Æ20 - Antoninus Pius Koinon

Emittente Macedonia, Koinon of
Anno 138-161
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valore
Valuta Denarius (49 BC to AD 215)
Composizione Copper
Peso 8.6 g
Diametro 20 mm
Spessore
Forma Round (irregular)
Tecnica Hammered
Orientamento Coin alignment ↑↓
Incisore/i
In circolazione fino al
Riferimento/i AMNG III#265, Varb#3040, Moush`12#5887, SNG Copenhagen#1341, RPC Online IV.1#4270
Descrizione del dritto Laureate head of Emperor, looking right
Scrittura del dritto Greek
Legenda del dritto KAICAΡ ANTΩNEINOC
(Translation: Caesar Antoninus)
Descrizione del rovescio Macedonian shield, surrounded by inscription
Scrittura del rovescio Greek
Legenda del rovescio KOINON MAKEΔONΩN
(Translation: Community of the Macedonians)
Bordo
Zecca
Tiratura ND (138-161) - Koinon, Macedonia -
ID Numisquare 1677359710
Informazioni aggiuntive

Historical Context: This Æ20 coin was issued by the Koinon of Macedonia during the reign of Emperor Antoninus Pius (138-161 AD), an era celebrated for its stability and prosperity within the Roman Empire. Provincial coinages like this served as crucial propaganda, affirming loyalty to the emperor and integrating imperial authority with local identity. The Koinon, a provincial assembly, played a vital role in administration and fostering a sense of shared Macedonian identity under Roman rule, often featuring imperial portraits alongside local symbols.

Artistry: The artistic style of this Koinon issue reflects a blend of Roman imperial portraiture and local Greek numismatic traditions. While typically executed by provincial engravers, the obverse likely presents a recognizable, idealized portrait of Antoninus Pius, aiming for imperial gravitas. The reverse, though unspecified, would commonly feature symbols or deities significant to Macedonia or the Koinon, such as a Macedonian shield, Zeus, or a personification of the province, rendered with a distinctive regional aesthetic rather than the refined artistry of the Rome mint.

Technical/Grading: As a copper Æ20, this coin's technical qualities are characteristic of provincial issues. High-points for wear on the obverse would typically include the emperor's hair, ear, nose, and chin. The strike quality can vary, with centering and die alignment often less precise than imperial issues. The flan, weighing 8.6 grams and measuring 20 millimeters, would be cast and then struck, potentially exhibiting minor irregularities. Details on the reverse would show wear on prominent features of its design.

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