Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4
Date: 2025-01-14 15:00:00 (3 weeks from now)
Lots: 1152
Total starting: $ 3,093,540.00
In this auction, Numistats has matched 120 coins, providing AI-powered purchase recommendations and detailed analysis. View more.
Auction Summary
La subasta "Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4", programada para el 14 de enero de 2025, presenta una impresionante colección de 1152 lotes, destacando monedas de diversas épocas y regiones. Entre las piezas más notables se encuentra un estater de plata de Arkadia, datado entre 360-350 a.C., que muestra un magnífico retrato de Deméter y Hermes, con un precio estimado de 180,000 USD. También se destaca un denario de Bruto, famoso por conmemorar el asesinato de Julio César, que se ofrece por 150,000 USD, siendo considerado uno de los más icónicos de la numismática romana. Otro ejemplar notable es un estater de oro de Nektanebo II de Egipto, que representa un caballo y un collar jeroglífico, con un precio de 60,000 USD. Además, se presenta un dekadrachm de Siracusa, que es considerado uno de los más bellos de la antigüedad, con un precio de 60,000 USD. Estas monedas no solo son valiosas por su rareza y belleza, sino que también representan momentos significativos de la historia antigua, lo que las convierte en piezas de gran interés para coleccionistas y estudiosos.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 897
FRANCE, Second Empire. Napoléon III. 1852-1870. Proof AR Essai de 2 Francs (25mm, 10.06 g, 6h). Paris mint. Dies by Barré. Struck 1860. NAPOLEON EMPEREUR, bare head left; below, ESSAI between two anchors / EMPIRE FRANCAIS, Crowned, collared, and mantled coat-of-arms over crossed scepters; below, ESSAI between two anchors. Mazzard 1654; KM –. Deep iridescent cabinet toning. In NGC encapsulation 6916539-002, graded PF 63. Extremely rare – only one specimen in CoinArchives. Top Pop.
From the Alexander Christopher Collection.
Elected by a popular vote in 1848, Napoléon III who was the nephew and heir of Napoléon I, initiated a coup d’état three years later, eventually proclaiming himself as the Emperor of the French. During his reign, he attempted to restore France’s position as a world power following the limitations imposed from the Napoleonic Wars. Tensions with the neighboring German states led to war after a Hohenzollern candidature for the vacant Spanish throne. This ensuing conflict exposed Napoléon’s poor tactical skills, and he was captured at the Battle of Sedan in 1870. Two days later, he and his government were deposed, replaced by the newly-formed Third Republic. The German states’ successes in the war led to the birth of the German Empire and a foreshadowing of future regional conflicts.
From the Alexander Christopher Collection.
Elected by a popular vote in 1848, Napoléon III who was the nephew and heir of Napoléon I, initiated a coup d’état three years later, eventually proclaiming himself as the Emperor of the French. During his reign, he attempted to restore France’s position as a world power following the limitations imposed from the Napoleonic Wars. Tensions with the neighboring German states led to war after a Hohenzollern candidature for the vacant Spanish throne. This ensuing conflict exposed Napoléon’s poor tactical skills, and he was captured at the Battle of Sedan in 1870. Two days later, he and his government were deposed, replaced by the newly-formed Third Republic. The German states’ successes in the war led to the birth of the German Empire and a foreshadowing of future regional conflicts.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 1154
Ten (10) vellum leaves from the St. Albans Abbey Bible. (Paris, circa 1330). (294x199mm) Bound in a custom modern cover of soft yellow with the title “A Fragment of a French Bible MS c. 1300” gilt-stamped on the spine and front cover, and housed in a fitted black cloth slipcase. Each page containing 46 lines of Gothic script in double columns, with rich illuminations in blue, red, and gold leaf. Isaiah 58:8 to Isaiah 61:3. Condition as in photos. The manuscript shows typical age-related undulation in the vellum, but remains well-preserved.. Condition as in photos. Website shipping rates do not apply.
From the Gerald F. Borrmann (Northern California Gentleman) Collection. Ex Mark Lansburgh Collection; Sotheby’s (6 July 1964), lot 239.
This lot presents a striking section of illuminated manuscript leaves from a 14th century Bible commissioned by Richard de Bury, noted author of the Philobiblon, and gifted to St. Albans Abbey by Michael Mentmore, who passed in 1349 due to the Black Death. Originally bound in a 16th-century St. Albans binding, the manuscript included flyleaves specifically related to St. Albans, suggesting a continued reverence and historical connection to the abbey. After being separated, the leaves resurfaced at a Sotheby's auction in 1964, a testament to its enduring significance.
This exquisite work showcases a striking use of blue, pink, and gold borders, each enriched with forked stems that unfurl into intricate leaves in hues of gold, orange, and blue. The two-line initials are rendered in radiant colors against a burnished gold ground, while the headings feature a running line in blue or gold with elegant calligraphic flourishes. Each leaf measures 294 x 199 mm, with 46 lines of Gothic script arranged in double columns.
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Notable features in the illustrations include rich ivy-leaf borders and figures carefully depicted within the initials. The style reflects the "Pucelle" Parisian school of illumination, noted for its delicate ivy-leaf borders, and the vibrant, nuanced palette of red, blue, and gold—a testament to the high quality of medieval Parisian craftsmanship.
One scene within the initial letters portrays a doctor in a blue robe tending to a crowned figure, perhaps symbolizing an important biblical event or a significant patron of the time. In another illustration, two scholars are depicted studying together, reflecting the monastic dedication to learning and preservation of knowledge.
Throughout the manuscript, lively marginalia animate the pages, featuring human figures in various playful or symbolic poses, which may represent social or moral commentary typical of the era. The borders themselves are alive with flourishes and filigree, framing the dense, meticulously scribed text with elegance.
