An Irresistible Claudius!

My intention was to find a solid, realistic portrait of Marcus Aurelius. That's what I've been looking for since the new year began. That does not mean, however, that my eye can't...wander. In my fervent search for a large-size Aurelius, I saw this incredible dupondius of Claudius. I don't think there is an emperor whose image is more varied in quality as that of Claudius. His depictions often stray into the realm of caricature. Sometimes grossly...almost comical in expression.

Now...I already possessed a nice Claudius, with what I believed to be the most dutifully realistic portrait I had encountered in my search. Seen here. Certainly some exaggeration, but the best I had seen in terms of realistic features.


So when I saw this specimen...I was stunned!

Pitted and encrusted as it was, the trademarks of realism shined. Especially the depiction of the eye and proportions of the face. Truly remarkable! By far THIS depiction of Claudius is the best I've seen. I recall reading that Roman coin dies could last as little as two days of strikes before wearing out. That is a tremendous turnover rate! It would require the die-cutters to be many and constantly at work throughout the Empire, creating new dies to meet the demand. Each would have their own skill-set and stylistic preferences. Am I certain this coin bears the most accurate and realistic portrayal of Claudius? Only time will tell, my friends. Only time will tell. Could not resist the temptation to steward this ancient beauty!.