Bronze Unit "Cantian E" (50 BC - 35 BC) front Bronze Unit "Cantian E" (50 BC - 35 BC) back
Bronze Unit "Cantian E" (50 BC - 35 BC) photo
© John Conduitt (CC BY-SA)

Bronze Unit "Cantian E" 50 BC - 35 BC

 
Bronze 1.3 g 13 mm
Description
Issuer
Cantii tribe (Celtic Britain)
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
References
Numista
N#120155
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.