From the Gerald F. Borrmann (Northern California Gentleman) Collection. Ex Mark Lansburgh Collection; Sotheby’s (6 July 1964), lot 239.
This lot presents a striking section of illuminated manuscript leaves from a 14th century Bible commissioned by Richard de Bury, noted author of the Philobiblon, and gifted to St. Albans Abbey by Michael Mentmore, who passed in 1349 due to the Black Death. Originally bound in a 16th-century St. Albans binding, the manuscript included flyleaves specifically related to St. Albans, suggesting a continued reverence and historical connection to the abbey. After being separated, the leaves resurfaced at a Sotheby's auction in 1964, a testament to its enduring significance.
This exquisite work showcases a striking use of blue, pink, and gold borders, each enriched with forked stems that unfurl into intricate leaves in hues of gold, orange, and blue. The two-line initials are rendered in radiant colors against a burnished gold ground, while the headings feature a running line in blue or gold with elegant calligraphic flourishes. Each leaf measures 294 x 199 mm, with 46 lines of Gothic script arranged in double columns.
,br>
Notable features in the illustrations include rich ivy-leaf borders and figures carefully depicted within the initials. The style reflects the "Pucelle" Parisian school of illumination, noted for its delicate ivy-leaf borders, and the vibrant, nuanced palette of red, blue, and gold—a testament to the high quality of medieval Parisian craftsmanship.
One scene within the initial letters portrays a doctor in a blue robe tending to a crowned figure, perhaps symbolizing an important biblical event or a significant patron of the time. In another illustration, two scholars are depicted studying together, reflecting the monastic dedication to learning and preservation of knowledge.
Throughout the manuscript, lively marginalia animate the pages, featuring human figures in various playful or symbolic poses, which may represent social or moral commentary typical of the era. The borders themselves are alive with flourishes and filigree, framing the dense, meticulously scribed text with elegance.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 395
PTOLEMAIC KINGS of EGYPT. Ptolemy II Philadelphos, with Arsinöe II, Ptolemy I, and Berenike I. 285-246 BC. AV Mnaïeion – ‘Oktadrachm’ (27mm, 27.70 g, 12h). Alexandreia mint. Struck circa 272-261/0 BC. Conjoined busts of Ptolemy II and Arsinöe II right; Ptolemy is diademed and draped, Arsinöe is diademed and veiled; AΔEΛΦΩN above, shield to left / Conjoined busts of Ptolemy I and Berenike I; Ptolemy is diademed and draped, Berenike is diademed and veiled; ΘEΩN above. CPE 313; Svoronos 603; Olivier & Lorber dies 10/34; SNG Copenhagen 132; Adams III 2083; ANS inv. 1977.158.112 (same dies); BMC 40 (same obv. die); Boston MFA 2274; Dewing 2752; Kraay & Hirmer 801; Noeske 37. A few light marks, minor marks on edge. Good VF.
From the 1930’s Collection of Robert W. Hubel of Michigan.
From the 1930’s Collection of Robert W. Hubel of Michigan.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 397
PTOLEMAIC KINGS of EGYPT. Arsinoe II Philadelphos. Died 270/268 BC. AR Dekadrachm (35.5mm, 34.72 g, 12h). Alexandreia mint. Struck under Ptolemy II, circa 253/2-250/49 BC. Head right, with ram’s horn, veiled and wearing stephane; lotus-tipped scepter in background, OO to left / APΣINOHΣ ΦIΛAΔEΛΦOY, double cornucopia with grape bunches hanging at sides, bound with fillet. CPE 357 (Ptolemy II); Svoronos 950; Troxell, Arsinoe, Group 3, p. 44; SNG Copenhagen –; Meydancikkale 4006 (same obv. die). Toned, areas of roughness and porosity, some cleaning scratches and edge marks, graffito in field on reverse. Good VF. Very rare with these letters on obverse, none in PTO, nor CoinArchives.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 398
PTOLEMAIC KINGS of EGYPT. Arsinoe II Philadelphos. Died 270/268 BC. AV Mnaïeion – ‘Oktadrachm’ (28mm, 27.73 g, 11h). Alexandreia mint. Struck under Ptolemy II, circa 252/1-250/49 BC. Head right, with ram’s horn, veiled and wearing stephane; lotus-tipped scepter in background, K to left / APΣINOHΣ ΦIΛAΔEΛΦOY, double cornucopia, grape bunches hanging at sides, bound with fillet. CPE 390; Svoronos 475; Olivier & Lorber dies 1/5, 233 (this coin); Troxell, Arsinoe, Group 3, p. 44, and pl. 7, 3 (same obv. die); SNG Copenhagen –; Adams –; Boston MFA 2268 (same obv. die); BMC 10 (same dies); Pozzi 3223 (same dies). In NGC encapsulation 3819009-005, graded Ch AU, Strike: 5/5, Surface: 4/5.
Arsinoe II, daughter of Ptolemy I and Berenike I, was born in 316 BC. Her early life saw her married off to Lysimachos of Thrace at the age of 15 and then to her half-brother, the brutal Ptolemy Keraunos. She conspired against the latter and was forced to flee circa 280 BC to the protection of Egypt, ruled by her younger full brother, Ptolemy II. Her beauty, charm and intelligence utterly captivated Ptolemy, and, after eliminating his previous wife with an accusation of treason, Arsinoe married her brother, probably about 276 BC. Sibling marriage was traditional among Egyptian royalty, but among the Greeks it was known only between deities; thus their union advanced the concept of rulers being worshipped as divinities. Though unscrupulous, Arsinoe proved a capable queen and co-ruler, taking charge of Egypt’s foreign affairs. Her death in 270 or 268 BC was marked by her full deification and a huge outpouring of gold and silver coinage bearing her veiled portrait. The ram’s horn just visible emerging from the veil is a further symbol of her deification, reminiscent of the horn of Ammon on images of the deified Alexander.
