar’s confidence, he was troubled by colleague’s obsession with controlling Rome. He became even more disturbed as Caesar made himself non-impeachable, and gained censorial control and veto power over the Senate. By 44 BC when Caesar earned the title of Dictator for life, Brutus was alarmed to the point he took drastic action.

    Brutus was not alone. Many of Rome’s elite opined it was in Rome’s best interests - if not their own - to murder their dictator. On the Ides of March 44 AD, Caesar was stabbed to death by Brutus, along with dozens of other aristocrats led by Gaius Cassius Longinus.

    After the assassination, Brutus fled Rome, and soon became embroiled in civil war against Caesar’s co-consul, Marc Anthony, and heir, Octavian, later known as Augustus. In October 42 BC at Philippi, Rome’s latest civil war reached its climax. Brutus and his ally Cassius agreed beforehand that if victory escaped them, the best course of action would be to take their own lives. As it turned out, that suicide pact sealed their fate. As the epic Battle of Philippi unfolded, Brutus managed the upper hand against Octavian, at least to the extent he took the latter’s camp; Octavian managed to escape, according to one account by hiding himself in a marsh. Unfortunately for Cassius, he was unaware of Brutus’ achievement, and, even worse, he mistakenly thought that Brutus’ camp had fallen. Consequently, Cassius, fearing the worst, responded by dutifully committing suicide. Brutus managed to rally Cassius’ remaining forces, and fought a second battle weeks later. As it turned out, Brutus’ men were defeated, and he fled the battlefield. Realizing he would soon be captured, Brutus committed suicide.

    This gold stater was struck in Thrace or Dacia concurrent with these historic events. The obverse depicts three men wearing togas, walking to the left, two of them carrying objects over their shoulders. The figures are Roman lictors (bodyguards) carrying fasces (axe-like weapons), and the motif bears striking resemblance to coins issued by Brutus a decade earlier. In exergue is the enigmatic epithet KOSON. On the verso, an eagle stands on a scepter, facing to the left, its right claw raised, holding a wreath. This design also resembles earlier Roman coins.

    Attribution of this issue has been the subject of lively numismatic debate. According to one hypothesis (which has fallen out of favor over time) Brutus struck coins like this one after he fled from Rome to Greece, tapping into his enormous personal wealth combined with funds from sympathetic Senators. An alternate theory (which has gained favor over time) attributes a Thracian or Dacian King named Koson, who imitated Roman designs. According to this scenario, Brutus was not involved in the coins’ production besides providing numismatic inspiration.

    Adding to the perplexity, two versions of the coin exist, those with a mysterious BR monogram on the obverse, and those without. It has been postulated that the BR refers to Brutus. An alternate view is that the letters relates to BA(sileus), i.e, king, as in King Koson. Curiously, no other records mention a monarch by that name (although there was a King Kotison). Many modern scholars espouse the view that there was a local King Koson; perhaps he was Brutus’ ally. It is interesting to note that since ancient times, several large hoards of coins inscribed KOSON have been discovered in the land formerly known as Dacia. The largest group, comprising thousands of gold coins and other gold objects, was discovered in 1543. If there was indeed a Dacian King Koson, he apparently had access to vast wealth (adding to the mystery of his historical anonymity).

    Recently, both monogrammed and non-monogrammed versions of so-called Koson staters were examined for their composition. These studies provided a highly sensitive elemental fingerprint for each coin. It was found that all coins without the monogram were made from native alluvial gold, (i.e., had trace amounts of tin) the same composition found for other Dacian gold artifacts (i.e., bracelets) that were made at the time. In contrast, all the coins with the BR monogram lacked tin, and were of highly purified gold. This finding leads to an intriguing possibility – BR-monogrammed coins were produced by Brutus using highly refined gold, and non-monogrammed coins were imitations by Thracians or Dacians using their own methods and local alluvial gold.

    This particular coin is the non-monogrammed type. At the time it was graded by NGC Ancients, its was attributed according to the Brutus origin theory. An example of the monogrammed counterpart – which, perhaps ironically, was attributed to Thrace or Dacia – is present in another NGC Custom Set, The Ancient World Collection. Whether Brutus took part of the production of either, or neither, coin remains uncertain, illustrating the fascination and intrigue of ancient coin collecting.

    Additional Reading: B Constantinescu, D Cristea-Stan, A Vasilescu, R Simon, D Ceccato, “Archaeometallurgical Characterization of Ancient Gold Artifacts from Romanian Museums using XRF, Micro-PIXE and Micro-SR-XRF Methods,” Proc Romanian Acad 13:19-26, 2012.

    Coin Details: ROMAN – BRUTUS, 44-42 BC, AV Stater (8.52 g), NGC Grade: Choice Uncirculated, Obverse: Roman Consul with two Lictors, KOSON in exergue, Reverse: Eagle on scepter, holding wreath, References: RPC 1701B; BMC Thrace pg. 208, 2; BMCRR II pg. 475, 50.


  6. Kohaku
    New Owners Comments posted on an ancient bronze featuring Odovacar, part of the Roman Empire Custom NGC Ancients Set...
     
    In 475 AD, the last official Western Roman Emperor, Julius Nepos, was forced to flee his throne amidst a rebellion led by his own magister militum, Orestes.  While the latter tried to promote his son, Romulus Augustulus, as the unofficial new Western Emperor, the Germanic mercenaries taking part in the rebellion had a different idea.  In 476 AD, those foederati, disillusioned at not receiving their promised war booty, put forward one of their own - not as an Emperor, but rather as rex, or King - Flavius Odovacar (433? – 493 AD).
    Odovacar, who was of uncertain Germanic descent (some argue he was a Hun), took up the challenge.  He rebelled against Orestes, and deposed usurper Romulus Augustulus.  Odovacar then proceeded to return all the imperial insignia to the Eastern Roman Emperor, Zeno.  For his efforts, Odovacar requested for himself the title of patricius, and rule over Italy in Constantinople’s name.  While Zeno wasn’t ready to completely give up on the chance of Nepos’ return, he provided, at least at the time, tacit approval of Italy’ regime change.
    Beyond popular acclamation and Zeno’s implied support, Odovacar also had backing from the Western Roman Senate.  He is often described as “Italy’s first King” – at least, the first in post-Roman imperial times. (It should be noted that two millennia earlier, prior to the old Roman Republic, the region was ruled by the even older, if semi-mythical, Roman Kingdom).  
    Odovacar consolidated his base of power, even managing to wrest back control of Sicily from his pesky rival to the south, Vandal King Genseric.  After Julius Nepos’ murder in 480 AD, Odovacar leveraged the situation to conquer Dalmatia on the pretext of revenge.  Within its first decade, Odavacar’s kingdom held hegemony over the Italian peninsula and its surrounding seas.
    Even if he fancied himself as king, Odovacar upheld many of Rome’s imperial traditions, for instance striking coins.  Such issues were produced in Ravenna, where Odovacar maintained his capital, as did his predecessor Western Roman Emperors.  The majority of such coins were struck in the name of Eastern Roman Emperor Zeno, for instance gold solidi, and uncertainty lingers regarding their attribution.  Sometime perhaps after mid 480s AD, Odovacar struck coins in his own name.  This development may have coincided with increasingly strained relations with Constantinople; however, these issues were limited to bronze and silver, seemingly in acknowledgment of gold as the prerogative of the Eastern Roman Emperor.  In any case, all of Odovacar’s coins are exceedingly rare, particularly those struck in his own name.  This coin, remarkably well-preserved for a bronze of the period, provides an example.  The obverse features a well-defined bust of the rex Italiae, though notably absent of any regal inscription or diadem.  The coin’s most important feature, however, is found on the verso – Odovacar’s unmistakable monogram.
    Odovacar proved a victim of his own success.  His increasing power increasingly attracted Zeno’s attention, and ultimately, concern.  To shift back the balance of power, Zeno recruited the assistance of Flavius Theodericus, leader of the Ostrogoths.  With the backing of Constantinople, where he was raised and educated, Theoderic waged war against Odovacar for control over Italy.  After years of battle, including a multi-year siege of Ravena, Odovacar was finally forced to surrender.
    In the aftermath, the defeated Odovacar joined with the victorious Theoderic over a meal, presumably to discuss terms of surrender and Italy’s future.  That supper, held in a laurel grove and former Western Roman imperial palace, proved Odovacar’s last.  In the end, the banquet turned bloody.  Theoderic took the opportunity to stab Odovacar, whose last words posed the question to his assassin and fellow Arian Christian: “Where is God?”
    Additional Reading: “Odovacar and the Ostrogothic Kings,” and “Coinage of Odovacar” in Coinage of the Ostrogoths in the British Museum, Elena Baldi.
    Coin Details: GERMANIC, Odovacar, King, AD 476-493, Æ (9mm, 0.49 g, 12h), Ravenna, NGC Grade: XF, Strike: 4/5, Surface: 4/5, Obverse: Bareheaded, [draped, and cuirassed] bust right, [ODO-VAC]?, Reverse: Odovacar monogram, References: Morello 22; RIC X 3502; Ranieri 235.


  7. Kohaku
    I just received my coins from my latest round of NGS ancient grading.
    These were received at NGC on March 5th, so the turnaround was slower than usual, I guess NGC is pretty busy?
     
    In any case, here are the results...
     
    4282124-001
    Cornelia Supera bronze graded VF, Strike 5/5, Surface 3/5
    This one came out as I expected, and I am looking forward to writing my comments on this one, especially how the Romans worshipped Cybele.
     
    4282124-002
    Marciana bronze graded XF, Strike 5/5, Surface 3/5
    Pretty much what I expected...I was pleased with the grade of XF, but I thought I might earn a better surface grade.
     
    4282124-003
    Aelia Eudocia tremissis graded AU, Strike 4/5, Surface 3/5
    I was very pleased with the grade on this one.  I was a bit surprised at the comment of "ex jewelry" since the auction site that I obtained this from didn't mention anything.  I have examined the coin myself, and it is not obviously to me how NGC came to that conclusion?  Not that I doubt NGC's analysis, but  am curious how they determined this?
     
