Catalog
| Issuer | Mauretania |
|---|---|
| Year | 11-23 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius (25BC-40AD) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.26 g |
| Diameter | 19 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | CNNM#324, MAA#100, SNG Copenhagen#552 |
| Obverse description | Diademed head of Juba right, crescent before. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
REX IVBA (Translation: King Juba) |
| Reverse description | Headdress of Isis and sistrum. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering |
B-ACI•ΛI [KΛ]ЄΟΠΑΤΡA (Translation: Queen Cleopatra) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (11-23) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1256094780 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver denarius, issued 11-23 CE, originates from the client kingdom of Mauretania under King Juba II and Queen Cleopatra Selene II. Juba II, a scholar-king installed by Augustus, married Cleopatra Selene II, daughter of Mark Antony and Cleopatra VII. Their union, a strategic Roman alliance, established a sophisticated Hellenistic-Roman court in Caesarea. This coin encapsulates Mauretanian autonomy within the Roman imperial system, reflecting a period of peace and cultural synthesis in North Africa.
Artistry: While engravers are unknown, the coin's artistry showcases a provincial Roman-Hellenistic style. The obverse typically features a realistic portrait of Juba II, often laureate, reflecting Roman imperial portraiture. The reverse frequently depicts symbols associated with Cleopatra Selene II, such as a crescent moon and star, or a cornucopia. The design balances regal authority with Hellenistic legacy, demonstrating a sophisticated aesthetic characteristic of Juba’s extensive numismatic output.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a 3.26-gram, 19mm silver flan, this denarius exhibits characteristics typical of provincial Roman coinage. High-points for wear include Juba II's hair and facial features, and central elements of the reverse design. A strong, well-centered strike is crucial for discerning intricate details, as variable strike quality and minor flan irregularities are common. Examples with full legends and sharp relief are highly desirable, enhancing appreciation for this historically rich issue.