Arsinoe II, daughter of Ptolemy I and Berenike I, was born in 316 BC. Her early life saw her married off to Lysimachos of Thrace at the age of 15 and then to her half-brother, the brutal Ptolemy Keraunos. She conspired against the latter and was forced to flee circa 280 BC to the protection of Egypt, ruled by her younger full brother, Ptolemy II. Her beauty, charm and intelligence utterly captivated Ptolemy, and, after eliminating his previous wife with an accusation of treason, Arsinoe married her brother, probably about 276 BC. Sibling marriage was traditional among Egyptian royalty, but among the Greeks it was known only between deities; thus their union advanced the concept of rulers being worshipped as divinities. Though unscrupulous, Arsinoe proved a capable queen and co-ruler, taking charge of Egypt’s foreign affairs. Her death in 270 or 268 BC was marked by her full deification and a huge outpouring of gold and silver coinage bearing her veiled portrait. The ram’s horn just visible emerging from the veil is a further symbol of her deification, reminiscent of the horn of Ammon on images of the deified Alexander.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 657
AI Rec
Claudius. AD 41-54. AV Aureus (18.5mm, 7.68 g, 9h). Lugdunum (Lyon) mint. Struck AD 46-47. TI CLAVD CAESAR • AVG • P • M • TR • P • VI • IMP • XI, laureate head right / S P Q R/ P P/ OB • C • S in three lines within oak wreath. RIC I 40; von Kaenel Type 26 (unlisted dies); Lyon 50; Calicó 379a; BMCRE 42-4; BN 58; Biaggi 211; Mazzini 86. Lightly toned, hairlines. Good VF.
Ex MACM inventory MMoCA36C; CNG inventory 859164 (November 2009); A. Lynn Collection (Helios 4, 14 October 2009), lot 251.
Ex MACM inventory MMoCA36C; CNG inventory 859164 (November 2009); A. Lynn Collection (Helios 4, 14 October 2009), lot 251.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 149
THRACO-MACEDONIAN TRIBES, Mygdones or Krestones. Circa 480-470 BC. AR Stater (23mm, 9.24 g). Goat kneeling right, head reverted, on dotted ground line; ΔE monogram above / Quadripartite incuse square. Lorber, Goats, Issue 8; HPM pl. I, 5 = BMC Macedon p. 37, 1 (same obv. die); AMNG III/2, 6; HGC 3, 366 (‘Aigai’); SNG ANS 58 (same obv. die [Aegae]); Gillet 737; Locker-Lampson 152 (same dies); Raymond p. 52 (this coin referenced [Hirsch 1933]); Weber 1840 (same dies). Lovely deep old cabinet tone, minor edge marks. Near EF.
From the Columbus Collection. Ex New York Sale III (7 December 2000), lot 118; R. de St. Marceaux Collection (Ars Classica XVI, 3 July 1933), lot 968. Reportedly also ex H. Herzfelder and P. Strauss collections.
From the Columbus Collection. Ex New York Sale III (7 December 2000), lot 118; R. de St. Marceaux Collection (Ars Classica XVI, 3 July 1933), lot 968. Reportedly also ex H. Herzfelder and P. Strauss collections.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 150
THRACO-MACEDONIAN REGION, Berge. Circa 525-480 BC. AR Stater (21mm, 9.90 g). Ithyphallic satyr standing right, right hand grasping right wrist of nymph fleeing right, his left hand supporting her chin; three pellets around / Rough incuse square divided diagonally. Smith Group 5 (Lete); Peykov A0020 (Siris); HPM pl. VIII, 4; AMNG III/2, 14 (Lete); SNG ANS 954–61 (“Lete”); Kunstfreund 40 (Uncertain mint); Traité I 1568 (Lete). Beautifully toned. Superb EF.
From the Columbus Collection. Ex Triton XVIII (6 January 2015), lot 430; LHS 100 (23 April 2007), lot 211; Leu 38 (13 May 1986), lot 58; Christitch Collection (Egger XLI, 18 November 1912), lot 340; Dr. Fenerly Bey du Phanar Collection.
The satyr/centaur and nymph type represents a common theme in Greek mythology: the juxtaposition of the wildly monstrous and sexually-charged with the human. Kraay's view (ACGC pp. 148-9) that the coins where the satyr and nymph are both standing show the nymph seducing the satyr, while the coins where the nymph is in the satyr's arms show the nymph is protesting her being carried off, is contradicted by a close inspection of the coins themselves. In similar scenes of this event depicted elsewhere, the satyr clearly manhandles the nymph, forcibly grasping one of her arms, while the nymph appears in a posture of apparent flight (see, e.g., HPM pl. VII-VIII). Clearly, in both scenes the nymph is protesting the actions of the satyr or centaur, who, in the role of the wild, libidinous creature that he is, is seizing the nymph for his own purposes, driven by his sexual arousal.
This particular issue has previously been given to Lete and Siris, but S. Psoma has persuasively argued against both of these attributions, and suggests that the city of Berge is the most likely in light of the historical and numismatic evidence. (See S. Psoma, “The ‘Lete’ Coinage Reconsidered” in Agoranomia.)
From the Columbus Collection. Ex Triton XVIII (6 January 2015), lot 430; LHS 100 (23 April 2007), lot 211; Leu 38 (13 May 1986), lot 58; Christitch Collection (Egger XLI, 18 November 1912), lot 340; Dr. Fenerly Bey du Phanar Collection.