    4282124-004
    Orbiana denarius graded MS, Strike 5/5, Surface 3/5
    I was delighted to receive an MS, but I thought the surface would grade higher.
     
    4282124-005
    Gordian II, ancient counterfeit denarius.
    This one came back as not eligible for grading.  
    I was disappointed to see that, especially since NGC ancients has previously graded ancient counterfeits. Although this is admittedly an ugly-looking coin, it has an extremely fascinating history, so I am inclined to keep it in the collection.  I am not sure what the "official rule" might be for inclusion of such coins in an NGC custom set, but, at least for now, I am keeping the coin in the collection, at least until I found a decent substitute.  This is one of about a dozen ancient coins I have submitted that NGC has deemed ineligible for grading...I really would like to add these coins to my collection since they would add a lot of interest in the context of a custom ancient set...so I wonder if there is any mechanism to "petition" NGC or something like that to have more ancient coin types eligible for grading?
     
    4282124-006
    Vetranio centenionalis graded MS, Strike 5/5, Surface 4/5.
    I was happy to see this grade, although I thought I had a shot at Ch MS and/or a star designation since this coin has a lot of eye appeal.
     
    4282124-007
    Johannes bronze, graded F, Strike 4/5, Surface 3/5.
    What I expected...even though F is a "bad" grade, Johannes' coinage is quite rare, and particularly difficult to obtain in any medium to high grade.
     
    4282124-008
    Gepids coinage was deemed not eligible for grading.  Again, I would dearly love to include in my collection since it would add a lot of interest. Again, I have the same comment as above - I wonder if there is any mechanism to "petition" NGC or something like that to have more ancient coin types eligible for grading?
     
    That is it for this round, all the coins are added to my Roman Empire NGC ancient Custom Set, here is the link...
     
    https://coins.www.collectors-society.com/wcm/CoinCustomSetGallery.aspx?s=16365
     
     I will keep updating as I get more coins included and Owner's Comments added, etc.
  8. Kohaku
    I finally received grading results for the my last submission of coins to NGC.
     
    Drum roll, please .. . .  .  .   .   .   .
     
    NGC Ancients cert # 4282892-001.
    Here is a link to the cert...
    https://www.ngccoin.com/certlookup/4282892-001/NGCAncients/
    This coin is a nummus struck by Odoacer, King of Italy from 476 to 493 AD. This coin graded Ch XF, and I was extremely satisfied (dare I say surprised on the upside) with the grade. The strike and surface both earned a 4/5 score.  Beyond the grade, I am of course pleased with confirmation of the attribution, which depends in a large part on interpretation of the reverse monogram.  Odoacer's coins are extremely rate and highly sought after.  I was lucky to land this one, even if I don't yet have a space for this coin in my Roman Empire custom set. I plan on adding one or more new pages for the collection (maybe later this year), and I was specifically thinking about adding a kind of "denouement" page.  Odoacer's rise to power marked the final fall of the Roman Empire in the West.  Odoacer was an extremely interesting individual, and I am looking forward to researching this coin and posted my resulting Owner's Comments, but that is going to take some time, stay tuned!
     
    NGC Ancients cert # 4282892-002.
    Here is a link to the cert...
    https://www.ngccoin.com/certlookup/4282892-002/NGCAncients/
    This coin is a denarius struck by Carausisus, founder and first Augustus of his own rouge state known as the Romano-British Empire (he ruled from 286 to 293 AD). This coin graded Ch XF, and once again I was extremely satisfied.  The strike earned a 4/5, and the surface received a 2/5, with edge chips noted.  In this case, I consider the grade very respectable considering this coin was found in the ground (near Kettering, Northamptonshire, in February 2016).  I still need to conduct my research and post my Owner's Comments. This coin is particularly special and historically important for its reverse  which bears RS[R].  This enigmatic inscription is now thought to be a reference to the 6th and 7th lines of the 4th Eclogue of Virgil which begins Redunt Saturna Regna, basically, Virgil's text described that Rome's Golden Age has returned.  Carausius was apparently the only Augustus to make such a literary reference on coinage.  It is very interesting that a rough-and-tumble ruler of a fringe realm would do so! I am looking forward to my research and finishing my Owner's Comments for this coin. 
     
    NGC Ancients cert # 4282892-003.
    Here is a link to the cert...
    https://www.ngccoin.com/certlookup/4282892-003/NGCAncients/
    This coin is a aurelianianus struck in the name of Augusta Magnia Urbica, wife of Roman Emperor Carus.  Her reign lasted from 283 to 285 AD.  The coin graded MS, strike 5/5, surface 3/5. While I might have hoped for a better surface grade for the remaining silvering on the coin's surface, I was overall very pleased.  There is not much to say regarding Mania Urbica, so it will probably not take me much time to get my Owner's Comments posted (at least I hope so!).
     
    The fourth coin was re-assigned by NGC for World coin grading (as opposed to ancients grading).  
     
    The cert # is 4679899. This is a link to the cert...
    https://www.ngccoin.com/certlookup/4679899-001/55/
     
    This coin is a fabulous denier featuring Charlemagne, King of the Franks and his newly emerging Holy Roman Empire.   I was extremely pleased to receive an AU for this exceedingly rare and very historically important coin (I admit my heart was pounding when I saw this grade!).  I don't even have an entry for it in my Roman Empire set yet, but  plan to add it later this year as I expand the collection to include that "denouement" page (I am still amassing coins for that page, so stayed tuned!).  I am very excited to research and post my Owner's Comments for my Charlemagne coin, but that is going to take some time.
  9. Kohaku
    I just added my latest Owner's Comments, in this case, the subject was my "3-sisters Caligula sestertius".  In particular, I used this slot within the Roman Empire to represent Julia Drusilla, widely described as Caligula's favorite sister.
     
    There was a lot of interesting material to draw from for this essay, even if the ancient histories are rife with negative bias against Caligula.   As a teaser, I will paste here the first paragraph of my Owner's Comments...
     
    This ancient bronze bears the obverse bust of Gaius Caesar Augustus Germanicus, better known to history as Caligula, who, despite - or perhaps owing to – infamy remains a very popular Roman Emperor, at least among ancient coin hobbyists. This particular issue is noteworthy since the reverse features Caligula’s three sisters: Agrippina Sr. as the goddess Securitas, Julia Livilla as the goddess Fortuna, and Julia Drusilla (16 – 38 AD) as the goddess Concordia. Apocryphal or not, ancient histories describe Caligula’s incestuous escapades with his sistren. Given the combination of rarity, fascination, and historical significance, it is no wonder that this particular sestertius ranks among the most notorious of all Roman imperial issues.
     
    If you wish to read more, please check out the Roman Empire Custom Set...
     
    https://coins.www.collectors-society.com/wcm/coinview.aspx?sc=420963
     
     
     
     
     
     
  10. Kohaku
    Another update to "The Roman Empire" NGC Ancients Custom Set.
     
    I just posted my latest Owner's Comments for a Titus denarius that was issued for the Colosseum opening.
     
    Please take a look if you are interested in learning more.  I found a lot of fascinating material for this essay.  I used the opportunity to talk about the accomplishments of ancient Roman engineers.  As an engineer myself, I find the these achievements rather remarkable.  As testimony, consider that not only is much of the Colosseum still standing, its annual attendance rivals that of two millennia ago!
     
    Here is a link to that particular coin and the accompanying Owner's Comments...
    https://coins.www.collectors-society.com/wcm/coinview.aspx?sc=450513
     
  11. Kohaku
    Another quick update on my NGC Ancients Custom Set "The Roman Empire".
     
    I have posted my Owner's Comments on my ancient bronze representing Matidia.  Since we don't know very much about Matidia, my comments are pretty short for this coin, which may be one of as few as nine remaining.
     
     
     
     
  12. Kohaku
    After a bit of a hiatus, I managed to finish another Owner's Comments
    (Note: I am trying to keep up, as I try *not* to add any more new coins until I post Comments for all the current ones!)
    This time, the essay is about my ancient bronze featuring Empress Plotina, wife to Emperor Hadrian.  This coin is part of Page 6 = GOLDEN AGE I.
    This coin graded as XF, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 4/5, which is a very respectable grade for this issue.  It was struck in Gordus-Julia around 112-117 AD.  I have seen about a dozen or so examples illustrated, and I would say that this specimen could be among the finest. It has a very nice observe portrait, replete with imperial pompadour (about which I also provide some further commentary in my essay!)
     
    As I detail in my Owner's Comments, Plotina was a fascinating Empress.  She should be considered a "good" Empress, complementing her "good" Emperor.  As an indication of her virtue, she refused to be called Augusta when Trajan first became Augustus.  Instead, she chose to earn the honor.  She was also highly intelligent, in particular, I was fascinated by her devotion to the Epicurean "Garden" school of philosophy.  In her old age, she even kept active correspondence with her husbands successor, Hadrian, regarding who should be leading the school.  As an excerpt, here is my final paragraph on my Owner's Comments...
     
    Through her actions, Plotina played a critical role in sustaining Rome’s Golden Age.  In 117 AD, she convinced her dying husband to officially name Hadrian as successor.  Evidently, Trajan was too weak to execute the appropriate documents, so Plotina signed the will in his stead.  An alternative, highly unlikely viewpoint is that Plotina forged the will to place Hadrian on Rome’s throne.  Either way, Plotina, who did not bear Trajan any children, secured the Empire another good Emperor.
     
     
     
     
    .
     
     
  13. Kohaku
    I recently finished and posted to my NGC Ancients Custom Set entitled "The Roman Empire" my Owner's Comments regarding my sestertius featuring Agrippina Sr.  For this essay, I decided to take the opportunity to provide some of my own personal musings regarding "raw" vs. "slabbed" ancient coins.  This topic has obviously garnered much discussion on both extreme viewpoints, so I wanted to provide my own perspective.  
     
