I picked up this coin recently, as an auction leftover lot. It probably didn't sell because it is quite dark, with rough surfaces, but no corrosion that I can see, just thick, uneven deposits. Well, this coin was described as unique. I was wondering if there are any other examples that might be out there for this emperor and mint. Thanks Marcus Aurelius Æ29 of Anemurium, Cilicia. Dated RY 7 = AD 166/7. […]ANTΩN[…], laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right / ΑΝEΜ[…]ΡΙEѠΝ, Marcus Aurelius clasping hands with Lucius Verus; EΤ Ζ (date) and altar between. Unpublished, including RPC Online. 13.15g, 29mm, 11h. Near Very Fine. Extremely Rare; unpublished and possibly unique.
It is in pretty rough condition, and dark. Here's the auction photo: This image is much lighter. My photo is darker because the coin is dark, so I wanted to depict the true level of brightness. Additionally, I am still challenged when photographing bronze coins, especially coins with rough surfaces and varying shades and colors. As they say in many listings, "the coin looks better in the hand". It is true for this coin as well, but, if I conservatively grade the coin, I'd say it is closer to Fine. The price was reasonable, I think, at £37.20. The portrait is quite bold, all things considered. Thanks
They are using the now fashionable dodge of grading only based on wear. This coin has rather little wear but plenty of other problems. When I was new to the hobby, such a coin would have been dropped several grades to acknowledge its ugly surfaces (certainly 1/5 to the NGC system) but times are changing and few sellers are willing to admit they would handle a coin in VG. We even have many people who would prefer this coin to a smooth one with wear. I have worse ones but I would not call them VF.
These guys especially liked to shake hands. Here's one from Verus clasping hands with Marcus. I do not want to brag here but I believe mine is fleur de coin... Lucius Verus Ae As 161 AD IMP CAES L AVREL VERVS AVG CONCORD AVGVSTOR COS II S-C Rome 26mm 11.11g RIC 1291 *Sesterstii of this type are common, Asses are rare. P.S. about the shaking hand : https://www.cointalk.com/threads/the-dexiosis-hand-shaking-challenge.349235/
I gave the coin a quick bath in distilled water with a pinch of detergent, no more that a few minutes, followed by a gentle rubbing with toothpicks. Then I applied a coating of Ren Wax. The result is a somewhat better appearance. I'm still having issues with too much reflection on the surfaces, which highlights the difference layers of deposits. The wax, giving the coin a "wet" look, is partially responsible for this reflection. Viewed in hand the details are better.
