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Bescripttbc Catalogue 
 
 OF 
 
 A CABINET 
 
 OF 
 
 ROMAN IMPERIAL 
 
 LARGE-BRASS MEDALS. 
 
 BY 
 
 Captain WILLIAM HENRY SMYTH, r.n., k.s.f. 
 
 F. R. S. , F. S. A. , F. R. A. S. 
 
 MEMBER OF THE ROYAL GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY OF LONDON; OF THE SOCIETY FOR THE STATISTICS AND NATURAL 
 HISTORY OF TUSCANY; AND OF THE ACADEMIES OF SCIENCES OF NAPLES, AND PALERMO. 
 
 BEDFORD : 
 
 JAMES WEBB, PRINTER. 
 M.DCCC.XXX1V. 
 
TO 
 
 HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS 
 
 AUGUSTUS FREDERICK, DUKE OF SUSSEX, K. G. 
 
 $c. Sfc. Sfc. 
 
 WHOSE UNWEARIED AND IMPARTIAL ATTENTION TO THE INTERESTS OF THE SOCIETY 
 
 OVER WHICH HE PRESIDES 
 COMMANDS THE RESPECT AND GRATITUDE OF ALL WHO ARE ANXIOUS FOR 
 
 THE PROMOTION OF SCIENCE, 
 
 AND 
 
 WHOSE UNIFORM CONDESCENSION AND KINDNESS TO THOSE WHO ARE ENGAGED IN 
 
 SCIENTIFIC INQUIRIES 
 
 ARE SO BENEFICIAL TO THE ADVANCEMENT OF KNOWLEDGE, 
 
 THIS HUMBLE ATTEMPT TO SHEW THE ADVANTAGES OF MEDALLIC STUDIES 
 
 IS INSCRIBED, 
 
 WITH THE DEEPEST FEELINGS OF RESPECT AND GRATEFULNESS, 
 
 BY 
 
 HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS' DUTIFUL 
 
 AND MOST OBEDIENT HUMBLE SERVANT, 
 
 WILLIAM HENRY SMYTH. 
 
INTRODUCTION. 
 
 So many works on the subject of Roman Medals have already appeared, that 
 to add to their number may be deemed nothing better than lost labour ; yet after 
 the trouble of collecting an important series, its value is necessarily enhanced in 
 the estimation of its collector ; and he is tempted, not perhaps unreasonably, to 
 think that an accurate description of it will not be without its use. To explain 
 the circumstances which gave birth to the present work, and the view with which 
 it was composed, it may be proper to state, that having enjoyed unusual oppor- 
 tunities while professionally employed in the Mediterranean, and having, for several 
 years, examined a vast quantity of coins, and filled cabinet after cabinet with 
 specimens of all sorts and sizes, I finally decided upon restricting myself to the 
 Roman Imperial Large-Brass, as by far the most interesting series, since they 
 delineate with fidelity, and preserve with little variation, more portraits of real 
 characters; give more perfect representations of implements, dresses, buildings, 
 and symbols ; record a greater number of remarkable events ; fix precisely more 
 chronological dates ; and afford better traces of manners and customs, than any 
 other class of coins. 
 
 I have not, however, been inattentive to the claims and beauty of those 
 belonging to other series, having studied with admiration the high antiquity and 
 exquisite taste of the Greek, Sicilian, and Carthaginian medals, and I regard 
 the Consular coins as a valuable treasury of the types and symbols of the primaeval 
 families of Rome ; although in the greater part of them, the difficulty of positive 
 identification, and of precise chronological arrangement, so well known to medallists, 
 greatly diminish their historical and literary value. But in proportion as my at- 
 tention was devoted to the Large-Brass, each emblem became more distinct and 
 instructive, and every item rose into importance, so that when viewed with the 
 diligence which these medals deserve, they are found to display an infinite store 
 of information. To point out the illustrations afforded to History, Chronology, 
 and Geography, by this series, is the great object of the present Catalogue, which, 
 diffuse as it may appear to some, might have been much and not unprofitably 
 enlarged, had not the writer's time been almost wholly devoted to professional duties. 
 
 The study of Medals has been branded with the epithet of pedantry, by illiterate 
 persons, or such as have only heard of the fancies and visions of pretended Vir- 
 taosoes. If the study of history, however, is deserving of attention, no where will 
 
( vi ) 
 
 he found more sure or unsuspicious vouchers for its truth, than in these small but 
 durable monuments of the power and arts of ancient Rome. Considering the very 
 numerous public and private collections which exist throughout Europe, and the 
 great convenience they afford of ready reference, it is only surprising that we should 
 meet with any well-educated person to whom they are entirely unknown. Yet 
 extraordinary instances of such ignorance occasionally occur, even where the pos- 
 session of some valuable coins might naturally have prompted an enquiry concerning 
 them. Such want of knowledge exposes the possessors of these rarities to many 
 mortifications; it deprives them of the pleasure of justly estimating the value of 
 what they possess, makes them the dupes of such as are interested in deceiving, and 
 occasions severe disappointment when they meet with a good judge who is honest 
 enough to tell them the truth. I was once much amused by seeing a coin unrolled 
 from a paper, with great care and solemnity, which turned out to be nothing more 
 than a Hadrian worn almost smooth. Its owner was highly pleased when told that 
 it was undoubtedly genuine, but proportionably disappointed and incredulous when 
 informed that its value might be "about three-pence." But this was nothing to 
 the blunder of a pretended Connoisseur in the South of France, who, after shewing 
 me a wretched medley of worthless things, produced, as the most precious article 
 in his whole collection, a bronze medal, and added in a tone of exultation — 
 " Voild, Monsieur, une medaille unique; c'est du grand philosophe Zenon !" 
 It was a small-brass of the Emperor Zeno. For persons who will not take the 
 trouble to be better informed, it is a dangerous thing to dabble in antiquities; and 
 the unhappy mistake of the French virtuoso reminds me of a worthy English gentle- 
 man, who was on the point of sending home an old brass cannon, inscribed with 
 the name of Hadrian, as a proof that gunpowder was known to the Romans. 
 
 He is but a young numismatist who imagines that coins derive their principal 
 value from their metal. The Romans may have made brass medals the depository 
 of their exploits with more care than gold or silver, under the certainty that, as 
 they did not so much tempt the cupidity of the possessor, or the dishonesty of 
 servants, they were not so immediately exposed to the danger of the melting pot, and 
 were, therefore, more likely to be permanently and widely circulated. At all events 
 it is generally admitted, and a thorough knowledge of the subject confirms the 
 opinion, that Augustus reserved for himself and his successors the right of coining 
 gold and silver, and left the brass and copper under the direction of the Senate, 
 whose official signature, as it may be termed, is expressed by the well-known siglas 
 S.C. A further confirmation of this implied compact exists in an inscription found 
 at Rome, and thus given by Gruter — " Ojjicinatores monetce aurarice, argentarice 
 
( vii ) 
 
 Oassaris." Yet there are some who maintain that the Senale had power over the 
 whole mintage of Rome; but though all the brass coins with very few exceptions, 
 have the " Senatus Consultu " upon them, the gold and silver, with still rarer 
 exceptions, are without it. Vespasian minted in the precious metals before his title 
 was acknowledged in Rome, whereas the brass was only struck when the Senate 
 received him. Albinus appears as Augustus on gold and silver coins, but on the 
 brass series only as Cresar ; and it was for assuming the former title that he was put 
 to death. The soundest antiquaries, therefore, look upon the divided privilege of 
 coinage to be satisfactorily established. 
 
 The Mint was a more important institution in ancient Rome than with us, 
 when steam performs the office of numbers of men ; and it was more extensive 
 because its produce was to supply a currency for the World. In the rebellion of 
 the Moneyers, under Aurelian, that Emperor lost 7,000 of his best troops ; and the 
 offices and appointments of the money -departments were considered as equally 
 honourable and lucrative. It may here be mentioned that the engravers of the 
 dyes were called Coelatores ; the assayers of the metals, Spectatores, or Nummu- 
 larii ; the refiners, Ccenarii ; the melters, Fusarii, or Flaturarii ; the adjusters 
 of weight, Equatores monetarum ; and the men who struck the dye, JUalleatores. 
 The chief person in each office was denominated Primicerius, and the next in 
 rank, Optio, or Exactor. 
 
 A well-selected series of Imperial large-brass affords interest and information in 
 the highest degree; and as these coins were struck by sovereigns common to all 
 Europe, they are almost recognizable as the currency of our own country. They 
 offer the most elegant of all the branches of ornamental literature, and have been 
 resorted to by the most distinguished architects, sculptors, poets, and painters, for 
 the grace and dignity with which they are replete. Caraccio, Raphael, Petrarch, 
 Politian, and Rubens were among their warmest admirers ; Halley, the astronomer, 
 was no mean medallist; and Flaxman, who himself possessed a collection, was 
 delighted with some of the coins in the cabinet here described. Upon medals are 
 preserved the entire forms of many ancient edifices, and the attitudes and figures of 
 the most celebrated statues, executed and grouped with a bold and elegant exertion 
 of mind as well as of the eye and hand. " In devices of this nature," says Addison, 
 "one sees a pretty poetical invention, and may often find as much thought on the 
 reverse of a medal as in a Canto of Spencer/' The types on the obverse relate to 
 its great subject — the Emperor, whose likeness it bears ; and the legends round his 
 bust generally show what part he took in the administration of public affairs; what 
 civil offices he bore ; how many times he had been Consul, or had exercised the 
 
( viii ) 
 
 Tribunitiao Power; and how often he had been saluted " Imperator" by the army. 
 On the reverse we find recorded — if he were a man of enterprise and ambition, his 
 exploits ; if mild and provident, his benefits ; — thus they not only register the great 
 military and imperial acts, but also those of peace and utility — such as a remission 
 of taxes, the opening of a road, repairing a port, raising an edifice, or celebration 
 of a festival. In a word, the large-brass series exhibits most faithful and striking 
 portraits of the Emperors, Empresses, and other celebrated personages, for more than 
 three centuries, with their habits and implements ; many of them in a style of 
 beauty, boldness, and vigour, which few Greek coins can surpass ; and realizing 
 the "quantum rerum, quantum exemplorum, quantum antiquitatis tenet "of 
 Pliny. The ordinary devices may be classed under the following heads: — 
 
 f Deities, moral virtues, temples, pontifical offices. 
 1. Religious. < Altars, sacrifices, sacerdotal implements. 
 
 ( Funereal pyres, consecrations, apotheoses. 
 
 S Provinces, colonies, cities, rivers, ports, bridges. 
 Indigencies, largesses, remissions of taxes, privileges. 
 Secular and circus games, naumachise, combats of wild animals. 
 
 ( Victories, adlocutions, alliances, expeditions, triumphs. 
 3. Military. < Arrivals, departures, legions, armies, battles, oaths of fealty. 
 
 £ Implements of war, ships, standards, trophies, titles of honour. 
 
 The Large-Brass series comprises the whole of what is termed "the Higher 
 Empire/* from Julius Csesar to Gallienus, and exhibits Roman art from the dawn 
 of its perfection to the eve of its decline. The facts thus recorded are also clear 
 and satisfactory, not obscured by the dense mists with which the stream of time 
 too often throws an impenetrable gloom over the pages of history; nor is the 
 antiquary here uselessly labouring with a slender string of conjectures to fathom 
 the depths of an interminable abyss, as frequently occurs in attempts to trace an 
 object through the obscurity of remote ages, where the mind is too prone to follow 
 glimmering and dubious lights. It is true that the Senate, in servile adulation, 
 prostituted the arts by conferring honours on the most depraved of men ; and 
 while the obverse of a medal was made subservient to ambition, the reverse was 
 degraded with flattery ; hence the Emperors were often represented as clothed with 
 all the majesty of Jupiter himself, and the Empresses usually figured as those 
 goddesses, whose attributes were ascribed to them by conceit or obsequiousness. 
 
 From this license of adulation the Moderation of Tiberius, the Clemency of 
 Vitellius, the Triumphs of Domitian, the Conquests of Verus, and the Piety of 
 Elagabalus, might induce a Novice to rank them with the Vespasians, the Nervas, the 
 Trajans, the Antonines, and the Alexanders. But here the judgment must be exer- 
 cised by a reciprocal examination of medallic and historic evidence : as the brass 
 
( i* ) 
 
 coinage was under the express direction of the Senate, both satire and obscenity were 
 curbed ; but its productions commemorate as well as tyranny, servility, and blood, 
 .acts of benevolence, piety, and utility ; — while all these various facts and attributes 
 are expressed by legends of such admirable force and brevity, as to convey in a few 
 abbreviated words and appropriate symbols more than is found in whole pages of 
 the historian. These coins, moreover, furnish an invaluable commentary on 
 ancient writers, by explaining ambiguous statements, confirming dates, authenti- 
 cating records, and rendering the testimony of history conclusive. " By the aid of 
 coins you teach posterity the events of my reign," are words ascribed to Theodoric, 
 by Cassiodorus. A conviction of this, added to the beauty and value of a collection 
 received from my friend Mr. J. C. Ross, of Malta, made me relinquish the dubious 
 pursuit of Greek Colonies, which I had entered upon, and confine myself to the 
 Large-Brass series. But I must confess that my attachment is to the certain eera 
 of Roman History ; for I never believed in iEneas and his Trojan colony ; nor 
 Romulus and Remus, and the Wolf, their nurse; nor the rape of the Sabines ; nor 
 the Falerii surrendering their liberties because a pedagogue was scourged. No faith 
 can be placed in virgins heaving up ships high and dry ; in the cutting of flints with 
 razors; in the contest of the Horatii and Curatii ; in the patriotic leap of Curtius ; 
 in the story of Horatius Codes ; in that of the Gauls and cackling geese; in the 
 rape of Lucretia ; in the uncomfortable tub of Regulus ; nor indeed in a tythe of 
 the magnanimous impostures and splendid improbabilities, which are said to have 
 happened five hundred years before there were historians in Rome, and confidently 
 repeated after the public documents had been destroyed. 
 
 While mentioning that the early history of Rome, like that of other countries, 
 is enveloped in doubt, fiction, and improbability, a sailor may allude to a " vulgar 
 error," which has obtained, though the historian who transmitted it, has also left 
 its refutation. This is the amusing story of the Romans being entirely ignorant 
 of sea affairs, till they got hold of a wrecked galley, and that then, by a system 
 of " dry-rowing " they became at once a first-rate naval power, and assumed the 
 dominion of the seas. Now it is well known that some of their earliest money 
 bore the prow of a galley on its reverse; that Ancus Martius, the fourth king of 
 Rome, assigned certain woods for the express purpose of ship-building ; that the fleet 
 of Antium was captured and moored in a reach of the Tiber expressly set apart for 
 the construction of shipping, two hundred years before the victory of Duilius ; that 
 a Roman fleet was defeated off Tarentum B.C. 279 ; and that in a treaty made with 
 the Carthaginians, immediately after the expulsion of the Tarquins, it was stipulated 
 that neither the Romans nor their allies should sail beyond the "Pulchrum 
 
( x ) 
 
 Promontorium." Even the judicious Polybius, who would make us believe that the 
 Republican gallies emerged from obscurity so suddenly, and blazed forth a meteor 
 of naval power, has also given us transcripts of two other treaties of nearly the same 
 tenor and effect with the one just quoted. Shipwrights cannot be made by mere 
 intuition, nor sailors by dry-rowing ; nor would Decius Mus's motion, for the 
 appointment of two Commissioners of the Navy, have been carried B. C. 304, 
 had there been neither arsenals, ships, nor marine stores. 
 
 There are persons who think it lost time to study antiquities with ardour, or 
 tremble at the sneers of those who have no taste for such pursuits. But tastes 
 surely are only deserving of contempt, or condemnation, when they are nugatory 
 or mischievous, and whatever really increases our stock of knowledge cannot be 
 brought under either of those categories. Medals, moreover, besides the light they 
 throw upon former times, are highly interesting as works of art ; and, furnishing 
 a history of it from its infancy to its decay, they offer a comprehensive, varied, and 
 elegant amusement, less expensive and more convenient than either that of painting 
 or sculpture. A love of the fine arts has been cultivated by men distinguished 
 for their talents, from a very early period. Scipio Africanus, Lucullus, Julius Caesar, 
 and Augustus, were among the best antiquaries of Rome : Caesar's collection excel- 
 ling in Cameos, and that of his successor, in Vases. Vibius Rufus, the fourth 
 husband of Terentia, boasted, with the exultation of a Stukely, that he possessed 
 two of the greatest curiosities in the world — a woman who had been Cicero's wife, 
 and the chair in which the great dictator had been stabbed. Lucian tells us that 
 the Earthen lamp which Epictetus used, was sold for the extravagant sum of 3000 
 drachmas. Juvenal longed for a portrait of Hannibal, that most sagacious, wary, 
 and magnanimous warrior — of whom it is lamentable to say, no medal exists ; and 
 in the spirit of a true antiquary describes the Roman soldier breaking a stolen vase 
 to decorate the phalerae, or trappings of his horse : — 
 
 ** Then the rough soldier, yet untaught by Greece, 
 To hang enraptured o'er a finish'd piece, 
 If haply, mid' the congregated spoils, 
 (Proof of his power, and guerdon of his toils,) 
 Some antique vase of master-hands were found, 
 Would dash the glittering bauble on the ground ; 
 That, in new forms, the molten fragments drest, 
 Might blaze illustrious round his courser's chest." 
 
 The poet then adds in an animated strain, that the soldier might have employed 
 the fragments of the vase, in decorating his own helmet, and having the story of 
 Rome, such as the descent of Mars to Rhea, or the Wolf and twins, represented 
 upon it. Here his words " pendentisque dei," which sorely puzzle the commen- 
 tators, are aptly enough interpreted by a second-brass coin of Antoninus Pius, 
 
( xi ) 
 
 which Addison has figured in his " Travels," but which had also been published 
 and illustrated by Oiselius. The late Mr. Gifford, whose translation of Juvenal has 
 just been quoted, says — "I have followed Mr. Addison's explanation of this pas- 
 sage," — but he adds — "I am no medallist, and can therefore say nothing as to 
 the genuineness of the coin." This candid confession of an able writer, is noticed 
 in exemplification of what I advanced respecting the ignorance of even classical 
 scholars, on the subject of medals and inscriptions: for there can be no good reason 
 why one, whose principal study was Juvenal, should not have gained some insight 
 of a pursuit which would have proved one of the best guides in explaining various 
 difficult passages of his author. Even the allusion of the Satirist himself, might 
 have awakened attention : — 
 
 " Concisum aigentum in titulos, faciesque minutas." 
 
 In thus asserting the utility of this study as furnishing the most valuable illus- 
 trations and irrefragable proofs of the truth of History, some brief remarks upon 
 money in general may not be deemed inadmissible — especially as there are several 
 other coinages, besides the Large-Brass, mentioned in the course of this Catalogue ; 
 and it is evident that no particular series can be treated of, without allusion to its 
 monetary connexions. 
 
 It has been warmly disputed, whether what are usually termed medals of the 
 Roman Empire were current money, or merely testimonials of the glory of its 
 princes; but it would seem that they must have constituted the cash of the realm, 
 for otherwise it may be asked, " what has become of the current coin ?" And these 
 pieces are not met with here and there one, but are found by tens, and hundreds, 
 and thousands. Among the moderns, the difference between coins and medals is 
 sufficiently obvious, because they are expressly distinguished both by their execution 
 and object. But the same rule cannot be applied to ancient money. Even the 
 very origin of the terms is questionable. Vossius derives the word medal from 
 " metallum ;" Scaliger, whose position is quite untenable, from the Arabic 
 " metalia;" and Du Cange, with a far-fetched derivation, from " mediates nummi," 
 as being half of another piece. Coin is deduced from "cuneus," a primitive 
 wedge-shaped ingot; or, according to Coke, from the French word "coin," 
 because ancient money was square, and therefore cornered. 
 
 In commerce, the term money is the well-known one for any representation of 
 property, that acts as a circulating medium at a value affixed by public authority ; 
 but among numismatists, it is nearly confined to the produce of the mint; and 
 coins and medals differ therefrom, only as the species, from the genus. Money 
 performs a function essential to the exigencies of civil society, and is probably 
 
( xii ) 
 
 coeval with it, though the earliest mention which we find of a deliberate interchange, 
 is the four hundred shekels of silver, " current money," (probably weighed pieces,) 
 which were paid by Abraham for a burial ground. The Romans appear to have 
 borrowed their coinage from the Etruscans, and to have improved it from the Greeks. 
 They began to stamp coins about 550, B. C. and their first money, according to 
 the unsatisfactory summary of Pliny, was impressed with an ox, a ram, or a boar, 
 and was therefore called pecunia. This was succeeded by the class Ratiti, which 
 comprehended the as Hbralis and its divisions : the as itself usually bore the head 
 of Janus, and weighed twelve ounces ; the semis or half as, that of Jupiter ; the 
 triens or third of an as, that of Pallas ; the quadrans or fourth of an as, that of 
 Hercules ; the sextans or sixth of an as, that of Mercury ; the uncia or twelfth 
 of an as, that of Roma ; and all of them had varieties which bore the prow of a 
 galley upon the reverse — whence the "capita aut ?iavia" of the Roman boys. 
 Of the compounds, the bissas, or old dupondius, was two ases ; the tressis or 
 tripondius, three ; the quadrassis, four ; and the decussis, ten : and when the as 
 was reduced and termed libella, it seems that pieces of five ounces were struck, 
 called quincunx. 
 
 It was long however before the effigies of princes were placed upon money ; 
 and for some ages the consular coins bore only the head of Roma, with a Victory 
 in a car drawn by two, or four horses, and were called Victoriati, Bigati, or 
 Quadrigati, according to their device. Yet Isodorus asserts that money was called 
 JYummus, because King Numa ordered his name and image to be put upon it. 
 Erizzo, and he is followed by the visionary Hardouin, absurdly supposes that none 
 of the medals now found were cash, because the Emperors and Empresses would 
 have thought themselves dishonoured, by having their likenesses placed upon coins 
 which were to be circulated among the people: but Aristotle might have taught 
 him, that such a measure was of public utility, since it was the most solemn pledge 
 that the specie was of due weight and proper alloy, thereby saving the trouble of 
 weighing and measuring; and that no means were better adapted to restrain forgers, 
 because it made the alteration of the money a personal insult to the sovereign. 
 We learn from Dio, that the Senate ordered the head of Caesar to be stamped upon 
 the money, and he was the first living personage, who had the high honour of 
 having his effigy placed on a Roman medal. Suetonius affirms that the current 
 coin of Augustus had his head on one side, with a Capricorn on the other ; and the 
 Evangelist, St. Matthew, distinctly says, that the tribute-money which the Jews paid 
 to the Romans, bore the Emperor's " likeness." The mention of the " penny " 
 or rather denarius, in the Gospel, and the numerous coins which bear counter- 
 
( xiii ) 
 
 marks, are sufficient evidence that these coins were current, at a value which was 
 regulated or altered by authority of the government. 
 