    Regarding Agrippina, she was quite a impressive woman for her time, and an important noblewomen of the Julio-Claudian dynasty: daughter of Agrippa and Julia, wife of Germanicus, and mother of Nero Julius Caesar, Drusus Julius Caesar, Gaius (better known and Caligula), Agrippina Jr., Julia Drusilla, and Julia Livilla. Sadly, her fate was to be defamed by Tiberius' infamous Praetorian Prefect Sejanus to the point that she was arrested and spent the last four years of her life confined to the island of Pandateria. 
     
    Regarding the coin, it exhibits extremely fine craftsmanship as struck by Agrippina's brother-in-law Claudius, who emulated the arguably more impressive issue struck earlier by Agrippina's son Caligula.  Notably, Vagi describes these Agrippina portrait sestertii as "a height in Julio-Claudian artistry."
     
    Regarding encapsulation of ancient coinage, I can't resist quoting the conclusion of my Owner's Comments wherein I opine about this sestertius' fine artistry: "Such artistry transcends clear plastic, even if some might draw parallels to the fate of this coin and its subject."
     
  14. Kohaku
    Latest update is that I posted my Owner's Comments on an Apollonian bronze, struck during the time of the Antonine dynasty.  Here are comments (for a picture of the obverse and reverse, please see the Roman Empire collection posted on the NGC Ancients, Custom Sets...
     
    Ancient Roman coins denoted as “pseudo-autonomous” are generally defined as issues struck by cities and provinces under the suzerainty of Rome, yet lacking an imperial obverse portrait. Such coins not only bear historical importance, but also provide for interesting and artistic numismatic designs. The current coin, dating from Rome’s golden age under the rule of the Antonine dynasty (138-192 AD) provides a noteworthy example. 
    The strike occurred at the ancient Asia Minor city of Apollonis, whose eponym was wife to Attalus I, first of that dynasty to reign as King of Permagon around late 3rd century BC.  Attalus I’s son and successor, Eumenes II, decreed the creation of Apollonis through a synoecism (a mechanism whereby the ancient Greeks amalgamated villages into city-states, similar to the modern concept of incorporation of a city). Succeeding Eumenes II was his son Attalus III, who, dying childless in 133 BC, bequeathed his lands to Rome.
    By the time this coin was struck, Apollonis was firmly under Rome’s suzerainty.  Judging from this ancient bronze, the region held fast to its Hellenistic roots.  The obverse features the helmeted bust of the pantheonic goddess Athena.  To the ancient Greeks, Athena was one of the most powerful among all deities.  She represented a goddess of war; appropriately, she appears on this coin wearing an aegis and brandishing a formidable spear over her shoulder.  While a fearsome warrior, Athena only fought to repel outside enemies.  As such, many metropolises, presumably including Apollonis, worshipped Athena as their city’s own divine protector.  Athena’s talents didn’t stop there.  She also was goddess of other concepts such as handicrafts and agriculture.  Her impressive list of inventions included the bridle and yoke (facilitating domestication of animals), the pot, the rake, and even the ship and the chariot.
    Complementing Athena on the coin's reverse is Tyche, the Greek goddess representing fortune and destiny, particularly over a city.  Tyche was thought to preside over prosperity as well as disasters; no wonder she had a faithful following.   Many Greek cities, presumably including Apollonis, established their own local franchise for the goddess.  Tyche’s attire provides clues to the goddess’ role in controlling the city’s fortunes.  Her kismetic vestments include a polos (a cylindrical crown inviting parallels to city walls), a gubernaculum (a ship’s rudder), and, of course, a cornucopia.
    Pseudo-autonomous coinage was produced at Apollonis until at least late 2nd century AD, at which time - curiously- contemporaneous issues from that mint bore the busts of Roman Emperors and Empresses. The Roman provincial mint at Apollonis continued to strike coins until at least the reign of Augustus Severus Alexander.  Apollonian coins are generally rare, since the mint was not particularly prolific.  In the case of this particular civic issue, a seminal numismatic reference cites only three specimens.
    Coin Details: LYDIA, Apollonis, Pseudo-autonomous, circa 138-192 AD (Antonine dynasty), AE (3.12g, 18mm), NGC Grade: AU, Strike: 4/5, Surface: 3/5, Obverse: Helmeted bust of Athena right, wearing aegis and with spear over shoulder, Reverse: Tyche standing left, wearing polos, holding gubernaculum and cornucopia, ΑΠΟΛΛΩΝΙΔЄΩΝ, References: RPC IV online 2490 (only 3 examples cited); SNG von Aulock -; SNG Copenhagen -; BMC 12-3.
  15. Kohaku
    I just posted another Owner's Comments for a coin in my NGC Ancients Custom Set "The Roman Empire".
    This time, the comments are regarding an ancient bronze featuring Julius Marinus, father of Augustus Philip, a.k.a. Philip the Arab.  Philip struck the coin to commemorate his father and advertse his father's apotheois, or transformation into a god. 
    This coin is very rare, and comes in two reverse types.  This coin features seated (rather than standing) Roma, and she holds two figures.  This is the rarer variant.
    One detail I was curious about was researching the two figures on the coin's reverse.  Who do they represent?  Of course, we can't know for certain, but one can speculate.  The list of candidates includes Julius Marinus, Philip's mother, Philip's brother, and Philip II (Philip's son).
    Another interesting detail about the coin is that it includes the inscription of the town of Philippopolis, even though it may have been struck at Antioch.
    We know very little about Julius Marinus, and he might have been entirely lost to history except for posthumous coins struck by his son.
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
  16. Kohaku
    There was not a lot to talk about for this coin, except that is bears the half-length (some employ the descriptor “heroic”) bust of about Marcus Aurelius Nigrinianus (died circa 284 AD), who was probably the son of Emperor Carinus.
     
    It is interesting to note that a review of electronically available information revealed eleven examples of this coin, comprising what appear to be only three, very similar and high-quality obverse die types (excluding slight variations presumably applied post-strike), but at least nine, relatively crude, and notably different reverse die types. It was probably the case that only master engravers cut obverse portraits, since their standardization was very important to the ancient Romans.  The reverse, however, was more formulaic, and may have been delegated to less skilled engravers.  These two dies were placed into a hinge, with the obverse die (i.e., more important image) placed in the anvil, and the punch was applied to the reverse die.  As a result, reverse dies broke much more frequently, probably accounting for the discrepancy in reverse vs. obverse die types obverse.
     
    I decided not to include my die analysis in my Owner's Comments *yet*, until I can conduct more comprehensive research to confirm this finding, and maybe even get some more expert opinions on this.
  17. Kohaku

    NGC Registry Awards

    By Kohaku,

    I wanted to send out a particular congratulations to rmw, jackson64, and gherrmann44 for distinction on their excellent Collectors' Journals!
     
    Regarding this Journal Entry, I am pleased to see my own Roman Empire collection receive a second-time Best Ancients Set (my previous accolade was in 2014, so this ends a bit of a "dry spell" for me!).  I wonder about what it would take to be acknowledged as Most Informative or Most Creative NGC Custom Set, and I always find myself amazed when I check out the winning sets in those categories (this year, it was Mohak's Avians and Siah's Colorado-based Collections).
     
    Again, congrats to all winners, and also thanks to everyone for participating.  Having such an eclectic and interesting community is one many aspects that makes this hobby entertaining!
  18. Kohaku
    Just a quick note to say that I finally finished and posted Owner's Comments for my Alexandrian tetradrachm featuring Roman Emperor Gordian I.
     
    Gordian I was an interesting fellow, one of richest and most learned of all Rome's  Emperors.  Gordian I rose to power in March 238 AD, a year that is infamously known to history as the Year of the Six Emperors.  He was eighty years old when he and his son took on the challenges to rule the Empire as co-Augusti.
     
    Their reign lasted only three weeks.
     
    Here is a link to the coin, you can read my Owners Comments and reflect upon Gordian I's rather apprehensive obverse portrayal on this coin...
    https://coins.www.collectors-society.com/wcm/coinview.aspx?sc=321772

    And here is a link to the the larger Roman Empire collection...
    https://coins.www.collectors-society.com/wcm/CoinCustomSetView.aspx?s=16365
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
  19. Kohaku
    I am creating a "Journal Entry" for page "Page" (grouping of 15 coins) in the Gallery view for my Roman Empire Custom Set.
     
    To that end, this journal entry is for the first Page in the collection, which I have entitled "Prelude," with the goal to  provide a good introduction to the geography, peoples, political climate, etc. that existed just prior to Rome converting from Republic to Empire.  Here is the synopsis...
     
    Prelude. The saga begins with coins from mid 2nd to 1st century BC exemplifying the late Roman Republic including the rise and fall of Julius Caesar, the waning of Hellenistic influence, and other contemporary tribes of the ancient world.
     
    ...and here is a link to the Page...
    https://coins.www.collectors-society.com/wcm/CoinCustomSetGallery.aspx?s=16365
     
    I just received grades on my last round of ancients (which took two months), and among those coins was an example of "The Coin That Killed Ceasar," so now I can update that this first Page is COMPLETE!  
    Of course, I might decided to "upgrade" certain coins later.  Also, as this is a Custom Set, I might decide later on to redefine the coins in one or more slots (that is the fun of an NGC Custom Set -  I don’t have to worry about someone else changing the rules for what coins are allowed etc, it’s all up to my own preference!)
     
    The following is a brief description of the coins I choose to include and why.
     
