CNG 84, Lot: 1028. Estimate $300. Sold for $410. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

Antoninus Pius. AD 138-161. Æ As (29mm, 12.99 g, 5h). Rome mint. Struck circa AD 140. Laureate head right / Janus standing facing, holding scepter. RIC III 693a. VF, green patina.

From the John Bitner Collection.

Janus was believed to have been the first king of Italy, serving as both leader and teacher to all within his lands. In honor of his deeds, he was elevated to the status of a deity by the Romans, with Romulus himself, one of the mythical founders of Rome, building and dedicating the Temple of Janus.