The satyr/centaur and nymph type represents a common theme in Greek mythology: the juxtaposition of the wildly monstrous and sexually-charged with the human. Kraay's view (ACGC pp. 148-9) that the coins where the satyr and nymph are both standing show the nymph seducing the satyr, while the coins where the nymph is in the satyr's arms show the nymph is protesting her being carried off, is contradicted by a close inspection of the coins themselves. In similar scenes of this event depicted elsewhere, the satyr clearly manhandles the nymph, forcibly grasping one of her arms, while the nymph appears in a posture of apparent flight (see, e.g., HPM pl. VII-VIII). Clearly, in both scenes the nymph is protesting the actions of the satyr or centaur, who, in the role of the wild, libidinous creature that he is, is seizing the nymph for his own purposes, driven by his sexual arousal.
This particular issue has previously been given to Lete and Siris, but S. Psoma has persuasively argued against both of these attributions, and suggests that the city of Berge is the most likely in light of the historical and numismatic evidence. (See S. Psoma, “The ‘Lete’ Coinage Reconsidered” in Agoranomia.)
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 923
INDIA, Colonial. British India. Madras Presidency. AR Milled Rupee specimen denomination set. Mughal type. In the name of 'Alamgir II (AH 1167-1173 / AD 1754-1759). Madras mint. Dually dated AH 1172 and RY 6 (Struck 1807). All coins: Persian couplet citing Alamgir II; AH date above / Mint and RY date formula; lotus symbol. Edge: /////. Includes the following:
1) AR Double Rupee (40mm, 24.04 g, 12h). CEEIC 3.338; Pridmore 245; KM 404.2. In NGC encapsulation 6898664-001, graded MS 64. Overstruck on a Spanish Colonial 8 Reales. Top Pop.
2) AR Rupee (26mm, 12.08 g, 11h). CEEIC 3.344; Pridmore 247; KM 403. In NGC encapsulation 6898664-002, graded MS 65. Top Pop.
3) AR Half Rupee (22mm, 5.99 g, 11h). CEEIC 3.348; Pridmore 248; KM 401. In NGC encapsulation 6898664-003, graded MS 64. Top Pop.
4) AR Quarter Rupee (17mm, 3.03 g, 12h). CEEIC 3.350; Pridmore 249; KM 400. In NGC encapsulation 6898664-004, graded MS 65. Top Pop.
5) AR Eighth Rupee (16mm, 1.47 g, 12h). CEEIC 3.351; Pridmore 250; KM 408. In NGC encapsulation 6898664-005, graded MS 64. Top Pop. All NGC graded and Top Pop.
From the Alexander Christopher Collection. Ex Fred Pridmore Collection (Part II, Glendining, 18 October 1982), lot 410.
1) AR Double Rupee (40mm, 24.04 g, 12h). CEEIC 3.338; Pridmore 245; KM 404.2. In NGC encapsulation 6898664-001, graded MS 64. Overstruck on a Spanish Colonial 8 Reales. Top Pop.
2) AR Rupee (26mm, 12.08 g, 11h). CEEIC 3.344; Pridmore 247; KM 403. In NGC encapsulation 6898664-002, graded MS 65. Top Pop.
3) AR Half Rupee (22mm, 5.99 g, 11h). CEEIC 3.348; Pridmore 248; KM 401. In NGC encapsulation 6898664-003, graded MS 64. Top Pop.
4) AR Quarter Rupee (17mm, 3.03 g, 12h). CEEIC 3.350; Pridmore 249; KM 400. In NGC encapsulation 6898664-004, graded MS 65. Top Pop.
5) AR Eighth Rupee (16mm, 1.47 g, 12h). CEEIC 3.351; Pridmore 250; KM 408. In NGC encapsulation 6898664-005, graded MS 64. Top Pop. All NGC graded and Top Pop.
From the Alexander Christopher Collection. Ex Fred Pridmore Collection (Part II, Glendining, 18 October 1982), lot 410.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 416
BAKTRIA, Greco-Baktrian Kingdom. Agathokles Dikaios. Circa 185-175 BC. AR Tetradrachm (33mm, 15.70 g, 12h). Commemorative issue struck for Alexander III of Macedon. AΛEΞANΔ[POY] to right, TOY ΦIΛΛIΠOY to left, head of Herakles right, wearing lion skin / BAΣIΛEONTOS to right, AΓAΘOKΛEOYΣ to left; ΔIKAIOY in exergue, Zeus Aëtophoros enthroned left; monogram to inner left. MPHB Series III, 113 (O18/R57); Bopearachchi 12B; Bopearachchi & Rahman 163 (same dies); MIG type 142 var. (unlisted monogram); SNG ANS –; HGC 12, 83; Triton XI, lot 358 (same dies); Triton VIII, lot 633 (same dies). Lightly toned, edge deposit, die rust and horn silver, slight doubling, cleaning marks. VF. Extremely rare.
The "pedigree" coins issued by Agathokles copy the coin types of his predecessors, with the predecessor's name and cult epithet on the obverse, and Agathokles' name and titles on the reverse. Agathokles' intent was clearly to advertise the line of succession from Alexander the Great to himself, presumably as an aspect of his civil war propaganda. The commemorative coins in the name of Alexander the Great are of particular importance to the interpretation of this series, because the first specimen, published in 1881, definitively disproved earlier speculations that all the kings were contemporaries (A. von Sallet, "Alexander der Grosse als Gründer der baktrischen-indischen Reiche," ZfN VIII [1881], pp. 279-80). It is perhaps significant that Alexander alone, of all the kings portrayed in this series, does not have a cult epithet but is merely characterized as "the son of Philip."
The "pedigree" coins issued by Agathokles copy the coin types of his predecessors, with the predecessor's name and cult epithet on the obverse, and Agathokles' name and titles on the reverse. Agathokles' intent was clearly to advertise the line of succession from Alexander the Great to himself, presumably as an aspect of his civil war propaganda. The commemorative coins in the name of Alexander the Great are of particular importance to the interpretation of this series, because the first specimen, published in 1881, definitively disproved earlier speculations that all the kings were contemporaries (A. von Sallet, "Alexander der Grosse als Gründer der baktrischen-indischen Reiche," ZfN VIII [1881], pp. 279-80). It is perhaps significant that Alexander alone, of all the kings portrayed in this series, does not have a cult epithet but is merely characterized as "the son of Philip."