    First, I wanted to provide a few examples of coins from the Roman Republic.  There are lots of beautiful and historically important coins to choose from, so that is a tough task. In the end I choose three (and then four other coins that should be deemed as “Imperatorial”, but I’m getting ahead of myself).  The very first is an MS grade Roman denarius, Strike=5/5, Surface=4/5, featuring a Roma obverse and a reverse that portrays Rome’s founding – the fascinating tale or Romulus and Remus.  What better choice to kick of the collection?
    An MS grade Roman denarius, Strike=5/5, Surface=4/5 featuring Roma obverse and a triga reverse, wherein I used this coin to discuss how the ancient Roman Republic oversaw coin production – namely, the role of Rome’s “moneyers.”  While this coin is arguably the least interesting/important on this Page, I included it since it has a special meaning to me.  Namely, it was one the very first ancient coins I ever purchased, and (which is getting rarer and rarer these days) I purchased it after selecting it by hand in a coin shop  (as opposed to ordering from an image over the internet).  So when I submitted that coin for grading and received the MS, I was obviously very pleased.
    This one I could not resist buying – a gorgeous Ch MS, Strike=5/5, Surface=5/5, Roman denarius issued by L. Marcius Censorinus, whose ultimate fate at the hands of Sulla parallels in some ways the subject of the reverse, namely Marsyas.  In a way, this coin’s imagery is a prelude to the curtailment of personal liberties that was ahead for Rome’s citizens as their State turned into an autocracy.
    An MS grade denarius issued by Sulla, Strike=4/5, Surface=5/5.  Another gorgeous coin, one best appreciated “in hand,” one that a picture does not do justice to.  Sulla served for a time a Rome’s first dictator in a century and he (inadvertently?!) paved the way for Caesar’s rise to be Rome’s dictator, and subsequently Augustus’ rise to Emperor.
    Rome’s arch-nemesis in first century BC, namely Mithradates VI, King of Pontus.  I could not resist adding Mithradates, he is such an interesting figure from history.  This one is a very lustrous Ch MS gold stater 5/5, 5/5, don’t ask me how a coin this coin managed to survive in such pristine state?
    This one is a tetradrachm, graded Ch AU, Strike=5/5, Surface=4/5, featuring Nicomedes IV, King of Bithynia.  I could not resist adding this one for lots of reasons…first, I love the size, heft and presence of holding an ancient tetradrachm (for anyone who has held in hand an ancient stephanophoric tetradrachm, you know what I mean).  In this case, I almost was reluctant to encase this coin in a slab (this could be an interesting topic for discussion all by itself!)  Second, Nicomedes played a role in Caesar’s rise to power, and they were reported to have a sexual relationship (at least to the point some Romans called Caesar the “Queen of Bithynia”).  Third, the story of Nicomedes alternating between the forerunner of a client King and a refugee in Rome is fascinating and again is prelude to the Roman Empire's grappling over the control of client states.
    An ancient bronze of Tigranes II The Great, graded Ch VF, Strike=5/5, Surface=4/5.  Tigranes was an another extremely interesting fellow, a former Roman enemy turned ally…his story is another one that preludes how Rome exerted power over client kingdoms.  I also love that he associated himself on his coinage with the celestial object we today call Halley’s comet!
    The next two coins are representative of the other cultures living in Europe contemporaneously with the Romans.  The first coin is Celtic AR Drachm, graded MS, Strike=4/5, Surface=5/5, imitating the Greek coinage of Massalia.  I used this coin and this slot in the collection to provide an overview of the Celtic tribes that exerted a tremendous influence on the Roman Empire, and eventually consumed it.
    This coin is an ancient bronze grade VF, Strike=5/5, Surface=4/5, featuring the great King of the Gauls (or more appropriately, Galatia).  That remarkable man was Deiotarus, who became an ally to Rome after Cicero successfully pleaded his case before Caesar.  This was one of many examples where my research on the coin proved far more interesting than I expected.
    Finally, we get to Caesar himself, and in the end I choose three coins.  The first is an historically important and iconic “elephant denarius.”  This one graded Ch AU, Strike= 5/5, Surface=5/5 with a Star noted. While I was excited to get such a good grade, to be honest I was hoping for an MS (oh well, almost!).  I used this slot to reflect on Caesar’s civil war.
    An MS grade denarius representing Caesar’s reign as dictator.  This one is another propaganda masterpiece, wherein Caesar advertises his supposed ancestral link to Athena and Aeneas.  The Surface rated 5/5, however, an off-center strike resulted in a Strike rating of 3/5.  Even so, the coin is extremely pleasing, and the strike does not reduce its allure to me; it is perhaps par for the course for coinage that was struck with such urgency.
    This coin is one of the most historically important ancient coins that is reasonably accessible (as compared to, say Brutus' ides of March denarii).  I just received the grade on this one as AU.  The strike rated as a 3/5 (again, off center and weak), which in this case in not unusual for this coin; in this case, I do not perceive the "low" grade as a detriment, but rather as a feature.  The surface rated as 4/5.  This coin, and others similar to it that were struck contemporaneously, were the first examples where a living Roman was depicted on Rome's coins.  Not only that, the coin also proclaims Caesar's new title as "Dictator for Life."  Arguably, such coins precipitated Caesar's murder, and some have even gone so far as call this denarius as The Coin That Killed Caesar.
    Another example of a coin that I saw and immediately found irresistible to procure for the collection.  It is an ancient bronze graded Ch VF, Strike=5/5, Surface=4/5.  I love the obverse Janiform bust of Pompey, and took the chance to reflect on that Roman god’s duality of beginning/ending, and war/peace.  I also used this coin slot to describe some details about Rome’s ferocious war machine, while simultaneously providing some background about Pompey and his descendants, and their wars against Caesar and his successors, notably Octavian, who would become Augustus.
    It would not seem proper if I didn't include a coin of Brutus’, so this one is a enigmatic “Koson” gold stater, rated Ch MS (no Strike or Surface grading).  This is an extremely interesting coin since there is controversy regarding whether Brutus actually struck it or not (at least he inspired it, so that alone makes it relevant to use for this slot, at least in my opinion). My Owner’s Comments on this one provide some scenarios for coin’s origins, in light of the referenced paper describing elemental analyses via particle-induced X-ray emission and synchrotron radiation X-ray fluorescence.  Et tu, ΚΟΣΩΝ?
    Last, but certainly not least, is an MS graded denarius, Strike=5/5, Surface=4/5, issued by Brutus’ ally and co-conspirator, Cassius.  It seems fitting to end the "Prelude" Page with an example of a coin produced by the man that Brutus described as the "Last Roman."
     
     
  20. Kohaku
    This new “Journal Entry” provides an update on the second Page of my NGC Ancient Custom Set entitled “The Roman Empire.”  It is satisfying to report that, following the grading results of my Herod The Great ancient bronze, and after finalizing my Owner’s Comments of that coin… Page #2 is now COMPLETE!
     
    Here is a link to the Collection…
     
    https://coins.www.collectors-society.com/wcm/CoinCustomSetGallery.aspx?s=16365
     
    Here is the synopsis for the Page, entitled "GENESIS"…
     
    Following civil war with Mark Antony, Cleopatra, and other of Rome's elite, Octavian becomes Augustus and the Republic transitions into an Empire dominating the Mediterranean basin including client kingdoms such as Judaea, Nabataea, and Mauretania.
     
    The following is a brief description of the coins I choose to include and why.
     
