Fourree Quinarius Of Celtic Gaul - Arverni

Celtic Gaul, the Arverni
Fourree Quinarius
C. 120-50 BC
Helmeted and winged bust right, EPAD below chin
Soldier standing left, holding standard, spear, and shield, helmet below.



The Arverni were among the richest and most powerful of the Celtic tribes in the 2nd century BC, but were defeated by the Romans in 121 BC. They successfully negotiated a peace treaty and were permitted to retain autonomy in exchange for the loss of most of their territory and power. They were dully subjugated during Caesar's wars, but maintained their cultural and ethnic identity at least until the dissolution of Roman power in the late 5th century.

In the case of this coin, it seems pretty clear that the test cut did its job, exposing the bronze core.