© Le Luc
© Le Luc
Æ MATA; Matavonium 27 BC
27 BC year| Bronze | 2.57 g | - |
| Issuer | Matavonium (Gallia Narbonensis) |
|---|---|
| Period | Republic (509 BC - 27 BC) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 27 BC |
| Currency | Denarius (49 BC to AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 2.57 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#403950 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Capricorn holding globe with cornucopia on back, right; rudder below.
Script: Latin
Lettering: MATA
Comment
The attribution to Forum Iulii must be abandoned in view of the new discoveries (nos. 3-7) and the coins given to the pagus Matavonicvs, which was a part of the city of Forum Iulii. Matavo (the present Cabasse) probably issued this small coinage after 27 BC, as the first Augustan prototypes date from 27 onwards.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique blend of Roman and Gaulish elements in its design. The obverse side of the coin bears the image of a Roman Emperor, likely Augustus, while the reverse side features a stylized depiction of a Gallic warrior and the name "MATAVONIUM" in Gaulish script. This blending of cultures reflects the complex history of the region, where Roman and Gaulish influences coexisted and intersected in fascinating ways.