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 Replies: 10 / Views: 860 |
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Valued Member
United States
319 Posts |
I am admitted Hadraianophile. The man is a fascinating study in contrasts. A Man of the Arts, yet also a man of violence. A builder and a destroyer. I found this particular portrait of him to be compelling. Both for it's beautiful realism and stunning detail. The fact that the coin is connected to the Emperor's trips to Egypt is certainly part of the reason I felt inspired to become the steward of this coin.  |
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Pillar of the Community
 Spain
2752 Posts |
That's a very nice looking coin!
You have a good eye...Wonderful portrait.
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Valued Member
 United States
319 Posts |
Very strong portrait indeed, Paul. The details are truly wonderful. Gotta love the Greek curls of his hairstyle. Fashionable guy! The coin itself is somewhat peculiar, in that the reverse edge diameter is greater than that of the obverse. Kinda shaped like a bottle cap!
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Pillar of the Community
United States
7066 Posts |
Somewhat rough surfaces, but that portrait is outstanding. Euthenia reverse?
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Valued Member
United States
319 Posts |
Your eye is sharp, Bob. That is indeed Euthenia, Greek goddess of prosperity. I have looked at many, many examples of this type of coin and this portrait is exceptional.
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Pillar of the Community
 United Kingdom
1168 Posts |
A superb portrait indeed.  |
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Valued Member
United States
319 Posts |
I am glad you are as appreciative as I, Novicius. The ancient die cutter would surely approve of such praise. Such a shame that the names of these artists are lost to time.
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Pillar of the Community
United Kingdom
1168 Posts |
@circusmax120, I thought that this Hadrian, clean shaven, would make a nice contrast to the OP coin. It's one I posted a while back.  AE As of Hadrian, c.AD 119-121. Rev; Genius standing right, foot on globe, holding sceptre and cornucopia. RIC 574. |
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Valued Member
United States
319 Posts |
Oooooo, what a special portrait! Exceptional! Recognizably Hadrian, but clearly idealized, Greek-influenced features. Not sure I've seen that kind of blend demonstrated quite so strongly in a Hadrian (and I've certainly looked at a few). The patina is quite attractive, and the coin clearly speaks of it's historical travel through time. Sweeeet! I'm sure you are a dedicated steward, Novicius. The coin is fortunate to have you (and vice versa)!
Edited by circusmax120
02/21/2022 10:04 am
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Pillar of the Community
Spain
2752 Posts |
 ....Sweet coin Jim...The reverse also has some nice detail with those subtle marks emphasizing Genius' face at such a scale and the cloth, nice nice! I do have a decent Denarius (IMO)..Slightly chubbier! Hadrian (117- 138). Rome, c. 131-138 AD. Silver Denarius. 2,85 g. 17 mm. Obv: HADRIANVS AVG COS III P P, laureate head right. Rev: FORTVNA AVG, Fortuna standing left holding patera and cornucopiae. VF, old collection patina.....RIC#245A  |
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Valued Member
United States
319 Posts |
Aaaah yes, Paul. That is the portrait of Hadrian that most closely resembles his Roman-style busts. You can distinctly see the difference between the style of the image on your denarius and Jim's coin. Idealized youthfulness vs realistic middle age. I think we can relate!
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Replies: 10 / Views: 860 |
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Posted 02/13/2022 4:36 pm
