Catalog
| Issuer | Mauretania |
|---|---|
| Year | 11-23 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius (25BC-40AD) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.03 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | CNNM#313, MAA#99, SNG Copenhagen#551 |
| Obverse description | Diademed head of Juba II right. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
REX IVBA (Translation: King Juba) |
| Reverse description | Headdress of Isis surmounted by corn ears on left, and sistrum on right; BA-CIΛCC-A across fields, KΛEOΠATPA in exergue. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering |
BA-CIΛICC-A KΛEOΠATPA (Translation: Queen Cleopatra) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (11-23) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 3183391410 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This denarius was issued during the joint reign of Juba II and Cleopatra Selene II in Mauretania, a significant Roman client kingdom (11-23 AD). Juba, an erudite king appointed by Augustus, and Cleopatra Selene, daughter of Mark Antony and Cleopatra VII, formed a strategic marriage. Their coinage legitimized their rule, asserted dynastic ties, and demonstrated loyalty to the Roman Empire, reflecting a unique blend of Hellenistic tradition and early Imperial Roman influence in North Africa.
Artistry: While the individual engraver remains anonymous, the coin exemplifies a Graeco-Roman provincial style, heavily influenced by Augustan and early Tiberian imperial aesthetics. Portraits typically feature idealized, classicizing forms, adapted for a regional mint. Designs often depict Juba II, sometimes diademed, on the obverse, and Cleopatra Selene II, frequently veiled or diademed, on the reverse, symbolizing their joint sovereignty. The "Caesarea" likely refers to their capital, showcasing Romanization through nomenclature and design.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this denarius weighs approximately 3.03 grams and measures 20 millimeters, consistent with the standard for its period. Key high-points for wear or strike quality include hair details, nose, and diadem on portraits, and drapery folds or attributes on reverse figures. Technical strike qualities vary; centering can be inconsistent, and pressure might lead to areas of flatness, particularly along flan edges or in finer legend details. Original luster is exceedingly rare, with most examples exhibiting typical ancient patination.