Hello all. I am interested in acquiring this coin but would like opinions regarding it's authenticity. Jenkins and Muller references have a close but not exact samples. It's acquisition would not be a small amount for me so I am just trying to be sure about the coin. Any advice welcome
I don't know for certain because I don't have the piece in hand. My instinct tells me it is not quite correct. The first thought that came to mind was that it has an almost Truceless War appearance....the mercenary revolt.... and the First Punic War Carthage mint . Even the palm tree looks "off". Without it in hand, I come down on the side of it being a reproduction desk seal, and a very good one, but a seal too far for original. I am sure you checked the weight and diameter, and while there are variances, most are known. If genuine, this would be a very valuable piece, both economically, and more important, historically.
Thanks Charley. I thought it is a bit off as well. You mentioned the palm and I agree. Also the angle of the horse head and line on the reverse is suspicious. It is currently in an online auction with the opening bid about $650. I think if it is real it is worth in the tens of thousands. I appreciate your commnets.
YW. As valuable as this piece would be historically, the opening bid would be several multiples of that opening amount. For historical value alone, I agree with the tens of thousands opinion. As to the horse, the prancing stance is "stiff", as you probably saw. There are genuine pieces that deserve your attention and would bring greater satisfaction. As a side comment, I appreciate and always have admired the artistic detail of Punic pieces. I dabbled for a brief period in the electrum arena, but it just did not maintain my interest.
