Egypt – Alexandria – Antoninus Pius – BI Tetradrachm, AD 139/140
A Rare Alexandrian Tetradrachm of Antoninus Pius
Struck at Alexandria in regnal year 3 of Antoninus Pius, corresponding to AD 139/140, this billon tetradrachm is a particularly attractive example of early Antonine provincial coinage from Roman Egypt.
The obverse features a bare-headed, draped and cuirassed bust of Antoninus Pius facing right, seen from behind. The portrait is especially appealing, with strong facial definition and a dignified early imperial style.
The reverse depicts Eirene, the personification of Peace, standing facing with her head turned left. She holds two ears of grain and a caduceus, symbols of prosperity, concord and peaceful abundance. The regnal date L TPI TOY identifies the coin as an issue of the emperor’s third year.
The coin is attractively toned and preserves a particularly fine portrait. This type is considered rare, adding further interest to an already appealing Alexandrian issue.
Roman Egypt – Alexandria
Antoninus Pius, AD 138–161
Alexandria Mint
BI Tetradrachm, RY 3 = AD 139/140
24.0 mm | 13.35 g
RPC IV.4, 170; Dattari (Savio) 2215; Kampmann-Ganschow 35.56; Köln 1319; Emmett 1382.3
Condition: Good Very Fine
Rare
Obverse: ΑΥΤ Κ Τ ΑΙΛ ΑΔΡ [ΑΝΤωΝΙΝ]ΟϹ, with [ЄY]C below neck truncation. Bare-headed, draped and cuirassed bust of Antoninus Pius right, seen from behind.
Reverse: •L• TPI TOY. Eirene standing facing, head turned left, holding two ears of grain and caduceus.
Good Very Fine. Attractive tone and a beautiful portrait. Rare.