Lot 3263
Domitia, wife of Domitian, AD 81-96. AR Cistophoric Tetradrachm (11.00 g) minted in the East, c. AD 82. Draped bust right of Domitia, hair in a queue; underneath, pellet. Reverse: Venus standing right, holding spear and helmet, leaning on column. RIC page 330, 847 [as Rare]; RPC 850. Pleasing old cabinet toning. Choice Very Fine.
The cistophorus, or cistophoric tetradrachm, comes from the Greek model of the 2nd century BC. The Romans continued the series by issuing these three-denarius multiples, often based on the use of Roman reverse types. In addition, reverses included various temples, altars and animals, like the Sphinx and Capricorn. The series ended with the diverse types issued by Hadrian. Some of the finest style portraits of emperors were engraved by the Greek celators in charge of creating the dies. Roman cistophori are all quite scarce to very rare.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,500.
|
| |
| Unsold |
