


© John Conduitt (CC BY-SA)
Bronze Unit "Cantian E" 50 BC - 35 BC
Bronze | 1.3 g | 13 mm |
Issuer | Cantii tribe (Celtic Britain) |
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Type | Standard circulation coin |
Years | 50 BC - 35 BC |
Currency | Stater |
Composition | Bronze |
Weight | 1.3 g |
Diameter | 13 mm |
Shape | Round (irregular) |
Technique | Cast |
Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
Demonetized | Yes |
Updated | 2024-10-09 |
Numista | N#120155 |
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Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Celticised figure of bull made up of straight lines, large pellet in centre
Comment
Early Uninscribed Coinage (c.120-c.50 BC)Smaller than Cantian D types with a pronounced pellet in centre (often described as a nipple). It is not usually possible to determine which way the bull is facing. Van Arsdell lists several variations (Rudd and Spink do not):
- Early dump type with an outline head of Apollo (V 135-136)
- Middle dump type where Apollo's head outline is barely discernable (V 137-138)
- Late dump type where head of Apollo is only a circle with a line for the nose (V 139)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Cantian E coin is that it features a unique design that reflects the cultural and religious beliefs of the Cantii tribe. The obverse side of the coin depicts a stylized horse, which was a symbol of strength and power in Celtic culture, while the reverse side features a triple-tailed horse and a warrior, representing the tribe's military prowess and their connection to the land and its natural resources. This coin is a rare and valuable artifact that provides a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of ancient Celtic tribes in Britain.