I know its not much but I just wanted to add an ancient to my collection. I really don't know anything about them so I didn't want to spend much but this one only cost $4 so. Is list as Constantine II and is 2.578g and 19.4mm. Can anyone tell me for about this piece? Thanks.
Yes, Constantine II. Struck in the mid-320's, based on the portrait style. But in the future, you might want to get a coin where you can actually see the reverse design. One of the tricky parts about breaking into a new area with ancients is not knowing what to look for. Coins from Claudius II and later generally have mintmarks in the exergue on the reverse, as well as symbols in the reverse fields.
Thanks. There's some more info here. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rt=nc&nma=true&item=160503546319&si=OpOJn6pFxhEErsGcNLquZH6kSCU%253D&viewitem=&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWNX%3AIT Of course i don't know if it's correct or not. Anyone know what one of these would have been worth at the time?
Depending on where in Pennsylvania you are, the annual PAN show is always a good time and you can find other ancients -- and knowledgeable dealers to help you choose them well. The Red Rose Coin Club in Lancaster is nationally famous and a good place to meet other collectors. The ANA will be in Pittsburgh for a special show in October 2011. It is always nice to get started. If you save the money you would otherwise toss at eBay sellers, you can clean up at a big show. For ancients in particular, several dealers will have Bargain Boxes. Aside from the check-lane impulse items, a huge inventory of quality coins awaits. Face it, the coin is a dog -- but, you know, I value more than a few of my own such more than I do some of the glittery ones. It just depends on what it means to you. I have a colonial US half penny worn to AG that looks a lot like this. Can't replace it for what it means.
Thanks Mike. I'm south of Johnstown so should be able to make a Pittsburgh show if nothings going on. I just still have to learn more about ancients before buying anything decent. And yes I know its bad. Figured for $4 it was worth it just to have one for now.
