Although I have several 'Roma' denarii of the Republic, I tend to go after those with differing devices, particularly the reverse, if not the obverse as well. In this case, instead of the chariot reverse by different moneyers over time, I have Roma seated instead----Roma times two!! While sellers describe the reverse as Roma looking protectively after the suckling twins, I see her pondering what the future will hold for the twins and the world. In fact, I'm reminded of the famous Rodin sculpture 'The Thinker' and can't help but think this coin inspired him. The artistry appears to be of a high level and I'd LOVE to see examples of a higher grade that any of the gang may have. My last purchase of 2016: Anonymous AR Denarius. Rome, 115-114 BC. Head of Roma right, wearing winged and crested helmet, hair falling in two locks down neck, X behind, ROMA below / Roma, helmeted, seated right on two shields, holding spear before her; wolf standing right at her feet, head turned back, suckling Romulus and Remus; in left and right fields, two birds flying towards her. Crawford 287/1. 3.86g, 20mm, 11h.
That's a great example. I love the type and bought one a couple of years ago. It was before I became more enthusiastic about Roman Republican and, very embarrassingly, I didn't remember bidding on it! The invoice was a surprise. Roman Republic, Anonymous Rome, 115-114 BCE AR denarius, 20 mm, 3.91 g, 10 h Obv: Helmeted head of Roma right, X behind, ROMA below Rev: Roma, helmeted, seated on two shields, holding spear before her, she-wolf standing right at her feet, head turned back, sucking Romulus and Remus. In left and right fields, two birds flying towards her. Ref: Crawford 287/1
Great coin in lovely condition @Mikey Zee. I couldn't hope for anything less in my collection, but alas, my coins are not generally in such nice condition.
WOW..Three examples posted and all three are stylistically different---a seated Roma that progresses from thin to average and then to a bit plump LOL
I have long thought this was one of the most artistic Republican reverses. Even though the reverse fills the flan and the birds tend to be at the edge, it is usually struck almost precisely on-center and the whole reverse is visible. Look at all the reverse details in the design. Drapery, shoes, shields, helmet, wolf and twins, birds. Many Republican types have "art" that pales in comparison with Greek types. This type may be an exception.
These are really nice examples, all of them. I am not really a collector of Republican issues, but I think I would make an exception for that coin due to that reverse. Stylistically very pleasing and of course, symbolic.
Truly wonderful posts everyone!! I wholeheartedly agree!! It has to be the most artistic of all RR types I have seen to date.
WOW, I love that coin's design @Mikey Zee , and to everyone: you all have fantastic examples. I REALLY regret that I do not have one! I enjoy RR issues, but this one is outstanding. Future Target...