 From these considerations, and the difficulty of clearly distinguishing- them, I 
 have used the terms coin and medal as synonimous, in ancient Numismatics, according 
 to the practice of the best judges ; who agree that medallions only were not current, 
 their magnitude and high relief rendering them unfit for use. The last opinion, 
 however, though almost general, is not universally admitted ; for although medallions 
 are ponderous, far from uniform in weight, few in number, and without the S. C. 
 of the other coins, many persons have considered them as likely to have been current 
 money, as the cistophori, or medals stamped with the mystic basket of Bacchus — 
 and the tetradrachmce of Greece. They may, indeed, have been struck as pied-forts, 
 or proofs of skill, and for recording events of particular interest, similar to modern 
 medals, and as such were given away or scattered, with the other missilia, at games, 
 triumphs, and public ceremonies. Suetonius describes Augustus as presenting his 
 favourites with " Nammus omnis notce >> in the Saturnalian festivals; and we 
 cannot doubt but that medallions were the " nummi maximi" with which Lucius 
 Vertis pelted the drinking glasses in the " tabernre." 
 
 This promiscuous use of the terms coin and medal is not the only liberty which 
 I have taken in regard to style : such words as sedent, alate, module, spread, nu- 
 mismatist, and tooling, may appear harsh to the general reader, but among medal- 
 lists they have become familiar. It is not uncommon to call the legend, or "soul 
 of the medal," a fascia, perhaps from the titles of prints having formerly been 
 inscribed on ribands ; and I have sometimes adopted the term although I dislike it. 
 The words characteristic and portrait will be found somewhat improperly introduced, 
 but nevertheless, consistently with very common usage; and some difficulty has 
 arisen in rendering Latin proper names into English by apocope, custom having 
 rendered familiar such as Tully, Pliny, Horace, Ovid, Virgil, Livy, Terence — 
 while Statius, Tacitus, Ausonius, Prudentius, and others, retain their original 
 orthography. The epithets of symbol and device are often used indifferently in 
 the following descriptions, although the former signifies, strictly speaking, a practical 
 or figured metaphor — and the latter an allegory ; the one simple, the other com- 
 plex — whence it follows that figures on medals are devices — and hieroglyphics are 
 symbols. The implements and various portions of dress may savour of parade, 
 from being introduced in their own language; but we have no English terms that 
 aptly correspond. "Blanket dress" is but a mean interpretation of the Roman 
 toga ; and a scholar will disdain to receive Obadiah Walker's " platter " for the 
 patera, or his " water-pot " for the prcefericulum. 
 
( xiv ) 
 
 In some points I have ventured to depart from what may be considered as 
 established usage, when it seemed to be grounded on error. Thus I have not 
 rendered parazonium by truncheon, because, although a badge of command, it 
 appears to have been a sceptral sword rather than that instrument. I cannot agree 
 that the bird over the grotto, on No. CCXIII. is the one which is dedicated to 
 Mars, under the name of Picus Martius ; and though opposite opinions may obtain 
 many suffrages, the idea of the fulmen possessing the triple power of piercing, 
 melting, and burning, may be considered as borne out by ancient writers. Pinkerton 
 insists that the thensa and carpentum are essentially different: now, although the 
 former was used for cars which merely carried images, it was also called Carpentum 
 Pompaticum, and either might be used without great impropriety. The same 
 author is also astonished at a " fact " which "can never be explained by anti- 
 quarians," that of a sword never being seen upon Roman coins : yet several examples 
 to the contrary may be referred to in the Index of this Catalogue. 
 
 It may also seem that I have been too discursive — too partial to Latin quotations, 
 and too prone to repetition : but the first arose from the interest of the study, and 
 the conflicting tenour of the evidence that was examined ; the second is assuredly 
 allowable for the illustration of Latin medals ; and the third is owing to the very 
 nature of a Catalogue, where every medal is intended to be identified, and to serve 
 as a reference independent of the others. One great object of this undertaking was 
 to give such an outline of the reigns, which these medals illustrate, as to shew clearly 
 how much the truth and accuracy of history is ascertained, by the aid of such col- 
 lections. To come to a right conclusion, no labour was spared : almost every writer 
 from iEneas Vico, in 1548, to Mr. Akerman in 1834, was consulted, and the pains 
 bestowed upon the date assigned to each memorable event, were such as could not 
 be imagined by those who have never been engaged in similar pursuits. The 
 technical terms, many of which will be new to persons who are not conversant with 
 numismatic works, may be referred to in the Index at the end of the book ; but it 
 may assist the general reader, to plare those which relate to the several parts of a 
 medal, in one view : — 
 
 Adversa, two heads facing each other. 
 
 iErugo, the fine rust or varnish. 
 
 jErugo nobilis, the perfection of patina. 
 
 Bruise, a break, or injury in the patina. 
 
 Area, the field or surface. 
 
 Device, the figure represented. 
 
 Engrailment, the ring of dots round the edge. 
 
 Exergum, or Exergue, the lower part divided by a line from the area. 
 
( xv ) 
 
 Fabric, the proportions and workmanship. 
 
 Field, the surface or area. 
 
 Flower of a medal — its patina. 
 
 Front, the obverse, or head side. 
 
 Inscription, that which is written across the field. 
 
 Jugata, two heads side by side, or joining 
 
 Legend, , that which is written round the field. 
 
 Module, comparative size of a medal. 
 
 Obverse, the front, or head side. 
 
 Portrait, used, though somewhat improperly, for likeness 
 
 Patina, the smooth coloured varnish of time. 
 
 Reverse,.. the opposite side to the obverse. 
 
 Round, not much misshapen in minting. 
 
 Spread, a large adjustment of dimensions. 
 
 Type, the figure represented. 
 
 Verge, the uppci uv luwei edge of the area. 
 
 The following hints respecting the Roman mint, as connected with the coins of 
 the class here described, will not probably appear displaced, though it is far from the 
 author's intention to enter largely on the subject of medals in general. The im- 
 perial coinage consisted of pieces struck in gold, silver, and various modifications of 
 copper. Of these, the Sestertii, or large-brass, consist entirely of a fine yellow brass 
 called orichalcum, the latten of former ages, which was valued at double the ratio of 
 the " i£s Cyprium," or copper of the dupondii, or second brass. The size of the 
 Sestertius allows a sufficient scope for the artist in the delineation of portraits and 
 figures ; and the intrinsic value of the series is greatly enhanced by the skill with 
 which these coins are executed. From the reign of Augustus, to that of Nero, the 
 style progressively improves, and from the time of Vespasian, to that of Hadrian and 
 the Antonines, the devices are so excellent and simple that, compared with most 
 modern medals, it is the difference between the touch of genius and the effort of 
 labour — like what is seen on comparing the indignant Apollo of the Vatican, with 
 the fall of the rebel angels, shewn at Padua, that fantastic pyramid of legs and other 
 limbs, where exquisite skill is unable to redeem defective taste. From the death of 
 Com mod us — the last and unworthy descendant of the Antonines — art declines till the 
 reigns of Alexander Severus and the Gordians, from which time, though with 
 occasional gleams of revival, it falls rapidly into degradation ; the artists of the Lowet 
 Empire having been more busied with embroidery, than with sculpture or medals. 
 
 Although the Sestertii only are made of brass, it is usual to class the three 
 sizes of iEs into Large, Middle, and Small-Brass ; the two last of which, though 
 inferior to their " proud sister" in price and dignity, are numerous, valuable; 
 
( xvi ) 
 
 and of great beauty, filling 1 up many an hiatus with portraits that are found in no 
 other series, and bringing History far down into the Lower Empire. Besides these, 
 there are instances of " Two Coppers,'' in which medals are hooped round, as it were, 
 with a different metal from that of which they are formed ; and there are specimens 
 of lead money, which, notwithstanding what is said by Plautus and Martial, are only 
 classed as trial-pieces, and ancient forgeries — though Ficoroni in his "Piombi An- 
 tichi," pleads for their admission to higher notice. 
 
 The Sestertius was in use from the reign of Augustus to that of Gallienus ; though 
 from the days of Caracal la, it was gradually diminished in weight, until it became 
 little more than a third of its original size. Under the Thirty Tyrants it disappeared ; 
 but an attempt was made to supply its place in Diocletian's time, by a coin called 
 follis, which, however, seems to have weighed but half an ounce, and was worth forty 
 of the small pieces called JWoumia. In the Augustan era, the Sestertius was about 
 an ounce in weight, and was nearly equal in value to two-pence of our present 
 money : it was, in its subdivisions, equivalent to sixteen quadrantes, eight sembelli, 
 or four dupondii; — while a denarius was valued at four Sestertii, and an aureus at 
 a hundred and twenty. 
 
 The composition of the metal of the Roman brass medals, has excited much 
 inquiry, both on account of its durability and the patina which it acquires ; and 
 several able chemists have submitted it to a severe analysis. By Professor Klaproth's 
 experiments, the following results were obtained : — 
 
 No. 1. A large-brass of Vespasian, reverse, Roma 360 grains. 
 
 2 Trajan, Vesta 382 
 
 3 Trajan, Vesta 365 
 
 No. 1. No. 2. No. 3. 
 
 Copper , 293 326 294 
 
 Zinc 59 53 60 
 
 Lead 4 3 11 
 
 Tin 3 
 
 Iron 1 
 
 360 382 365 
 
 The Professor has here allowed nothing for loss, on which account the analysis 
 of the late Mr. Parkes, may be preferable : — 
 
 spec. gray. grs. grs. 
 
 No. 1. Agrippina, reverse, a Thensa, 8*551. ...weight 303.. ..submitted to analysis 55 
 
 2. Claudius, Spes, 8*559 369 62 
 
 3. Vespasian, Spes, 8*459 370 56 
 
 4. Nerva, Fortuna, .... 8*746 399 66-5 
 
 5. Trajan, A horseman, 8*648 373 373 
 
 6. Commodus, Salus, 8*728 381 67 
 
( xvii ) 
 
 No. 1. No. 2. No. 3. No. 4 No. 5. No. 6. 
 
 Copper 49 00 54-00 42'00 50-00 322-00 52 00 
 
 Tin 1-78 2-37 1-58 3-15 12 60 3-55 
 
 Zinc 3-26 4 08 11-41 10 79 29 34 4-89 
 
 Lead 00 00 00 00 6-84 5 46 
 
 Iron 00 09 00 2-39 00 > 
 
 Loss 0-96 1-46 1 01 0-17 2 22 $ 1 w 
 
 55-00 (52-GO 5G-00 60-50 373-00 6703 
 
 In making a collection of Sestertii, it is a general rule to admit none but those 
 hi the finest condition, except in cases of extreme necessity. No pseudo-monetw, 
 or pieces struck in imitation of the true coinage, such as contorniates, or tokens for 
 admission into the theatre, nor other missilia, should be included in a large-brass 
 series ; and second-brass Greek-Imperial medals, which are those with the head of a 
 Roman Emperor struck in Greece, and Colonial coins, are also to be rejected. In 
 this collection, however, the above rules have not been rigidly observed, as it appeared 
 better to depart from them in a few instances, than leave the series of Emperors and 
 Imperial families incomplete. I have therefore permitted one silver medallion, four 
 Greek-Imperial, two Colonial, and nine middle-brass, to be quartered on a cabinet 
 of six hundred medals. In a national collection, it is proper to admit all similar 
 reverses, wherein the slightest difference can be discovered ; but as it is desirable to 
 reduce the bulk of a private cabinet within certain limits, and to afford as much 
 variety as possible in a given compass, such only have been retained in this, as were 
 remarkable for their beauty, rarity, or interest ; and they are placed chronologically 
 as being in a more useful order, though less convenient for reference, than the alpha- 
 betical arrangement commonly adopted ; or that in which the devices follow eacli 
 other, in sequences of Virtues, Deeds, and Edifices. If such a principle of selection 
 be not followed, the extent of this series may be increased almost without limit ; as 
 among many thousands of large-brass coins, apparently exact counterparts of each 
 other, scarcely two will be found which came from the same die. As to the cause 
 of this singular fact, for which I can vouch after many tedious hours of patient inves- 
 tigation, and which may justly be called the "pons asinorum" of Numismatology, I 
 can only say, borrowing the words of St. Augustin — " Rem vidi, cattsam nonvidi.^ 
 The preservation of medals is a grand desideratum, since they are collected not 
 merely because they are old, but also because they are elegant, and explanatory in 
 proportion to their perfection ; a state not a little secured by the patina that covers 
 them, which, while it ornaments, effectually protects them from further injury by its 
 hardness, and yet does not conceal the most delicate touches of the design. This 
 
( xviii ) 
 
 exquisite rust, or rather varnish of ages, is called the "Flower of Brass " from 
 ^«a*ou clvBcs, an elegant Greek phrase thus applied, because, as Galen says, it 
 effloresces from Chalcitis, or copper ore. It is of the most rich and varied colours, 
 green, olive, black, brown, red, yellow, and blue, in tints of many shades and 
 intensities; and so difficult to imitate, as to set all the attempts of the Falsarii 
 utterly at defiance. Such pieces as are most finely patinated, are usually termed the 
 " Flowers" of the Cabinet. 
 
 Little variety occurs in the devices of Roman medals before the age of Augustus, 
 and those few are mostly executed in a harsh style. This circumstance induces a 
 supposition that the pleasing gold and silver series called "Family, or Consular 
 coins," are contemporaneous with, and posterior to that Prince. If so, they are useless 
 as regarding any chronological arrangement ; nor are they much better in their 
 heraldic character, as the representations were not blazoned at the time of action, 
 but were affixed according to the dictates of pride, or the desire to record the exploits 
 of their ancestors, by the descendants nf the founder nf each family. Such a pro- 
 cedure, from obvious reasons, would often amplify truth : " for my part," says Livy, 
 " I suppose that the histories of these things have been corrupted by funeral orations 
 and false inscriptions on images, every family endeavouring to ascribe to themselves 
 the glory of performing gallant exploits, and obtaining honours by specious but unfair 
 representations." But the integrity of the Imperial coinage is less questionable ; and 
 the fidelity of the portraits preserved to us, in this series, is very manifest on 
 comparing different coins of the same personage, from the medallion to the 
 quinarius; so much so, that the gradual change from youth to age is distinctly 
 marked ; and the individual can be immediately recognized, though the legend be 
 totally effaced. These portraits are all in profile, which is an admirable position 
 for medallic convenience ; and it is worthy of remark that, at the commencement 
 of a reign, it was not unusual to represent the new prince under a flattering likeness 
 of his predecessor. 
 
 Besides the representation of their deities, the Romans, for identity, add their 
 names in bold characters ; a practice which, it has been said, was avoided by the 
 superior delicacy of the Greeks : it would however have saved many useless con- 
 jectures, had the latter been less sparing of their explanations. 
 
 Some persons have been deterred from collecting, under the dread of being 
 imposed upon by counterfeits, and look with suspicion upon every medal which is 
 in any thing like a perfect state. This apprehension, however, is a feeling which 
 subsides upon acquaintance with good collections ; an experienced eye acqufres 
 the power of ready discrimination, and that power it is as easy to gain by practice. 
 
( x ' x ) 
 
 as it would be difficult to teach it by theory. Pere Vionnet, a Jesuit, published a 
 poem at Lyons, in 1734, under the title of" Museum Nummarium," die fifth part 
 of which is devoted to rules for the examination of adulterated medals. This poem 
 was followed, five years afterwards, by the essay of Mons. Beauvais, on the detection 
 of false coins, in which some good general precepts are given ; though, as he also 
 observes, a little handling is necessary together with reading. 
 
 The Romans, according to Alexis Pancton, were the first who taught mankind 
 the "criminal art" of debasing the precious metals ; but there the learned mathe- 
 matician was wrong', for the alloy is to be traced up to Philip of Macedou, it 
 having been soon found, that a certain amalgam was necessary to render gold less 
 liable to loss by abrasion and friction, than it would be in its ductile purity : nor 
 can we suppose that Hiero's goldsmith was indebted to Rome for the suggestion 
 of this fraud. The Roman silver was certainly greatly debased ; but the aureus 
 was very pure, from its earliest coinage until the reign of Severus, and was then 
 deteriorated only in a few instances, the weight fluctuating rather than the standard ; 
 whence, as with Darics and Jittic drachmas, they were in great esteem in cur- 
 rency. Integrity of metal made some coins longcurrent throughout the world, whose 
 unseemly appearance was not consonant with the state of the arts in their respective 
 countries ; but the old dies were continued in order that the barbarian traders 
 might not take alarm. In like manner the guineas of England, the ducats of 
 Holland, and the doubloons and dollars of Spain, have passed current in all parts 
 of the globe ; and from a similar cause, our early silver pemiies had a long run, 
 excelling in fabric and metal, during many reigns, the Italian and French coins of 
 the same period. The Venetian sequins were of such high character, that Dante pro- 
 phecies the evil appearance which Ratza will make, at the day of judgment, for 
 counterfeiting them — and that badly : — 
 
 "Che male aggiusto '1 conio di Vinegia." 
 
 The most shameless forgeries have been rather inventions than imitations, and 
 would scarcely deceive a novice ; such were medals bearing the heads of Priam, 
 Plato, iEneas, Hannibal, Scipio, Marius, Crassus, Cicero, and Virgil ; giving new 
 reverses to known heads, as Veni, Vidi, Vici to Caesar ; Fesiina lente, with an 
 anchor and dolphin, or a terminus on a thunderbolt, expressive of stability and 
 velocity, to Augustus ; the Pantheon, on a coin of Agrippa ; and the Pons JElius, 
 and Expeditio Judaica, on those of Hadrian. Yet, gross as these attempts were, 
 Paul IV. purchased several of them from Pietro Galileo at exorbitant prices. Some 
 medals are very ingeniously "altered" by tooling, and legends and likenesses are 
 substituted with wonderful skill : thus a worthless Claudius, struck at Antioch, 
 is converted into an Otho ; an Egyptian Faustina into a Titiana ; a Vespasian into 
 
( xx ) 
 
 a Vitellius; a Julia Pia into a Didia Clara; a Colonial Macrinus into a Pescennius 
 Niger; a Julia Mamsea into a Tranquillina ; a Severus into a Pertinax ; young 
 Gordian into an Africanus ; and Philip the elder into an JEmilianus. At other 
 times common coins of a particular reign were melted down, to supply metal for 
 recasting rarer ones of the same Emperor; and new Jlans, or unstamped pieces, 
 have thus been supplied for the graver. When the false medal is thus produced, 
 the sand-spots, harsh-lines, ill-made characters, file-marks, and other defects, are 
 carefully covered with an artificial varnish, so as to impose on the credulity of the 
 young collector. But the last of these stratagems is the vulnerable point, for human 
 art has failed in its imitations of patina. In vain have the spurious fabrications been 
 buried in different kinds of earths, in vain have the most skilful applications of 
 acids and burnt paper been used — the fictitious varnish never acquires the true 
 colour, hardness, or polish, of that which is produced by age. Cast coins are also 
 lighter than the true ones, and the Paduan forgeries are thinner than genuine 
 medals, while the letters of the legends want certain peculiarities that are well 
 known to an experienced eye. 
 
 As the cracks on the flan, occasioned by the blow which it receives in minting, 
 are considered by many persons as undoubted proofs of the genuineness of a coin, 
 great pains have been taken to imitate them. All file-marks are carefully worked 
 off the edges, and an earthy substance is applied in order to give the appearance of 
 age ; but those marks cannot be considered as certain indications of forgery, since 
 they are met with on medals which are undoubtedly true, and therefore must have 
 been made by the Romans themselves. A subtle mode of deception, and one to 
 be detected only by close examination, is that of splitting a coin in two, and then 
 joining the opposite parts of two coins together, so as to apply the reverse of one to 
 the obverse of another. Most collectors prize those medals very highly which have 
 a head on each side, yet surely an ingenious device is preferable, and in this 
 cabinet, limited as it is, few such have been admitted. Many of these bicipitous 
 coins have been formed by the artifice mentioned above : thus Faustina Senior's 
 head has been impacted to an Antoninus Pius ; her daughter to that of Marcus 
 Aurelius ; Crispina to Commodus ; and Otacilia to Philip ; so that the unwary 
 purchaser supposes that he has a man and his wife upon the same piece. I have 
 had specimens of all these, so excellently finished as to require very minute inspec- 
 tion to detect the fraud : but the best forgery that has fallen in my way was an 
 Alexander, with the rare legend " Potestas perpetua " round a seated Security, which 
 I purchased as a true coin, though it had a shade of stiffness about it, nor was its 
 falsity quite manifest until the graver was applied. 
 
 These formidable obstacles, however, are not insurmountable, and the collector 
 will soon discover, that the dextrous talent shown by Cavino, Gambello, Cellini, 
 
( xxi ) 
 
 Carteron, and other Jalsarii, has been met by equal skill and more knowledge on 
 the part of learned antiquaries. 
 
 I cannot close this slight introduction, without acknowledging the gratification 
 and benefit which I have received from a circle of valued friends, whose talents 
 constitute a mine of classical, philosophical, and numismatic lore : and in men- 
 tioning the names of the Rev. G. C. Renouard, Mr. F. Douce, Mr. N. Carlisle, 
 the Rev. Dr. P. Hunt, the Rev. T. S. Hughes, Dr. J. Lee, Mr. W. R. Hamilton, 
 Mr. T. Burgon, Mr. G. Musgrave, Mr. E. Hawkins, Mr. T. Thomas, Mr. C. F. 
 Barnwell, and Mr. P. E. Turnbull, my obligations will at once be understood. 
 To Messrs. Renouard and Carlisle such thanks are particularly due ; the former 
 having kindly borne with incessant inquiries, and entered upon my pursuit with 
 the intelligence of a scholar, and the zeal of an antiquary ; while the latter, in 
 throwing open the stores of the King's library, has, during an intercourse of many 
 years, displayed the partiality of a friend, with the judgment of a tutor. The late 
 Mr. Douce, who only a month previous to his demise had offered the celebrated 
 Rothelin series of the coins of Probus for my acceptance, was at all times ready to 
 exhibit his books and medals ; and the talented officers of the British Museum 
 have ever evinced the same feeling. To the Marquess of Bute, I consider myself 
 bound to return thanks for his courtesy and liberality, in giving me the entree 
 to his magnificent library at Luton Hoo, and to Dr. Lee for a similar privilege to 
 the library of Hartwell House—more especially as both are rich in works on 
 Numismatology. The splendid cabinet of Greek medals, collected and scientifically 
 arranged by Mr. Burgon, of Brunswick Square, has been open to consultation ; as was 
 also the princely collection of Mr. Thomas, who obligingly permitted me to have 
 the engraving of his matchless Britannia made, which adorns the title-page of this 
 Catalogue. And it were ungrateful not to add, that the stores of Messrs. Young and 
 Till, the well-known dealers in Medals, have been most readily submitted to my 
 inspection, at all seasons. 
 
 In conclusion, it is trusted that the following pages, though treating only of 
 Roman Medals, will shew the pleasure and satisfaction which the cultivation of 
 such a source of amusement affords to the traveller, and the navigator, when led 
 by their peregrinations into regions teeming with these valuable monuments of 
 ancient times, under circumstances which preclude the possibility of their having 
 been forged, at least by modems, while their intrinsic characters give them the 
 indisputable stamp of genuineness. Nor are those whose destiny detains them at 
 their hearths, denied this gratification, since medals may be purchased of honourable 
 dealers at reasonable prices ; and the occasional sales whicli take place in London, 
 put the gleanings of Europe before them. 
 
( xxii ) 
 
 CONTENTS OF THE CABINET. 
 
 Number of 
 NAMES. Medals. 
 
