Bronze with lion in the name of Aulus Hirtius and Athediac

Historical Context: This bronze issue, bearing the names of Aulus Hirtius and Athediac, was struck by the Remi, a prominent Belgic tribe, during the tumultuous period of 45-35 BC. This era immediately followed Caesar's conquest of Gaul, a time when Roman influence was rapidly consolidating. Aulus Hirtius, a Roman consul and close associate of Caesar, likely represents the burgeoning Roman administrative presence, while Athediac was presumably a local Remi magistrate or leader. The joint appearance of Roman and indigenous names on coinage is highly significant, reflecting the Remi's unique status as staunch Roman allies and their early integration into the Roman provincial system, balancing local autonomy with Roman authority.

Artistry: The design features a lion, a motif with rich symbolism in both Celtic and Roman iconography, likely representing strength or tribal identity. Given the coin's small module (15mm) and Gallic origin, the lion's depiction would typically be stylized rather than naturalistic, characteristic of early Gallo-Roman artistic traditions. While no specific engraver is known, the stylistic school blends indigenous Celtic abstraction with nascent Roman influence, particularly in the rendering of the names Aulus Hirtius and Athediac, which form an integral part of the coin's design, providing crucial historical and administrative information.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a small bronze flan weighing 2.8 grams, this issue frequently exhibits variability in strike quality. Common technical characteristics include some degree of off-centering, especially given the rapid production methods of the era. The small module of 15mm often results in incomplete strikes on the finer details, particularly the lion's mane, musculature, and the full legends. High points for wear would typically be the lion's head and back, as well as the highest relief points of the lettering. Flan preparation can also be inconsistent, leading to irregular shapes or surfaces.