Although I can happily spend hours, days, weeks, months even - once - two years before discovering the same type in Lindgren, there are some coins that just defy all attempts, despite diligent efforts. Here is one example of a coin that should be identifiable given four visible latin letters in the inscription - but is not - 14.20 grams, 28mm The radiate portrait is a mystery. So is the part of the inscription which appears to be "OMAN..." and some barely visible inscription below. I was unable to attribute using the usual databases. It may be a thunderbolt on the reverse. I thought this looks early empire but it could be any time. It is likely that I am missing something that should make attribution easy. Another interesting coin is this one - I am not seeking to attribute the coin since it was clearly struck at Skepsis. It is the animal on the "obverse" that is mystifying - I have not been able to find another example. : The coin is 9mm, 0.95 grams. I am afraid to remove any more of the dirt by using anything but soaking it in oil - I have never seen this beast before - forked tongue, giraffe like horns and snake like body. Again it might be easy but for me - mystifying. For those old enough to remember "Beany and Cecil" (sp!) - this rather like Cecil! I have a few more mysteries but I am going to keep trying on my own.
I don't quite see it but it is not the first time I have noticed that turning an ancient coins reveals something else. I am sure it is not on purpose and probably you could turn modern coins and see figures
I cannot attribute the larger coin - frustrating. It appears to be early imperial but nothing even closely resembles it.