 Julius Caesar 3 
 
 Augustus 8 
 
 Livia 3 
 
 Agrippa , 2 
 
 Julia Aug. F 1 
 
 Tiberius 7 
 
 Drusus Junior 2 
 
 Drusus Senior 2 
 
 Antonia , 1 
 
 Gevmanicus 2 
 
 Agiippina Senior ,. 3 
 
 Nero and Drusus Caesars „... 1 
 
 Caligula 4 
 
 Claudius 6 
 
 Bntannicus , 1 
 
 Agiippina Junior 1 
 
 Nero 13 
 
 Galba „ 9 
 
 Otho 1 
 
 Vitellius 5 
 
 Vespasian 15 
 
 Domitilla 1 
 
 Titus 11 
 
 Julia Titi F 2 
 
 Domitian, 18 
 
 Nerva 1 
 
 Doniitia 12 
 
 Trajan 26 
 
 Plotina 1 
 
 Marciana 3 
 
 Matidia 1 
 
 Hadrian 48 
 
 Sabina 7 
 
 jElius Caesar 4 
 
 Antoninus Pius 41 
 
 Faustina Senior 11 
 
 Galeiius Antoninus 1 
 
 Marcus Aurelius 25 
 
 Faustina Junior 19 
 
 Annius Verus 1 
 
 Lucius Verus . 1 1 
 
 Lucilla 5 
 
 Commodus 34 
 
 Crispina 3 
 
 Pertinax , ....„ 6 
 
 Number of 
 NAMES. Medals. 
 
 Didius Julianus , 3 
 
 Manlia Scantilla 1 
 
 Didia Clara , 1 
 
 Pescennius Niger 1 
 
 Albinus „ 5 
 
 Severus 17 
 
 Julia Domna 7 
 
 Caracalla 18 
 
 Plautilla I 
 
 Geta.. 8 
 
 Macrinus 8 
 
 Diadumenianus 3 
 
 Elagabalus 10 
 
 Cornelia Paula 2 
 
 Aquilia Severa 2 
 
 Annia Faustina 1 
 
 Julia Soaemias 3 
 
 Julia Maesa , 4 
 
 Alexander , 12 
 
 Orbiana 2 
 
 Julia Mamaea 4 
 
 Maximinus 6 
 
 Paulina - 2 
 
 Maximus ,„..., 3 
 
 Gordianus Afr. Senior 3 
 
 Gordianus Afr. Junior 5 
 
 Balbinus , 5 
 
 Pupienus 7 
 
 Gordianus Pius It) 
 
 Tranquillina....... , 1 
 
 Philip Senior 12 
 
 Otacilia 3 
 
 Philip Junior 4 
 
 Decius , 6 
 
 Etruscilla 2 
 
 Herennius 3 
 
 Hostilianus 3 
 
 Trebonianus Gallus 6 
 
 Volusianus .. 4 
 
 jEmilianus , 4 
 
 Valeriaaus 5 
 
 Mariniana 1 
 
 Gallienus 6 
 
 Salonina 2 
 
 Saloninus — 2 
 
ERRATA. 
 
 In the progress of this Catalogue through the press, several of the Medals having been 
 exchanged, a confusion has ensued in some of the references. All that have been yet found 
 to be in error, as also such other mistakes as have been detected, are here enumerated, for 
 correction. 
 
 Page 
 
 10 .... /. 15, ab imo for A.D. 81 read A.D. 8. 
 
 17 .... /. 4 and 11, ab imo XXII. XXI. 
 
 19 .... /. 10,abimo CCCLXXXII CCCLXXXI. 
 
 93 .... /. 9 XVII XIV. 
 
 100 .... /. 22,abimo XVIII XV. 
 
 139 .... /. 12, ab imo CCXL1I CCXLIII. 
 
 184 .... /. 14 legend ,. legion. 
 
 189 .... /. C, ab imo XC XCI. 
 
 200 .... note CLXX1V CLXXX. 
 
 215 .... /. 21,abimo XXV XXIV. 
 
 230 ... /. 8 CCLXXIII CCLXXXH. 
 
 241 .... /. 10 on an eagle on a peacock. 
 
 251 .... /. 22 CCCLV CCCLXV. 
 
 255 .... /. 21 CCCCXXXI CCCCXXXII. 
 
 207 .... /. 8 CCCXXXVI CCCXXXV. 
 
 208 .... J. 4, ab imo CCCXXXIV CCCXXXIII. 
 
 270 .. . /. 3, ab imo CCCCXCVI CCCCXCV. 
 
 304 .... /. 11 CCCXXIII CCCXVIII. 
 
OF 
 
 A CABINET OF « LARGE - BR ASS" MEDALS 
 
 OF 
 
 IMPERIAL ROME. 
 
 M The medal faithful to its charge of fame, 
 Through climes and ages bears each form and name ; 
 In one short view, subjected to our eye, 
 Gods, Emperors, Heroes, Sages, Beauties lie." 
 
 JULIUS CiESAR. 
 
 Caius Julius Caesar, the son of C. J. Caesar and Aurelia, was born at Rome, 
 B. C. 100 ; he was created triumvir with Pompey and Crassus, B. C. 60 ; gained 
 the battle of Pharsalia, B. C. 48 ; and was assassinated in full senate, four years 
 afterwards, at the age of 56, by Brutus, — who, mistaking effect for cause, robbed 
 Rome of its noblest and most talented statesman. By the defenders of this atrocity, 
 Oesar has been pourtrayed as the betrayer of his country's liberty; nevertheless it 
 would be somewhat difficult for them to demonstrate wherein such liberty consisted. 
 He fell, according to some authors, by a doom which all tyrants deserve ; " but," 
 exclaim others, " what a notable judgment of God, upon the unnatural murderers 
 of their sovereign, that not one of them either died a natural death, or survived 
 him three years!" The act, however, may be as fairly attributed to the curious 
 breach of etiquette, examined into by Bayle, by which the Nobles were offended, 
 as to any other motive. 
 
 This illustrious captain, — who would rather be first in a village than second 
 in Rome, — was equally remarkable for vigour, vigilance, courage, clemency, and 
 magnanimity. Fifty pitched battles bore evidence to his military prowess, — as a 
 writer he is immortalized by the inimitable " Commentaries," — and as an orator, 
 his eloquence has been commemorated by the verdict that, he was only second to 
 Tully, because he pursued other objects. A man thus endued with all the com- 
 manding and engaging qualities which give ascendancy in society, must have swayed 
 the destinies of his cotemporaries in any age, or any nation. He proved himself 
 at once wary and adventurous ; as well prudent in planning, as skilful in executing ; 
 while, with an unexcelled celerity in catching advantages, he was withal so resolute 
 
 B 
 
( 2 ) 
 
 under reverses, as never to lose his perfect self-possession. The daring leader 
 crossed over to invade Britain, an island till then unknown to the Romans, though 
 the wars in Gaul and Germany were unfinished : and to ensure the passage, he 
 personally sounded the channel. He possessed wonderful abilities, and cultivated 
 them with laborious attention ; he ordered a survey of the whole world to be taken, 
 and to him the public was indebted for a reformed calendar. His memory was 
 so good, according to Cicero, that he never forgot any thing but an injury. He 
 was superior to the superstitions of augury ; and, unlike a great general of our times, 
 Cassar individually turned the tide of battle, on several occasions, when victory was 
 declaring against him. In a word, despite of his rapacity, prodigality, ambition, 
 and scandalous incontinence, he may be considered the most matchless public 
 character of all antiquity. 
 
 Many comparisons have been drawn between Caesar and his rival, — yet they 
 must always end to the disadvantage of Pompey, because, from degenerating to a 
 mere party-leader, he has left his character a solecism. While the latter proclaimed 
 all those his enemies who did not espouse his cause, the former, with a more 
 admirable foresight, declared those to be his friends who did not take up arms against 
 him. The talents of Pompey were certainly of a high order, and his address eloquent 
 and engaging ; but he was envious of the success of his colleagues, was partial to 
 ceremony, and " scratched his head with one finger. " The most glaring spots in 
 the later stages of his military career, were deficiency of firmness, and contempt of 
 his enemy.* He repudiated his wife Marcia on account of her intrigues with 
 Caesar, and then married the adulterer's daughter. Cato exclaimed against this 
 traffick in women, as one by which the dignities of the state were prostituted ; 
 but Cato, — yea, the incorruptible, the virtuous Cato, that magnifier of other men's 
 failings, — was himself a trafficker in divorce.*]" 
 
 Cfesar was the first Roman whose effigies were stamped upon coins in his 
 life-time ; and, according to Dio, this compliment was amongst the profusion of 
 honours lavished upon him, by the senate. In many of his medals there is an 
 affectation of rendering Venus the symbol of his family, for, by the same rule 
 which proved iEsop to be a Frenchman, the Julii boasted their descent from lulus, 
 the grandsou of JEneas. Upon others, the elephant is assumed, as the Punic origin 
 of the surname Caesar ; this appears a more probable derivation than that which 
 
 * " Beat them first, and despise them afterwards," was the precept of a naval commander, to a young officer, who 
 was making light of an enterprise, about to be undertaken. 
 
 f The medals of Pompey are not of great rarity, — nor, except a gold one with a bust of Africa between the lituui 
 and prcefericulum, of high price. But the only large-brass specimen is that which bears the head of Janus bi-frons, with 
 ears of wheat in the hair. The faces are likenesses of Pompey and his son Sextus. 
 
( 3 ) 
 
 Pliny gives from the surgical operation ; and we find, when the hero ascended the 
 capitol, that he was attended by forty elephants bearing torches. 
 
 The medals of Julius Ceesar, with a few exceptions, are not rare ; but their 
 value is increased in a rapid ratio by bearing the portrait, and being in unexcep- 
 tionable preservation. Though Paduan, and other forgeries, have been widely 
 circulated, and have even crept into collections and catalogues, it does not appear 
 that any large-brass medals were minted during his life ; in consequence of which 
 the following, struck by his grand-nephew Augustus, are usually placed in those 
 cabinets, where the arrangement cannot admit of gold or silver. 
 
 I. 
 
 Obverse. DIVOS IVLIVS. The head of Julius Caesar, crowned with a compact wreath of laurel. 
 
 The physiognomy is calm and expressive, and bears the stamp of about 50 years of age. 
 It was struck on the apotheosis of Caesar ; and the adoration arose as well from the opinion 
 of the people, as the decree of the senate. At the first games exhibited by Augustus, in 
 honour of the departed chief, a blazing star, or comet — the Julium Sidus of Horace, and 
 Ccesaris Astrum of Virgil, — appeared for seven days together : unde*r such excitement as 
 then existed, superstition was almost countenanced in believing it to be the soul of Caesar 
 received into heaven. The divos upon the field has been much criticised, but the O was 
 often substituted for V in that age. 
 
 Reverse. CAESAR DIVI. F. (Ccpsar divi films.) An excellent profile of Augustus, slightly 
 bearded, and without laurel : two remarkable heads for a single medal to bear. This 
 specimen was procured in Sardinia, from a numismatic friend, Cavaliere Lud. Bailie, in 
 exchange for one of Carthage ; it is in fine preservation, being covered by a dark patina 
 with red spots. From its wanting the S. C. [Senatus Constilto,) or mark of the senatorial 
 decree for its coinage, it may be questioned whether it was struck at Rome : for though 
 the emperors had the sovereign control of the gold and silver mint, that of brass was under 
 the senate. 
 
 II. 
 
 Obverse. DIVOS IVLVS, inscribed in a capacious laurel garland, bearing large berries. This coin 
 was probably struck B. C. 43 : it is covered with green cerugo, and is in very excellent 
 preservation. It was found in Candia, in 1822, and came almost immediately into my hands. 
 
 Reverse. DIVI F. (Divifilius.) The naked head of Augustus, with a star in the field ; the latter 
 commemorating the one seen in broad day, as just mentioned. Some antiquaries have, 
 however, contended that it is figurative of Venus, in reference to the supposed descent of 
 the Julii ; and others hold it to allude to the reform of the calendar : but the first suggestion 
 seems the most obvious. Indeed the visibility of Venus, in the day-time, renders it probable 
 that that planet, from some atmospheric peculiarity, was itself the luminary observed. The 
 illustrious Newton thought it might have been the great comet of 1C80. 
 
 III. 
 
 Obverse. DIVI IVLI, CAESAR DIVI F. IMP. {Divi Julii, Ccesar divi filius imperafor.) Two 
 naked heads in opposite directions, representing Julius Caesar, and his adopted son ; but as 
 likenesses they possess less interest than those on No. II. The medal is in tolerable pre- 
 servation, and was procured in Calabria, in 1814. It is of the class called Colonial, which, 
 from the many settlements made by the Romans, were necessarily of much diversity of cha- 
 racter. At first they bore only the ox, the plough, the ensign, or other badge of colonization ; 
 but they were afterwards stamped with more curious types, and inscribed with the name of 
 the colony, its prerogatives, alliances, immunities, and other circumstances. They were 
 usually of second brass, with a few exceptions of large, and one — Nemausus — of silver. 
 
 Reverse. C. I. V. ( Colonia Julia Valeniia.J The prow of a praetorian galley, with a large eye on 
 the bow, and what seamen term a " fiddle head." Upon this prow is raised a curious castle, 
 
( 4 ) 
 
 or superstructure ; an early indication of the name fore-castle : the appellation still remaining, 
 though the fabric has long disappeared from the fore-part of our ships. The eye typifies 
 Providence, or the Deity, and is still retained upon some of the Mediterranean craft. It is 
 of the remotest antiquity, and occurs perpetually as the symbol of the Sun, or Osiris, in 
 Egyptian monuments. The custom of using it was probably derived from the East, for the 
 Chinese are pertinacious in its practice, from the war junk to the sampan : — " Heigh-yaw !" 
 exclaimed a Fouki, at Canton, whom I was questioning upon the subject, " how can ship see, 
 suppose no hab eyes ?" It also appears on the superb Etruscan vases which have been recently 
 sent to London, by Lucien Buonaparte ; and that it was adopted by the early Greeks, is proved 
 in the "Supplicants" of iEschylus, where Danaus says — 
 
 " I saw a ship, I mark'd its waving streamer, 
 
 Its swelling sails, and all its gallant trim : 
 
 Its prow with heedful eye observes its way, 
 
 Obedient to the helm that guides behind." 
 
 AUGUSTUS. 
 
 Cains Octavius Caepius, was the son of C. Octavius Rufus, and Atia, daughter 
 to Julia, Caesar's sister. He was born at Velitrae, B. C 63 ; and, after an excellent 
 education, was formally adopted as the son of his grand-uncle. On hearing of the 
 murder of Caesar, he took the boldest step of his life, by instantly quitting Apollonia 
 for Italy, to declare himself heir to the empire. He gained the battle of Philippi, 
 B. C. 42 ; and that of Actium, which made him master of the Roman world, eleven 
 years afterwards. After the defeat and death of all his competitors, the senate dig- 
 nified him with the title of Imperator or " Emperor," a title that was formerly a 
 mere temporary military distinction, but which was now extended to signify 
 supreme arbiter of all civil and military affairs ; it thence-forward became heredi- 
 tary, and marked the change from a republic to a monarchy. The same body 
 afterwards conferred the epithet of " Augustus " upon him, by which he is now 
 historically known. He died at the advanced age of 75 years 10 months 26 days, 
 at Nola, in Campania, A. D. 14, after a reign of 44 years, besides the 12 in which 
 he governed as one of the triumvirate. 
 
 Octavius was too politic to accept the title of king, or dictator ; for in assuming 
 the venerable surname of Augustus, he was aware that more of dignity and reverence 
 were expressed, than of authority. The honourable designation of pater patrice 
 which had been first bestowed upon Cicero, for his detection of Catiline, was 
 unanimously tendered to Augustus, by the three orders of the state. Preferring 
 this, he wisely refused the appellation of dominus, stating that he wished to govern 
 " non per timorem, sed per amorem" Indeed, after lie had inhumanly slaugh- 
 tered all those whom he considered capable of disturbing him, in the possession of 
 his usurped power, he ruled with such clemency and judgment, that letters and 
 general improvement assumed a spirit which stamped his name on the age ; and it 
 
f 
 
 ( 5 ) 
 
 was remarked that, be " should never have been born, or never have died." The 
 flattering 1 writers of his time depict him as the most perfect prince imaginable ; but a 
 close examination of his career will prove that, his success was owing more to the 
 popularity of Caesar, the valour of Agrippa, and a seasonable conjuncture of cir- 
 cumstances, than to any extraordinary parts of his own. With deep stains of 
 debauchery, treachery, and ingratitude, he was certainly highly accomplished, and 
 possessed of penetration, judgment, and wit,— the last in such a degree, as to per- 
 vade his public actions ; and he even died with the compliment on his tongue, 
 " Li via, conjugii nostri memor, vive, et vale." 
 
 The damnatory blot in the escutcheon of Augustus, was the infamous proscrip- 
 tion to which he was a party : " a cool head, an unfeeling heart, and a cowardly 
 disposition, prompted him," says Gibbon, " at the age of 19, to assume the mask of 
 hypocrisy, which he never afterwards laid aside. With the same hand, and probably 
 with the same temper, he signed the proscription of Cicero, and the pardon of Cinna." 
 Julian, the philosophic "Apostate," makes him advance to the banquet of the 
 Caesars, with his complexion varying like the hues of a camelion ; but he adds, that 
 he at last assumed the mild livery of Venus and the Graces. 
 
 As all the successors to the imperial purple, by an express decree of the senate, 
 conferred the honoured name of Caesar on the heir-apparent, or presumptive, of the 
 empire, who thereby became adjuncts, or participes imperii, — so the emperors 
 themselves adopted that of Augustus, from the fortunate personag-e of whom we are 
 now treating. But for fully understanding the fascia, or legend of each medal, 
 it must be remembered, that though the title of Caesar was given to the second 
 person in the empire, it still continued also with the first ; and hence the difference 
 between Caesar used simply, and with the addition of Imp. Augustus. 
 
 The medals of this politic ruler are so numerous that they are easily obtainable, 
 and at a moderate rate. Large-brass ones, indeed, with the portrait, are difficult 
 to procure, and are high priced according to their condition ; but those of middle 
 brass, and silver, are extremely common ; for of the latter metal alone I have 
 seen, at least, two hundred different reverses. There are also ancient forgeries of 
 money in this reign, made by plating copper so ingeniously with silver leaf, that 
 it is only to be detected by clipping. This practice is anterior to Augustus, 
 and is entirely different from the dipping which took place with the deteriorated 
 coinage of the lower empire : yet we are gravely told in a recent publication, that 
 plating is a modern art, originating in the use of spurs ! 
 
 It should be here remarked that, between Julius and Augustus, there are coins of 
 Octavia, of the sons of Pompey, of Brutus, Cassius, Lepidus, and Mark Anthony ; 
 but as, with the exception of the last, they are only in gold and silver, they have 
 
( 6 ) 
 
 no relation to a large-brass series : nor can they be deemed imperial. Of Anthony 
 and Cleopatra there is a middle-brass coin which is admissible, for the sake of its 
 portraits : but I have not met with a specimen sufficiently good for keeping. 
 
 IV. 
 
 Obverse. AVGVSTVS. The naked head of the emperor, with expressive features, in singularly fine 
 preservation. This superior specimen of ancient art, is of pale yellow brass, and was pur- 
 chased on the 24th day of Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832, where it stood No. 2787. 
 
 Reverse. C. A. (Ccesarea Augusta.) These letters are encircled by a large garland of laurel leaves 
 and berries. Havercamp, Pedrusi, and other antiquaries, have considered this medal to be- 
 long to Saragossa, in Spain ; and some have ascribed it to the Mauretanian Caesarea. As it 
 resembles none which I have seen from those places, either in metal, module, or design, I must 
 agree with Eckhel in assigning it to Caesarea, in Palestine, a city in which stood a temple, 
 and a colossal statue to Augustus. The grandeur of this Muuicipium has disappeared, and 
 its vicinity is a deserted waste of sand ; a few relics of its palaces and fanes, and part of the 
 cothon of Herod the Great, were all that remained, in 1822. 
 
 V. 
 
 Obverse. CAESAR AVGVSTVS. The head of Augustus, looking to the right, without laurel, and 
 beardless. This medal was probably struck about 5 years B. C. ; and was procured for me 
 by Mr. Young, the well-known numismatist, at Lord Morton's sale, in 1830. 
 Reverse. C. CAESAR ET L. CAESAR AUGVST. F. {Caius Ccesar, et Lucius Ccesar, Augusti 
 filii.) The heads adversa, or facing each other, of the grandsons of Augustus, by his 
 daughter Julia and Agrippa ; they had become his sons by adoption, and he designed them 
 for his successors in the empire, if they had lived. They were both declared principes 
 juventutis, or princes of the Roman youth, honoured with the priesthood, and admitted into 
 the senate, — and seemed " born to increase their titles as they grew." Lucius, however, the 
 younger of the two, died suddenly at Marseilles, not without suspicion of having fallen by the 
 secret ai ls of Livia, who left no stone unturned to advance her son Tiberius. Nor did Caius 
 long survive, for having received a wound in Armenia, he fell into a lingering illness, sup- 
 posed to have been also nurtured by the tools of Livia, and expired in Lycia, at the early age 
 of 24 ; thus disappointing the sycophant prediction of Ovid : — 
 
 " Great father Mars, with greater Csesar join, 
 
 To give a prosp'rous omen to your line : 
 
 One of you is, and one shall be, divine. 
 
 I prophecy you shall, you shall o'ercome. 
 
 My verse shall bring you back in triumph home." 
 VI. 
 
 Obverse. CAESAR AVGVSTVS D1VI F. PATER PATRIAE. {Ccesar Augustus, Divijilius, 
 Pater Patrice.) Reading from the right toward the left hand. The laurelled head of 
 Augustus, with the beardless ApoUinean aspect, of which he was so vain, as to wear the 
 habit of Apollo at a supper, and suffer flatterers to pretend that they could not bear the lustre 
 of his eyes. Nature had perhaps given him some resemblance to the statues of that divinity; 
 and the artists, no doubt, understood their interest well enough to help it out, and represent 
 him more like the god than he really was. But the poets beat the artists in offering incense, — 
 Virgil, in describing ./Eneas, by whom we are to understand Augustus, is barely exceeded 
 by Ovid, who unblushingly calls him the handsomest of all created beings : yet we gather 
 from other sources, that his left eye was no piercer, that he had a warp in the body, and that 
 lie wore shoes with false keels to heighten his stature. From bearing pater patrice, this 
 medal was probably struck in his 13th, and last consulate, as he only began the use of that 
 epithet in the year 2, B. C. Ovid addresses him thus, — 
 
 " Sancte Pater Patrice ; tibi Plebs, tibi Curia nornen 
 
 Hoc dedit, hoc dedimus nos tibi nomen Eques, 
 Res tamen ante dedit, sero quoque vera tulisti 
 
 Nomina ; jamdudum tu Pater orbis eras." 
 
( 7 ) 
 
 Reverse. ROM ET AVG." (Romce et Augusto.) A decorated altar between two cippi, or short 
 columns, on which stand winged victories, with palm branches aud laurel garlands. It seems 
 that the provinces, in their usual servility, had resolved upon erecting fanes to Augustus ; 
 but he, with the consummate dissimulation of which he was master, refused the honour unless 
 the city of Rome should share it with him. In the excess of his modesty he also melted the 
 silver statues which had been raised to him, and, according to Suetonius, caused the golden 
 tables to be made of them which he dedicated to the Palatine Apollo. This medal appears 
 to have been struck to commemorate the edifice built at Pergamus, and consecrated to 
 " Rome and Augustus." 
 