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 160
MACEDON, Neapolis. Circa 500-480 BC. AR Stater (20mm, 9.83 g). Facing gorgoneion with protruding tongue / Quadripartite incuse square. AMNG III/2, 6; HGC 3, 583; SNG ANS 406–19; Dewing 1604; Kraay & Hirmer 433; Traité I 1740. Attractive old collection tone. Choice EF. Well centered and struck from fresh dies.
From the Columbus Collection. Ex Edward J. Waddell inventory C29932 (c. 1990).
Neapolis, which is well known for its apparently large issues of silver in the 5th-early 4th centuries BC, is relatively unknown outside of numismatics. Its exact location is unknown, though a city that has been under excavation near modern Polychronon may be Neapolis. The city was likely founded as a settlement by colonists from Mende in the 6th century BC. Like many of the other cities in the region, Neapolis supplied troops and ships to Xerxes during the Greco-Persian Wars, and afterward became a member of the Delian League. Its coinage consists of two large series of silver coins, both featuring the facing head of a gorgoneion on the obverse. The first series, with a simple quadripartite incuse reverse, began late in the Archaic period, circa 500 BC, and lasted until circa 480 BC. This is followed by a dual-sided coinage of drachms and hemidrachms featuring a female head on the reverse, which ran from the late 5th century BC until the early 4th century BC.
From the Columbus Collection. Ex Edward J. Waddell inventory C29932 (c. 1990).
Neapolis, which is well known for its apparently large issues of silver in the 5th-early 4th centuries BC, is relatively unknown outside of numismatics. Its exact location is unknown, though a city that has been under excavation near modern Polychronon may be Neapolis. The city was likely founded as a settlement by colonists from Mende in the 6th century BC. Like many of the other cities in the region, Neapolis supplied troops and ships to Xerxes during the Greco-Persian Wars, and afterward became a member of the Delian League. Its coinage consists of two large series of silver coins, both featuring the facing head of a gorgoneion on the obverse. The first series, with a simple quadripartite incuse reverse, began late in the Archaic period, circa 500 BC, and lasted until circa 480 BC. This is followed by a dual-sided coinage of drachms and hemidrachms featuring a female head on the reverse, which ran from the late 5th century BC until the early 4th century BC.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 165
MACEDON, Sermyle. Circa 500-470 BC. AR Tetradrachm (28mm, 16.61 g). Attic standard. Warrior, holding spear aloft in right hand, on horseback right; SER-MVΛ-I-AOИ around, pellet to left; below, hound running right; all on three ground lines, the middle composed of pellets / Quadripartite incuse square. AMNG III/2, 1 var. (no hound); Liampi pl. 24, 24; HGC 3, 661 var. (same); SNG ANS 721 var. (no pellet); SNG Spencer 125; Asyut 219. Lightly toned, traces of find patina, patches of granularity. Near EF. Very rare, and exceptional for issue.
Ex Leu 71 (24 October 1997), lot 131.
Very little is known of the early history of Sermyle. During the Greco-Persian Wars, the city supplied troops and ships to the Persians, and afterward became a member of the Thracian District of the Delian League. During the Peloponnesian War, many of their citizens were killed by the Peloponnesians, and Sermyle was turned over to the Chalkidians until the Peace of Nikias, whereafter the city appears under Athenian control. In the 4th century BC, Sermyle joined the Chalkidian League, and was apparently one of the cities destroyed by Philip II, as it disappears from the historical record after 348 BC. The coinage of the city was small, with a short issue of silver tetradrachms and fractions in the early 5th century, and a limited issue of bronze in the early 4th BC.
Ex Leu 71 (24 October 1997), lot 131.
Very little is known of the early history of Sermyle. During the Greco-Persian Wars, the city supplied troops and ships to the Persians, and afterward became a member of the Thracian District of the Delian League. During the Peloponnesian War, many of their citizens were killed by the Peloponnesians, and Sermyle was turned over to the Chalkidians until the Peace of Nikias, whereafter the city appears under Athenian control. In the 4th century BC, Sermyle joined the Chalkidian League, and was apparently one of the cities destroyed by Philip II, as it disappears from the historical record after 348 BC. The coinage of the city was small, with a short issue of silver tetradrachms and fractions in the early 5th century, and a limited issue of bronze in the early 4th BC.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 682
AI Rec
Titus. As Caesar, AD 69-79. AV Aureus (19.5mm, 7.38 g, 6h). Rome mint. Struck under Vespasian, AD 77-78. T CAESAR VESPASIANVS, laureate head right / ANNONA AVG, Annona seated left, holding open on her lap a bag of grain ears, the ends held in her hands. RIC II.1 971 (Vespasian); Calicó 726; BMCRE 316-8 (Vespasian); BN 278-9 (Vespasian); Biaggi 360; Jameson 70; Mazzini 16. Toned, hairlines. Near EF.
Ex MACM inventory MMoCA42C; Numismatica Ars Classica 52 (7 October 2009), lot 383; Leu 77 (11 May 2000), lot 539; Leu 2 (25 April 1972), lot 380.
