Unit - Tiberius

Historical Context: This bronze unit, issued by the Roman municipium of Sexi (modern Almuñécar, Hispania Baetica) during the reign of Emperor Tiberius (14-37 CE), exemplifies provincial Roman numismatics. As a local issue under imperial authority, it highlights the economic autonomy granted to significant cities, allowing them to mint small change for daily commerce. Tiberius's era, marked by administrative consolidation, saw the continued integration of such communities into the imperial system, with local coinage serving as both a practical necessity and a civic statement of loyalty.

Artistry: While the specific engraver remains anonymous, the coin's design adheres to the provincial Roman stylistic school, characterized by a blend of metropolitan imperial iconography and local motifs. The obverse typically features a laureate portrait of Tiberius, aiming for a recognizable, if sometimes less refined, rendition of the imperial image. The reverse likely depicted a symbol pertinent to Sexi, such as a local deity or civic emblem, reflecting the city's identity and resources. This interplay underscores the local mint's interpretation of imperial prototypes.

Technical/Grading: Weighing approximately 14 grams, this bronze unit represents a substantial module for provincial coinage. High-points susceptible to wear typically include the emperor's hair, ear, and nose on the obverse, and prominent features of the reverse device. Provincial issues from Sexi, like many contemporary local mints, often exhibit variability in strike quality, including potential off-centering, minor planchet flaws, or less precise die alignment compared to imperial mints. A well-preserved example would show sharp details on the portrait and clear rendering of the reverse motif.