 VII. 
 
 Obverse. D1VO AVGVSTO S. P. Q. R. ( Divo Augusto, Senatus Populus Que Romanus.J This 
 legend is written around a garland of oak-leaves, the centre of which represents a votive 
 shield inscribed OB CIVES SEK. (ob cives servatos.) The oak crown, the ancient reward 
 of those who saved the life of a citizen, denotes the liberty obtained for the Romans detained 
 in Partbia. The restoration of the standards and captives taken from Crassus, was esteemed 
 one of the most glorious and gratifying events of this reign ; the temple of Janus was closed, 
 and various coins stamped " de Parthis," " Signis Rcceptis," " Civib. et Sign, mi/it, 
 a Part, recuper^ testify the general exultation. 
 
 The votive shield is supported over a small globe, by two Capricorns, or goats with 
 fishes tails. The constellation, whence the symbol was drawn, was the nativity-sign of 
 Augustus ; and it remains a monument of the superstition of the " divine " being who 
 could dive into a cellar during a thunder-storm.* In allusion to the happy predictions of 
 this happy sign, — as applicable to millions as to the laurelled object of flattery, — Virgil, who 
 certainly earned his sop, gravely ponders, whether the emperor, in his future god-ship, is 
 to be specially adored by Roman citizens, or husbandmen, — or whether he will condescend 
 to preside over the vast ocean, — 
 
 "Then mariners, in storms, to thee shall pray, 
 
 Ev'n utmost Thule" shall thy power obey ; 
 
 And Neptune shall resign the fasces of the sea. 
 
 The watery virgins for thy bed shall strive,f 
 
 And Tethys all her waves in dowry give." 
 
 Reverse. TI CAESAR D1VI AVG. F. AVGVST. P. M. TR. POT. XXX VII. (Tiberius C<rsar, 
 JDivi Augusti Jilius, Augustus, Pontifex maximus, Tribunitia potestate, trigesimum 
 septimum.) In the centre a large and clumsy S. C. {Senatus Consulto.J It is therefore 
 presumptive that it was struck by a decree of the senate, A. D. 35, on the deification of 
 Augustus; the fact of his being received into heaven was publicly sworn to, by Nunierius 
 Atticus, a senator, for a round sum of Livia's money. I procured this medal at Tunis, in 
 1822, and prize it for its excellent preservation. 
 
 VIII. 
 
 Obverse. DIVO AVGVSTO, S. P. Q. R. {Divo Augusto, Senatus Populus Que Romanus.J 
 written on the field. The statue of Augustus on a curule chair, placed on a sumptuous 
 triumphal car, elaborately decorated, and drawn by four elephants, each with a mahdul on 
 its shoulders. The emperor's head is radiated, his left arm rests upon the hasla pura, or 
 unarmed lance, and his extended right holds a globe. This is a remarkably fine specimen of 
 a medal, not at all uncommon, though the globe is not so frequently met with as a branch 
 of laurel, in the Emperor's hand. The elephants are at once typical of dignity and eternity, 
 as the age of those animals was estimated at 300 years, — their youth, according to Pliny, 
 commencing at sixty years. ( Juventa eorum a sexagesimo incipit.) The medal is coated 
 with dark brown patina, and came into my possession at Porto Longone, in Elba. 
 
 * This act must have suggested itself to the Emperor, from the profound physical law hy which the Romans limited 
 the effects of lightning to five feet from the earth's surface. See Pliny's Cyclopwdia, I. 2. c. 55. 
 
 f Could any poet of Ipsamboul have given a more prurient picture of futurity, than Maro has here expressed? 
 
( 8 ) 
 
 Reverse. TI CAESAR DIVI AVG. F. AVGVST. P. M. TR. POT. XXXVII. ( Tiberius Ceesar, 
 Divi Augusti Jilius, Augustus, Pontijex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, trigesimum. 
 septimum) The legend surrounds an uncial S. C. [Senatus consulto.) It thus appears 
 that this medal was struck A. D. 36, by Tiberius, who procured the deification, not out of 
 any principle of religion, or any regard he had for his benefactor: but because it nearly 
 concerned himself that all the laws and acts of one who had left him his successor, should 
 pass for sacred. Besides, in promoting this kind of superstition he had another view, which 
 was to rivet the public slavery, evidently included in the religious worship paid to a prince 
 who had enthralled his country. 
 
 IX. 
 
 Obverse. DIVVS AVGVSTVS PATER. The deified emperor sitting in a curule chair, habited in 
 a toga ; the left arm is supported by the hast a pur a, and the right hand holds a laurel branch. 
 The head bears the corona radiata, which consisted of twelve spikes, in allusion to the 
 signs of the zodiac ; it was the symbol of consecration, though it was afterwards worn by 
 living emperors. The spikes, or points, typified the solar rays, whence Virgil, — 
 
 "Twelve golden beams around his temples play, 
 
 To mark his lineage from the God of day." 
 Beside him is an altar, and under his left foot a suppedaneum. This is another of the various 
 medals which Tiberius caused to be struck upon the apotheosis of his predecessor; and in 
 which are exhibited all the types of divinity indignantly enumerated by Lucan : — 
 
 " Bella pares superis facient Civilia Divos : 
 
 Fulminibus maneis Radiisque ornabit et Aslris, 
 
 Inque Deum Templis ; jurabit Roma per umbras." 
 
 Reverse. TI. CAESAR DIVI AVG. F. AVGVST. P. M. TR. POT. XXIIII. [Tiberius Casar, 
 Divi Augusti Jilius, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, vigesimum 
 quartum.) In the field S. C. ( Senatus Consulto, J in uncial characters. This splendid 
 coin is in singularly fine preservation : it was struck A. D. 22, is varnished with a rich brown 
 patina, and was found near Ajaccio, in Corsica, shortly before I obtained it. 
 
 X. 
 
 Obverse. DIVVS AVGVSTVS. An apotheosis-medal, displaying a well relieved portrait of Augustus, 
 with the head laurelled, aad beardless, although bearing the stamp of mature age. It is in 
 excellent preservation, is covered with a beautiful olive-green patina, and was procured by 
 exchange, from a numismatist, at Rome, in 1823. 
 
 Retierse. IMP. NERVA CAESAR AVGVSTVS REST. (Imperator Nerva Ceesar Augustus 
 reslituit.J In the field a large S. C. (Senatus Consulto.) This is rather rare, and in ex- 
 cellent condition. With respect to the S. C. it may be proper to mention that, this 
 abbreviation appears on almost all the imperial large-brass reverses, and also on a few 
 medallions, but very rarely on either gold or silver medals : whenever it is found on the latter, 
 it is preceded by the article ex. A silver coin of Vespasian forms an exception : its reverse 
 being a column surmounted by an urn, between two branches of laurel : to the column is 
 suspended a shield, with S. C. inscribed upon it. Some silver is marked EX. A. P. (Ex 
 argento publico. J 1 lean to the opinion that the letters S. C. allude to the order or license 
 for coining, rather than that they denote the comparative purity, or value of the metal. 
 
 The REST, which terminates this legend, signifies a restoration, or recoining of the medal, 
 in "honour of the personage to whom it was originally struck. Claudius was the first who 
 restored the coins of Augustus ; Nero did the same ; but Titus restamped almost all his pre- 
 decessors. See p. 61. 
 
 XL 
 
 Obverse. OB ClvIS SERVATOS. (Ob civis Servatos.) The coarse characters ClVlS are inscribed 
 in the centre of an oak-wreath, which is placed between two branches of laurel : the I being 
 made long, to read as ei, ceiveis. The medal is in good preservation, but of rude workman- 
 ship ; it was procured from Mr. Till, the obliging dealer in coins, in 1825. 
 
( 9 ) 
 
 Reverse. P. LICINIVS STOLO IIIVIR A. A. A. F. F. (Publius Licinius Stolo, Triumvir Auro, 
 Argento, JEre, Flando, Feriundo.) In the field an arcai'c S. C. Struck, by a triumvir of the 
 ancient but plebeian family Licinia; he was a descendant of that Licinius Stolo, the inveterate 
 enemy of the patricians, who, after introducing the law which restricted a proprietor to 500 acres, 
 was convicted of possessing double the quantity, and fined for the offence. This medal is one of a 
 series struck in the reign of Augustus, by certain officers who were appointed to inspect the mint 
 under the title of Triumviri Monetales ; and Flando, Feriundo, expresses that they had the 
 charge of alloying the metal, and impressing the dye. The exact date of these nummi monetales 
 is uncertain ; it is therefore customary to place them in cabinets in alphabetical order, at the end 
 of the Augustan class. Those mint-masters superintended the numerous moneyers of Rome, and 
 appear to have been first created B. C. 289; or, according to otheis, at the commencement of the 
 first silver coinage, which took place B. C. 266. Their number was augmented by Julius Caesar 
 to four ; but Augustus restored the original arrangement of three, which continued till about the 
 time of Macrinus, when we lose sight of them.* 
 
 L1VIA. 
 
 Livia Drusilla, the daughter of Livius Drusus Claudianus, was born B. C. 57. 
 Her story presents the striking spectacle, of the daughter of one who had slain himself 
 to avoid falling into the power of Augustus — and who herself passed through many- 
 dangers to avoid him who was soon to be her husband — becoming the means of 
 destroying the Cfesarian race, and placing her own progeny upon their throne. 
 She was of an illustrious descent ; her father having been adopted from the proud 
 Claudian family amongst the Livii, and she herself being raised by the testament of 
 Augustus into that of the Julii. She was first married to Tiberius Claudianus Nero, 
 an accomplished officer, by whom she had Tiberius, afterwards emperor; and was 
 six months pregnant with Drusus, when Augustus divorcing Scribonia for the purpose, 
 wrested Livia from her husband and married her, B. C. 38. She afterwards bore no 
 issue, and died A. D. 29, aged 86 years. 
 
 Livia was accounted the most agreeable and beautiful woman of the age; and, 
 from a consummate management of her talents, held an absolute sway over the councils 
 and actions of the Emperor — whence Caligula termed her "Ulysses in female attire." 
 She appears to have been a dutiful and affectionate wife to her first husband, although 
 his indifferent circumstances precluded the full gratification of her vanity ; but when 
 the die was to be cast, it may be presumed that she was not long deliberating between 
 duty and ambition, between Tiberius and Caesar. This lady was so passionate for the 
 grandeur of her own children, that she was suspected of having purchased it by the 
 destruction of her husband's family, being charged with the deaths of Marcellus, Caius, 
 Lucius, and Agrippa Posthumus — nay, and of Augustus himself, whose end is sup- 
 posed, by some, to have been hastened. She was an irreconcilable enemy to Julia, 
 her step-daughter, whose offspring she persecuted with implacable hatred, even to the 
 
 * Cicero, advising his friend Trebatius to steer clear of the Treviri, a martial race of German Borderers, jocosely says — 
 " Treviros vites censeo ; audio capitales esse, mailer* auro, aere, argento essent." 
 
 C 
 
( io ) 
 
 poisoning of her own grandson, the illustrious Germanicus, who had married Agrippina. 
 The haughty ambition of Livia led her to demand an equal share, with Tiberius, of the 
 power which she had procured for him, an attempt which he, deeming every additional 
 dignity conferred on his mother as a diminution of his own, positively resisted. Mu- 
 tual recriminations followed : Livia endeavouring to perpetuate the grandeur which she 
 had so adroitly acquired, and the ungrateful son seizing every opportunity of curbing 
 her authority—in the sequel he so detested her, that, on her demise, he would not 
 suffer her to be consecrated as a divinity : and he even persecuted those friends and 
 domestics, who attended her funeral obsequies. Tacitus, with his usual comprehensive 
 brevity, sums up her portrait thus — " Her domestic character was formed on the model 
 of primitve manners: but by a graceful ease, unknown to her sex in the time of the 
 republic, she had the address to soften the rigour of ancient virtue. A wife of amiable 
 manners, yet a proud and imperious mother, she united in herself the opposite qualities 
 that suited the specious arts of Augustus, and the dark dissimulation of her son/' To 
 this well-drawn sketch it may be added, that Livia was the most dignified, pleasing, 
 and influential of all the Roman Empresses, even though the victims whom she 
 sacrificed to gain her ends, testify her cruelty, and her anxious consultation of the 
 hatching of a hen's eggs as an augury of her pregnancy, is an evidence of her super- 
 stition. But she must, on the whole, have been a fascinating and discreet woman, 
 to have maintained so stable an authority. Ovid says of her — 
 
 " Quae Veneris formam, mores Junonis habendo, 
 Sola est coelesti digna reperta toro." 
 
 Those medals of Livia which were struck during the life of Augustus, are Greek- 
 Imperial : but after his death, and her admission into the Julian family, the Colonies 
 testified their flattery by various coins, on one of which she was called Mater patriw, 
 a title which Tiberius would not permit her to assume. The legends which bear diva 
 upon them, were issued by Claudius, who elevated Livia to divine honours, and de- 
 creed her to be a goddess. Latin large-brass medals, with the portrait, are very rare ; 
 but those of the middle size which bear the types Justitia, Pietas, and Salus — the last 
 from Livia's being deemed "potissima Salutis causa" — are frequently met with ; 
 and among them, the restitutions by Titus are the most valued.* 
 
 XII. 
 
 Obverse. IVSTITIA, inscribed on the lower verge. A handsome female profile, with an air of dignified 
 austerity, and the head encircled with a richly ornamented tiara. This is a likeness of Livia, in 
 the character of Themis ; and it is in exceedingly fine taste and preservation. It was obtained 
 from my friend, J. C. Ross, Esq. of Malta, in 1821. 
 
 Reverse. TI. CAESAR DIVI AVG. F. AVG. P. M. TR. POT. XXII1I. [Tiberius Ccesar, Dki 
 Augusti filius, Augustus, Poniifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate vigesimum quartum.) In 
 
 * No medals of Livia are known in gold or silver ; yet a medallion of the former metal has heen described, with the 
 effigy of Piety, and Vesta on the reverse; but this is a modern fabrication, or it would illustrate Ovid's — " Esse pudicarum 
 te Vestam, Livia, matrum" 
 
( 11 ) 
 
 the field a large S. C. {Senatus Consulto.) From this it appears that the coin was struck A. D. 
 22, by Tiberius; and from the date, and fine quality of the metal, it may be presumed to be of 
 copper from the celebrated Livian mine, mentioned by Pliny. 
 
 XIII. 
 
 Obverse. IVLIA AVGVSTA GENETR1X ORBIS. The head of Julia placed upon a globe, and sur- 
 mounted by a crescent ; symbols significative of the earth and moon, to illustrate the encomium 
 of the legend. The wreath which crowns this bust is an uncommon decoration for females. 
 Havercamp, from the closeness of the leaves, says it is of myrtle ; but on my medal — as indeed 
 on all those which I have examined, as well in the British Museum as in other collections — 
 that portion of the head which bears it, is not sufficiently perfect to decide the question : it 
 may however, allude to the celebrated sprig of laurel taken from the fowl's bill, which an eagle 
 had dropped into Livia's lap ; and which, being planted, afforded crowns to the succeeding 
 Caesars. 
 
 Reverse. COL. ROM. PERM. DIVI AVG. (Colonia Romulensis per mis su divi Augusti.) This was 
 a tribute of flattery from the citizens of Romula, a town in Betica, to the vanity of Livia, after 
 the death and apotheosis of Augustus. The legend surrounds the head of the deified Emperor, 
 who, besides being crowned with the sacred radiated diadem, is still further consecrated by the 
 Julian star above him, and a thunder-bolt, the attribute of Jove himself, in front of the portrait. 
 This is a medal of much interest, which I procured in Spain ; and though it is not of the Latin 
 mint, its magnitude, merit, and Roman legend, secure its admission into the large-brass series. 
 It is finely figured by Florez. 
 
 XIV. 
 
 Obverse. S. P. Q. R. IVLIAE AVGVST. {Senatus Populus Que Romanvs, Julice Augustce.) This 
 is inscribed across the field, over a carpentum, or two-wheeled vehicle, drawn by a pair of mules. 
 Although solid wheels were so much in use, as to have continued to this day, the car here repre- 
 sented has them of six light spokes; and it is surmounted by an arched tilt, supported bv 
 Caryatides, and hung with costly cloths. As the Carpentum pompaticum, or Thensa, was 
 expressly used for conveying the images of defunct empresses to the Circus, many numismatists 
 have supposed this medal to have been struck after the death of Livia : but the legend, on the 
 reverse, proves its date to be A. D. 23, or six years prior to that event.* 
 
 Reverse. TL CAESAR. DIVI AVG. F. AVGVST. P. M. TR. POT. XXII11. {Tiberius Casar, 
 divi Augusti Jilius, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potentate Vigesimum quart urn.) 
 In the field an uncial S. C. {Senatus Consulto.) This splendid coin is in the most perfect con- 
 servation, and smoothly coated with a rich brown patina, which allows of even the bas-reliefs on 
 the side pannels of the car being clearly distinguished: — they are two sportive youths, who, with 
 the opposite ones, probably represent the seasons. 
 
 AGRIPPA. 
 
 Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa was born of an obscure, but equestrian family, B. C. 
 63. As Commander of the fleet and Prsefect of the sea-coasts, he gained the naval 
 victory over Sext. Pompey, B. C. 36, and that of Actium, B. C. 31. He was, from 
 infancy, a companion of Augustus, and having - proved his devotion and fidelity, was 
 successively advanced to the highest honours of the state. By marrying 1 Marcel la, 
 Agrippa had been received into the Imperial family ; but to draw the ties still closer, 
 lie was made to divorce the niece and espouse Julia, the daughter of his patron. This 
 event took place B. C. 21, and three years afterwards he was invested with the Tri- 
 bunitian power, an office which Augustus had assumed to prevent his harangues being 
 
 * Kipping says — " Thensa; sunt vehicula sacra, quibus portabantur deorum, et indigetura simulacra, cum pompa 
 ordinum, et officiorum in Ludis Circensibus imprimis, qui numinum honoribus consecrati erant." 
 
( 12 ) 
 
 interrupted by any radical tribune of the people, and also, from the authority it gave 
 him over the senate and magistrates, to consolidate his despotism. Agrippa had a 
 family of 3 sons and 2 daughters, by Julia ; and, after a glorious career, died in Cam- 
 pania, on his return from an expedition to Pannonia, B. C. 12, in the 51st year of 
 his age. The Emperor, who had hastened to visit his dying friend, was deeply 
 afflicted ; — he lamented him as the disinterested partner of all his vicissitudes, pro- 
 nounced his funeral oration, and buried the body in his own mausoleum — declaring 
 that not even death should separate them. 
 
 Agrippa, although said to have retained his rusticity through life, must, from his 
 unblemished integrity and superior qualities, be pronounced one of the greatest public 
 characters that ever appeared ; as well as one of the most estimable. He gained signal 
 victories both by land and sea, and by his splendid exploits, established the throne 
 of his friend : exploits which Horace confesses himself unequal to celebrate in suf- 
 ficiently lofty verse. Yet, with all his successes, Agrippa was wise and moderate in 
 his views ; he attempted to dissuade Augustus from retaining the imperial power, and 
 refused two public triumphs which the senate had decreed him. The latter, indeed, 
 may have resulted as well from policy as from contempt of ostentation — for he thereby 
 avoided giving umbrage to the Emperor, who was no ways renowned for military 
 achievements : from whatever cause the refusals sprung, they occasioned such pageants 
 being discontinued, except by immediate scions of the imperial family. Agrippa was 
 instrumental in reforming the senate ; and, though reported to be little versed in 
 letters, he composed and published a map of the world. He conveyed the waters 
 Virgo, Julia, and Tepula, into Rome, by magnificent aqueducts, at his own expence ;* 
 besides which he embellished the city with stately edifices: and whoever has enjoyed 
 the glorious flood of light which still distinguishes the Pantheon from all other fanes, 
 w ill remember with gratitude the name and virtues of Agrippa. 
 
 The gold, silver, and small-brass medals of this renowned commander are very 
 rare and high priced. No large-brass ones, except colonial, are known — but those of 
 the second size, selected of greater than usual volume, supply the defect ; and are most 
 prized, when restored by Titus, or Domitian. 
 
 XV. 
 
 Obverse. M. AGRIPPA L. F. COS. III. (Marcus Agrippa, Lucii films Consul tertium.) A fine, 
 but stern head of Agrippa, in excellent relief ; with a rostral crown, indicative of his being 
 admiral of the seas : whence Ovid's — " Navaliijue gener cinttus ltonore caput." This crown 
 has caused much debate ; il was of gold, decorated with figures of the beaks of ships, and 
 was presented, with a cerulian standard, (or blue-Jiag !) by Augustus, after the battle won near 
 Myla3. Several historians pronounce this to have been the first rostral crown; but Pliny says 
 that Varro had before been decorated with one ; — that, however, may have been the corona 
 uavalis which was given to him who first boarded an enemy's vessel. It would appear that 
 Agrippa, like another Nelson with his stars, wore this identical crown at the battle of Actium — 
 
 * When the citizens of Rome complained to Augustus, of a scarcity of wine, he reprimanded them severely, saying 
 Agrippa had provided that nobody should perish by thirst. 
 
( 13 ) 
 
 for Virgil, in revealing - futurity on the magic shield of /Eneas, sings thus — 
 " Parte alia ventis, et diis Agrippa secundis 
 
 Arduus agmen agens, cui belli insigne superbum, 
 
 Tempora navali fulgent Rostratu Corona." 
 Reverse. IMP. T. VESP. AVG. REST. (Imperator Titus Vespasiunus Augustus restituit.) In the 
 field S. C. although Agrippa was neither an Augustus, nor a Caesar. Retween the letters stands 
 a colossal and muscular figure of Agrippa, in the character of Admiral Neptune — as he is styled 
 by the immortal Newton. He is standing and looking towards the right ; the left arm supports 
 a trident, as the sceptre of the Mediterranean seas, and on the right extended hand is a dolphin, 
 the swiftest of fishes. The figure is naked, if we except a scarf which extends gracefully from 
 one arm to the other, behind the back, and the body is altogether cne of great boldness. This 
 medal appears to have been struck about 2G years B. C. is in the highest possible preservation, 
 and was procured in Sardinia, in June, 1824. Of the Dii Magni, none appears so seldom upon 
 Roman coins as Neptune : and Augustus, in a splenetic fit, on losing some vessels at sea, excluded 
 his statue from the Ludi Circenses. See No. CLV. 
 
 XVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. D. F. P. P. (Imperator Divifilius, Pater Patrice.) The heads of Augustus and Agrippa 
 adversa, or facing each other, the first crowned with laurel, and the second with the corona 
 rostrata. This beautiful medal is largely spread, in the highest possible perfection, and coated 
 with a brilliant green patina; it was obtained at Marseille, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. COL. NEM. (Colonia Nemausus.) A palm tree rises in the centre of the field, to which is 
 chained a crocodile.' This interesting and significant reverse was struck by the citizens of 
 Nemausus, a town of Gallia Narbonensis, in honour of a victory gained in Egypt ; and the symbol 
 was lately borrowed by the French, to commemorate the successes of Napoleon, in the same 
 country. 
 
 JULIA. 
 
