The Last Nabataean Bronzes.

I agree its a better than average coin Tif, especially the obverse. If not for the roughness, it would be one of the finest nabatean bronzes I have ever seen.

 

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Hey folks we had a nice sunny day and I decided to re-shoot all my early Nabataeans, which I've been meaning to do. I've talked about these individually before, so there's no need for a new thread. I'll just post them here.

Here's the Reader's Digest version: 1 and 2 are proto-Nabataeans struck over Ptolemaic and Seleucid hosts; 3 and 4 are issues of Aretas II (and possible 3 other early kings); 5 is of the same type, but modeled more after coins of Alexander Balas than Alexandrine staters (notice the Boeotian helmet instead of Corinthian); 6 and 7 are of a barbarous style and may represent the first coins minted in Petra; 8 is the first coin on which a Nabataean king's name appears (Aretas II), minted in Damascus following a Seleucid archetype.

 

I wanted to share images of what I think is a Proto-Nabataean overstrike. 16mm, 3 grams. Thanks for your thoughtful posts on the subject. It is the best information I have found.

 

It's a distinct possibility, Bryan. There appears to be a centering dimple on the reverse, and perhaps remnants of one on the obverse, which would indicate an overstrike. Once the Nabataeans began minting these coins on blank flans, under the authority of Aretas II, the dimples disappear. Perhaps they felt lathe machining was too fussy, or didn't have access to the technology.

When collecting overstrikes, I prefer to find coins on which enough of the devices are present to identify both the host coin and the new coin. To date, the majority of proto-Nabataeans are struck over Ptolemaic issues. Coin 2, above, struck over a Seleucid bronze is currently unique, although I expect more examples to be discovered eventually.

Welcome to the forum.

 

I can confirm that there is a clear dimple on the reverse. The obverse not as clear but probable. I think I see eagle wing, leg and thunderbolt of Ptolemaic host on reverse but no sign of ΠTOΛEMAIOY BAΣIΛEΩΣ unlike your Coin 1. I bought this coin because I liked the wonderful black patina. Had no idea it was Nabataean. Now I know what to look for. Thanks again.

 

Dang, we've got new members popping up like moles!

Stick around Bryan!

 

I agree, the insane esylum, er I mean ancient club, can always have room for one more member.

 

Even if they mostly lurk, all are welcome.

Even those weird modern collectors.

 

I thrive on this stuff.

 

Welcome, Bryan Dennis!!

Cheers

 

Howdy Bryan and welcome to our little nut house.

 

Welcome Bryan...
One word - postmorecoins!

 

I shared a Rabbel/Gamilat not too long ago, but here's another one I have.
Unfortunately, this is one of those that sacrifices most of Gamilat's face for Rabbel's flowing locks. I like the style though, and think the legends are not half bad either.

 

Hi Bryan! Glad you're here. Follow Zumbly's advice

 

Wonderful work JA. The photo/coin number 1 is just awesome. I look forward to seeing more of these coins. I eventually will add one to collection, for sure.

 

Received the coin from FORVM. Took it out for a bit of sun. It really is a bright, handsome piece...

 

Nice ... it really looks like it enjoys the sunshine!! (congrats)

 

Had a day off today so I took some more new pics. Assembling my Sylloge Nummorum Nabataeorum.

You know, none of these coins is any great shakes by itself, but when you look at them as a whole, they paint a fascinating numismatic picture of a mysterious and obscure civilization.

 

I was having another look at coin #1 and Meshorers plate coin in Qedem and he points out the word "mother" below the cornucopiae. I'm now seeing it quite plainly on your example. What do you think?

 

You are quite right, sir! I missed that detail and I'm going to correct my reading diagram. The distinction was made on these coins as Rabbel's mother was serving as his regent after the death of Malichus II. Thank you for the observation.