Ex MACM inventory MMoCA42C; Numismatica Ars Classica 52 (7 October 2009), lot 383; Leu 77 (11 May 2000), lot 539; Leu 2 (25 April 1972), lot 380.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 944
LOW COUNTRIES, Republic of the Seven Netherlands (Dutch Republic). Zeeland. 1581-1795. AR Piedfort Dubbele daalder van 10 schelling – Double Taler (44mm, 62.82 g, 3h). Dated 1687. Knight standing left, head right, holding sword; crowned coat-of-arms to lower left / Seven entwined coats-of-arms. P&W Ze59.3; CNM 2.49.67; Delmonte, Argent 1074a; Davenport A4973; KM P23. Old collection toning. In NGC encapsulation 6917297-001, graded MS 66. Top Pop. Very rare, particularly so in this stunning high grade.
From the Alexander Christopher Collection.
From the Alexander Christopher Collection.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 443
SASANIAN KINGS. Āzarmīg-duxt (Āzarmīdokht). AD 631. AR Drachm (32mm, 3.57 g, 9h). WYHC (Weh-az-Amid-Kavad) mint. Dated RY 1 (AD 631). Bearded bust right, wearing mural crown with frontal crescent, two wings, and star-in-crescent, ribbons and crescents on shoulders; stars flanking crown; GDH monogram and ’pzwt’ in Pahlavi to left, ’wtwrmigduht in Pahlavi to right; star-in-crescents in margin / Fire altar with ribbons; flanked by two attendants; star and crescent flanking flames; ’ywky (RY date) in Pahlavi on left, šy (mint signature) in Pahlavi downward to right; star-in-crescents in margin. SC Tehran –; Mochiri 443 = 508; Sunrise –; SNS Schaaf 702: Zeno #100488. Lightly toned, with iridescence, areas of find patina/deposits, cleaning marks. VF. Extremely rare.
Because of the loss of his power and prestige due to the victories of the Byzantine emperor Heraclius, in AD 628, Husrav (Khosrau) II (and eighteen of his sons) was assassinated by his son and successor, Kavad (Kvadh) II. Over the next few months, Kavad attempted to initiate peace negotiations with the Byzantine emperor, but the Sasanian king’s death only a few months into the new reign precipitated a period of civil war. Kavad’s son and co-ruler, the seven-year-old Ardaxšīr (Ardashir) III, was killed by the Husrav’s former general, Shahrbaraz, but he too was soon removed. This vacancy on the throne was filled by two daughters of Husrav II, each of whom ruled for about a year, whether on their own, or as possible regents for Husrav (Khosrau) III. The first, Boran, attempted to restore stability to the Sasanian empire by making peace with the Byzantines, reducing taxation, and revitalizing the governmental infrastructure, including restoring a general sense of justice. All of these moves did little to restrore the power of the central government. Her sister and successor, Āzarmīg-duxt (Āzarmīdokht), reigned for only a few months. According to the ninth-century Persian historian, al-Tabari, the general Farrokh sought her hand in marriage (and, thus, a link to the throne), but she had him murdered. In retaliation, Farrokh’s son, thought to be Rostam Farrokhzad, had her blinded and subsequently killed after she was captured at Ctesiphon.
Because of the loss of his power and prestige due to the victories of the Byzantine emperor Heraclius, in AD 628, Husrav (Khosrau) II (and eighteen of his sons) was assassinated by his son and successor, Kavad (Kvadh) II. Over the next few months, Kavad attempted to initiate peace negotiations with the Byzantine emperor, but the Sasanian king’s death only a few months into the new reign precipitated a period of civil war. Kavad’s son and co-ruler, the seven-year-old Ardaxšīr (Ardashir) III, was killed by the Husrav’s former general, Shahrbaraz, but he too was soon removed. This vacancy on the throne was filled by two daughters of Husrav II, each of whom ruled for about a year, whether on their own, or as possible regents for Husrav (Khosrau) III. The first, Boran, attempted to restore stability to the Sasanian empire by making peace with the Byzantines, reducing taxation, and revitalizing the governmental infrastructure, including restoring a general sense of justice. All of these moves did little to restrore the power of the central government. Her sister and successor, Āzarmīg-duxt (Āzarmīdokht), reigned for only a few months. According to the ninth-century Persian historian, al-Tabari, the general Farrokh sought her hand in marriage (and, thus, a link to the throne), but she had him murdered. In retaliation, Farrokh’s son, thought to be Rostam Farrokhzad, had her blinded and subsequently killed after she was captured at Ctesiphon.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 445
THRACE, Perinthus. Septimius Severus. AD 193-211. Æ Medallion (41mm, 40.59 g, 1h). AV • K • Λ • CЄΠTI CЄVHPOC • [ΠЄ], laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind / ΦΙΛAΔЄΛΦЄIA Π–ЄPINΘIΩN NЄ/ΩKOPΩN, Herakles, wearing lion’s skin, standing right, holding the Erymanthean Boar over his shoulder, displaying it to Eurystheus, who stands left in a krater at Herakles’ feet, his arms raised in terror. Schönert-Geiss, Perinthos 521.2 = Stoll, Herakles, 28 (this coin); Voegtli type 3b; Varbanov 201 (same dies as illustration). Attractive dark brown patina with tan highlights, edge split and short flan crack, spots of verdigris. EF. Extremely rare, one of five known.
Ex Triton XX (10 January 2017), lot 444; Triton XI (7 January 2008), lot 439; Aufhäuser (7 October 1986), lot 234a and cover coin.
In his Fourth Labor, Herakles was charged with capturing the Erymanthean Boar. The beast resided in a grove sacred to Artemis near Mount Erymanthus in Arcadia, and would descend from the wilderness to wreck havoc on the surrounding farms and groves.
During his hunt for the Boar, Herakles visited his friend, the centaur Pholus, who lived in a cave on the mountain. The centaur provided the hungry and thirsty hero with food, but shied from offering him the wine he had because it did not belong to him, and was for the use of all the centaurs. Herakles nevertheless opened the jar, and, smelling the wine’s aroma, the other centaurs became excited and intoxicated. A fight soon ensued, and Herakles slew a number of centaurs with arrows poisoned by the blood of the Hydra. During the melee, another of Herakles’ friends, the kindly centaur Chiron, was accidentally wounded. Although Chiron did not die, as he was immortal, he did experience great pain. Herakles attempted to medicate the wound, but his ministrations were of little avail. In return for his kindness, however, Chiron offered advice to the hero as to how he could capture the Boar.
