Puzzling Valerian

Discussion in 'Ancient Coins' started by 7Calbrey, Feb 21, 2016.

  1. 7Calbrey

    7Calbrey Well-Known Member

    After 2 hours of search I couldn't make sure whether the reverse of this Valerian I coin represents Mars, Virtus or a mere soldier. I can't even confirm whether it's an As or an Antonianus (silver or bronze). There are too many varieties for this Emperor. There's also a possibility that it was struck in Viminacium ( never heard of this city) and that Goeble does not list it..etc... Please try to post a comment. The coin weighs 4.93g. Valery O          Virtus.jpg Valeryv R 001.jpg
     
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  3. maridvnvm

    maridvnvm Well-Known Member

    Several questions.

    It is a billon antoninianus. The lack of S-C eliminates the possibility of an As.

    The style is non-Roman making this eastern. The city varies depending on what your information source is. RIC allocates to Viminacium but the current thinking seems to be Antioch so you will see dealers mention both cites. So when facing this ambiguity I write Antioch (RIC - Viminacium) as the city.

    Now to the reverse. Who is depicted can sometimes be ambiguous because of a variety of factors. Mars is seen in this pose, so is Virtus and when the legend is vague the documentation sometimes states soldier.

    Mars is male and often depicted in miltary dress. Virtus is female and often depicted similarly but has her right breast exposed. The soldier is only used where there is ambiguity. Here the reverse title is VIRTVS, which is a big hint though not always definitive because VIRTVS does appear with Mars too. Wear can sometimes make it difficult to see the appearance of the breast. Here I think it is exposed and thus is Virtus.

    Here is a Probus Virtus with right breast exposed, the diagonal line of cloth is the clincher.

    [​IMG]

    Martin
     
  4. 7Calbrey

    7Calbrey Well-Known Member

    Thanks a lot Martin. I wasn't expecting as useful and precise info as these.
     
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