Found a few previously sold Titus denarii that received NGC's "fine style" designation. Do you agree that they are of fine style? I have seen some discussions where there is debate over the TPG's decision to merit a coin Fine Style. Even though it's largely subjective, it is interesting to see difference in opinions. Which of the below coins do you think is of the Finest Style? 1. 2. 3. 4. Unslabbed raw: Imp. Titvs caesar vespasian avg. P.M laureate head left. Reverse radiate figure on rostral column as last. RIC 47 (R). BMC 28. RSC 291. BNC 27. Look forward to hearing everyone's opinions.
I think the obverses of #2 through #4 look to be "Fine Style" to me. Honestly #1 doesn't do much for me.
All, IMHO, are of varying degrees of 'fine style'. I particularly like #2. Here is a more workman-like example, not exactly a 'Friday afternoon die', but the mint could do much better. Titus AR Denarius, 3.17g Rome mint, 79 AD Obv: IMP T CAESAR VESPASIANVS AVG; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r. Rev: ANNONA AVG; Annona std. l., with sack of corn ears RIC 2 (R2). BMC specimen acquired 1934. RSC -. BNC -. Struck within Titus's first week on the throne, perhaps the hurried engraver was under a deadline? But when skill and will come together, oh what fine portraits could be achieved. Titus AR Denarius, 2.87g Rome mint, 80 AD Obv: IMP TITVS CAES VESPASIAN AVG P M; Head of Titus, laureate, bearded, r. Rev: TR P IX IMP XV COS VIII P P; Dolphin coiled around anchor RIC 112 (C2). BMC 72. RSC 309. BNC 60. Ex Harlan J Berk 143, 18 May 2005, lot 177.
Great denarii. The fine style on these has to be driven by those portraits. ch xf*, fine style is a huge grade on that one you just submitted.Congrats. 2 and 4 stand out to me in this group, wish I had a Titus like these! I mean he completed the Colosseum, he's important!