I posted this coin before in a thread dedicated to our 'poorest purchases of 2016'. To be honest, I don't know if I am doing this coin justice (or injustice), so I would like you opinions on it if I may. I picked it up at the Frankfurt show last year because I wanted a sestertius of Titus but didn't want to spend much money on it. I found the bust attractive enough, in spite of the well worn, rough/pitted surfaces, and overall not-so-pretty appearance. The seller lowered the price way down (it was the last day of the show), and was willing to let me have it for about 120 euros since it was part of a larger deal. What do you all think? worth it, or total loss? Thanks for your opinions. By the way, I have it tentatively attributed as: Titus, as Caesar (AD 69-79). Orichalcum sestertius 24.145 gm. Rome, under Vespasian, AD 72. Obv: T CAES VESPASIAN IMP PON TR POT COS II, laureate head of Titus right Rev: ROMA S - C, Roma standing left, wearing helmet and short tunic, holding Victory in right hand and spear in left. RIC II (Vespasian) 425.
Let me put it this way. If you decide this coin does not fit in your collection any longer, just contact me, and I'll be glad to add it to mine. The price seems more than reasonable.
It has nice color, nice portrait, nearly all of the legend, and it is 24 grams of first century bronze. I like it, it feels ancient. A good deal for the price I would say. Usually in that range one side is pretty much trashed. John
And it says "ROMA" loud and proud! No idea what this emoticon is supposed to mean (if you read the thread on this topic).
I think the price was fine. If you're unhappy with consider selling and using your funds to put towards a more expensive one.
I LIKE IT!!! Considering what examples of this type usually go for, I think you did quite well. I'd love to own it!!
I wouldn't have paid that much for it, but I don't know how scarce/rare big bronzes of Titus are. If it was me, I wouldn't have spent no more then $80. Still a nice coin.
Thank you very much for your opinions. It really helps me and is much appreciated. In spite of over 25 years of experience with roman coinage I still hesitate now and then, like in this case, and your comments really reassure me. Thanks!
I like it. A bit rough is ok, meant that is was used and not sitting in a jar/ urn/ tomb or whatever. btw. I have no idea what that emoji means either.
i like a big rugged sestertius, lookd pretty good to me eduard! good bust, pretty good roma, some good legend....nothing to be ashamed of there. now here's a rough sestertius of marcus aurelius... this one was only 15 bucks, but i've kept it on my desk for weeks now. feels great in hand, nice ans smooth under the fingertips.
It's very rough but I think you got it for a decent price. Well centered and most of the important details are present. Congrats!
