Dupondius - Tiberius C VIBIO MARSO PRCOS II L CAECILIVS PIVS II V F M M I V

Historical Context: This Dupondius, issued in Utica during 28-29 AD, offers a tangible link to the provincial administration under Emperor Tiberius. While Tiberius’s reign (14-37 AD) saw a consolidation of imperial power, this coin underscores the continued importance of local governance in Africa Proconsularis. The prominent naming of local magistrates, C. Vibius Marsus and L. Caecilius Pius, as *duumviri* (II V F M M I V), highlights their significant role in civic life and the local economy, including the authority to strike coinage for regional circulation, supplementing imperial issues.

Artistry: The artistic execution of this provincial bronze, typical of Utican mints, likely reflects local workshops rather than metropolitan Roman engravers. While the obverse would feature a conventional portrait of Tiberius, likely influenced by imperial prototypes, the reverse emphasizes epigraphy. The clear inscription of the *duumviri* names and titles – C. Vibius Marsus and L. Caecilius Pius – serves as the primary design element, conveying political authority rather than elaborate iconography, a common feature of provincial civic issues of the period.

Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze, this 13.26 gram, 30 mm dupondius generally exhibits characteristics of provincial minting. High-points for grading would typically include the emperor's hair and facial features on the obverse, and the raised lettering on the reverse. Given its provincial origin, strike quality can vary, often showing some degree of off-centering or unevenness in pressure. Planchet quality, including surface texture and any minor flaws, would also be crucial in assessing its overall condition and eye appeal.