Roman Gold Solidus of Emperor Gratian Nicomedia Mint

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.