Dupondius - Tiberius CAESAR

Historical Context: This bronze dupondius was issued during the reign of Tiberius Caesar (14-37 CE), the second Roman Emperor, by the city of Sabratha in Africa Proconsularis. Tiberius’s rule was characterized by the consolidation of the Augustan principate and a generally cautious foreign policy. The issuance of local bronze coinage by provincial cities like Sabratha underscores the Roman administrative system, where local economies were integrated into the broader imperial framework. These provincial issues served practical daily commerce within the region and simultaneously reinforced the emperor’s authority and presence in distant territories, even as the primary imperial coinage was struck in Rome or Lugdunum.

Artistry: While the specific engraver remains anonymous, typical for provincial issues of this period, the coin likely reflects a provincial Roman stylistic school. The obverse almost certainly featured a portrait of Tiberius, probably laureate, drawing inspiration from imperial prototypes but executed with varying degrees of local artistic interpretation. The reverse design, though not specified, would commonly incorporate symbols relevant to Sabratha, such as local deities, civic emblems, or agricultural motifs, often blended with imperial iconography. This synthesis of imperial authority and local identity is a hallmark of Roman provincial coinage, serving both propaganda and cultural purposes.

Technical/Grading: This dupondius, weighing 15.73 grams and measuring 28 millimeters, represents a substantial bronze issue for its time. For a well-struck example, the high-points of the obverse portrait would typically include the emperor's hair, nose, and ear, while reverse high-points would depend on the specific design. Provincial issues often exhibit variability in strike quality, ranging from well-centered and sharp to slightly off-center or weakly struck in certain areas due to less refined flan preparation and striking pressure compared to metropolitan issues. The bronze fabric itself can also show minor imperfections, common for provincial mints.