2016-12-07 Wed

On 20th November, an orichalcum sestertius (1/4th of a denarius) of Claudius, issued circa 41 to 42 A.D. was sold for $492.47 during Nomos Ag’s online auction.

The yellow metal Orichalcum was a form of brass or a similar alloy which was considered to be precious in those days.

Claudius ruled from 41 to 54 A.D. and initiated major projects like aqueducts, canals and roads across the Empire.

The reverse of the coin features the Goddess Spes, with a fine portrait of pure Julio-Claudian style. Spes lifts the hem of her robes with her left hand and holds a flower in her right.

Many local imitations of the coin were produced too as they were very popular. The coin weighs 26.36 grams, features a nice toning and has a slightly corroded reverse.