    The first coin on this Page an ancient obol (the only example of such a denomination in this collection) struck by Lepidus, graded as AU with a 4/5 Strike and a 3/5 Surface.  You might be asking – who was Lepidus? I must admit, before I started this collection, my recollection of my history was a little fuzzy there.  Lepidus does not rank nearly as renown as his sidekicks Octavian (aka Augsustus) and Marc Antony, who together formed a Triumvir’s reboot.   I can’t resist re-using this excerpt from my Owner’s Comments: “If the name isn’t familiar, no wonder, Lepidus turned out the prototypical persona non grata of Roman politics. Borrowing sic erat scriptum the tagline of a late, modern-day comedian, he didn't get no respect.” A rare quinarius struck by Marc Antony featuring his third wife, Fulvia, graded Ch F, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 3/5.  Fulvia was a most remarkable person, and she holds the distinction of the first living Roman women appearing on a coin (although not non-ambiguously).  She was prominent enough that Octavian felt threatened by her, at least to the point the he and his troops resorted to juvenile-like name-calling on their glans (if you are intrigued, see my Owner’s Comments for more, juicy details). An example of Marc Antony’s fleet coinage featuring his fourth wife, Octavia Minor, who was Octavian’s sister.  I personally find such fleet coinage fascinating as a group of ancients.  This example graded VF, Strike = 3/5 Surface = 3/5.  Octavia was one of the most influential women of her time, and she set a standard for an exemplary Roman noblewoman.   Based on history, we can’t say the reciprocal statement for her husband Antony. A fabulous Marc Antony Legionary denarius, graded AU, Strike = 5/5, Surface = 4/5.  Antony’s legionary denarii are probably the most recognizable of all ancient coinage, and they are fascinating as well as historically significant.  They directly relate to the final conflict between Antony and Octavian that led to Rome’s transformation from Republic to Empire.  Some enthusiasts focus on collecting all the varients, and I certainly can appreciate the allure of that.  Alas, given the breadth of this collection, I only included the one example! An ancient Egyptian bronze featuring perhaps the most famous lovers of all time, Marc Antony on one side and Cleopatra on the other.  This coin graded XF, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 3/5.  It is thrilling to hold this one in hand, especially for the very clear portraiture for both subjects.  Unlike the ancient coin featuring conjoined portraits of Antony and Octavia found elsewhere in this NGC Ancients collection (#3 above), herein Cleopatra demands equal billing, as if not willing to sharing the flan with Antony. Of course, Cleopatra deserves her own slot in the collection!  She played an important role in the story of Rome's genesis into an Empire, and, besides, she is one of the most famous woman of all time.  This ancient bronze graded Ch XF, Strike = 5/5, Surface = 4/5.  It among the scarcest of the rare in this collection – only three examples are known.  Also, this one is a “plate” coin, that is, its image appears in RPC, and, I must admit, that gives its current owner an extra thrill! I decided to include an example ancient bronze struck by Herod the Great (and I devoted a few slots to his descendants as well).  This coin's grade is relatively low,  graded as F, Strike = 4/5, Surface= 3/5, but that does not change my enjoyment of owning it.  It is particular special to me for its provenance; its previous owner was the author of a seminal reference book on biblical coinage (Hendin) that I referenced.  Herod was a fascinating fellow, whose legacy comprises equal elements of tyranny and grandeur, as befits the most famous of all the Roman Empire’s client kings. Another example of a Roman client’s coinage, this one is an ancient bronze attributed to Syllaeus and Aretas IV of Nabataea, graded NGC Ch VF Strike =  4/5 Surface =  3/5.    The story of Syllaeus and Aretas is fascinating (see my Owner’s Comments for details), and their interactions with Herod and Augustus provide some interesting insights into the political atmosphere as Rome transformed from Republic to Empire.  This slot is an admittedly ecelectic choice – an ancient bronze featuring Vedius Pollio, graded F Strike = 5/5, Surface = 3/5.  It is tough to find, so I don’t mind the grade.  Besides, I couldn’t resist including this coin after I researched that  Pollio was famous in his time as a epicurean.  Pollio's greatest claim to fame was an incident wherein he threatened to torture one of his servants by immersing him into a pool of eels.  A pool of eels, you might be wondering about that...well, what famous Roman epicurean wouldn't want to have fresh seafood on hand for entertaining important guests?  In this case, the guest was Augustus himself, who saved the servant from piscine persecution.  I used this coin to provide some insight into Roman cuisine, a fascinating topic in and of itself.  As it turns out, the ancient Romans were pioneers of aquaculture, and ancient ruins suggest that they raised carp long before the Japanese developed nishikigoi such as those depicted in my profile picture. An example denarius of an important Roman client king, Juba II of Mauretania.  This specimen graded AU, Strike =  4/5, Surface = 4/5.  The story of Juba (and his wife Cleaopatra Selen, a pairing arranged by Augustus) is a fascinating tale of two fated soul-mates.   At the time of Juba’s reign, Mauretania was at its zenith, renown for its arts and sciences.  This ancient Roman provincial bronze, graded NGC VF Strike = 4/5 Surface = 3/5, features Augstus’ only biological child, his daughter Julia.  Her coins are rare, and worth procuring in any condition available.  She had quite the personality, as famous for her wit as her alledged sexual escapades.  To hear more about her rebellion against parental authority, see my owner’s comments. This denarius features Octavian and Divus Julius Ceasar, graded XF, Strike=  4/5, Surface =3/5.  It is one of the most historically important coins in the collection (besides, astronomy is one of my personal interests).  At least a 100-million-to-1 coincidence (?), one of the all-time (as recorded by humans, that is) brightest comets appeared at the same time Octavian hosted funeral games for his adoptive father Julius Caesar.  Octavian seized that opportunity to create a new religion, one that allowed for a man to be god, in turn fostering the conversion of the Roman Republic into an Empire.  If that sounds like a stretch for a thesis, consider the impact of religion in our modern world. This slot is an ancient bronze featuring Augustus and yet another client king, Rhoemetalces I of Thrace.  Besides that Thracian King's interesting backstory, I also used this slot as an opportunity to discuss Augustus' strategy for building client states, to be, at need, gradually absorbed into the Empire as provinces.  Given the many decades long he managed to rule, and the many centuries his successors managed to maintain an Empire, it appears the strategy was effective.   This slot is an ancient Roman provincial bronze featureing the Roman Empire's first First Couple, Augustus and Livia.  It graded as Ch XF, Strike = 5/5, Surface = 3/5.  This coin is even more rare that the Cleopatra bronze mentioned above (#6) - in this case, only two specimens are known.  Livia fell in love and stayed faithfully devoted (for 40 years) to a man who should have been her mortal enemy.  She set the standard as a model Roman matron, and played a very important role in the genesis and early decades of the Roman Empire.  Wrapping up the story of the Roman Empire's genesis is a well-preserved quadrans, graded AU, Strike = 5/5, Surface = 4/5.  Its beautiful color and striking presence are difficult to capture in a digital image.  It features the harmonious imagery of clasped hands, and I used it to discuss the "Pax Romana", the extended period of peace and prosperity brought to Rome as Octavian emerged as Augsutus and the Republic transformed into an Empire. 
  21. Kohaku
    This new “Journal Entry” provides an update on the third Page of my NGC Ancient Custom Set entitled “The Roman Empire.”
     
    This Page is 80% complete (12 coins out of 15 slots).  For one of the those 12 coins, I still have not completed my “Owner’s Comments.”
     
    Here is a link to the Collection…
     
    https://coins.www.collectors-society.com/wcm/CoinCustomSetGallery.aspx?s=16365
     
    Here is the synopsis for the Page, entitled "SUCCESSION”…
     
    Julio-Claudian dynasts feud amongst themselves, maintaining Rome sternly down the path of Empire amidst growing religiopolitcal upheavals.
     
    The following is a brief description of the coins I choose to include and why.
     
    The first coin on this Page is a denarius featuring Augustus on obverse and two imperial succession candidates, Caius and Lucius Caesars, on the reverse.  This is a popular issue for collectors of ancient Roman coins.  I wanted to include this one not only to represent Caius and Lucius, but also as what seemed to be a seminal early coin of the Roman Empire, a fitting first coin to launch this Page focused on succession.  This one graded Ch AU, Strike = 3/5 and Surface = 3/5. The second coin in this Page features Augustus and his buddy Agrippa, who, along with his offspring, provided opportunities for imperial successors.  Like the previous coin, this one seems to be popular as well.  It is an example of a “crocodile” coin, that is, it features a crocodile as a symbol of Egypt, and this coin advertises Rome’s control over Egypt, an important realm for its resources.  In my Owner’s Comments, I took the opportunity to discuss the role of the crocodile as an apex predator, particularly in ancient times.  Of course, I also discuss Agrippa, and his accomplishments in various areas from warfare to civil engineering. Augustus was lucky to have such a faithful and productive comrade, who played a substantial role in the success of the early Roman Empire. For this slot, I choose an ancient bronze featuring Asinius Gallus, an interesting Roman patrician.  This coin is rare, and this one graded as MS, Strike=4/5 and Surface = 4/5, perhaps among the finest known, at least among examples I was able to search within readily available sources.  Asinius was a colleague of Augustus and, as such, yet another possible imperial candidate, or at least Asinius wanted to promote himself as such.   Besides describing the interesting history between Asinius and the Emperor, I also took the opportunity in my Owner’s Comments to talk about the origin and design on the coin.  Its origin was Aeolis, Temnus, famed as birthplace of Hermagoras, the 1st century BC rhetorician famous for the “seven circumstances” (who, what, when, where, why, in what way, by what means) that still provides a basis for modern investigation.  The coin’s design invokes the philosophical concept of the Apollonian and Dionysian, or dichotomy between the irrationality of emotions and rationality of reason, mirroring the ancient Chinese concept of yin and yang. This slot is not yet filled.  I originally thought to use this slot to include a coin of Agrippa Postumus, last child of Agrippa.  However, it turns out that such a coin is extremely difficult to obtain, and, so far, has proven out of my reach.  Therefore, I currently plan to include for this slot a coin of Herod Antipas.  Besides the interesting biblical history of Herod Antipas, I thought including such an issue would provide the opportunity to continue my theme of succession, and describe how Augustus not only had to grapple not only with his own succession, but also succession within his client states.  I will update this Journal Entry as I fill it and provide my Owner’s Comments. For this slot, I chose to include a prutah struck by Pontius Pilatel one of Rome’s prefects of Judaea. This coin was encapsulated as a “Coin of the Bible”, so there is no official grade.  It is obviously of very high historical interest.  This coin is heavily circulated (personally, I would consider it only F, maybe 3/5 for both strike and surface), but in my opinion that increases its historical interest to consider that it circulated and exchanged many hands in a time and place that held a tremendous impact on human history. This slot, assigned to Nero Cladius Drusus is not yet filled.  Nero Claudius Drusus was brother to Rome’s second Emperor, Tiberius. I will update this Journal Entry as I fill it and provide my Owner’s Comments. This slot, assigned to Tiberius, Rome’s second Emperor is not yet filled.  I intend to put a “Tribute penny” type coin here.  I will update this Journal Entry as I fill it and provide my Owner’s Comments. For this slot I chose another interesting dynastic issue, and ancient bronze featuring Tiberius and two of his Caesars, Drusus the Younger (his son and only child) and Germanicus (his nephew).  This coin graded VF, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 3/5. For this slot, I was lucky to obtain an example bronze featuring Sejanus, Tiberius’ Praetorian Prefect and would-be successor.  Thus coin graded F, Strike = 5/5, Surface = 2/5.  There are some ancient collectors who would argue that they would not consider a coin with a “2” grade (for either Strike or Surface) for their collection. While I understand that goal, I would say that for extremely rare coins, especially rare bronzes, one must accept that probability.  In this case, there are only 19 coins like this one in existence, so I don’t mind.  I’m just happy to have acquired one in any condition. For this slot, I chose to include the sole issue attributed to Livilla, who was Tiberius’ niece.  I found her history extremely interesting, see my Owner’s  Comments for details.  This relatively scarce coin graded Ch XF, Strike = 5/5, Surface = 3/5.  Here I picked Tiberius Gemellus.  This coin is extremely rare, I am not sure what the population is, but based on how infrequently I have seen up for auction and in auction archives, it seems nearly as rare my Sejanus coin.  This one graded F, Strike = 5/5, Surface = 2/5.  Again, no apologies for the low grade, it's the consequence of including such a rare and interesting coin in the collection.  Here I picked Germanicus Gemellus, and this one is very popular with collectors -  a sestertius featuring an iconic double cornucopia surmounted with the busts of Tiberius’ grandsons.  This one graded VF, Strike = 5/5, Surface = 2/5.  Uncommon but not especially rare, this one seems difficult to find in a good surface grade.  Perhaps that's because of its popularity and susceptibility for cleaning and surface manipulations by avid collectors who didn’t know better.   I may someday “upgrade” this one; in the meantime, I would rather invest in filling an empty slot in this collection instead. This coin is a very nice sestertius featuring Agrippina Sr, it graded VF, Strike = 5/5, Surface = 4/5.  I still have not completed my research and written my Owner’s Comments yet, stay tuned for that. This is another fabulous, iconic bronze, issues by Caligula to posthumously honor his brothers Nero and Drusus Ceasars.  It features the two brothers on horseback, and I took the opportunity in my Owner’s Comments to discuss to history of human domestication of the horse, and the relevance to the history of the Roman Empire.  This coin graded Ch VF, Strike = 5/5, Surface = 3/5. This coin features one of my favorite women in the Roman Empire’s history, namely Antonia, daughter of Marc Antonia and Octavia.  (The latter was Octavian/Augustus, so Antonia was his niece.)  This bronze graded XF, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 5/5.  I had to include Antonia since I kept coming across references to her “remarkable court,” referencing the scores of Roman nobles and dynasts from surrounding realms that she raised.  Thus, Antonia seemed a perfect slot as the last coin on this Page focused on succession.
  22. Kohaku
    This new “Journal Entry” provides an update on the 4th Page of my NGC Ancient Custom Set entitled “The Roman Empire.”
    This Page is 100% complete (15 coins out of 15 slots), although three of my “Owner’s Comments” are pending.  I will update this journal entry as I complete those essays.
     
