Hi, I've just come across the right Theodora which has the cross in the right field as opposed to the standard left field cross (RIC VIII Trier 43). Is this mentioned in RIC VIII ? Many thanks
Interesting question...my modest example exhibits neither---- although it's also from the Trier mint. I'm sure Doug, Val or the others can answer your question .
Well, you're comparing two different types, but no, it doesn't seem that the right-field cross is listed. Your PIETAS coin would be RIC VIII 43 var., cross in right field. There is a DIVO CONSTANTINO type, #37, that has the cross in the right field, so the question is: did the engraver get your coin confused with another type, or is it an official variety? If more coins with a right-field cross could be found that weren't die matches to your coin, we would be able to assume it wasn't an error.
I just took a peek in RIC and it shows both the Helena and Theodora coins with the cross in the left field (or no cross at all). Other Trier mint types have crosses in the right field so it's really no surprise that your Theodora coin has this feature.
On this site about Christian types http://esty.ancients.info/Christian/ChristianSymbols.html the Helena and Theodora are in Table 2 near the bottom. Images for Table 2 are here: http://esty.ancients.info/Christian/ChristianTable2.html#2.3 It both with cross in the left field, but the cross in the right field is not noted. tbc, you have found something special. Congratulations!
Quick picture from stock on my lunch break, I really do need glasses now, of course they are Helena and Theodora!
