437, Lot: 264. Estimate $100. Sold for $130. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

UNCERTAIN MODERN EUROPEAN. Æ weight(?) created from a Sestertius (28mm, 18.97 g, 12h). Numerals 25, 26, and 27 in rectangular countermarks on a sestertius of Severus Alexander (6th emission, AD 226. RIC IV 547). Host coin VF, c/ms VF, brown patina, edge altered for use as weight(?).

From the Richard Baker Collection.

This extremely interesting set of countermarks are clearly modern in origin, dating from sometime after the adoption of Arabic numerals in Europe. The presence of three sequential numbers would be odd for a weight, but a close examination of the edge reveals that the coin has been carefully manipulated by filing and the addition of a small amount of lead. Whatever its function, a good amount of care was clearly taken by the craftsman, not only to delicately adjust the weight, but to avoid placing the marks on the fine portrait of the emperor, indicating that this was a highly personal and valued object for the owner.