    Here is a link to the Collection…
    https://coins.www.collectors-society.com/wcm/CoinCustomSetGallery.aspx?s=16365
     
    Here is the synopsis for the Page, entitled "DECADENCE”…
    Rome's influence continues to expand under the leadership of notoriously self-indulgent, intemperate Emperors such as Caligula, Claudius, and Nero.
     
    The follow are comments on the coins I choose for this Page and why…
    Caligula.  When it comes to decadent behavior, Caligula certainly comes to mind.  This particular coin I choose wishes good health for the Emperor. According to come reports, at a point during his reign Caligula became increasingly erratic and cruel, and perhaps this coin was in response.   This fascinating provincial coin is sometimes attributes to Caesonia (in guise of Salus).  The grading on this one was Ch VF, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 3/5, which is not a reasonable condition for this bronze issue.  I am still researching this one. Caligula was such a complex Emperor that I want to do justice to him (and the coin!), so my research may take some more time. Antiochus IV of Commagene. Ancient bronze grade Ch XF, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 3/5.  I am not sure that I have ever seen a better example of this rare and interesting coin.  Since this Chapter focuses on decadence, I had to include an issue from the “richest of all subject kings”.  Interestingly, on researching the reverse I uncovered that scorpions were used as biological weapons against the ancient Romans.  I have a very difficult time imagining the R&D effort to develop and produce that weapon (imagine the Gannt chart for that project!)  Read my comments for the stinging details. Ptolomey of Mauretania.  I included this fabulous denarius since this particular king’s downfall was a direct result of his public display of decadence. He up-staged the Emperor not only by couture but also his full head of hair (for more hair-raising details, see my comments).  This coin is so rare that is very likely unique.  So, I guess that makes it “Finest Known”.  The grade is AU, Strike: 4/5 Surface: 4/5. Drusilla, sister of Caligula.  This coin features Caligula and his three sisters.  As such, it is one of the most famous ancient Roman sestertii. I was extremely pleased to be able to procure one of these highly coveted coins – they are very rare, I’m not sure how many are out there, but not that many!  I have not had this coin graded yet, nor written my comments.  I am very much looking forward to both!  Caesonia and Drusilla Minor, with Herod Agrippa I.  This coin is the only issue representing Caesonia, Caligula’s fourth and final wife, and their child Drusilla Minor.  It was struck in Judaea, one of several such in my collection.  I also used this coin in my owner’s comments to discuss Herod Agrippa I, a very important client king.  The ancient histories are certainly juicy regarding everything about Caligula and those around him, although the veracity and extent of the details recorded are questionable given the biases.  This was a fun coin to research and write my owners comments.  The grade is VG, Strike: 4/5 Surface: 3/5. Given the extremely rarity and historical importance of this coin, I don’t mind the grade. Julia Livilla, of the Caligula’s sisters.  This bronze is so rare there are probably only a dozen in existence.   This one graded NGC Ch F Strike: 4/5 Surface: 3/5.  It was struck in Lesbos, adding to its interest.  I won't go into the history of murder and mayhem, you can read my owner’s comments if you are interested. Claudius.  One of the most famous Emperors, particularly with regards to his many wives.  Researching this bronze As and writing up my owner’s comments was highly interesting.  This coin is one of only a few that I received a “Fine Style” designation for, and if you hold in your hand you can truly appreciate.  This coin graded an impressive AU, Strike: 5/5, Surface: 2/5.  I admit I was a bit disappointed at the surface grade, I suppose it was because of some perceived smoothing (not by me, of course).  Regardless, it is an impressive coin, befitting an impressive Emperor. Valeria Messalina, wife of Claudius.  This coin, like all for Messalina, is very rare.  This one, struck in Crete, graded Ch VF Strike: 3/5 Surface: 2/5.  Again, sorry to repeat myself, but the relatively low grade is fine from my perspective considering the rarity and importance of the coin.  In a strange way, having so may examples of bronze coins in such grades seems befitting for a Page focused on decadence.  Even the coins are degraded, tarnished by their decadent histories of those they represent.  To pique your interest to read my owners comments, my opening thesis is that Messalina was perhaps the most ruthlessly ambitious and promiscuous woman in the history of the Roman Empire. Claudia Octavia, Claudia Antonia, and Britannicus, children of Claudius.  This very rare ancient bronze, struck in Cyzicus, graded F, Strike: 4/5 Surface: 4/5.  This coin is an interesting dynastic issue, featuring no fewer that three hard-to-find dynasts.  In the end, Nero’s political ambitions consumed all three of Claudius’ biological children. Consequently, ancient coinage featuring members of that trio are relatively scarce. Even so, a few remarkable issues, including this specimen, feature all three, providing a poignant reminder of the dynastic decadence defining the early Roman Empire. Britannicus w/Herod Agrippa II.  This bronze is so rare that is probably unique, yes, the only one in existence.  The grade is VF Strike: 4/5 Surface: 2/5.  I decided that the rarity (which I was surprised was within my means!) and the interest of this particular coin proved more valuable to me than purchasing a higher-graded, more common coin representing Britannicus.  To read his tragic history at the mercy of his brother Nero, see my comments. Agrippina Jr w/Nero.  When I saw this coin, I was so drawn to it that I decided that I must acquire it (some or most of you must know where I a coming from with this statement).  The composition is absolutely mind-boggling.  The obverse shows Agrippina Jr and her son Nero facing one another, and the reverse features the goddess Nemesis.  I’m still working on my comments.  When I post, you can read more to see why this composition is mind-boggling.  This coin graded AU Strike: 4/5 Surface: 3/5.  For an ancient Roman provincial bronze, that is a high grade Nero.  Nero is probably the Emperor most noted for his decadence.  So I picked out this coin for him, a striking tetradrachm, struck in Antioch, Syria.  The grade is Ch AU, Strike = 5/5, and Surface = 5/5.  This coin also earned a prestigious “Star” rating as well for its presence. I can't resist pasting here my final sentence in my comments: “A consummate entertainer to the end, Nero convincingly played the role of both hero and villain." Poppaea, with husband Nero.  This coin is another tetradrachm, struck in Alexandria, Egypt.  The grade is XF, Strike: 5/5, Surface: 3/5.  The history of Poppaea fits in very well this Page’s theme of decadence.  In the words of Tacitus, “She had every aspect except goodness.” Poppaea with Claudia.  This is the only issue featuring Claudia, the daughter of Nero and Poppaea.  Unfortunately, she died quite young, so this coin is a posthumous issue for both female dynasts (reportedly, Poppaea - and another, unborn child - died after Nero kicked her in the stomach).  It was struck in Galilee, and the grade is XF Strike: 4/5 Surface: 3/5, a high grade for this particular issue Statilia Messalina, last wife of Nero.  This very rare bronze was struck in Lydia, and is graded XF, Strike: 5/5 Surface: 3/5 (again, that’s a good grade for an ancient bronze, and this issue in particular).  Looking at her obverse portrait, you would not think that she was known for her beauty.  Indeed, I chose this coin became I was amused at how Messalina’s features resemble Nero!  The reverse features the important goddess Artemis, so in my comments I took the opportunity to discuss Her as well (according to Pausanius, Her worshippers put on quite the show).
  23. Kohaku
    This new “Journal Entry” provides an update on the 5th Page of my NGC Ancient Custom Set entitled “The Roman Empire.”
    This Page is 67% complete (10 coins out of 15 slots), and for one of those 10 coins my “Owner’s Comments” are pending.
    Here is a link to the Collection…
    https://coins.www.collectors-society.com/wcm/CoinCustomSetGallery.aspx?s=16365
    Here is the synopsis for the Page, entitled "PERSEVERANCE": The Empire weathers a civil war culminating in the rise of Emperor Vespasian and his Flavian dynasty.
     
