© Roma Numismatics Limited
© Roma Numismatics Limited
½ As Possibly Praeneste 301 BC - 201 BC
| Bronze | 160.57 g | 59 mm |
| Issuer | Uncertain city of Central Italy |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 301 BC - 201 BC |
| Value | Semis (½) |
| Currency | As (circa 301-201 BC) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 160.57 g |
| Diameter | 59 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Cast |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-10 |
| Numista | N#185944 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Prow facing right with letter in front.
Lettering: S
Translation: 1/2
Edge
Plain
Comment
Haeberlin originally placed these under an uncertain Italian mint, and ICC agreed, placing them under an equivalent catagory. Even so, some suggest these coins are from the Roman Republic at the time of the First Punic War (264-241 BC). But in 2019, an example was found in Praeneste--the third example from that city so far--leading some are starting thinking these coins were actually struck for that city.Interesting fact
The coin , the ½ As from Possibly Praeneste (301 BC - 201 BC), is an example of a "blank-flan" coin. This means that the coin was struck on a blank piece of metal, rather than having a pre-existing design or pattern. This was a common practice in ancient times, as it allowed for quick and efficient production of coins. The blank-flan coins were then inscribed with the denomination and other information, such as the name of the issuing authority, the weight, and the year of issue. This particular coin is an example of a blank-flan coin that was inscribed with the denomination "½ As" and the weight "160.57g".
