Catalogue
| Émetteur | Mauretania |
|---|---|
| Année | 11-23 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | 1 Denarius |
| Devise | Denarius (25BC-40AD) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Poids | 3.28 g |
| Diamètre | 18 mm |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | CNNM#328, MAA#98, SNG Copenhagen#553 |
| Description de l’avers | Diademed head of Juba II right. |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | Latin |
| Légende de l’avers | REX IVBA |
| Description du revers | Headdress of Isis with corn-ears; BACIΛI KΛЄΟΠΑΤΡ two lines across fields and below. |
| Écriture du revers | Greek |
| Légende du revers |
BACIΛI KΛЄΟΠΑΤΡ (Translation: Queen Cleopatra) |
| Tranche | |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
ND (11-23) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 2497862940 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
Historical Context: This Denarius, issued by Mauretania (11-23 AD), signifies the joint rule of King Juba II and Queen Cleopatra Selene Caesarea. Juba II, an Augustan client king, transformed Mauretania into a thriving Roman ally. His marriage to Cleopatra Selene, daughter of Mark Antony and Cleopatra VII, forged a powerful dynastic link, blending Roman authority with Hellenistic legacy. These coins legitimized their reign and showcased Mauretania's integration into the early Roman imperial system.
Artistry: Engravers are unknown, but the coin’s artistry blends Roman imperial portraiture with Hellenistic traditions, characteristic of the Augustan-era. The stylistic school favors realistic yet idealized portrayal. The obverse typically features a finely rendered portrait of Juba II. The reverse displays a bust of Cleopatra Selene, frequently diademed, or a symbol representing their combined authority. Execution aims for clear features, though regional minting variations occur.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this Denarius weighs 3.28 grams and measures 18 millimeters, consistent with contemporary Roman provincial issues, though often lighter than full imperial denarii. Key high-points for grading include hair, nose, and ear on portraits, and intricate reverse motif elements. Technical strike quality varies; well-struck examples exhibit sharp details, good centering, and minimal die wear. Less refined strikes may show softness, especially on the periphery, or minor flan irregularities.