    The following are comments on the coins I choose for this Page and why…
    Jewish Revolt.  This ancient bronze (graded XF, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 4/5) is an example of coinage struck in Judaea during the “Great Jewish Revolt” there between 66-70 AD.  While Rome finally managed to regain control, the toll was enormous.  Besides the historical importance relevant to the Roman Empire (e.g., this war propelled the political power of Vespasian and he rode that success to become Emperor), the conflict also fits in well with the theme of this Page.  This war illustrates the desire of the Judaeans to persevere against oppression, and Rome’s more than equal determination to persevere in maintaining their control. For this slot, I choose an ancient bronze depicting Rhescuporis I, Rome’s client King ruling the Kingdom of Bosporus.  This one graded VF, Strike =5/5, Surface = 2/5 (that surface grade is probably due to a perceived smoothed at some point, but to me does not detract from the coin’s fascination at all).  The reason I had to get it was the fascinating obverse imagery of the King maltreating some captives.  Such a depiction became a common theme of coinage later in Rome’s history, so it would seem Rhescupors was ahead of his time. I wanted to include some coinage to represent Rome’s client kings, and this one seemed very interesting to me.  See my essay for more interesting details about Rhescuporis and this coin in particular.  That research turned out far more interesting than I expected.  I can not resist pasting in my last sentence from the Owner’s Comments: “Alas, it is not within scope of this NGC Custom Set to represent all Bosphorus’ Kings, not to mention the myriad rulers of Rome’s other interesting client kingdoms. Instead, this collection relies on worthy exemplification, providing serendipitous opportunities for historical contemplation.” Roman Civil War.  I don’t have this slot filled in yet. Galba.  This denarius graded an impressive AU, Strike = 4/5, Surface=5/5.  Not only that it earned both a star for its eye appeal.  In addition, it also earned a “Fine Style” designation, which is pretty hard to get for Roman coinage (at least compared to, say, ancient Greek coinage).  Galba wanted to place Rome on the path to a new golden age, and his coinage is extremely interesting.  This particular  denarius features on the reverse a remarkable, unprecedented epithet of VICTORIA P • R; as such, Galba is not advertising personal achievement, but victory for the Roman populace, populi romani.  For more details, see my Owner’s Comments. Otho.  I don’t have this slot filled in yet. Vitellius. I don’t have this slot filled in yet. Vespasian.  This coin is one of my favorites in my entire collection for its historical interest and outstanding state of preservation.  It graded MS, Srike = 5/5, Surface = 5/5, and earned a star for its amazing eye appeal.   This denarius features on the reverse the Emperor in a quadriga celebrating his victory of Judaea.  Such “Judaea Capta” coinage are highly sought after for the religio-historical importance.  As part of my research on this coin, I came across Josephus’ account of this particular triumph that Vespasian celebrated in Rome.  His writings – a fascinating read – describe the purple-clad and laurel-donning Emperor captivating the crowds with his prayers, elaborate parades featuring thousands of prisoners, enormous amounts of captured treasures, and stupendous, complex floats that re-enacted tales of bloody battle.  The ancient Romans sure knew how to throw a party! Titus.  I don’t have this slot filled in yet. Titus.  I included here a coin that was struck as part of the opening of the Roman Colosseum. It graded Ch VF, Strike = 5/5, Surface = 5/5.  I wanted to include two of Titus’ coins in the collection: for the first slot above, which I have not yet filled, I wanted to write my Owner’s Comments focusing on Titus himself, and for this second slot, I wanted to use the opportunity to provide some historical details regarding Roman engineering, and specifically, the impressive construction project that became the Colosseum.  I have not yet written my Owner’s Comments on this one, stay tuned.  Domitilla the Elder, wife of Vespasian.  This one is a sestertius and graded VF Strike = 4/5 Surface = 2/5.  It represents the only issue appropriately attributed to the elder Domitilla.  To really appreciate the weight and presence of a sestertius, you really need to actually hold it in your hand.  This one features a carpentum.  Beyond mere conveyances, carpenta held social, political, and spiritual significance. Religious and political elite employed carpenta, particularly Rome’s wealthy and powerful women. Carpenta were tricked out with arched rooftops, elaborate and customized interiors, and even metal- and leather-strap based suspensions. Besides mules, optional powertrains included horses and oxen. Carpenta also sported metal-shod wheels, making them noisy, even at low speeds.  As a group, the so-called “carpentum sestertii” provide a fascinating insight into the early Roman Empire and a popular subject for ancient coin collectors. Julia Titi.  I don’t have this slot filled in yet.  Agrippa II, featuring Domitian as Caesar.  This ancient bronze graded VF, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 3/5.  Agrippa II was the seventh and last sovereign descended from Herod the Great.  I felt that he played such an important role in Rome’s history in first century AD, for example he came to Rome’s aid during the Great Jewish Revolt.  See my Owner’s Comments to read more about this interesting client king and his role in the religio-political history of his time.  This coin certainly seems fitting for this Page with the theme of perseverance.  Agrippia II’s five-decade tenure was the longest of any Herodian client king, and even surpassed Augustus. Domitian. This denarius graded an impressive MS, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 5/5. It is one of only a few coins in this collection that earned a "Fine Style" designation.  This denarius features on the reverse, the Emperor's personal favorite deity, namely Minerva, whom Domitian worshipped so zealously that he had a shrine dedicated to her in his bedroom.  One night Minerva appeared to him in a dream and confessed that Jupiter had disarmed her, and thus she could no longer protect her faithful and beloved emperor. Days later, in a palace conspiracy organized by court officials, Domitian was stabbed to death.  This ancient provincial bronze features Rome's imperial couple, Domitia and Domitian.  This one graded Ch VF, Strike  = 5/5, Surface = 3/5.  Over the course of nineteen centuries, the coin’s surfaces have amassed circulation wear and chemical alteration. The resulting patina, particularly the complementary hues of green and red, lends an aesthetic appeal that is best appreciated firsthand. So, as a chemical engineer by nature, I could not resist the opportunity to provide some details in my Owner's Comments regarding the chemistry of the coinage metals, also known as Group 11 (according to the periodic table of the elements), whose species are relatively chemically inert, electronically conductive, and corrosion resistant. Group 11 includes Cu (copper), Ag (silver), and Au (gold), all of which occur in nature and, not surprisingly, represent the first elements ever discovered.  For this final slot I included a coin representing Vespasian Jr, whom Domitian adopted in an attempt to gain more popularity as an Emperor with a defined heir.  This extremely rare ancient bronze graded Ch VF, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 2/5.  The fate of younger Vespasian remains uncertain. Soon after this coin debuted, his father, Titus Flavius Clemens, was executed by Domitian for monotheism. Perhaps Domitian decided to pro-actively execute Vespasian Junior as well, even at the expense of becoming heirless once again. In any case, Domitian’s efforts to propagate the Flavian dynasty proved moot. After his murder, the Senate choose Nerva as Rome’s next Emperor.  The Empire persevered into the next Chapter...
  24. Kohaku
    Don't let me hear you say life's taking you nowhere, angel…Run for the shadows in these golden years…I'll stick with you baby for a thousand years…Nothing's gonna touch you in these golden years…- David Bowe


     
    This new “Journal Entry” provides an update on the 6th Page of my NGC Ancient Custom Set entitled “Golden Age I”.  While the Roman Empire’s golden age failed to last a thousand years, it endured long enough to merit more than one Page herein, hence the Roman numeral included in my title.


     
    This particular Page is 67% complete (10 coins out of 15 slots), and for three of those 10 coins my “Owner’s Comments” are pending (one of which is also pending grading).


     
    Here is a link to the Collection…

    https://coins.www.collectors-society.com/wcm/CoinCustomSetGallery.aspx?s=16365


     
    Here is the synopsis for the Page, entitled "GOLDEN AGE I": A series of effective Emperors - Nerva, Trajan, Hadrian - chosen by merit, rather than birthright, propel Rome to new heights.

     

    The following are comments on the coins I choose for this Page and why…

    Nerva denarius.  He was the first regarded by Machiavelli as one in a succession of five “good” Roman Emperors.  I choose this denarius for its particularly striking color.  It graded AU, strike = 4/5, Surface = 4/5.  Over time, the silver surface has accumulated a layer of tarnish (coin collectors generally prefer to use the term “toning”).  The resulting red-gold hue is rather spectacular, best appreciated in hand, rather than a photo.  I’m not sure what the exact chemical reaction is here to provide such a color, but it seems that this exact hue is relatively rare for toning in silver coins.  In any case, I deemed that such a red-golden coin was worthy of the first entry into the Page focusing on Rome’s Golden Age!
    This slot is a denarius of Emperor Trajan, who reigned over the Empire at its greatest geographical extent.  So I included in the pictures not only the coin, but also a map showing just how vast an extent the Roman Empire managed to achieve at the time.  This coin is in remarkable condition, graded MS, Strike = 5/5, Surface = 5/5.
    This slot contains a denarius that Trajan struck to honor his father, Trajan Pater.  This coin graded  Ch VF, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 4/5.  A charming example of honoring one’s parent!
    This slot contains an ancient Roman provincial bronze featuring Trajan’s wife, namely Empress Plotina.  This coin graded XF, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 4/5.  The grade is very respectable for an ancient bronze, since bronze represents the most reactive (by far) of all the coinage metals.  I still need to complete my Owner’s Comments for this coin.  I am having a very difficult time finding out any information about the site of this coin’s strike (Gordus-Julia).
    This entry is reserved for Ulpia Marciana, sister of Emperor Trajan.  I still need to fill this one!
    This entry is reserved for Salonia Matidia, neice of Emperor Trajan.  I have filled this slot, but I have not yet received an NGC grade for this one, stay tuned.
    I wanted to add example(s) of so-called “Pseudo-Autonomous” coinage as struck in various Roman territories.  There is a staggering array of possible coins to consider as representing this class, hard to decide which one to pick as representative.  But when I found this particular bronze, struck during the reign of Hadrian, I could not resist including it. The reason it spoke to me was that it included one side the bust of Roma and on the other the bust of Senate, so a very nice pairing and a chance to talk about the history of the Roman Senate.  This coin is in very nice condition for an ancient bronze, struck Ch XF, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 4/5.  I still need to complete my Owner’s Comments for this one, please stay tuned.
    This coin represents an example of the “Coins of the Mines”.  These coins are apparently extremely rare and highly sought after, this one was very hard to find.  This one celebrates the highly fruitful Dardanian mines, and graded VF, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 4/5.  Read my owner’s comment to learn about the advanced technologies the Roman’s developed to efficiently find, extract, and process precious metal ores.  Researching this coin helped me to truly appreciate how important Rome’s mines were to the Empire’s stability.
    This slot is reserved for Hadrian, and although many example abound, I still haven’t found the particular coin that speaks to me to acquire for this slot.
    I figured Hadrian was such an interesting and successful Emperor that he deserved a second slot, and in particular I thought it would be a great opportunity to research and comment on Hadrian’s extensive travels, and the practice, in general, of the Augustus visiting the various realms included as Rome’s vast territories.  Like the slot above, I still haven’t found the coin that speaks to me to acquire for this slot.
    For this slot, I felt compelled to include a drachm featuring Antinous, who was, aside from Hadrian himself, was one of the most famous people of his time.  I like to describe Antinous as the ancient world's first and foremost male supermodel.  He was lover to Hadrian, historians as wont to call him Hadrian’s favorite.  One should consider in ancient Rome, having inherited Hellenistic influences, that homosexuality and/or bisexuality was not so unusual, and arguably the norm, particularly among aristocracy.  The story of Antinous and Hadrian in an extremely fascinating chapter in the history of the Roman Empire, and I encourage anyone interested in learning more, please see my owner’s comments.
    This slot is reserved for Sabina, wife of Hadrian, and I still haven’t found the coin that speaks to me to acquire for this slot.
    This coin is very special in that it could feasibly be considered a religious artifact.  It is a silver zuz strike by the Judeans during their period of independence they achieved in the Bar Kokhba War.  This coin is in outstanding condition, Ch MS Strike = 5/5, Surface = 4/5.  This particular conflict was most horrific – to the extent that the battle-weary Hadrian, in addressing the Senate of the situation, omitted the customary greeting “I and my army are well.”  This coin is fascinating since one can discern the Hebrew inscription “For the freedom of Jerusalem,” as well as evidence of an overstrike on a Roman denarius, notably the Latin inscription IMP TRAIANO AVG, denoting imperator Augustus Trajan.  Such melding of Trajan denarius and Bar Kokhba zuz on the same flan provides a poignant, if mind-boggling, composition. It is also interesting that Bar Kokhba’s patriotic inscriptions mimicked the Romans’ use of coinage as propaganda for raising political and military support. For more fascinating details, please see my Owner’s Comments.
    This entry is reserved for Aelius Caesar. I still need to fill this one!
    The Roman Empire wasn’t the only ancient realm experiencing a Golden Age.  Their rivals at the time, namely the Parthians, were also arguably in the middle of their own Golden Age.  So I thought I would end this Page with this spectacularly preserved drachm, graded Ch MS, Strike = 5/5, Surface = 5/5.  I obtained this coin since I was so astounded at its condition, but furthermore, I have an interest in the Parthian Empire.  I managed to start another collection to have in parallel with the Roman Empire collection, but I never got very far on that collection as I would have liked (I had to focus on one, and I choose the Roman Empire).  Read my Owner’s Comments to learn more about the enigmatic Parthains.
  25. Kohaku
    This new “Journal Entry” provides an update on the 7th Page of my NGC Ancient Custom Set entitled “The Roman Empire.”
     