Now back on task after his disastrous dawdling, Herakles easily trapped the Boar by pursuing it through the mountain snows until the creature collapsed from exhaustion. Netting the animal, he carried it back to Tiryns and presented it to Eurystheus.
Ex Triton XX (10 January 2017), lot 444; Triton XI (7 January 2008), lot 439; Aufhäuser (7 October 1986), lot 234a and cover coin.
In his Fourth Labor, Herakles was charged with capturing the Erymanthean Boar. The beast resided in a grove sacred to Artemis near Mount Erymanthus in Arcadia, and would descend from the wilderness to wreck havoc on the surrounding farms and groves.
During his hunt for the Boar, Herakles visited his friend, the centaur Pholus, who lived in a cave on the mountain. The centaur provided the hungry and thirsty hero with food, but shied from offering him the wine he had because it did not belong to him, and was for the use of all the centaurs. Herakles nevertheless opened the jar, and, smelling the wine’s aroma, the other centaurs became excited and intoxicated. A fight soon ensued, and Herakles slew a number of centaurs with arrows poisoned by the blood of the Hydra. During the melee, another of Herakles’ friends, the kindly centaur Chiron, was accidentally wounded. Although Chiron did not die, as he was immortal, he did experience great pain. Herakles attempted to medicate the wound, but his ministrations were of little avail. In return for his kindness, however, Chiron offered advice to the hero as to how he could capture the Boar.
Now back on task after his disastrous dawdling, Herakles easily trapped the Boar by pursuing it through the mountain snows until the creature collapsed from exhaustion. Netting the animal, he carried it back to Tiryns and presented it to Eurystheus.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 704
Antoninus Pius, with Marcus Aurelius as Caesar. AD 138-161. AV Aureus (18mm, 6.77 g, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 140. ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P P TR P COS III, laureate head left / Antoninus Pius and Marcus Aurelius, as Caesar, both togate, seated left on curule chairs on platform, each extending right hand, attended by two lictors on ground to left, looking right, and to right, looking left, respectively of the platform, each holding wand in right hand and fasces in left. RIC III –; Calicó 1734/1467a (for obv./rev. dies); BMCRE –; Adda -; Biaggi –; Jameson –; Mazzini –. Some underlying luster, faint hairlines, a few edge marks. Good VF. The anepigraphic reverse exhibits an artistic composition. Unique with laureate head left. None in CoinArchives.
This unique aureus features a heretofore unknown issue, struck from dies previously known for two separate aurei. The obverse die is from the rare issue that celebrates the association of Antoninus Pius with Marcus Aurelius as Caesar (Calicó 1734) dated to AD 140. The reverse is known only from a unique aureus in a private collection dated tentatively to AD 140-143. With the addition of this new unique aureus, the Calicó 1467a coin (unlisted in Cohen, BMCRE, and RIC) can more accurately be dated to AD 140, as it almost undoubtedly was struck alongside the Pius and Aurelius as Caesar issues, since they share die links. Thus, this unique aureus, alongside the Calicó 1467a coin, should be placed with the Antoninus Pius and Marcus Aurelius as Caesar aurei section of Calicó 1719-1735. Together, they constitute two supreme rarities with artistically composed anepigraphic reverses. Furthermore, these two coins are now better understood as deriving from the aurei emission of AD 140 and can be appropriately placed in that context.
This unique aureus features a heretofore unknown issue, struck from dies previously known for two separate aurei. The obverse die is from the rare issue that celebrates the association of Antoninus Pius with Marcus Aurelius as Caesar (Calicó 1734) dated to AD 140. The reverse is known only from a unique aureus in a private collection dated tentatively to AD 140-143. With the addition of this new unique aureus, the Calicó 1467a coin (unlisted in Cohen, BMCRE, and RIC) can more accurately be dated to AD 140, as it almost undoubtedly was struck alongside the Pius and Aurelius as Caesar issues, since they share die links. Thus, this unique aureus, alongside the Calicó 1467a coin, should be placed with the Antoninus Pius and Marcus Aurelius as Caesar aurei section of Calicó 1719-1735. Together, they constitute two supreme rarities with artistically composed anepigraphic reverses. Furthermore, these two coins are now better understood as deriving from the aurei emission of AD 140 and can be appropriately placed in that context.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 714
Lucius Verus. AD 161-169. AV Aureus (18.5mm, 7.19 g, 6h). Rome mint. Struck under Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus, AD 161. IMP CΛES L ΛV REL VERVS ΛVG, bare head right / CONCORDIΛE ΛVGVSTOR, COS II in exergue, Lucius Verus and Marcus Aurelius, togate, standing facing each other, clasping right hands, each holding volumen in left hand. RIC III –; MIR 18, 4-12/10; Calicó 2110 (same dies as illustration); Adda 332 (this coin); Biaggi 948 (same dies). Lustrous. Superb EF. Boldly struck with fresh dies, a beautiful coin.
From the Georges Albert Haikel Collection. Ex Coin Galleries (10 February 1993), lot 13; Victor A. Adda (†1965) Collection (as Property of a Lady, Christie's, 9 October 1984), lot 80; Prince Waldeck Collection (Münzhandlung Basel 8, 22 March 1937), lot 810.
