Augustus, Roman Imperial, Provincial tetradrachm, Antioch, Syria

Description

Augustus Caesar, provincial tetradrachm, R.P.C. 4156-58, PRIEUR-55, Wruck-7, McAll-187. This tetradrachm is 25-26mm diameter, and 14.8 gms. From Rome's main eastern mint in Antioch, Syria. Minted in the period of 6/5 BC for the first emperor, Augustus. The obverse shows the laureate bust of Augustus, with wreath tied at the back of his head, with the Greek lettering referencing "CAESAR AUGUSTUS". The reverse shows the Goddess Tyche, seated, holding a palm branch, below which the river God of the local river (The Orontes) swims. The main lettering on the reverse refers to a victory of Augustus, while the lettering under the palm branch refer to the consulship and the mintmark. The portrait of Augustus is done in excellent artistic style, very high relief, and well-centered. The goddess and the river god both show facial detail, and the detail of the goddess's clothing. Both sides show light toning on the silver surfaces.
This is a genuine original coin, not a copy, replica, or reproduction.