Code: 11821
This is an ancient Roman gold solidus of emperor Gratian struck at Nicomedia mint in 367 AD (when he was elevated to Augustus by his father Valentinian I aged 8 years old)
Obverse: D N GRATIA-NVS P F AVG, "Our Lord Gratianus, the Devout, the Fortunate, the Majestic" Pearl-diademed, draped and cuirassed bust of Gratian facing right.
Reverse: PRINCIPIVM IVVENTVTIS, "Prince of Youth" Gratian, nimbate, standing right, holding transverse spear and globe.
A superb coin VF+ with a 1960 Swiss Pedigree. RARE!
CULTURE: Roman
DENOMINATION: Solidus
MATERIAL: Gold
DATE: 367 - 383 (this coin minted in 367 AD)
MINTMARK: SMNE (Nicomedia at the 5th Officina)
SIZE: 21mm diameter
WEIGHT: 4.42 grams
ATTRIBUTION: RIC IX Nicomedia 14, rated R2. Cohen 28.
PROVENANCE: Ex Liste 196 Münzen und Medaillen AG, 1960, 42.