 Julia, the daughter of Augustus and Scribonia, was born B. C. 39. At the early 
 age of 14 she was married to Marcellus — the ceremonial being managed with unex- 
 ampled splendour, by Agrippa. After the premature death of her husband she was 
 married to Agrippa himself — and, on her losing him, to Tiberius, B. C. 11. A con- 
 tinuation of abandoned and adulterous intrigues occasioned her being banished to 
 Pandataria, B. C. 2 ; and she perished of hunger, a miserable exile, at Rhegium A. D. 
 14, at the age of 53 years. 
 
 This unfortunate princess was as beautiful and pleasing as she was abandoned ; but 
 with all her lamentable madness of lust, she possessed, according to Macrobius, a 
 regard for letters, and a large share of humanity. Augustus is said to have taken un- 
 common pains with her education, and was therefore inexorable, when he was obliged 
 to punish her monstrous depravity ; insomuch that he resisted all the entreaties which 
 the people of Rome, touched with compassion, clamorously made in her behalf; only 
 permitting a slight mitigation in changing the place of her exile: a fact which neu- 
 tralizes certain suspicions upon his own conduct, as connected with the banishment of 
 Ovid. One of the intercessions made by the public of the " Eternal City," was suf- 
 ficiently ludicrous. Having watched for what was considered a favourable opportunity, 
 they preferred their request, and were answered by Augustus that, fire and water should 
 agree before he would consent to his daughter's return : on this, in order to absolve 
 
( 14 ) 
 
 the Emperor from his oath, they threw a prodigious quantity of lighted torches into 
 the Tiber, but without any effect upon the obstinate father.* Nor was his successor 
 the man to alleviate her afflictions. After she became the wife of Tiberius, the haughty 
 arrogance of her behaviour had made him feel that she held him beneath her in rank ; 
 for this he took a terrible vengeance: — "At his accession to the empire," says Tacitus, 
 " when lie was master of the Roman world, he saw her in a state of destitution, banished, 
 covered with infamy, and, after the murder of Agrippa Fosthumus, without a ray of 
 hope to comfort her. Yet this could not appease the malice of Tiberius. He ordered 
 her to be starved to death ; concluding that, after a tedious exile in a remote place, a 
 lingering death in want and misery would pass unnoticed." 
 
 There are no Latin medals in honour of Julia, though a portrait on a monetary 
 one of C. Marius Trogus, has been ascribed to her and her sons, Caius and Lucius. 
 But, as usual with those members of the Imperial family not found in the regular 
 series, her likeness is preserved on some Greek and colonial coins — and one which fell 
 into my possession in Greece, bears the heads of Agrippa and Julia facing each other, 
 with the Diana of Ephesus, supported by two tridents, on the reverse. 
 
 XVII. 
 
 Obverse. The profile of Julia, with her hair tressed into a knot behind, and drapery on the shoulders. In 
 front of the neck is a peacock, and at the back an ear of wheat, symbols of Juno and Ceres, 
 added, no doubt, as complimentary to the princess. The features are those of a dignified and 
 sensible woman, without any apparent evidence of the vices with which she was infected. This 
 medal, entirely covered with a dense green patina, and in the very highest degree of preservation, 
 was procured at Dernah, in 1821. 
 
 Reverse. The bust of Minerva galeata, looking to the left : and in front of the face are four characters, sup- 
 posed to be Phoenician. This coin is generally assigned to Jol, or Caesarea, in Mauretania, the 
 residence of Juba, but I am not aware that any satisfactory reason justifies the assertion. 1 have 
 myself found, in various parts of North Africa, medals of Tiberius, having an eagle holding a 
 laurel branch, with reverse Appollo laureated, and a lyre: bearing, besides the Roman legend, 
 the same four letters \iq( before the deity. 
 
 TIBERIUS. 
 
 Tiberius Claudius Nero, the son of T. C. Nero and Livia Drusilla, was descended 
 from the Patrician branch of the Claudii, a family which boasted 32 consuls, 5 dictators, 
 and 7 censors, — and which had been honoured with 7 triumphs, and 2 ovations. It is 
 not known whether he was born at Rome, or Fundi, but the event happened B. C. 42 ; 
 he assumed the toga virilis B. C. 27, and was successively honoured with commands 
 and dignities, as he advanced in years. He served in the armies with great credit, and 
 gained important victories over the Rha^tians, Pannonians, and other barbarian nations. 
 Indeed, his character stood fair, until, by an unwarrantable act of tyranny, he was 
 compelled to repudiate Vipsania Agrippina, daughter of the great admiral — a pregnant 
 
 • When Augustus heard that Phoebe, one of his daughter's confidants, had hanged herself, he protested that he had 
 rather have been Phoebe's father, than Julia's : — " Maluiste tej* ait, " Phcebes patrem fuisse." 
 
( 15 ) 
 
 wife to whom he was greatly attached — to marry Julia, the same admiral's widow — a 
 woman of whose flagitious irregularity he was personally aware. This occurred B. C. 
 11 ; and was followed by a nomination to the trihunitian power. After several years 
 residence at Rhodes, or rather voluntary banishment, owing to disgust of his wife's 
 profligacy, he was permitted to return to Rome, on condition that he should hold no 
 public office. But the deaths of Lucius and Caius accelerated his elevation, — he was 
 formally adopted by Augustus A. D. 4, — succeeded to the throne A. D. 14, — and was 
 smothered in his bed by Macro, at Misenum, A D. 37, in the 78th year of his age. 
 
 Tiberius united a considerable mixture of admirable, with an overpowering share 
 of detestable qualities ; while the former were insufficient to rank him amongst the great 
 princes, the besotted brutality of some of his successors has prevented the latter from 
 stamping him the worst. He opened his career as a brave and skilful leader, an 
 affectionate husband, and a lover of the liberal arts— being well versed in Greek and 
 Roman literature ; and moreover, although very jealous of his authority, he was moderate 
 in the exercise of it, and paid deference to the senate and the laws : but the arrogant, 
 gloomy, and envious disposition occasionally evinced, so far betrayed the latent sparks 
 that Gadareus, his Rhodian tutor, described him as " a composition of mud mixed with 
 blood." Equivocation, fraud, and cunning, were so deeply ingrafted into his very 
 nature, that he always chose to perform by stratagem what he might easily have effected 
 by open force, — of which a memorable instance is exhibited in his artful management 
 of the fall of Sejanus — the favourite whose brazen statues were worshipped one day, and 
 broken for the furnace the next. Thus Juvenal, in shewing that had fortune then been 
 adverse to the Emperor the mob would have hailed the minister as "Master of 
 Jllankind," says, — 
 
 " Sejanus, once so honour'd, so ador'd, 
 And only second to the world's great lord, 
 Runs glittering from the mould, in cups and cans, 
 Basons and ew'rs, plates, pitchers, pots, and pans - " 
 
 Tiberius was a jarring mass of contradictory elements, cemented by fiendlike 
 passions : he rivetted the fetters of Rome, and yet despised those who passively submitted ; 
 he bore himself as an imperious tyrant, yet refused the title of Sovereign Lord ; he was 
 courageous in Germany, and timid atCaprete ; he punished vice with ferocious severity, 
 and yet persecuted virtue ; he affected to slight riches, yet slaughtered men for their 
 wealth ; before he obtained power he displayed magnanimity, but when possessed of the 
 sceptre, he became a mean and subtle hypocrite ; at one time he defended the raillery 
 of those who taunted his drunkenness,* and at another, enraged at the same satirical 
 
 * Suetonius says: — "Propter uitniam vini aviditateiri, pro Tiberio Biberius, pro Claudio Caldius, pro Nerone Meio 
 vocabatur." The wags of Rome, however, delighted in puns, and though the Emperor died at a distance from the city, no 
 sooner was the event announced, than the air pealed with cries of "Tiberium in Tiberim." Nor was the Despot himself wanting 
 in wit : when the ambassadors from Ilium, paid their tardy condolence on the death of Drusus, he scoffingly lamented their 
 loss of Hector — " Se quoque" respondit, "vicem eorum dchre, quod cyreyium civem Heciorem amisnssent." 
 
( 16 ) 
 
 verses, he revived the dreadful law of majesty ; he renewed the ancient severities against 
 adultery, and yet associated with the infamous Claudius Gallus. The promiscuous 
 butcheries of a reign of 23 years, filled Rome and the provinces with terror, and suicide 
 was the only refuge from the executioner ; but they were insufficient to arouse virtuous 
 resentment — servile adulation being, as Tacitus remarks, the reigning vice of the times. 
 From this general supineness, it has been summed up that Julius Csesar subdued his 
 country ; Augustus cherished the conquered ; and Tiberius made them crouch in 
 bondage. He corrupted all that was good, and introduced all that was bad in the empire. 
 An adage says " he must needs fear many, whom many fear," and its force operated by 
 making the dark dissembler seek to hide himself and his vices amongst the crags of 
 Caprese. This solitary rock, however, was made the theatre of such incredible 
 abominations and cruelty, that it became infamous, and was branded as the isle of 
 vicious lusts, while the odious and execrable despot was designated Capreneus. And 
 it must be added, that researches which 1 have made, in that romantic spot, fully bear 
 out the disgusting recitals transmitted to us. 
 
 The Latin medals of Tiberius are numerous, in all sizes and metals ; but those of 
 large-brass bearing the portrait, are rare and expensive — insomuch that the second 
 size, though of inferior fabric, is frequently substituted. The Colonies, Greece, and 
 Egypt, also minted to his honour ; and the Spintriati seem to have been especially 
 struck, to record his vicious propensities. A singular coin of the first series is preserved 
 in the Pembroke cabinet — it has the head of Tiberius, w ith reverse Agrippina Senior : 
 these mutual enemies were, perhaps, placed together, as a tribute of respect, by Caligula, 
 for his obligations to both ; — or, to drown the recollection of the brutal cruelty with 
 which his mother had been treated by the tyrant. 
 
 XVIII. 
 
 Obverse. TI. CAESAR AGVSTl F. 1MPERATOR V. (Tiberius Caesar, Augusti filius, Imperaior 
 quintum,) This legend reads outwards, and surrounds the unlaureated head of the Emperor. 
 He is looking towards the left, and is depicted under the flattering trace of a likeness to Augustus — 
 the medal having been struck A. D. 81, after Tiberius had been elevated into the Julian family. 
 The title of Imperator does not appear as a prsenomen, in this reign. 
 
 Reverse. ROM. ET. AVG. (Romce et Augusto.) An altar decorated with a laurel crown, and some 
 wreaths, between two cippi surmounted by winged victories, as in No. VI. The reverse is usually 
 called the " altar of Lyons " by collectors — but it merely marks the homage paid in the provinces 
 to Augustus. Occo thought it related to the dedication of the temple of Concord, which was 
 erected out of the spoils of the German campaigns : but Tiberius did not officiate at that 
 ceremoDy till three years after the medal was struck. It is in excellent preservation, and was 
 obtained at the sale of Mr. Henderson's collection, in 1830. 
 
 XIX. 
 
 Obverse. TI CAESAR AVGVSTI F. IMPERATOR VII. (Tiberius Ccesar, Augusti films 
 Imperator seplimum.) The laurelled head of Tiberius, regarding the right, with marked features, 
 bare neck, and the hair, as Suetonius described it, hanging down behind. The same author also 
 tells us that he was tall, well-built, strong, and left-handed, with a graceful mien, and large eyes. 
 This medal, in capital condition though barely patinated, was purchased at Pisa, in 1823. The 
 legend reads outwards. 
 
( 17 ) 
 
 Reverse. ROM. ET. AVG. {Roma et Augusto.) This represents the "altar of Lyons," flanked by 
 victories, as abore, but with a trifling difference in the minutiae. Mezza-barba says that this was 
 struck A. D. 11, and describes it thus : — " Porticus, sive templum, cum duabus Victoriis 
 desuper, ambabus Coronam proferentibus." 
 
 XX. 
 
 Obverse. TI. CAESAR DIV1 AVG. F. AVGVST. IMPERAT. VII. {Tiberius Casar, Divi 
 Augusti filius, Augustus, hnperator septimum.) The laurelled head of the Emperor look- 
 ing towards the left, with a good featured but scowling physiognomy — having a prominent 
 aquiline nose, and large eye — " prcegrandibus oculis." This medal, in high condition and pati- 
 nated, was procured at Baia, very near the spot where the fell tyrant was destroyed. 
 
 Reverse. MODERATIONS A highly-decorated shield in an oaken wreath, with a bust of Concord in 
 the centre — this is represented with a full face, indicating that in the exercise of such a virtue, 
 the monarch is exerting his greatest prerogative : and the shield implies the Emperor to be proof 
 against the attacks of fortune, while its rotundity typifies eternity. This medal bears the 
 senatorial mark ; it was struck A. D. 14, at the opening of the reign of Tiberius — an occasion 
 on which he boasted both of Clemency and Moderation, as numerous coins testify.* But the 
 instability in which he considered his station, from the popularity of Germanicus, made his 
 modesty the "adroganti moderatione," alluded to by Tacitus ; though he certainly ridiculed the 
 Senate's flattery, and was unconcerned at scandal, saying, that in a free city, men's thoughts 
 and tongues should be free. 
 
 XXI. 
 
 Obverse. CIVITATIBVS ASIAE RESTITVTIS. Tiberius seated on a curule chair, with the left foot 
 upon a stool. His extended right hand holds a patera, and his left is supported by a hasta puru. 
 This medal was struck A. D. 22, to commemorate the munificence of the Emperor. One of the 
 most dreadful earthquakes on record happened in Asia, by which 12, or according to Eusebius, 13, 
 cities were overturned ; and as it happened in the night, it proved the more destructive of life, 
 being the less expected. Tiberius, to do him justice, behaved on this, as in other public cala- 
 mities, with a generosity worthy of his high station — for he not only remitted the taxes of the 
 ruined cities for five yeais, but also presented them with large sums for rebuilding. A few other 
 such deeds faintly illumine the dark picture of the tyrant's reign — his liberality, as Tacitus 
 says, being retained after he had abandoned all other virtues. 
 
 Reverse. TI. CAESAR DIVI AVG. F. AVGVST. P. M. TR. POT. XXIIII. {Tiberius Ccesar, 
 Divi Augusti Jilius, Augustus, Pontifex Maxitnus, Tribunitia potestate vigesimum-quartum.) 
 In the field an archaic S. C. The medal is in very fair condition, and was obtained from a 
 Dominican at Catania, in 1814: it countenances the historic record of Tiberius having been popular 
 in the provinces; for he declined laying new taxes on them, saying, that a good shepherd may 
 shear, but not flay his flock : — " Boni pastoris esse, tondere pecus, now deglubere." 
 
 XXII. 
 
 Obverse. CIVITATIBVS ASIAE RESTITVTIS. The Emperor seated with the consecrated patera 
 and lauce, as in XXII, but with the addition of a small S. C. in the field. The obverse doubt- 
 lessly represents the noble colossal statue which, according to Apollonius, was put up in the 
 Forum. 
 
 Reverse. An incuse, or indented impression of the obverse. It has been usual with medallists to impute 
 this to accident in striking, in that a second planchet, or blank, was placed on the dye before the 
 first was withdrawn, whence there would be a relief on one side, and an intaglio on the other. 
 This generally-adopted opinion, however, will not account for the fact — that, though the reverse 
 wants the uncial S. C. of No. XXII, the authority of the senate is affixed to the obverse ; thereby- 
 proving it to have been purposely struck upon an express dye. This medal is of yellow metal, 
 and in excellent preservation: it was purchased at Lord Morton's sale, in 1830. It should be 
 noted that no forged incuse has ever been known. 
 
 * The medal of Clemency has the same emblem as this of Moderation ; but that Virtue is usually represented as a stolated 
 female. See the Index. 
 
 D 
 
( 18 ) 
 
 XXIII. 
 
 Obverse. (.Sine epigraphe.) A triumphal quadriga, very richly decorated with sculptures and tokens 
 of victory — but without either charioteer or rider. This was struck A. D. 34, and may be sup- 
 posed to allude to the triumph decreed to Tiberius 25 years before, but which was never cele- 
 brated on account of the grievous defeat of Varus. 
 
 Reverse. TI. CAESAR DIVI AVG. F. AVGVST. P. M. TR. POT. XXXIIX. {Tiberius Ccesar, 
 Divi Augusti Jilius, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate trigesimum- 
 octavum.) In the field a large S. C. This medal is in remarkably fine condition, and was pre- 
 sented to me by my friend Consul-general Warrington, at Tripoli, in 1816. 
 
 The title of Pontifex Maximus is very familiar upon the medals of Tiberius, whereas not one 
 of the emperors was more careless and indifferent about what related to the worship of the gods, 
 and the ceremonies of religion, than himself. It will be recollected that the consecration to this 
 office was performed under extraordinary pomp and circumstance ; and that it constituted him 
 who attained the dignity, sovereign, judge, and director of the public and private obligations 
 of worship. All priests and sacrifices were under his inspection ; it was he who approved of the 
 vestal virgins, and appointed them their habits — that corrected, chastised, or condemned them 
 to be buried alive, when they violated their vows ; and to him belonged the composing of the 
 rituals, as well as digesting the public annals, or history of the year. See No. CCCCLXXXI. 
 Julius Caesar, who took upon himself the office of Pontifex Maximus — which was held by his 
 successors till the time of Gratian — well knowing the absolute dominion which he thereby 
 acquired over men's minds, and consequently over their actions, valued the dignity very highly. 
 Hence Ovid— 
 
 " Caesar preferred to titles gain'd in war, 
 The honours of the sacerdotal chair." 
 
 This medal is curious as to its date of Tribunitian power. Some authors maintain that we 
 are to look upon this sera as signifying the year of the Emperor's reign to which it is added : 
 but herein they are greatly mistaken; for, though veiy rarely, it was sometimes bestowed upon 
 others beside the emperor. It is allowed by all historians that the reign of Tiberius did not com- 
 plete 23 years — yet here, as Obadiah Walker observed, we find him with TR. POT. XXXIIX ; 
 and we have already described four medals bearing XXII1I, and one XXXVII, which were struck 
 by this despot. 
 
 DRUSUS JUNIOR. 
 Nero Claudius Drusus, the son of Tiberius, by Vipsania Agrippina, the daughter 
 of Agrippa, was born in Rome about the year B. C. 13 ; he was made quaestor A. D. 
 12 ; designated consul A. D. 14 ; derated to the tribunitian power A. D. 22 ; and 
 was poisoned at the instance of Sejanus A. D. 23, by Livia, otherwise called Livilla, 
 his dissolute wife. 
 
 Drusus, yielding in consummate dissimulation to his father, equalled him in im- 
 pure debauchery, drunkenness, and cruelty ; insomuch that, from his love of blood, 
 the sharpest swords were termed gladii Drusiani. While yet a youth he was de- 
 spatched into the provinces, on military service, to withdraw him from the allurements 
 of the city ; but when his father retired to Campania, he became governor of Rome. 
 In this situation he conducted himself with such moderation as to gain the affections 
 of the people, and cause them to overlook the luxurious revelry in which he rioted ; 
 while the friendly habits in which he had lived with Germanicus, and his having 
 gone to meet Agrippina with the sacred ashes of that popular chieftain, had already 
 
( 19 ) 
 
 endeared him to the army. As Drusus was a man of towering spirit, and impatient 
 of an equal, he was greatly irritated by the insolent bearing of Sejanus, and therefore 
 lost no opportunity of shewing his contempt. The powerful favorite, whose ambition 
 now soared to imperial power, repaid the affronts by first debauching Livia, and 
 afterwards inveigling her to poison her husband. The murder was not suspected till 
 after the fall of Sejanus, when the confession of the unhappy Apicata made Tiberius 
 acquainted with the horrible transaction. The rage of the tyrant, on finding in what 
 manner he had been deprived of his only immediate issue, was extreme : and, after 
 a personal examination into all the facts, it was manifested by the vindictive rigour 
 with which he punished the guilty wife, and all her accomplices in the villainy. Dio, 
 however, denies that Tiberius put Livia to death ; he asserts that she was delivered 
 over to Antonia, her mother, and that worthy matron, thinking it culpable that wicked- 
 ness of so black a dye should escape unpunished, left her to die by starvation. 
 
 There are but few silver medals of Drusus, and, I believe none of gold : indeed, 
 except those of middle-brass, his coins are all rare, especially such as bear Tiberius on 
 the reverse. From the difficulty of procuring any large-brass specimen, save that 
 struck in honour of the twins, it is usual to supply the deficiency with the restitutions 
 by Titus, and Domitian. One of the middle-brass series has the veiled head of 
 Pietas ; — Patin could hardly have recollected that this was a portrait of Livia, the 
 grandmother of Drusus, when he so indignantly wrote — " Quid cani cum balneo ; 
 aut Druso, viro impurissimo, cum pietateV 
 
 XXIV. 
 
 Obverse. DRVSVS CAESAR TI. AVG. F. DIV. AVG. N. (Drusus Ccesar, Tiberii Augustijilius, 
 Divi Augusti ntpos.) A remarkably fine portrait of Drusus, with the head bare ; the features 
 have some resemblance to those of his father, but they are more sedate, manly, and expressive. 
 It was struck A. D. 23, is very large and well spread of its class, in singularly good preservation, 
 and came into my possession at Genoa, in 1818. 
 
 Reverse. PONTIF. TRIBVN. POTEST. ITER. (Pontifex, Tribunitia potestate iterum.) In the 
 area is an uncial S. C. This medal corroborates the marble of Gruter, and shews that Drusus 
 was a pontiff; but the notion that he was therefore Pontifex Maximus is erroneous. The 
 college of pontiffs of which he was made one, had the superintendance of all the orders of priest- 
 hood — and they were charged with the direction of public worship, sacrifices, funereal ceremonies, 
 and all other religious solemnities. They were a highly-privileged class, and judging from the 
 " Pontificum potiore ccenis " of Horace, and other hints, were not remarkable for contempt of 
 worldly enjoyments. See No. CCCLXXXII. 
 
 XXV. 
 
 Obverse. (Absque epigraphe.) A winged caduceus between two cornucopia?, placed saltier, in each of 
 which is inserted a youthful head. This type elegantly alludes to the abundance and prosperity 
 of the empire at the time it was struck, for with all his vice and tyranny, Tiberius was pacific, 
 and his reign was one of peace and plenty. It also refers to the fecundity of the imperial family 
 in the birth of Drusus Gemellus and Tiberius Nero, the twin-sons of Drusus. This event gave 
 the Emperor such joy that he exultingly told the senate he was the first of his rank whom the 
 gods had so blessed. The caduceus shews that these infants were considered pledges of peace, 
 as they took away the occasions of war by cutting off all disputed claims to the succession j — 
 unfortunately however, the first died in his infancy, and the latter was put to death by Caligula. 
 
( 20 ) 
 
 It was also the type of happiness — " Caduceo, si cornucopia adjiciaiur, Felicitatis indicium 
 est," saith Piero Valeriano. The " Caducifer alis " was expressive of power and eloquence^ as 
 well as peace : its twisted serpents typified prudence and eternity, and the two wings diligence 
 and activity. As a symbol of Concord, it was placed in the hands of deputies proceeding to 
 conclude treaties, with the title of " Caduceatores," — as those who, were sent with a javelin to 
 declare war, were called " Feciales." See No. CCCCLXXIV. Virgil mentions the magic powers 
 of this famous Virga somnifera — 
 
 " Turn virgam capit : hac animas ille evocat Oreo 
 Pallentes; alias sub Tartara tristia mittit ; 
 Dat somnos adimitque, et lumina morte resignat." 
 Reverse. DRVSVS CAESAR TI. AVG. F. DIVI AVG. N. PONT. TR. POT. II. (Drusus Cesser, 
 Tiberii Augusti jftlius, Divi Augusti nepos, Pontifex, Tribunitia potestate iterum.) In the 
 centre an uncial S. C. (Senatus Consulto.) This is a fine bold medal, covered with chocolate- 
 coloured patina, and in most excellent conservation. It was struck A. D. 23, and presented to 
 me by Admiral Sir Charles Penrose, in 1816. 
 
