Sestertius - Tiberius PERMISSV L APRONI PROCOS III C SEX POM CELSO C I P
| Issuer | Colony of Iulia Pia Paterna (Africa Proconsularis) |
|---|---|
| Year | 21 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Sestertius (1/4) |
| Currency | Denarius (49 BC to AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 34.98 g |
| Diameter | 37 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | I#762 , MAA#97a |
| Obverse description | Diademed head of Tiberius left. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
TI CAE DIVI AVG F AVG IMP VIII COS IIII (Translation: Tiberius Caesar, son of the divine Augustus, Augustus, imperator for the eighth time, consul for the fourth time) |
| Reverse description | Mercury wearing petasus and holding caduceus, seated on rock left |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
PERMISSV L APRONI PROCOS III C SEX POM CELSO C I P (Translation: by permission of Lucius Apronius, proconsul for the third time; with? Sextus Pompeius Celsus; the Julian colony of Paterna) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (21) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1063290120 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: Issued in 21 AD by the Colony of Iulia Pia Paterna in Africa Proconsularis, this Sestertius falls within Emperor Tiberius's reign (14-37 AD). Its production was authorized locally: "PERMISSV L APRONI PROCOS III C SEX POM CELSO C I P" – by permission of Lucius Apronius, Proconsul for the third time, and C. Sex. Pom. Celso, of Colonia Iulia Paterna. This inscription underscores the administrative autonomy granted to Roman colonies, linking imperial power with provincial governance in a vital Roman territory.
Artistry: The engraver remains anonymous, typical for ancient colonial coinage. This Sestertius reflects the provincial Roman school, drawing inspiration from contemporary imperial iconography. The obverse likely features an idealized portrait of Tiberius, rendered with local interpretation, benefiting from the substantial 37mm flan size. The reverse design incorporates elements significant to the colony or proconsul, alongside the crucial authorizing inscription, which itself forms a key component, asserting local authority.
Technical/Grading: This Sestertius, weighing 34.98 grams and measuring 37mm, is a substantial bronze coin. For optimal grading, key high-points include the emperor's brow, nose, and hair details on the obverse, and any figures or intricate lettering on the reverse. Colonial bronze issues often vary in strike quality; a premium example displays a full, well-centered strike with sharp details and legible inscriptions. Common characteristics may include minor flan imperfections or slight off-centering, typical for large provincial bronze issues.