Hadrian, childless and without either a successor or heir, chose Lucius Ceionius Commodus as his adopted son in AD 136, and renamed him as Lucius Aelius Caesar. Aelius was sent to the Roman province of Pannonia to serve as governor, where he died of tuberculosis in AD 138. Hadrian now made his second choice for his heir, Titus Aurelius Fulvus Boionius Antoninus. Hadrian actually wanted Marcus Aurelius to succeed him on the throne, but realized that Aurelius was far too young, so instead he went with the highly respected Antoninus. As a condition of his adoption, and to ensure an orderly line of succession, Antoninus Pius adopted both his nephew, Marcus Aurelius, and Aelius Caesar’s son, Lucius. The relatively young Lucius would change his name to Lucius Aelius Aurelius Commodus, but he would later drop Commodus and add Verus after ascending to the throne, along with his adoptive brother and co-ruler Marcus Aurelius. The present type depicts the two “brothers” and co-rulers clasping hands with an inscription noting the “harmony” between the two Augusti.
From the Georges Albert Haikel Collection. Ex Coin Galleries (10 February 1993), lot 13; Victor A. Adda (†1965) Collection (as Property of a Lady, Christie's, 9 October 1984), lot 80; Prince Waldeck Collection (Münzhandlung Basel 8, 22 March 1937), lot 810.
Hadrian, childless and without either a successor or heir, chose Lucius Ceionius Commodus as his adopted son in AD 136, and renamed him as Lucius Aelius Caesar. Aelius was sent to the Roman province of Pannonia to serve as governor, where he died of tuberculosis in AD 138. Hadrian now made his second choice for his heir, Titus Aurelius Fulvus Boionius Antoninus. Hadrian actually wanted Marcus Aurelius to succeed him on the throne, but realized that Aurelius was far too young, so instead he went with the highly respected Antoninus. As a condition of his adoption, and to ensure an orderly line of succession, Antoninus Pius adopted both his nephew, Marcus Aurelius, and Aelius Caesar’s son, Lucius. The relatively young Lucius would change his name to Lucius Aelius Aurelius Commodus, but he would later drop Commodus and add Verus after ascending to the throne, along with his adoptive brother and co-ruler Marcus Aurelius. The present type depicts the two “brothers” and co-rulers clasping hands with an inscription noting the “harmony” between the two Augusti.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 716
Lucius Verus. AD 161-169. AV Aureus (19mm, 7.18 g, 5h). Rome mint. Struck AD 164. • L • VERVS ΛVG ΛRMENIΛCVS, laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust right / TR P IIII • IMP II COS II, Victory, half draped, standing right, placing shield on palm tree inscribed VIC/ΛVG in two lines. RIC III 525 (Aurelius); MIR 18, 94-12/37; Calicó 2177 (this coin illustrated); BMCRE 296, note (Aurelius and Verus); Adda 344 (same dies); Biaggi 960 (same dies); Jameson 142 (same dies); Mazzini 247 v. and 247 v.* (same dies) . Lustrous. Superb EF.
From the Georges Albert Haikel Collection. Ex McLendon Collection (Christie’s, 12 June 1993), lot 151; Santa Barbara Museum of Art Collection (Numismatic Fine Arts [I], 20 March 1975), lot 367.
From the Georges Albert Haikel Collection. Ex McLendon Collection (Christie’s, 12 June 1993), lot 151; Santa Barbara Museum of Art Collection (Numismatic Fine Arts [I], 20 March 1975), lot 367.
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 973
RUSSIA, Empire. Ivan VI Antonovich (Ioann III). 1740-1741. AR Rouble (40mm, 12h). St. Petersburg mint. Dated 1741 СПБ. Laureate and draped bust right / Crowned double-headed eagle facing with wings spread, holding scepter and globus cruciger; collared coat-of-arms on breast; crown above. Diakov 6; Bitkin 21; KM 207.2. Toned with hints of luster. In NGC encapsulation 6906892-001, graded AU 58. Rare.
From the Alexander Christopher Collection.
Diakov notes that Ivan’s successor, Yelizaveta Petrovna (Elizabeth), “considered the destruction of Ioann III coins to be one of her objectives.” 665,000 roubles of Ivan’s coins were returned and melted or restruck. (Diakov p. 123)
From the Alexander Christopher Collection.
Diakov notes that Ivan’s successor, Yelizaveta Petrovna (Elizabeth), “considered the destruction of Ioann III coins to be one of her objectives.” 665,000 roubles of Ivan’s coins were returned and melted or restruck. (Diakov p. 123)
Classical Numismatic Group, LLC - Triton XXVIII – Sessions 1-4 . 718
AI Rec
Commodus. AD 177-192. AV Aureus (20.5mm, 7.23 g, 6h). Rome mint. Struck AD 185. COMM • ANT AVG • P • BRIT, bareheaded, draped, and cuirassed bust right / P M TR P • X • IMP VII COS IIII P P, VIRT • AVG in exergue, Commodus, in short tunic, with cloak flying behind him, on horse rearing right, brandishing javelin in right hand at panther pacing left before him. RIC III 114; MIR 18, 666-2/18 corr. (TR P number); Calicó 2362 (this coin illustrated); BMCRE 168; Biaggi 1024 (this coin); Mazzini 956. Some scratches on reverse, edge scrapes and marks. Good VF. Very rare.
From the Georges Albert Haikel Collection. Ex McLendon Collection (Christie’s, 12, June 1993), lot 156; Leu 30 (28 April 1982), lot 392; Leo Biaggi De Blasys Collection; Niklovitz Collection (L. Hamburger [76], 19 October 1925), lot 1157; Prince Windisch-Graetz Collection.
From the Georges Albert Haikel Collection. Ex McLendon Collection (Christie’s, 12, June 1993), lot 156; Leu 30 (28 April 1982), lot 392; Leo Biaggi De Blasys Collection; Niklovitz Collection (L. Hamburger [76], 19 October 1925), lot 1157; Prince Windisch-Graetz Collection.