 DRUSUS SENIOR.* 
 
 Nero Claudius Drusus, the son of Tiberius C. Nero, and Livia Drusilla, was born 
 B. C. 38, about three months after the marriage of his mother with Augustus, on 
 which occasion the wags of Rome remarked that the latter, with his usual peculiar 
 good-fortune, even had children in a shorter time than other men. Drusus was 
 speedily advanced to high honours, and spent his life in the service of the state. In the 
 year B. C. 27, he was sent into Gaul, where he acquitted himself with great credit, 
 and from thence he was dispatched against the warlike Rhaitians, over whom he 
 obtained a signal victory near Trent. He was made Praetor B. C. 13, and Consul 
 B. C. 9 ; soon after which he died, from the effects of a fall from his horse, at the 
 early age of 30 years. 
 
 Drusus presented a striking contrast to his brother, Tiberius — being tall and 
 graceful, of an open-hearted disposition, and excellently qualified both for civil and 
 military affairs; and he was, moreover, humane, affable, honest, and of extraordinary 
 valour. The attachment he manifested to Antonia proved his conjugal sincerity and 
 virtue, while the unblemished tenour of his character gained him the esteem of the 
 Emperor, and prepossessed every body in his favour. His untimely death was a severe 
 blow to Augustus and Livia, and his corpse was received into Rome with every ob- 
 servance that could stamp the grief and regard of all ranks of its citizens. Amongst 
 other posthumous honours decreed by the senate to his memory, were the erection of 
 a triumphal arch, and many trophies ; medals were struck, and the agnomen of Ger- 
 manicus added to his designation. The military valour, and success of Drusus, had 
 endeared him to the whole army — he was the first Roman chieftain, according to 
 Suetonius, that sailed on the Northern Ocean ; and he constructed, on the farther side 
 of the Rhine, those strong intrenchments which were thenceforward called Drusianec. 
 
 * Drusus Senior and Antonia, seem to demand priority of Tiberius, in a cabinet, but I have followed the arrangement 
 
 of medallists. 
 
( 21 ) 
 
 The sorrow of the soldiers was therefore excessive : to testify their sense of ihe loss of 
 so beloved a leader, they named the station in which he died the " Castra Scelerata," 
 and constructed a stately monument on the bank of the river, around which they 
 assembled every 11th of July, the anniversary of his death, to perform various evolu- 
 tions in honour of the illustrious deceased. Velleius Paterculus says he was pos- 
 sessed of as many virtues as prudence can acquire, or human nature can admit. The 
 beautiful ode of Horace, commencing with " Qualem ministrum fulminis alitem" 
 and ending by a fine compliment to the Claudian family, paints his military character 
 with unfading lustre. Pedo Albinovantes wrote an admired elegy on his death ; and 
 Ovid commemorates the melancholy event in these emphatic lines — 
 
 " Et mortem, et no men Druso Germania fecit ; 
 Me miserum, virtus quam brevis ilia fuit !" 
 
 The libel which charges Augustus with compassing the death of Drusus, is so 
 unsupported by evidence, and so opposed to facts and probability, that it needs no 
 refutation ; whether, with his avowed republican principles, he would have ultimately 
 been the emperor's heir, is another question. 
 
 The medals of Drusus are of a low degree of rarity, and consist of large-brass, 
 gold, and silver, with some colonial ones. All those which bear the name, or effigies, 
 of T. Claudius upon them, were struck by the Emperor Claudius in honour of his 
 father, and to perpetuate his signal victories in Germany. Of the large-brass series, 
 the restitutions of Titus and Domitian are the most valuable. 
 
 XXVI. 
 
 Obverse. NERO CLAVDIVS DRVSVS GERMANICVS IMP. {Nero Claudius Drusus Germanicus 
 Imperator.) The naked head of Drusus, with a profile bespeaking dignity and energy. This 
 medal is in singularly fine preservation, and of the best workmanship ; — it was struck by Clau- 
 dius to the glory of his father; and found near Monasteer, on the coast of Tunis, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. TI. CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG. P. M. TR. P. IMP. {Tiberius Claudius Ccesar, Au- 
 gustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator.) On the exergum S. C. A 
 togated figure of Drusus, holding up a laurel branch ; — he is seated in a curule chair placed upon 
 a " raundus," amidst shields, cuirasses, and other spoils of war; emblematic of his successes in 
 Germany. 
 
 XXVII. 
 
 Obverse. NERO CLAVDIVS DRVSVS GERMANICVS IMP. {Nero Claudius Drusus Germanicus 
 Imperator.) The naked head of Drusus, with a profile highly expressive of firmness and majesty. 
 Behind the head, in a sunken space, are the letters N. C. A. P. R. (Nummus concessus d 
 Populo Romano.) Jobert reads it, " Nota cusa d Populo Romano ," but in either case it is 
 evidently the token of a legal tender. This is one of the medals termed countermarked — 
 a method by which the value of the coin may have been changed, or refixed — as we have lately 
 seen practised in England, by a small stamp of George III. on the Spanish dollars which were in 
 circulation here. Countermarks are principally seen upon large and middle-brass, but are not 
 general; they differ from monograms, in that the one is struck with the coin, and the other is 
 always an addition. 
 
 Reverse. TI. CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG. P. M. TR. P. IMP. P. P. (Tiberius Claudius Caesar, 
 Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator, Pater Patrice.) The seated 
 figure as in No. XXVII. ; and both appear to have been minted B. C. 8. This medal is of fine 
 yellow brass, without patina, and was procured from a numismatic friend, in London, in 1829; 
 having formerly belonged to the cabinet of Mr. J. F. Edgar. 
 
( 22 ) 
 
 ANTONIA. 
 
 This illustrious princess is distinguished from an elder sister of the same name, 
 by the epithet of" minor;" but as she is the only one, of whom medals are known, 
 her name is used simply by numismatists. She was the daughter of Mark Anthony, 
 the triumvir, by Octavia, the sister of Augustus — and was born at Rome about B. C. 
 38. It is uncertain in what year she was married to Drusus, the pride of the Claudian 
 family — but she lost her husband B. C. 9, and died A. D. 38, under strong suspicion 
 of having been poisoned by order of Caligula, her grandson, whom she had taken 
 upon herself to admonish for his monstrous and manifold wickedness. 
 
 Antonia resembled her mother, in being as much distinguished by personal charms 
 as by virtue — and it is a pleasure to find such a personage brightening the dark details 
 of the Imperial race. Her conduct as a wife was remarkable for harmony and con- 
 jugal fidelity ; and after the death of Drusus, she passed an inconsolable widowhood 
 of 47 years, though frequently and earnestly pressed by Augustus, while in the 
 meridian of her youth and beauty, to marry again. Thus, by a noble continence, she 
 compensated for her father's greatest defect ; and the remainder of her life — conse- 
 crated to the strict observance of her vows — was passed in so exemplary a course of 
 prudence, unostentatious excellence, and dignity free from pride, as to steer her in 
 safety through the terrific reign of Tiberius. Valerius Maximus, Plutarch, and 
 Josephus, have borne testimony to her meritorious career ; others remark that she knew 
 not the taste of wine ; and Pliny, as a climax, assures us that she was never known 
 to spit ! 
 
 An apparent deficiency of feeling, in this princess, has been variously animadverted 
 upon — but the merely reverting to the tenour of the times is sufficient to account for it. 
 Tacitus tells us, that, neither in any historian, nor in the journals of the city, could he 
 find that Antonia bore any part in the funeral of her son Germanicus, though Agrip- 
 pina, Drusus, Claudius, and the other relations of the deceased, were there recorded 
 by name. Perhaps, says he, she was prevented by sickness ; or she was sensible that 
 she must have sunk under the weight of her sorrows. " To speak my own opinion," 
 he adds, " 1 am inclined to believe that she was detained by Tiberius, that he and 
 Livia might seem to have followed her example, and the people not think it strange 
 that the uncle and grandmother had absented themselves when the mother had not 
 appeared, but ascribe their absence to the same cause — an equal affliction. " The 
 unfeeling contempt she is said to have manifested towards her son Claudius is not 
 so easily defensible. See No. XXXVIII. 
 
 On the death of Drusus, extraordinary honours were paid to Antonia ; and, what 
 is remarkable, she was the means of Anthony's family, in spite of all their misfortunes, 
 
( 23 ) 
 
 giving three emperors to Rome — whereas not one of the family of Augustus obtained 
 the sovereign power, for the attaining of which he had impiously trodden under foot 
 the sacred laws of his country, and by a thousand acts of cruelty and injustice, laid 
 waste the Roman world. 
 
 The medals of Antonia are of gold, silver, and middle-brass, with some Greek, 
 Colonial, and Egyptian ones. Those of middle-brass are common, and substitute the 
 large size — but those of the other metals are considerably rare, and have only two known 
 reverses — Constantioe* and Sacerdos — the first of which is supposed to allude to the 
 firmness with which she declined matrimonial overtures after she had become one of 
 the honoured order of Univiri. 
 
 XXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONIA AVGVSTA. A fine head of Antonia, with her hair twisted to the back of the 
 neck, and a countenance expressive of sense and mildness. The title of Augusta was conferred 
 by Caligula, when he ascended the throne — albeit he so soon afterwards maltreated her, and, like 
 a graceless grandson, refused to bestow posthumous honour, or permit medals to be struck to per- 
 petuate her memory. This is a darkly-patinated and singularly fine medal, of a size, thickness, 
 and relief much nearer large than middle-brass. I procured it from the Chev. Landolina, at 
 Syracuse, in 1814. 
 
 Reverse. TI. CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG. P. M. TR. P. IMP. [Tiberius Claudius Casar, Augus- 
 tus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, I?nperator.) In the field S. C. A veiled 
 priestess holding a simpulum in her right hand, and a sacrificial vase, in her left. This medal 
 was struck by Claudius, about A. D. 41 — and Havercamp and others have therefore advanced 
 that the figure represents the Emperor himself. But the specimens consulted by those antiquaries 
 could not have been in good condition : on the one under consideration, the bust and person are 
 too exactly delineated to mistake it for any other than Antonia, habited as a vestal virgin— or, 
 perhaps, as one of the priestesses of Augustus, of whom Livia was the chief. 
 
 GERMAN1CUS. 
 
 Germanicus, the " worthiest son of the worthiest parents," was born of Drusus 
 Senior and Antonia, B. C. 15. He inherited this splendid name from his father, on whom 
 it had been conferred in perpetuity, by a decree of the senate. He was adopted by 
 Tiberius, at the express command of Augustus, and decorated with the title of Caesar, 
 B. C. 4. He took the quaestorship A. D. 7 ; obtained triumphal honours for his 
 successes over the Marsi, Catti, and other northern nations, A. D. 11 ; and became 
 consul in the following year. A second, and still more magnificent triumph was 
 awarded for his German victories, A. D. 17 ; on which occasion the people were 
 delighted by seeing the victor's chariot filled with his sons and daughters. After a 
 brilliant but brief career, he died A. D. 19, in the 34th year of his age. His death 
 seems to have been partly hastened by vexation ; but it was mainly imputed to the 
 
 * Except this, and one of Claudius, I know no other medals representing Constant la. She is typified hy a galeated female, 
 with a torch and a cornucopiae ; and also by a sedent woman, who elevates her right hand, but has neither sceptre, branch, 
 nor patera. 
 
( 24 ) 
 
 effects of poison, said to have been administered by Piso, at the instance of Tiberius 
 and Livia, — the only two persons, says Dio, in the whole Roman empire, who were not 
 affected with so great, so general a loss.* 
 
 Germanicus was a prince equally famed for rare accomplishments, political talent, 
 and military prowess; and Ovid, in dedicating his Fasti to him, bears testimony to his 
 learning. In the spirited suppression of a military insurrection, in the obsequies paid 
 to the remains of Varus and his legions, and in the modesty of his trophy on the defeat 
 of Arminius, the action and bias of a powerful mind were displayed : but that our 
 admiration might be unalloyed, it is to be wished the exhortation to " give no quarter" 
 had never found utterance from a chief so generally lauded for benevolence and 
 clemency ; — yet the harsh mandate is almost counterbalanced in the magnanimity of 
 despatching succour to rescue his arch-enemy, Cnei us Piso, from destruction. His affable 
 address, and graceful person, secured his succession to Drusus in the public affections, 
 insomuch that he was denominated the " delight of the Roman people •" and he dis- 
 charged all the various duties of an able officer, and an upright citizen, to their 
 satisfaction and applause. Tiberius, however, beheld this popularity with a malignant 
 eye, and to withdraw the gallant leader from his devoted legions in Germany, he 
 nominated him to the command of the Eastern provinces : the public pretence painted 
 this appointment as a high honour, but the motive suspected was, that the emperor 
 might the more easily compass the ruin of his rival, — albeit that rival had proved himself 
 above the temptation to empire, by firmly resisting the army which urged it upon him. 
 
 Amidst the distractions of a busy public life, Germanicus still devoted a portion of 
 his time to study — and two Greek comedies, a translation of Aratus, and some epigrams, 
 flowed from his pen. The same classic taste led him to seize the earliest moment, 
 afforded by his new appointment, of visiting the antiquities of Greece and Egypt. 
 
 The virtues and extraordinary qualifications of Germanicus were so highly ap- 
 preciated, that when his death was announced, it is incredible what lamentation and woe 
 it occasioned. The ashes of the deceased were solemnly borne to Rome by Agrippina : 
 and all orders — consuls, senators, knights, plebeians, women, and children — went forth 
 in mournful array to meet the sacred urn : and we are told that though the exterior forms 
 of grief were observed, the anguish of their hearts surpassed all outward shew. In order 
 to eternize the memory of a prince so beloved, " friendship put itself to the stretch, and 
 men of talents exhausted their invention." Triumphal arches were built, and statues 
 erected ; and, among other honours, it was decreed that the name of Germanicus should 
 be inserted in the Salian Hymn, an honour peculiar to the gods ; that a curule chair, 
 with an oak-leaf crown should be placed in the college of Augustan priests ; that his 
 
 * The imputation of poison always attended the sudden and the unwelcome deaths of great men among the Ancients 
 I have reported the above from authority, " as in duty bound but must acknowledge, that I cannot understand the principl« 
 upon which slow poisons were administered, and rendered effective. 
 
( 25 ) 
 
 figure in ivory should be carried before the procession in the Circensian games ; and 
 that no candidate, save one of the Julian family, should be appointed flamen, or augur, 
 in the vacancy made by his demise. The regret was universal, and, in fine, to use 
 the words of Tacitus — " the provinces lamented their loss ; he was honoured by kings, 
 and regretted by the neighbouring nations ; such was his equal behaviour to the allies 
 of Rome, and such the humanity that endeared him even to the enemy." 
 
 The medals of Germanicus, with the exception of those of middle and third brass 
 are rare, and were mostly struck by his son Caligula. The large-brass is exceedingly 
 scarce — and of the very few known, is the one which follows. Colonial and Greek 
 coins of this prince, though of some degree of rarity, it is not difficult to procure. 
 
 XXIX. 
 
 Obverse. GERMANICVS CAES. TI. AVG. F. DIVI AVG. N. (Germanicus Ccesar, Tiberii 
 Augustijilius, Divi Augusti Nepos.) The naked head of Germanicus regarding the left, with 
 short hair, smooth chin, bare neck, sedate asptct, and a countenance expressive of one, who " cer- 
 tainly excelled the rest of mankind in all the accomplishments of mind, and perfections of body." 
 This medal, in good preservation and coated with black patina, was obtained from the cabinet of 
 Mr. Willett, in 1834 ; and is of such extreme rarity, that no other is known in England. 
 
 Reverse. TI. CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG. GERM. P. M. TR. P. IMP. P.P. {Tiberius Claudius 
 Ccesar, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potcstate, Imperator, Pater 
 f*atri(B.) In the field an uncial S. C. (Senatus Consultu.) This valuable medal ought decidedly 
 to have been purchased by the British Museum, and, in such cases, few collectors would compete 
 with the liberal officers of that national establishment : but the trustees exert a grievous parsi- 
 mony in some of their measures, and of course, at a public sale, objects of taste will not be thrown 
 away. See No. CCCLXXXVII. 
 
 XXX. 
 
 Obverse. GERMANICVS CAESAR in clear characters across the upper verge. The victorious prince 
 is here seen with a sceptre surmounted by an eagle — " sccptroque insignis ehum))'' — a symbol 
 of command borrowed from the Etruscans : he is in a highly ornamented triumphal quadriga. 
 This significant medal was struck A. D. 17, the date of the triumph — and though only of second- 
 brass, is well-spread and of the best workmanship. It is in very high preservation, and was 
 presented to me by M. Gropius, at Athens, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. SIGNIS RECEPT. DEVICTIS GERM. (Signis Receptis, Devictis Germanis.) A military 
 and majestic whole-length figure of Germanicus, with his right hand elevated, and his left bearing 
 a legionary eagle; the inscription is on each side of the figure, across the field, and under it ;t 
 large S. C. This alludes to the finding of two of the three eagles which had been lost, together 
 with three legions and six cohorts, by the imbecile Varus ; a recovery which caused the greatest 
 joy to Rome. One of these eagles was re-captured by Stertinius ; of the other it is related that 
 Malovandus, a Marsian chief, had given Germanicus intelligence of its being buried in a trench, 
 within a wood, and the place well guarded. On this, two parties were sent to regain it — one 
 attacked the enemy in front, while the other entered in the rear, and bore off the eagle. Floras 
 tells us that the third was thrown into a deep morass, by the Roman who bore it. 
 
 This medal has been servilely copied, in the JNSPRUCK, 1805, of the Napoleon series, but 
 a comparison of the two will shew the inferior drawing of the modern one, especially with regard; 
 to the dignity of the bust. 
 
 AGRIPPINA SENIOR. 
 
 Agrippina, a lady not more illustrious for her rank than her virtues, was (he 
 daughter of Marcus Agrippa, by Julia the daughter of Augustus. She was born B.C. 15, 
 
 E 
 
( 26 ) 
 
 and became the wife of Germanicus, by whom she had nine children. The affec- 
 tionate regard, and intrepid daring, with which she bore the ashes of her husband into 
 Rome, were not overlooked by her enemies, and she was, in the event, banished to 
 Pandataria, A. D. 30, where, after suffering the most odious brutality from the malice 
 of Tiberius, she expired in misery, three years afterwards. The fell tyrant could not 
 brook her popularity with the Roman people, by whom she was applauded, as the only 
 blood of Augustus, and the last remaining model of ancient manners. " Her death," 
 it is Tacitus who speaks, " was said to be voluntary ; but if it be true that all nourish- 
 ment was withheld from her, it is evident that an artful tale was fabricated, to give the 
 appearance of suicide to a cruel and barbarous murder." 
 
 Agrippina was a woman of exalted spirit,* and noble character; and her chaste 
 and faithful adherence to her husband, and his memory, have been greatly admired. 
 In the conscious rectitude, of virtue, and the independence of illustrious birth, she 
 scorned crouching under that servile submission to the arrogant Livia, which was 
 expected. Sejanus, finding her virtue impregnable, contrived by emissaries to get 
 her pride exasperated, and to prompt her to those indiscretions of a spirited temper, 
 against which the dying husband had solemnly warned her ; and which accelerated 
 the ruin both of herself and of her sons. The tidings of her dissolution were announced 
 by Tiberius himself to the senate ; and the despot accepted the thanks of this body, 
 for the " tender indulgence " of not having ordered her to be strangled, and thrown 
 into the common charnel-house. Her remains were conveyed in great pomp from 
 Pandataria, by Caligula, and deposited in the mausoleum of Augustus, with every 
 honour which could be paid. 
 
 The gold and silver medals of Agrippina are of a high degree of rarity, especially 
 that having a reverse of Germanicus ; nor are there any Latin brass but those of the 
 large size, which it is tolerably easy to procure, except when restored by Titus. The 
 colonial coins of this princess are exceedingly rare, and when in good condition, bring 
 high prices. 
 
 XXXI. 
 
 Obverse. AGRIPPINA M. F. GERMANICI CAESARIS. (Agrippina, Marci filia, Germanici— 
 scilicet uxor — C'cesaris.) A well-drawn portrait of the princess, with her hair plaited and tied 
 behind, and with features speaking the firmness of the "fcemina ingens animi." This medal is 
 in fine preservation, and covered with a dark-brown patina ; it was procured at Girgenti, in 1815. 
 
 li. verse. TI. CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG. GERM. P. M. TR. P. IMP. P. P. (Tiberius Claudius 
 Ccesar Augustus Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator, Pater 
 Patrice.) From the uncial S. C. which occupies the centre of the field, it is seen that this medal, 
 struck by Claudius in honour of his unfortunate sister-in-law, was ratified by the senate. 
 
 XXXII. 
 
 Obverse. AGRIPPINA M. F. MAT. C. CAESARIS AVGVSTI. (Agrippina Marci filia, Mater 
 Caii C'cesaris Augusti.) A fine portrait, highly expressive of one who was so impatient of 
 
 * This spirit was perhaps " un peu fort,'''' for she rated Tiberius pretty soundly ; and Tacitus, with all due regard to her 
 virtues, says — "atque ipsa Agrippina paullo commotior,nUi quod castitate, et mariti umore, qucmvis indomitum animum 
 in bonum verterat" 
 
( 27 ) 
 
 adversity. The hair is delicately executed to the above fashion, but with the addition of a ringlet 
 down the neck, and a string of pearls to the clubbed part. Havercamp, Pedrusi, and others, 
 pronounce this medal to have been struck by Caligula, to his mother's memory ; but it was more 
 probably by Claudius, for it has been objected that the former was too indignant at the mean 
 extraction of his really noble grandfather, to have permitted the M. F. to appear on the legend. 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. MEMORIAE AGRIPPINAE. (Senatus Populus Que Romanus, Memories 
 AgrippintB.) This is placed across the upper verge, as an inscription, and under it is a superb 
 and sacred carpentum drawn by two mules. In coins of consecration, the word "Menioria" 
 means piety, rather than memory as a faculty : and thus a woman who, in life, had been bar- 
 barously imprisoned, scourged, had an eye knocked out, and narrowly escaped being drawn 
 about the streets by a hook through the mouth, and cast into the Gemonicp., was annually 
 honoured after death, with sacrifices and processions. The omission of the S. C. is from the 
 S. P. Q. R. being equally the stamp of senatorial authority. The coin is a singularly fine one, 
 of light yellow brass, and was procured at Patras, in 1820. 
 
 NERO AND DRUSUS. 
 
 Nero and Drusus were the two eldest sons of Germanicus, by Agrippina Senior. 
 They were both recommended to the Senate, by Tiberius, upon the death of his son ; 
 by the same recommendation they were both advanced to public employments before 
 the competent age, and they were afterwards both ruined by the artifices of Sejanus. 
 
