Classical Numismatic Group > Electronic Auction 555Auction date: 7 February 2024
Lot number: 624

Price realized: 550 USD   (Approx. 513 EUR)   Note: Prices do not include buyer's fees.
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Lot description:


Gallienus. AD 253-268. Antoninianus (21.5mm, 2.70 g, 6h). "Legionary series" issue. Mediolanum (Milan) mint. 2nd emission, AD 260-circa 262. Radiate and cuirassed bust left / LEG II ITAL VI P VI F, She-wolf standing right, head facing, suckling the twins (Romulus and Remus). RIC V 329; MIR 36, 992p; RSC –. Toned, minor deposits. Near VF. Extremely rare bust variety for issue. Only one noted by MIR (in the KHM [Vienna]).

Ex Centurion Collection (Classical Numismatic Group Electronic Auction 484, 27 January 2021), lot 870; N. M. McQ. Holmes Collection (Classical Numismatic Group Electronic Auction 442, 17 April 2019), lot 364; Vecchi 13 (4 September 1998), lot 875.

Legio II Italica was of late foundation, raised by Marcus Aurelius in AD 165 as storm clouds gathered on the Rhine and Danube frontiers. It was heavily engaged in the Marcomannic Wars of AD 166-180 and later fought in the Severan civil wars of AD 193-197. It remained loyal to Gallienus throughout his reign and was one of the few to receive three awards for "victorious dutiful loyalty" (V, VI and VII), as indicated on his legionary coins. Being raised in the vicinity of Rome, its symbol was the wolf and twins.

Estimate: 200 USD