My sweet wifey let me order a few of coins for my birthday, two came today and she wasn't around....so I opened them (she didn't say not to so it is okay right?). I went ahead and tried to photograph one, but I am not happy with my results, I'll just assure you that the coin is much prettier in hand. Constans, AE 2, Siscia Mint, Bust Left/Soldier leading barbarian from hut reverse, RIC VIII 218.
I think you captured the details very well with your photos. I like how Constans is clutching the globe. Sweet birthday score man - hopefully she's not mad you opened it without her.
Wow! Love the details on that smaller figure. I've argued that the smaller figure is holding a pedum, or traditional shepherding staff that's also used for rabbit hunting. Bill Welch thinks this figure may be holding his hand in front of his face. But I definitely think it's an object.
Looks like he is texting! It looks to me like he is holding something too. He also appears to be wearing pants!
Another cool detail is the design on Constans's wrist on the obverse. You can see some attempt to represent the ornate sleeves of the Emperor. Great coin!
Great gift for yourself @Aethelred - now you just need to tell your wife you feel you really should have something to open on you actual birthday.
Very nice. Constans (337 - 350 A.D.) Æ2 O: DN CONSTA-NS PF AVG, Pearl diademed, draped and and cuirassed bust left, holding globe in right hand. R: FEL TEMP RE-PARATIO, Helmeted soldier,spear in left hand, advancing right, head left; with his right hand he leads a small figure from a hut beneath a tree. (mint of Cyzicus), 4th offincia. SMKΔ 4.5g
Hmmm, I wish someone in my family would get the hint that all I want for gifts are coin related, especially coins. That's a very nice "hut" type @Aethelred. Your wife did good!
I never realized he had an arm in this design (if a rather stumpy, T-rex sort of appendage) until now! This is the first time I've actually seen it to be recognizable as an arm. Love the "evil wizard" four-fingered hand clutching the globe, too. Looks as though he's about to throw out the first pitch in the Series Mundi in the Colosseum. Looks like he's wearing a fancy, ornamented gauntlet on that arm, too. Very cool. Nice LRB!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AETHELRED!Yes, I think it’s okay to open your gifts as soon as you receive them. It shows enthusiasm for your hobby and appreciation for your wife’s gift.
Happy Birthday! It looks like the small figure is indeed wearing pants - the mark of a barbarian in ancient rome.
Just exactly when is your birthday @Aethelred? If it's today, Happy Birthday. If it's yet to come, man your devious. My birthday is everyday that ends in "y".