 Nero was born about A. D. 7, was made quaestor in his thirteenth year, and 
 admitted into the college of pontiffs. Tiberius distributed a public largess on the oc- 
 casion of his assuming the toga virilis, and then gave him Julia, his grand-daughter, 
 in marriage. But owing to his wife becoming informer to her worthless mother, he 
 fell by the base machinations of the minister, and was disgraced A. D. 26, being con- 
 demned, and banished to Pontia, where he shortly afterwards died of hunger.* 
 
 Drusus was born A. D. 8, and having taken the "manly robe" at the age of 
 fifteen had the same honours decreed to him by the Senate, which had been conferred 
 on his elder brother, three years before. He married iEmilia, the daughter of M. JE. 
 Lepidus, a man of consular dignity, and in A. D. 25, was advanced to the station of 
 prsefect of Rome ; in the following year he was artfully drawn in by Sejanus to com- 
 bine in the destruction of his elder brother; and was afterwards, in A. D. 29, accused 
 before the Senate, and declared an enemy to the state, in a common sentence with his 
 mother and brother. Drusus was kept in close confinement in a dungeon under the 
 house of Tiberius, where he was condemned A. D. 33, by the merciless emperor, to be 
 starved to death ; but he protracted his miserable existence for nine days, by devouring 
 the materials of his bed. Tiberius reported the dying imprecations of his victim to 
 the Conscript Fathers: " with horror and astonishment," says Tacitus, " they beheld 
 a tyrant, who, with close hypocrisy, had hitherto concealed his crimes, but was now so 
 hardened, that, without shame or remorse, he could throw open prison-walls, and 
 
 • Suetonius says there was a rumour that he slew him»«lf, on seeing the executioner approach with the implements of 
 death. 
 
( 28 ) 
 
 shew his grandson under the centurion's lash, exposed to common ruffians, and in the 
 agony of famine, begging a wretched pittance to support expiring nature, but begging 
 it in vain." 
 
 These hapless brothers are commemorated only upon a middle-brass coin of Rome, 
 and one or two colonial ones ; the former are very common, and easily procurable in 
 good condition. 
 
 XXXIII. 
 
 Obverse. NERO ET DRVSVS CAES A RES. The two princes on horseback, as Caesars. The youth 
 who was honoured with this title had all the children of the Roman nobility under his command, 
 and appeared at their head when they performed militaiy exercises in the field of Mars, or ex- 
 hibited the favourite tournament called Troy. See No. CCLXXXIII. The attitudes of the 
 princes is also an allusion to Castor and Pollux, who were greatly venerated for their supposed 
 aid in the battle of Regillus. This coin is in good preservation, and was presented to me at 
 Ithaca, in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. C. CAESAR AVG. GERMANICVS PON. M. TR. POT. [Cains Ccesar Augustus, 
 Germunicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitiapotestate.) In the centre S. C. (Senatus Consulto.) 
 Caligula affected great regard to the memory of those relations who had been slain by Tiberius, 
 in order to gain the affections of the people. For this end he personally repaired to Pontia and 
 Pandataria, in tempestuous weather, to bear back the bones of his brother and mother, under 
 every imposing solemnity, that he might inter them in the sepulchre of Augustus : and with the 
 same object in view, he ordered this coin to be struck, A. D. 37. 
 
 CALIGULA. 
 
 Caius Caesar, the third son of Germanicus* and Agrippina, was born A. D. 12, 
 and his infancy being passed in the camp, the soldiers surnamed him Caligula, in 
 allusion to the caligce, or military sandals, which he wore.f This youth, who, as old 
 Pedrusi says, was " un figliuolo pessimo d'un padre ottimo," became augur A. D. 31 ; 
 succeeded Tiberius, as the fourth Roman emperor, A. D. 37 ; and was assassinated by 
 Cassius Chserea, a praetorian tribune provoked by his contemptuous ribaldry, A. D. 41, 
 after 3 years, 10 months, and 8 days, of " raging rather than reigning." 
 
 While Caligula resided with Tiberius, he proved himself an adept at dissimulation, 
 by concealing his innate ferocity under the mask of modest humility ; and even when 
 his mother and both his brothers were condemned, not a word nor a groan escaped 
 him. The attainment of sovereign power quickly developed his real character, and at 
 once exposed him as a monster of folly, profligacy, and savage inhumanity ; and he is 
 deservedly stigmatized by Eutropius as " sceleratissimus, ac funestissimus^ et qui 
 etiam Tiberii dedecora pergaverit." When a son of the beloved Germanicus 
 ascended the throne, the acclamations were universal, and the reign was commenced 
 
 * Caligula could by no means endure being thought the grandson of Agrippa, and scandalously gave out that he was the 
 incestuous offspring of Augustus and his daughter Julia. 
 
 f The Caliga was a heavy sole, lashed with thong3 to the leg, and armed with stout nails, whence the hint which Juvenal 
 gives of their potency in ejecting civilians from the Praetorian camp. The emperors gave largesses of nails to the soldiers, 
 " donativum clavarium" which perhaps meant also money to purchase them. The •« capillamento celatui" in which he dis- 
 guised himself, must have been a kind of wig, yet Otho has the merit of having introduced the regular wearing of periwigs. 
 See No. XL11I. 
 
( 29 ) 
 
 by such popular acts of justice and generosity, as to justify the general joy. But this 
 was too quickly succeeded by blood and slaughter, and a manifest hatred of the human 
 race ; and his consequent career was one of mutable and contradictory caprices, 
 agreeing only in brutal excesses and odious propensities. On his attaining the 
 sceptre, he would accept of no titles of honour ; but he soon afterwards astounded the 
 Conscript Fathers by assuming* them all in one day, except that of Pater Patrice, 
 which he merely deferred. He both claimed and received divine worship, and was the 
 greatest blasphemer that ever lived ; yet he quailed in the conviction of a Deity, and 
 crept under his bed whenever he heard thunder. This "best of slaves and worst of 
 masters" was foolishly prodigal, and meanly rapacious of money. With savage inhu- 
 manity he attended executions in person, and made parents behold the merciless 
 torments inflicted on their unhappy children ; yet he could erect a palace for his horse, 
 feed him with gilt oats in an ivory manger, refresh him with wine from a golden 
 goblet, and compass the creating him a consul. He adopted the young Tiberius under 
 every token of affection, and the next moment ordered his death. He contracted and 
 dissolved marriages with equal caprice and dishonesty ; besides his incestuous union 
 with Drusilla, he seized and repudiated three wives, and was at last permanently at- 
 tached to Cassonia, a mother of children by another man, and without youth or beauty, 
 but of depravity corresponding with his own — " luxuries ac lascivice perdiia?. > ' 
 He pompously marched for the conquest of Britain ; but having advanced to the sea- 
 shore, he ordered his soldiers to fill their helmets with cockle-shells and return in 
 triumph, causing a high tower to be erected to commemorate the success. He painted 
 the theatres with vermillion and green, decorated his gallies with jewels, enveloped 
 his bread and viands in gold-leaf, and bathed his carcass in odoriferous oils. In order 
 to ride over the sea as well as the land, he constructed a bridge from Baise to Puteoli, 
 at so ruinous a cost, that with other frantic expenses, he squandered away the treasure 
 left by his predecessors, amounting to eighteen millons sterling. The magnitude of 
 this silly labour may be estimated, by stating, that it crossed the bay in a direct line 
 of more than two nautic miles, and that besides the enormous number of ships which 
 were planked over to form the central part, the masonry on either shore was of a 
 description to make our bridges and breakwaters suffer by comparison. I personally 
 examined the massy piers which still run out from Pozzuoli, and found them singularly 
 compact and firm, notwithstanding their long exposure to earthquakes and billows; 
 the outer eight were in water gradually deepening from four to nine fathoms, with 
 clear channels between them.* 
 
 * Amongst the contradictory orders with which he perplexed the Romans, was one by which— on the plea of equal descent 
 from Augustus and Anthony — he declared he would punish the consuls if they celebrated the anniversary of Actium, and 
 also if they neglected it. It was likewise decreed to be a crime to refrain from sorrow on the death of Drusilla, and also to 
 bewail her who was proclaimed to be a goddess. There was a spice of humour in the despot. When Aponius Saturninus was 
 dozing at a public sale, Caligula made the Auctioneer note the noddings of his head as biddings : 13 stout gladiators were 
 knocked down to the unconscious buyer, at the enormous price of " sestertio nonagies," a sum w hich he was compelled to pay. 
 
( 30 ) 
 
 Such infatuations are clear evidences of insanity : and we cannot but feel a hearty 
 contempt for the base servility of the Romans, who could offer solemn adoration to a 
 wretch openly guilty of the most detestable and unnatural depravities ; and whose 
 adage was oderint, dum metnant. Indeed, it is recorded that he had an alarming 
 attack of illness, arising from vicious debauchery, at the commencement of his reign ; 
 and there was, moreover, a current belief that Caesonia had beguiled his regards by a 
 philtre, which proving too potent, distempered his intellect. 
 
 It is unnecessary to enumerate the wives of Caligula in this catalogue, because there 
 were no Latin medals struck to their honour. A large-brass one has been figured by 
 Pedrusi, having a portrait of Drusilla crowned with a peculiar coronet, and the head 
 of an infant placed on a cornucopia? as a reverse ; but it is undoubtedly a modern 
 fabrication. A second-brass coin has been shewn of the beautiful Lollia Paulina, 
 which is also false. This is the Lady whom Pliny met at a private party, aud was 
 astonished to find her overloaded with jewels to the amount of 400,000 sesterces, 
 "as she openly offered to prove :" her splendour, however, led to little more than her 
 being " looked at of every man ;" for she was torn from her husband, married to the 
 despot, quickly repudiated, and at last murdered by the younger Agrippina, under 
 the plea of witchcraft, but in reality for "setting her cap " at Claudius. 
 
 When Caligula was destroyed, the dastardly Senators who had so recently sacrificed 
 to him, ordered all his statues to be demolished, his acts abrogated, his money to be 
 melted down, and his inscriptions defaced, in order that his memory might be ex- 
 tinguished for ever. Yet this sentence has not prevented a considerable number of 
 medals from reaching us, though consequently — except those of second-brass — they 
 are of considerable rarity when in good preservation : indeed, after the diligence of 
 Messalina in fusing them to make statues of Mnester, the dancer, it is a wonder that 
 we have any. 
 
 XXXIV. 
 
 Obverse. C. CAESAR AVG. GERMANICVS PON. M. TR. POT. {Caius Ccesar, Augustus, Get- 
 manicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate.) The laureated profile of Caligula looking 
 to the left ; the countenance somewhat resembles that of his grandfather, but is less noble, and 
 has a malignant expression : and he was at great pains to cherish this aspect — " Vultum vero 
 natuia horridum ac tetrum eliam ex industria efferabat ; coraponens ad speculum in omnem 
 terrorem ac formidinem." This medal, in the finest possible condition, and covered with a 
 beautiful yellow patina, was procured in Barbary, in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. P. P. OB GIVES SERVATOS. (Senattis Populus Que Romanus, Patri 
 Patrite, ob cives Servatos.) This is inscribed in a civic wreath, and alludes to the recall of 
 exiles, A. D. 37, and other acts of clemency with which Caligula opened his reign. The wreath 
 was so much used by the ancients, at their sacrificial and social feasts — " coronabant pocula 
 hilaritatis causa convivalis ,, — as to become a common representation on sculptures and coins. 
 See CCCVII. Caligula introduced a new ornament, for those who accompanied his bush-robbing 
 exploit in Germany, which he called the " Exploratory Crown." The S. C. does not appear, 
 because the Senatorial authority is implied by the S. P. Q. R. but the money of Trajan shews 
 that this was not an invariable rule. 
 
( 31 ) 
 
 XXXV. 
 
 Obverse. C. CAESAR GERMANICVS PON. M. TR. POT. {Cains Cccsar Germanicus, Pontifex 
 Maximus, Tribunitia potestate.) The lamented portrait of Caligula. Tins medal is unequally 
 spotted with a green cerugo, and is in perfect condition. It was procured in 1823, at Ansidonia, 
 in the Papal states, where it had just been found in the mins of Cosa ; having probably been 
 struck in the first year of the Emperor's reign. 
 
 Reverse. AGRIPPINA, DRVSILLA, IVLIA. On the exergum S. C. Here we have the sisters of 
 Caligula characterized by three elegant females, with the attributes of goddesses. The first 
 leaning on a cippus, typifies Constancy ; the second, with a patera, denotes Piety ; and the third 
 holds a rudder to signify Fortune : they each bear a cornucopias, Agrippina having her's on the 
 right shoulder, the others on the left. The tyrant gave these depraved creatures the rank and 
 privileges of Vestals, although — "cum omnibus sororibus suis stupri consuetudinem fecit." 
 We may allude to their fates. Drusilla, the favorite, after having had two husbands, was pub- 
 licly espoused to her brother, and on her death, which happened A. D. 38, Caligula deified her 
 with frantic demonstrations of grief and regard. Agrippina and Julia, after each being twice 
 married, were plunged by their brother into shameful debaucheries, and were then banished by 
 him for adultery : by which the wholesale adulterer gained their riches and effects. Being 
 recalled to Rome by Claudius, Agrippina became the Emperor's wife, and will be mentioned 
 hereafter ; but Julia, falling under the power of the infamous Messalina, was again driven into 
 exile, and put to death A. D. 43. 
 
 XXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. C. CAESAR DIVI AVG. PRON. AVG. P. M. TR. P. IIII. P. P. [Cuius Ccesar, divi 
 Augusti pronepos, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate quartum, Pater 
 Patrice.) The laurelled portrait of the Emperor turned to the left, and depicted somewhat older 
 than on the two last. This beautiful medal is in high preservation, and was presented to me by 
 my friend Colonel Otto Beyer, of the 10th Regiment, at Goza, in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. ADLOCVT. COH. [Adlocutio Cohortium.) The Emperor in senatorial vestments, standing 
 on a tribunal, before a curule chair, addressing five military figures bearing eagles. These 
 soldiers are admirably executed, and by the thunderbolt on each of their shields, it is shewn that 
 they belong to the famous Legio Fulminatrix. See No. CCLI. This reverse was deemed by 
 Schlegelius, Pedrusi, and others, to represent the oration made by Caligula after the three days 
 revels upon his bridge ; but Eckhel who is a more paramount authority, thinks it was struck in 
 the first year of the tyrant's reign. This, however, from the tribunitian date, and the P. P. is 
 questionable : an adlocution was made to the Praetorian Cohorts on the accession, but the coins 
 which commemorate it, of which I have had several, bear merely the legend C. CAESAR AVG. 
 GERMANICVS PONT. MAX. TR. P. The one just described, I am inclined to date A. D. 
 40, though the consulship is not marked, and the occasion may have been, the expedition to 
 Britain. 
 
 Caligula — who is said to have been eloquent — was the first Emperor who celebrated his 
 military harangues by medals ; and it is remarkable that the one under discussion, though 
 evidently of the Roman mint, has not the stamp of senatorial approbation. Occo says — ubi est 
 S. C. non est caput Caij, ubi non est S. C. cernitur caput. 
 
 XXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. C CAESAR DIVI AVG. PRON. AVG. P. M. TR. POT. IIII. P. P. (Caius Ccesar, 
 divi Augusti pronepos, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate quartum, Pater 
 Patrice.) On the exergum PIETAS. A veiled sedent female, whose left arm rests on a little 
 robed statue — which is distinct from the throne on which she sits — holds the sacred patera in 
 her right hand. This fine medal is covered with deep yellow patina, and is in most excellent 
 condition ; it was minted A. D. 40, and procured by exchange, at Cagliari, in 1824. 
 
 Reverse. D1VO AVG. {Divo Augusto.) S. C. A temple of six columns in front, elaborately decorated 
 with statues and garlands. Before it stands the Emperor, habited as a priest ; he holds a patera 
 to receive the blood of a steer, which is grasped by a victimarius, to pour upon the altar by 
 which he stands : behind the Emperor is a camillus, also holding a patera, but it is in his left 
 hand. The inscription explains, at once, that this is a sacrifice to Augustus, and there can be 
 no doubt of its being the one so pompously celebrated on completing, and dedicating, the temple 
 
( 32 ) 
 
 which had been left unfinished by Tiberius. Thus was a prince honoured and consecrated by 
 the inconsistent being who decried his military services, and branded him with the crime of 
 incest. But as if nothing were wanting to render Caligula execrable, he was as envious and 
 malicious as he was proud and cruel; whence his medidated attempt to suppress and abolish the 
 works of Homer, Virgil, and Livy, by dicta, which formed a forerunner for the Elders of the 
 Index Expuigatorius — and, perhaps, suggested the senseless theory of Father Hardouin. 
 
 CLAUDIUS. 
 
 Tiberius Claudius Drusus Gennanicus, the fifth emperor of Rome, was the sou 
 of Drusus Senior and Antonia, and was born at Lugdunum, B. C. 10. From many 
 disadvantages while a child, and the being under a cruel tutor, he became habitually 
 fearful, and was so remarkable for mental and bodily weakness that, during the bloody 
 reigns of his uncle and nephew, he escaped the fate of those who were less despised. 
 Upon the death of Caligula, A. D. 41, Claudius was found concealed in some hang- 
 ings, by a plundering soldier, dragged out, and forthwith carried to the camp, where, 
 instead of the death he expected, he was proclaimed Emperor. In his joy, he pro- 
 mised to reward all the troops liberally — a promise which overcame the feeble oppo- 
 sition set up by the senate, against the choice of the praetorians : and thence originated 
 the ruinous custom of soothing the army by largesses, which afterwards degenerated 
 into a regular barter for the diadem ; and caused the subversion of the state by the 
 substitution of martial for senatorial law. After an existence, rather than a reign, of 
 13 years, 8 months, and 20 days, under the government of his wives and freedmen, 
 he was poisoned by Agrippina on the 13th of October, A. D. 54. Hence the Satirist — 
 
 " Let Agrippina's mushrooms be forgot, 
 Given to a slavering old unuseful sot, 
 That only clos'd the drivelling dotard's eyes, 
 And sent his godhead* downward to the skies." 
 
 Notwithstanding the inert waywardness imputed to this " mooncalf," as my late 
 friend Gifford termed him, and the gluttony and timidity which he fell into, Claudius 
 was not altogether devoid of accomplishment or of taste: and it seems that his re- 
 lations — even to his mother and sister — who might in tenderness have spared his 
 weakness, considerably underrated his intellectual powers, in the severity of their 
 sarcasms. For his Greek and Latin histories are declared to have been written with 
 purity and elegance : he introduced the iEolic digamma, and two other letters, into 
 the Roman alphabet ; and is said to have been so well acquainted with astronomy, 
 that he calculated an eclipse which was to happen on the anniversary of his birth ; and 
 fearing that it would occasion at Rome consternation, and perhaps tumult, he pub- 
 lished an explanation of the causes of such a phenomenon. Nor was his public career 
 
 * After his death, Claudius was numbered amongst the gods, a deification treated with much contempt by the wits and 
 wag6 of the age. Juvenal sneered at it — " dcscendere jussit in cesium.'" Seneca, who smarted under his Corsican trip, ridi- 
 culed it in his Apocolokmfosis, a work of more humour than merit ; and of more passion than philosophy. Gallio, alluding 
 to the mode of dragging the bodies of criminals to the Gemonisp, says, that the Emperor was " hooked " into heaven; and 
 Nero called mushrooms food for the gods But the Romans did not always think it lamentable, nor despicable, to rank those 
 as deities, who had degraded themselves as men. 
 
( 33 ) 
 
 altogether an useless blank, although he accidentally occasioned the total ruin of 
 the ancient form of government, by assuming those prerogatives which had been 
 the principal motive to the contests of Marius and Sylla. He opened his reign with 
 mildness, justice, and clemency, — and was so far an enemy to pride and osten- 
 tation, that he steadily refused the title of Imperator, as a prsenomen. Amongst 
 other public works, he undertook and completed a convenient haven at the mouth 
 of the Tiber, an enterprize which had baffled the efforts of Csesar ; he also partly 
 succeeded in draining the lake Fucinus ; and he finished an aqueduct of stupendous 
 magnitude, by which the city was supplied with delicious water. But his better 
 qualities lost their effect through the deficient energy of an impassive mind ; until his 
 character became radically debased, and his personal conduct stamped with imbecility 
 and contradiction, — and even his naturally humane disposition became sanguinary 
 by an habitual attendance at the infernal combats of gladiators. With such defects, 
 he was little adapted for arbitrary sway, in so turbulent and licentious an age ; and, 
 instead of wielding his sceptre, he became the easy dupe of the most odious wretches 
 that ever pestered a state. The acts of those arrogant minions, Pallas, Callistus, and 
 Narcissus, are lost in the unparalleled rapine, massacre, and monstrous depravity of 
 the libidinous Messalina ; and we could heartily wish to be sceptical as to the 
 unblushing enormities which attended her misrule. 
 
 Claudius aimed at military fame, and to earn a triumph he passed over into 
 Britain, where, fortunately for him, some excellent officers were emplojed : the 
 abject Senate rewarded his few-days-service with a magnificent pageant, and the 
 surname of Britannicus was decreed both to himself and his son.* While speaking 
 of British affairs we may add, that he evinced the latent generosity of his heart, when, 
 charmed with the noble boldness of the captive Caractacus, he ordered the liberation 
 of that prince and his family ; — an act, the merit of which will be immediately felt, 
 on calling to mind the horrid fate too often reserved for royal captives. Indeed the 
 evidence upon his character may be summed up in the distich of Ausonius : — 
 " Libertina tamen, nuptarum et crimina passus, 
 Non faciendo nocens, sed patiendo fuit." 
 
 The medals of Claudius are easily procurable ; those of the three sizes in brass 
 are common : and it is a peculiarity of this reign, that the date of the tribunitian 
 power is omitted, in the legends. There are no Latin coins in honour of any of the 
 wives of Claudius, except those of Agrippina ; but I have met with the head of 
 Messalina on a colonial one ; — its expression was rather that of a fine, than a hand- 
 some or intelligent woman ; the hair was plaited close round her head, like a fillet, 
 instead of hanging down the back of her neck, as with Agrippina. 
 
 * Upon this occasion Claudius ascended the steps of the Capitol on bis knees: — may not this have afforded a hint to 
 
 the devotees of the Santa Scala ? 
 
 F 
 
( 34 ) 
 
 XXXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. TI. CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG. P. M. TR. P. IMP. (Tiberius Claudius Casar 
 Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator.) The laurelled head of 
 Claudius, with a portraiture differing very widely from the impressions received from his- 
 torians, and bearing no trace of the "Portentum hominis, nec absolutum d naturA, sed 
 tantum inchoatum," said to have been uttered by his mother. This medal is singularly 
 coated with dense yellow patina, and was procured of my friend Mr. Burgon, in 1826. 
 
 Reverse. EX. S. C. OB CIVES SERVATOS. (Ex Senatus Consulto, ob cives servatos.) Inscribed 
 in an oaken garland. This honour appears to have been awarded to Claudius, for his recalling 
 those who had been banished by Caligula, without sufficient cause. 
 
 XXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. TI. CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG. P. M. TR. P. IMP. (Tiberius Claudius Casar 
 Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator.) A fine and intelligent 
 head of Claudius. This superb medal is in surprising preservation ; it is coated with a bottle- 
 green patina, and, from the absence of the P. P. was probably of the coinage of A. D. 41. 
 For its possession I am indebted to Sidy Mohammed Dighiz, who presented it to me, at 
 Tripoli, in 1817. 
 
