Certified NGC Choice Fine, this attractive AE23 combines local Phoenician symbolism with early Roman imperial imagery, featuring a veiled portrait of Tyche paired with a small portrait of Augustus and a dramatic galloping zebu bull reverse. Enhanced by a pleasing brown patina, this issue reflects the blending of local identity with the expanding Roman world.
Coin Highlights:
- Emperor: Augustus (27 BC–AD 14)
- Region: Aradus, Phoenicia
- Denomination: AE23 Provincial Bronze
- Date: 8/7 BC
- Reference: RPC 4482
- Grade: NGC Choice Fine (Ch F)
- Metal: Bronze
- Diameter: 23 mm
- Obverse: Veiled head of Tyche right; small portrait of Augustus before, facing right
- Reverse: Zebu bull galloping left with Kof and MA above
- Notable Feature: Attractive brown patina
Historical Significance:
Aradus was an important Phoenician island city that retained significant local traditions even after Roman authority expanded throughout the eastern Mediterranean. Provincial issues from Aradus often combined Roman imperial portraits with regional religious and cultural symbols.
The zebu bull was a powerful symbol associated with strength and prosperity and reflected local artistic traditions. The placement of Augustus alongside Tyche represented the connection between Roman authority and civic fortune.
Emperor History:
- Reign: 27 BC–AD 14
- Accession: Formerly Octavian, granted the title Augustus by the Roman Senate
- Key Events: Ended the Roman Republic and established the Roman Empire
- Coinage & Propaganda: Used coinage extensively to reinforce stability, prosperity, and imperial authority
- Legacy: Remembered as Rome’s first emperor and founder of the Imperial system
Collectibility:
Provincial issues of Augustus remain popular with collectors because they display local artistic styles often absent from Roman mint coinage. The combination of Tyche, Augustus, and the unusual galloping zebu reverse creates a distinctive and visually interesting type.
This NGC Choice Fine example with pleasing brown patina offers collectors an attractive piece of early Imperial Roman history struck more than 2,000 years ago.
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