Could actually be - damn I hope they just edit this and don't ban me - just passing on historical information! http://www.simplybodylanguage.com/middle-finger-gesture.html
I'm watching it on eBay UK but won't be buying it Steve. ... unless it goes for 20 quid, which I don't think it will !
It's a five-finger salute known as a hamsa, an ancient Egyptian/Levantine gesture of greeting and protection. These are on the marriage issues of Aretas IV and Shaqilat. Somehow she lost a few fingers on that coin. Here are some other examples...
It is an interesting type. Mine doesn't show the right arm so clearly and I had never made the leap to the bird. Constantinian Sol can always be relied on for some great hand gestures.
And so is Valentinian II Valentinianus II, AE2 struck in Constantinople, 4th officina D N VALENTINIANVS P F AVG, Helmeted, diademed, cuirassed bust of Valentinian, holding spear in right hand GLORIA RO-MANORUM, Valentinain standing on a galley, driven by a victory, Wreath in field, CON delta at exergue 4.93 gr Ref : RIC # 52, Cohen #22, RC #4161, LRBC #2151 Q
If we are going to turn this into a serious discussion of hand gestures on coins, we can't forget the 'crab claw' salute common on many Romans of the military period.
WOW !!! I never truly noticed all the variations in all those hand gestures before LOL Wonderful posts!!! This sestertius seems to have a more 'genteel' gesture...
