I scored this little Roman coin from a friend of mine. He felt it didn't fit in his collection of fine Greek Silver. Of course, why would it? Its a tiny Late Roman Bronze...even if it might be the best one ever! Roman Empire Croatia, Siscia Arcadius (r. AD 383-408) AE4 13.5 mm x 1.22 grams (s. AD 384-387) Obv. Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust of Arcadius right. Latin script- DN ARCADIVS PF AVG Rev. Victory advancing left holding wreath and palm. Latin Script- VICTORIA AVGGG - BSIS in ex. Ref: RIC IX 39d
It's definitely one of the best I've seen. Doug has one of these tiny Victory types that also extremely sharp. They are quite rare in this condition, and I have yet to come across one myself, or I'd snatch it up. Just remember me first if you ever want to trade or sell it.
The feature that makes a lot of the difference is that the coin not have a very thick patina that fills the fine details. AE4 are easier to find well struck than large coins but they suffered more greatly from burial compared to big coins. I'm not sure which of my coins is my sharpest. I was always fond of my black Magnentius when in the mood for condition.
dead centered, well struck, no wear, great patina. yeah..that's about the best of the type i remember seeing..nice AN!
Terrifically well-struck coins---the details of those gems shows through so vividly. Great posts A-noob and Doug!!! My only examples of Arcadius are far lower in grade and attractiveness. And, I always love them with that beautiful 'chocolate' patina!!
We've seen Arcadius and Theodosius pieces with this small VICTORIA AVGGG (three Gs for three emperors) type. Here is a Valentinian II: 375-392, struck Autumn 384-Jan. 387 at Siscia. 14 mm. 1.20 grams. RIC Siscia 39a1.
