About the Coin:
Ruler: Aelia Flaccilla (Empress, died AD 386)
Type: RIC IX 61
Obverse: Bust of the Empress, diademed and draped. Legend: AEL FLAC-CILLA AVG.
Reverse: The Empress standing, holding a scepter and a globe, with the legend SALVS REIPVBLICAE (Salvation of the State).
Mint: Struck at the Antioch mint, as indicated by the "ANT" mintmark in the exergue.
Period: Struck circa AD 383-388.
Why I Like It:
What drew me to this piece is its beautiful, natural dark green and black patina. It has a very "honest" look to it—you can feel the weight of the centuries. The details on the bust are quite sharp for the type, especially considering it's a bronze issue from the later Roman Empire. Holding this coin, I can't help but imagine it circulating through the markets of roma over 1,600 years ago.