    This Page is 80% complete (12 coins out of 15 slots).
     
    Here is a link to the Collection…
    https://coins.www.collectors-society.com/wcm/CoinCustomSetGallery.aspx?s=16365
     
    Here is the synopsis for the Page, entitled "GOLDEN AGE II”…
    Rome's prosperity continues under the leadership of Antonine dynasts who reigned until late 2nd century AD.
     
    The follow are comments on the coins I choose for this Page and why…
     
    Antoninus Pius.  This denarius is graded Ch MS, but does not have strike and surface grading (my personal opinion is that it would rate at least 4/5 for both).  I choose this particular coin not only for its outstanding condition, but also the reverse motif showing the Emperor making a sacrifice as pointifex maximus (the highest priest) making a sacrificial vow to serve for another decade.  Indeed, Antoninus was a particular devout – and effective – ruler, so this is a fitting example to represent one of Rome’s “good” Emperors that sustained Rome’s Golden Age.  Interestingly, Antoninus was not all that keen with regards to military affairs, delegating such matters to those with that skill set.  It is widely reported that he never even left Italy.  Antoninus Pius, commemorative issue.  I included a second denarius for Antoninus since he was such an important Emperor and ruled for such a long tenure (more than two decades, the longest reign since Augustus himself).  This coin graded as MS, 5/5 strike and 5/5 surface, an absolutely beautiful coin.  This coin is wonderful to hold in hand, as they say.  Another reason I included this coin was to have the opportunity to write my Owner’s Comments about religion during the time of the Roman Empire, and the important role it played in its history.  I would encourage anyone even casually interested in this collection to read my Owner’s Comments for this one to gain perspective on religion’s role in shaping Rome’s history. Aelius Antoninus.  This coin is a sestertius (the grade is Ch F, Strike = 4/5, Surface = 3/5) featuring Antoninus Pius on the obverse, and two of his grandchidren on the reverse.   The identity of the infants on the reverse is subject to debate.  It is likely based on research that one of the two represents Aelius Antoninus, son of Marcus Aurelius and Faustina Jr.   The specific design with the baby busts atop cornucopias is similar to one a century earlier celebrating the twin sons of Drusus the Younger and Livilla.  If I had to bet on the identity of the other infant I would bet on Lucilla, although many sources cite Aurelius Antoninus. Galerius Antoninus.  I still need to fill this one struck in the name of the son of Antoninus Pius and Faustina Sr. It is quite hard to find! Pseudo-autonomous issue.  For this slot as part of Rome’s Golden Age, I decided to add another example of pseudo-autonomous coinage (although as a custom set I reserve the right to change my mind and choose another coin, for example an anonymous quadrans?).  This one is quite rare, only 3 examples cited in RPC online.  It graded a highly respectable AU, strike = 4/5, surface = 3/5.  It was struck in the ancient mint of Apollonis, located in Lydia, and very few coins can claim the same.  I love the design on this bronze since it really reminds me of fine Greek sensibilities, the wonderful portrait of Athena on the front and Tyche on the reverse – indeed, if you didn’t know the attribution, you might guess it dated from the height of Greek culture centuries earlier.  This coin provides an important reminder of Greece’s influence on Rome. This Ch MS, Strike =5/5, Surface =5/5 graded denarius features Faustina Sr, wife of Antoninus Pius.  I really enjoyed researching this coin and writing this essay, especially the remarkable lengths that Antoninus exerted to keep the memory of his beloved wife alive as a goddess.  Even more remarkable is Faustina’s remaining influence even in our modern world, from neoclassical sculptures to female icons of Liberty.   For the fascinating details, see my Owner’s Comments. Marcus Aurelius, as Caesar.  I decided to include two coins for this Emperor, I have to admit one of my favorites. This denarius graded MS, strike = 5/5, surface = 4/5.  This coin was struck when he was serving as Caesar, and the story of his gradual acceptance of his duty to rule Rome is very interesting.  This coin I chose for it’s reverse, a very unusual depiction of Honos, but not in the usual nude, but rather in toga, holding branch and cornucopia, reflecting the young Caesar’s dedication to academia.  Marcus Aurelius’ writing, while not nearly on par with the sagacity of the Greek philosophers he so admired, are nonetheless important in historical context.  I can not resist including the quotation from his Meditations, "Take heed not to be transformed into a Caesar, not to be dipped in the purple dye, for it does happen. Keep yourself therefore, simple, good, pure, grave, unaffected, the friend of justice, religious, kind, affectionate, strong for your proper work. Wrestle to be the man philosophy wished to make you. Reverence the gods, save men. Life is brief; there is but one harvest of earthly existence, a holy disposition and neighborly acts." Marcus Aurelius, as Augustus.  This denarius graded Ch MS, strike = 5/5, surface = 5/5. The poignant reverse depicts Fortuna, holding a rudder and a cornucopia, wishing for the Emperor to continue to lead Rome on the path of a Golden Age.  Alas, those golden days were already receding in the wake of barbarian barrages and plague. This slot comprises a denarius struck for Faustina Jr, daughter of Antoninus Pius and wife of Marcus Aurelius. It graded MS, strike = 5/5, surface = 4/5.  Fittingly, the reverse features the goddess Fecunditas, the Roman goddess of fertility – remarkably, the younger Faustina bore more than a dozen children over the span of 23 years, including two sets of twins.  I took the opportunity in my Owner’s Comments to reflect on the immense pressure she must have felt as a teenager to follow her famous mother’s footsteps. The next slot is a bronze featuring Commodus and Annius Verus, and it is likely the only issue featuring the latter dynast.  The two boys were the sons of Marcus Aurelius and Faustina Jr, the only two boys among the Empress’ multitude of children to survive childbirth.  This coin graded Ch XF, Strike =4/5 Surface = 3/5, and I’m not sure I have ever seen one in higher grade available for sale. The next coin in the collection features Lucius Verus, co-Emperor alongside Marcus Aurelius.  This fabulous denarius graded Ch MS, strike = 5/5, surface = 5/5.  I cannot resist making the analogy of Lucius and Marcus to the Oscar and Felix of the Odd Couple.  I don’t want to spoil the fun here, so if you want to hear details of Lucius’ debauchery in contrast to Marcus’ stoicism, please read my Owner’s Comments! This slot is a denarius featuring Lucilla, daughter of Marcus Aurelius and Fasutina Jr.  I choose this coin for its reverse –ultimately ironic- depiction of Vesta, one of Rome’s most important deities. Vesta embodied hearth, home, and family; her burning flame, attended by her faithful Vestal Virgins, represented the life force of the community. This coin graded MS, strike =4/5, surface = 5/5.  Marcus arranged the union between the pre-teenaged Lucilla and his adoptive brother and co-Emperor, Lucius Verus. Although the pairing made sense from a dynastic point of view, from Lucilla’s perspective one can imagine that Verus hardly seemed an ideal husband: substantially older, technically her uncle, and renown for drinking, gambling, and love affairs with both genders.  To read about how the marriage turned out, and Lucilla’s polital intriuges after she was widowed, please read my Owner’s Comments.  This slot is a denarius struck for Commodus, son of Marcus Aurelius and Fasutina Jr.  I have to say that Commodus is perhaps the most entertaining Emperor to research and write about.  This denarius graded Ch AU, strike = 4/5, surface = 5/5.   Interestingly, the elements on this coin promote Commodus’ association with his father, including the verso depiction of a contrapposto Roma, the female embodiment of the same, holding Victory and a spear (serving as propaganda to associate Commodus with his father’s reign and military conquests). Alas, Commodus was nothing like his father, and led Rome firmly off the path of Golden Age.  I don’t want to spoil the amusement regarding Commodus’ follies, so if you want to read about them, please see my Owner’s Comments. The next slot is reserved for Crispina, wife of Commodus.  This slot needs to be filled. The final slot is reserved for Pertinax, who arguably was in position to set Rome back on the path to Golden Age following Commodus’ disastrous reign.  He never got the chance, since he was murdered three months into his reign by the Praetorian Guard, setting a disturbing pattern that would last for another century as Rome’s Golden Age was now clearly over, and a new Age of Crisis ensued.  This slot needs to be filled.