I picked up this Aurelian Antoninian for a grand total of EUR 12.50 (+ shipping of 1 EUR because I bought four other coins from the same seller). The coin isn't anything special, but I think this particular reverse with Sol standing holding a whip is actually quite scarce and the price is unbeatable. Obv.: IMP AVRELIANVS AVG (Bust B1) Rev.: ORIENS AVG Reverse Mark: (* on Q)/–//– Mint: Siscia, emission 5 Date: end 271 to autumn 272 Measurements: 3.33 RIC temp 2159
Thanks a lot. I don't yet have the coin in hand, but true, the style is nice, especially of the bust. According to the seller's description, the coin is nearly fully silvered on a large flan. Aurelian's ORIENS AVG series is extensive, but it typically involves one or two captives. Maybe the present, rather static representation of Sol, without captives proved unpopular and was therefore discontinued. It seemed to be the only emission with this particular reverse.
Billion Coin (AE Antoninianus) minted at Cyzicus during the reign of AURELIAN between 272 – 275 A.D. Obv. IMP.C.AVRELIANVS.AVG.; Rad., dr. & cuir. bust r. Rev. ORIENS.AVG. Sol stg. had l., two captives at his feet. RCS #153. RICV #363. DVM #14.
Here's my cheap but scarce Aurelian. I managed to pick it up for around £8 on eBay, and it's a very scarce variation of a common coin; there is only 1 other on ric.mom (listed as a footnote) with the retrograde C, and •• after the legend
Nice pick up at a good price. I'm seeing Aurelian antoniniani going for over $100 these days on ma-shops and vcoins.
AURELIAN Antoninianus OBVERSE: IMP AVRELIANVS AVG Radiate, cuirassed bust right REVERSE: VICTORIA AVG, Victory facing, wings spread, rising up between two shields, pearl diadem in hands star over P in right field. first officinae Siscia Struck at Siscia, 270-5 AD 4.1g, 21mm RIC 238
