THRACE, Mesembria. Gordian III, with Tranquillina. AD 238-244. Æ (26mm, 11.60 g, 6h).

Electronic Auction 512
Lot: 347. Estimated: $ 75

Roman Provincial, Bronze

Sold For $ 180. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

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THRACE, Mesembria. Gordian III, with Tranquillina. AD 238-244. Æ (26mm, 11.60 g, 6h). Laureate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Gordian right vis-à-vis draped bust of Tranquillina left, wearing stephane / Two Curetes, helmeted and clad in short tunics, each holding short sword in hand and shield over head. Karayotov 118-26 (O20/R34); RPC VII.2 Online 48394; Varbvanov 4186 (same dies as illustration). Dark green patina, smoothing and cleaning scratches. VF.

The Curetes share some of the attributes of the Corybantes, dancing divinities associated with the worship of Cybele, but their specific role in Greek mythology was to serve as the protectors of the infant Zeus while he was hidden away on Crete, safe from his murderous father Cronus. Their militant dancing, accompanied by the clashing of swords on shields, drowned out the cries of the infant. The Curetes’ dance was later re-enacted by young men at Greek festivals and games.

Closing Date and Time: 23 March 2022 at 11:55:20 ET.

All winning bids are subject to an 18% buyer’s fee.