 Reverse. SPES AVGVSTA. On the exergum S. C. Hope is here personified by a lively female, 
 clothed in flowing and transparent drapery, which she is holding back with her left hand, in 
 order that her progress may be unimpeded ; and she is in an advancing posture to shew that Hope 
 presses towards her desired object. The whole figure is uncommonly graceful, — the head is 
 crowned with a diadem, and the right hand holds a lotus, or lily, signifying that blossoms 
 give hopes of fruit. Several medalists have considered this as a symbol of Flora; but Spes 
 is covered with vestments, whereas the impure goddess was always represented naked to the 
 waist, and holding a bunch of flowers, instead of a single bud. Shakspeare, who probably 
 never consulted coins, inclined to the classical idea, rather than the allegory which is now 
 represented, with an anchor, — an emblem more suitable to Security, than Hope : — 
 
 A cause on foot 
 
 Lives so in hope, as in an early spring 
 
 We see the appearing buds ; which to prove fruit, 
 
 Hope gives not so much warrant, as Despair 
 
 That frosts will bite them. 
 This medal was probably struck in anticipation of a milder sway than that of Caligula. 
 The type, which is very expressive, was especially honoured by Claudius, because he was 
 born on the day allotted to the rites of this deified moral attribute. 
 
 XL. 
 
 Obverse. TI. CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG. P. M. TR; P. IMP. P. P. (Tiberius Claudius 
 Ccesar Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator, Paler Patrice.) 
 The laurelled head of Claudius, as in No. XXXVIII, but struck after he had assumed the 
 honoured title of Father of his Country. 
 
 Reverse. EX. S. C. P. P. OB CIVES SERVATOS. (Ex Senatus Consulto, Pater Patrice, ob 
 cives servatos.) Inscribed in an oaken garland, as commemorative of clemency. This coin 
 is in fine preservation, and covered with a dark-green patina. It was procured from a friend, 
 in London, in 1829. 
 
 XLI. 
 
 Obverse. TI. CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG. P. M. TR. P. IMP. P. P. (Tiberius Claudius 
 Casar Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator, Pater Patrice.) 
 An excellent portrait of the emperor, with a laurel wreath. This medal is of pale-yellow 
 brass, is in good preservation, and was procured at Bizerta, near Tunis, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. NERO CLAVDIVS DRVSVS GERMAN. IMP. (Nero Clattdius Drusus Germanicus, 
 Imperator.) S. C. In the pious regard which Claudius bore towards the memory of his 
 father, he instituted equestrian games on the anniversary of his birth. And here we have a 
 triumphal arch, surmounted by a statue of Drusus on horseback, between two military 
 trophies, which represent the spoils of the German victories. 
 
( 35 ) 
 
 XLII. 
 
 Obverse. TI. CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG. P. M. TR. P. IMP. P. P. (Tiberius Claudius Ccesar 
 Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator, Pater Patrice.) The 
 laurelled portrait of Claudius, looking to the right. This medal is in secondary conservation, 
 and was procured of M. Carstensen, the Danish Consul General at Tripoli, in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. SPES AVGVSTA. On the exergum S. C. The figure of Hope, attired in light robes, holding 
 a flower to three soldiers. It has been thought that this reverse denoted the favour which 
 Claudius found from the cohorts ;— but that is more indisputably shewn on two coins, struck 
 in gold and silver. The first shews the Emperor within the walls of a camp, with IMPElt. 
 RECEPT. over the gate ; — on the other he is taken by the hand, by an aquilifer, or eagle- 
 bearer, with the legend PRAETOR. RECEPT. But the medal I am describing has but 
 little claim upon this demonstration of gratitude, especially as the P. P. was not immediately 
 assumed by Claudius : it was more probably intended for the hope held out to the army, on 
 their expedition to Britain. 
 
 BRITANNICUS. 
 
 Tiberius Claudius Germanicus, the son of the emperor Claudius, by the most 
 infamous Messalina, was born on the 12th of February, A. D. 42 ; and the name 
 of Britannicus was given him in the year following, as proper instead of all others, 
 on account of the prosperous proceedings in Britain. He was considered a very 
 hopeful youth, and therefore greatly beloved by the people, as presumptive heir to 
 the empire ; but he was excluded from the succession, by the artifices of Agrippina, 
 who made Claudius adopt Nero, to the prejudice of his own son, A.D. 50. Though 
 this adoption was applauded by the servile Senate, yet almost every citizen was 
 affected at the hard lot of the unhappy Britannicus, whom Agrippina, under colour 
 of tenderness, kept locked up in a nursery, though he was now nine years old. By 
 degrees she removed from him all his former attendants, putting in their room 
 persons who were entirely at her devotion. She would never allow him to appear 
 abroad, nor even to wait upon his father, giving out that he was disordered in his 
 senses, and troubled with the falling sickness. He was poisoned A. D. 55, in the 
 first year of Nero's reign, during the feasts of the Saturnalia, in the hour of hospi- 
 tality, and under the eye of his mortal enemy. 
 
 We are told, that the young prince had sufficient discernment to perceive the 
 designs which Agrippina masked under officious kindness ; and he displayed an 
 instance of early acuteness, in moving general sympathy, when Nero, to cast him 
 into ridicule, had publicly commanded him to sing. But here he committed two 
 fatal faults: on the one hand he maintained his pretensions to the throne so as to 
 alarm the tyrant ; and on the other he displayed a very superior voice, — a qualifi- 
 cation which rendered him equally odious as a rival. From that instant he was 
 condemned, and as it was necessary to proceed by artifice, the detestable Locusta was 
 
( 36 ) 
 
 employed to prepare a poison. The first potion was administered by the tutors of 
 the Prince, but without the desired effect. A second attempt was decisive ; for, at 
 a repast with Nero, who lay stretched at his ease on a couch, and in the presence of 
 Agrippina, his sister Octavia, and all the courtiers, he was destroyed by a most 
 deadly dose. A scene of confusion followed ; and Agrippina, from a desire of 
 keeping Britannicus as a tool in her hands, was especially shocked ; but Tacitus tells 
 us, that after the distraction had subsided, the pleasures of the table were renewed ! 
 The corpse was carried out the same evening - , and buried in the field of Mars, 
 during a violent fall of rain, without expense or pomp of any kind. The regrets 
 were general ; and Seneca, or whoever was the author of the tragedy entitled Octavia, 
 bewails his death in the following lines: 
 
 Tu quoque extinctus jaces^ 
 
 Deflende nobis semper, infelix puer, 
 
 Modo sidus orbis, columen Augustae Domus ; 
 
 Britainiice ! 
 
 Medals of Britannicus, are, as might be supposed, exceedingly rare ; and, a very few 
 from the Greek colonies excepted, are almost unique. The only authentic large-brass 
 one that I know of, is that with reverse Mars, in the Imperial cabinet of Vienna, which 
 was purchased at Rome, in 1773, and has been pronounced to be genuine. A 
 second-brass specimen was admitted into a collection by Morelli, but Eckhel thinks 
 it must be false. Pellerin describes a coin of the third-brass series, apparently of 
 the Latin mint ; but the title of Augustus thereupon, which the prince never bore, 
 would shew it to be colonial. 
 
 XLIII. 
 
 Obverse. KAAYAIOS BPETANNIKOX KAI2AP. The head of Britannicus, with the hair cut 
 close, without any decoration, — and the countenance indicating that of an ingenuous youth. 
 This is a large-brass colonial medal, in excellent condition, and was procured from Mr. Young, 
 in August, 1828. 
 
 Reverse. ANTI<I>EAAEITflN. A thin equestrian figure, with a flowing robe, and a couched spear, 
 galloping across the field. Now comes the question as to the authenticity of the present 
 medal, the style and workmanship of which, may be said to court the severest scrutiny ; and 
 even the practised eye of Mr. Young remains undecided. But there has been only one coin of 
 Antiphellus hitherto published, viz. a large-brass Greek Imperial one of Gordianus Pius, quoted 
 by Sestini, vol. 3, p. 89, — but without citing any authority, — though probably he copied 
 Eckhel, who in vol. 3, p. 2, of his Doet. Num. Vet. describes a similar coin. It is therefore 
 presumed by Mr. Burgon, whose judgment in such a question amounts to authority, to be 
 against probability that mine is an original ; but even if it be a fabrication, it is of an early 
 date, and fills a hopeless hiatus in the cabinet. 
 
( 37 ) 
 
 AGRIPPINA JUNIOR.* 
 
 This remarkable princess, the daughter of Germanicus and Agrippina, was born 
 in a town afterwards called Colonia Agrippinensis, (now Cologne,) A. D. 16. 
 She was bred up with her grandmother Antonia, who endeavoured to inspire her 
 with sentiments of honour and goodness, but in vain, for, as Dio says, vice made its 
 appearance before reason began to dawn. She was married, at the early age of 
 thirteen, to the brutal and debauched Cneius Domitius iEnobarbus, and from this 
 profligate couple proceeded Nero. Her incestuous commerce with her brother, and 
 promiscuous adulteries were notorious ; but an intercourse which she had with 
 Lepidus, the conspirator, brought down the vengeance of Caligula, and she was 
 banished to Pontia, after having been obliged to carry her paramour's ashes, in an 
 urn, from the place where he was executed to Rome. On her recall, by Claudius, 
 she was united to Crispus Passienus, a celebrated orator, whom she destroyed as 
 soon as she had obtained possession of his wealth. After the downfall of Messalina, 
 she was assisted by Pallas — the modest slave, as Pliny terms him, — in inveigling 
 the Emperor into marriage; and a vote to legalize the unnatural union was passed 
 by the senate, through the agency of the supple Vitellius, A. D. 49. In the following 
 year, the same obsequious body dignified her with the sublime title of Augusta, on 
 the adoption of Nero into the Claudian family ; and, after succeeding in most of 
 her ambitious schemes, she was barbarously murdered by that execrable matricide, 
 A. D. 59. 
 
 Agrippina had received from nature all the advantages of mind and person which 
 could command regard, and a double tooth on the right side, according to Pliny, 
 presaged her success. But though her beauty, wit, and literary accomplishments 
 were undeniable, all these good qualities were clouded by violence, baseness, and 
 sordid avarice ; and for her vindictive cruelty, we need only cite the sending for 
 the head of Lollia Paulina, to glut her eyes with, on which occasion she brutally 
 opened the mouth, with her own hands, to ascertain by the teeth, that uo imposition 
 had been practised upon her. The vanity of Agrippina was evinced by her equipage, 
 jewels, and splendid vestments, as well as by the triumphal chariot in which she 
 obtained leave to visit the capitol ; and she received the homage of Caractacus, 
 seated upon an elevated throne, between the Roman standards and eagles, in gor- 
 geous magnificence. She was popular from having recalled Seneca from banish- 
 ment ; but this act was lamentably counterbalanced by murder, proscription, and 
 
 * In following the example of calling females Senior and Junior, I do not mean to defend its propriety, 
 medallists publish them Major and Minor, to which also objections may be taken. 
 
 Some 
 
( 38 ) 
 
 pillage, — and she disposed of honours, governments, employments, and armies, 
 with a haughty contempt of propriety and justice. The whole of her craft and 
 influence was directed to secure the power she obtained ; and, according to Tacitus, 
 she did not blush to prostitute herself in order to promote her son's elevation, and 
 to gratify her insatiable longing for gold. As some of her measures, resulting from 
 turbulent anxiety, were prosecuted with but little precaution, Claudius was apprised 
 of their dangerous nature. Tn the paroxysm of terror and anger which followed 
 the communication, the Emperor vented some threatening expressions, which 
 procured him the dish of mushrooms that promoted him to divine honours. 
 
 The accession of Nero was followed by the usual consequences, — the mother 
 who wrought the elevation aiming at uncontrouled power, and the son opposing 
 her inclinations, but at the same time heaping honours upon her: all the artillery 
 of remonstrance, angry invective, and tender caresses, were alike ineffectual ; for, 
 in addition to the natural inclination of the young prince to be released from 
 thraldom, the ambitious designs of Agrippina were thwarted by the influence which 
 his tutors, Seneca and Burrhus, had over him. In following her objects she seems 
 to have hesitated at nothing ; Tacitus, to be sure, acquits her of participation in the 
 murder of Britannicus, but we wish, for humanity's sake, that she could also be 
 cleared of the detestable charge transmitted by Cluvius, and others. By rapid 
 gradations the influence of the unhappy mother vanished ; her credit and authority 
 fell to nothing, and she was abandoned by the crowd of flatterers who had 
 offered her incense, — albeit she left nothing unattempted, which thirst of power 
 could suggest, to retain her wonted dominion. At length affairs reached 
 such a crisis that Nero, instigated by Poppaea Sabina, resolved to remove the in- 
 cumbrance ; and, the better to accomplish his ends, affected returning regard, and 
 invited his mother to Baia?, to pass the festival of the Quinquatria. Here a most treach- 
 erous, and we may add very lubberly attempt, was made to drown her, in a scuttled 
 galley ; but she escaped by swimming to a boat, after her attendant was killed, and 
 she herself wounded, by being struck at with oars when in the water. The crime 
 could no longer be concealed ; and it became necessary to complete what had been 
 begun. Accordingly a party of assassins, who, we grieve to say, were called mariners, 
 surrounded her place of refuge, and despatched her by many mortal wounds ; 
 and, we are told that she bared her body to the ruffians, boldly bidding them 
 plunge their swords into the part which had harboured so vile a monster as their 
 master. She was buried the same night, but had no tomb nor monument while 
 Nero lived, — for with active hatred he delighted in blackening her memory, and 
 even procured that, her nativity should be placed among the days of bad omen, 
 
( 39 ) 
 
 in the calendar. It should be added that though, by a long train of crying ini- 
 quities, Agrippina deserved her cruel doom, yet the countenance given by Seneca, 
 to the odious means by which it was accomplished, and defended, brands him with 
 indelible reproach. 
 
 Medals of Agrippina, though rare, are found in gold, silver, and Greek imperial. 
 Of the large-brass, I have never been able to procure a single specimen, nor is there 
 one even in the British Museum. Vaillant has figured two of this magnitude, with 
 reverses Ceres, and a triumphal arch ; but there are no Latin brass of the other 
 sizes. Agrippina was the first of the wives of the Augusti, whose effigies appeared 
 on gold and silver coins, of the Roman mint, during her life, — a circumstance which 
 has been advanced as an instance of her arrogance. 
 
 XLIV. 
 
 Obverse. AGRIPPINA AVGVSTA CAESAR1S AVG. (Agrippina Augusta, Casaris Augusti.) 
 
 The head of Agrippina, with a lovely countenance and intelligent aspect, — her tresses plaited 
 and hanging down the back of her neck, after the fashion of Agrippina Senior. 
 
 Reverse. TI. CLAVD. CAESAR AVG. P. M. TR. P. X. IMP, XIIX. (Tiberius Claudius 
 Ceesar, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate Uecimuni, Imperator Deci- 
 mum Octavum. J The laureated head of Claudius. In consequence of the utter hopelessness of 
 acquiring a large-brass medal of this princess, 1 have substituted the present specimen, which 
 is a silver medallion, nearly of the proper module. This, I am aware, is an offence against the 
 sacred unity of a large-brass cabinet ; but as it is better than a blot, I trust the numismatic 
 censors will overlook it, — especially as it is the only one of its metal in the series. The like- 
 nesses are good, and the characters perfect, — but, from its magnitude, it was probably struck 
 in a colony. 
 
 NERO. 
 
 Lucius Domitius, the son of Cneius D. iEnobarbus and Agrippina Junior, was 
 born at Antium, A. D. 37. By the arts of his mother he was adopted into the 
 Claudian family, and declared Caesar, A. D. 50, — on which occasion he assumed 
 the names of Tiberius Claudius Nero Drusus ; Nero being, it is said, a Sabine word 
 for " valiant." By these measures he became Prince of the Roman youth, was 
 elected as a supernumerary into all the sacerdotal colleges, and, in A. D. 53, was 
 wedded to Octavia, the Emperor's daughter. In the following year he succeeded 
 to Claudius ; was married to Poppeea Sabina, A. D. 63, and three years afterwards 
 to Statilia Messalina. His vicious enormities having aroused universal execration, 
 he was condemned to die, more majorum ; but he escaped so cruel an execution by 
 a dastardly death from his own hand, A. D. 68 ; and in him the race of the Caesars 
 became extinct. 
 
 The reign of this sanguinary monster, which endured 13 years and 8 months, 
 began in moderation, liberality, and clemency, except, as in the instance of Britannicus, 
 
( 40 ) 
 
 where he was personally concerned ; but it gradually degenerated to debauchery, 
 lust, and wanton flagitiousness. Seneca, who penned Nero's orations, and was too 
 intimately connected with events opposed to philosophy, is said to have been in- 
 fluential in curbing excesses for a time, by remarking that though an Emperor might 
 destroy multitudes, yet he could not kill his successor. After the death of his tutors 
 he gave himself up entirely to singing, playing upon the harp, driving of chariots, 
 carnage, and vice in its most odious shapes. From the very nature of his prodigality, 
 outrage and rapine were necessary consequences, and the Empire was recklessly pil- 
 laged. He wore no robe a second time ; never travelled with fewer than 1000 chariots ; 
 and his numerous train of attendants was gorgeously adorned. The ceremonies 
 of the first denudation of his chin must have equalled, in expense, the outfit of 
 an expedition ; his shews may be estimated, by stating, that at one of them, no 
 fewer than 300 lions, 400 bears, many pairs of gladiators, and a number of bulls 
 were slaughtered : but all these fell short of the revenues which were expended in 
 the vast and incredible construction called the " Golden Palace. Our page shall 
 not be contaminated with the abominable pollutions which disgraced the sera ; but, 
 amongst the horrid cruelties that obtained, a mention may be made of the "lugu- 
 brious torches" which were introduced, when, to screen Nero from the charge of 
 having fired Rome, the christians were visited with the first persecution : these were 
 made by enveloping the fated wretches in combustible mantles, the " tunica molesta" 
 of story, and smearing them with inflammable matter ; and when the day declined 
 they were lighted up to dispel the darkness of the night ! Yet this " enemy and 
 fury of mankind," whose very name is emphatically made use of, by most nations, 
 to express a barbarous, raging, and abandoned despot, — yet even this brute was 
 lamented after death, insomuch that flowers were found strewed over his grave. The 
 act, however, must have originated in the degenerate habits of the mob, who, inured 
 to idle debauchery, had seen, with delight, the treasures of the Empire lavished 
 by such as Caligula and Nero, in furnishing Panem et Circences. 
 
 Medals of Nero are abundant in every metal and size, as well Latin, as Colonial, 
 Greek, and Egyptian ; but of his wives there are none from the Roman mint, and 
 comparatively few from the others. Poor Octavia, whose beauty and irreproachable 
 conduct did not save her from repudiation and death, is commemorated upon several 
 foreign coins; and on one which 1 have examined, the amiable sufferer is exhibited 
 with a serious aspect, — her hair plainly dressed, and trussed close round her head. 
 
 * In the l.udi Mnximi, celebrated by Nero for the eternity of the Empire, many thousands of Missilia were cast 
 am'ongst the populace. On these were written orders for sums of money, clothes, paintings, jewels, food, and other 
 prizes, -.i hich was a precursor of lotteries. The custom was (ollowed, and arrived at its most contemptible excesses 
 under heliogabalus. Traces 01 the Missilia are still observable at coronations, and carnivals. 
 
( 41 ) 
 
 The handsome but depraved Poppaea, who was killed by the worthless husband's 
 kicking her pregnant belly, has also various coins in her honour, of which the 
 principal I have met with, are of the dumpy kind called " Potin," and struck in 
 Egypt: and even her daughter Claudia, who died scarcely four months old, had a 
 small-brass coin dedicated to her memory, inscribed DIVA CLAVDIA NER. F. 
 His third wife, Statilia Messalina, who survived the tyrant, and was engaged to 
 Otho, is represented only on Greek Imperial medals: she is there shewn with a 
 pleasing face, and with great nicely in the disposition of the hair, which falls in 
 plaits on her neck, — thus differing from the close fashion of Octavia, and the clubbed 
 manner of Poppaea. 
 
 XLV. 
 
 Obverse. NERO CLAVD. CAES. AVG. GER. P. M. TR. P. IMP. P. P. (Nero Claudius, 
 Ccesar Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Jmperator, 
 Pater Patrice./ The laurelled head of Nero, turned to the right. This medal is of yellow- 
 brass, and was purchased in London, in 1829. 
 
 Reverse. ADLOCVT. COH. ( Adlocutio Cohortium.J This is inscribed on the exergum, and in 
 the field appears S. C. Nero attended by Burrhus, both togated, ou a tribunal standing near 
 a circular edifice ornamented with columns, which may be emblematic of the Praetorian camp. 
 He is addressing three soldiers who stand before him, bearing military ensigns, and is probably 
 promising the donative upon which they proclaimed him Emperor ; — whence we may concludt 
 the medal to have been struck A. D. 54. 
 
 XLVI. 
 
 Obverse. NERO CLAVD. CAES. AVG. GER. P. M. TR. P. IMP. P. P. (Nero Claudius 
 Caesar, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator, 
 Pater Patrice. J The laurelled head of Nero looking to the left, a mode of placing the profile 
 which, after this reign, is very rare upon large-brass. The countenance is well marked, and 
 strongly indicative of sensuality, — the eyes are heavy, and the neck fat. The medal is in 
 singularly fine condition, and entirely covered with a rich green patina. I procured it at 
 Jerba, in the Little Syrtis, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. ANNONA AVGVST1 CERES. On the exergum S. C. Here Ceres is represented by a 
 veiled female seated, with a torch on her left arm, and her right hand is extended to receive 
 a cornucopife which another female, personating Anuona, is presenting. Between tbem 
 is a decorated altar, on which stands a modius ; and in the back ground is seen the prow of a 
 ship, denoting that the supply of corn arrived by sea. 
 
 XLV1I. 
 
 Obverse. NERO CLAVD1VS CAESAR AVG. GER. P. M. TR. P. IMP. P. P. (Nero Clau- 
 dius CcEsar, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator, 
 Pater Patrice. J The laureated head of the Emperor, in high relief. This medal is in verv 
 tolerable preservation, and was presented to ine, by Colonel Warrington, at Tripoli, in 1817. 
 
 Reverse. CONG. I. DAT. POP. ( Congiarium primum datum populo.J In the exergum, S. C. 
 
 The Emperor, in his toga, is seated on a curule chair, which is placed upon a high Suggestum. 
 Beside him is a statue of Rome, with a lance and victory ; and before him stands Liberality 
 with a tessera. An adult appears on the steps of the suggestum, with a child, to receive the 
 gift at the hands of one who is distributing it. Nero was the first whose Congiaries are 
 represented upon medals, and after his example, the practice was continued. The Congiarium 
 consisted originally of wine and oil, which were measured in a Congius ; and it was always- 
 a present especially to the people, — the largesses to soldiers being properly termed donatives. 
 'I he medal before us was probably struck in the first year of Nero's reign, upon the occasion 
 of bis bestowing 400 denarii on each citizen. 
 
 G 
 
( 42 ) 
 
 XLVI1I. 
 
 Obverse. NERO CLAVD. CAESAR AVG. GER. P. M. TR. P. IMP. P. P. (Nero Claudius 
 Ccesar, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia polestate, Imperator, 
 Pater Patrice.) The lamented head of the Emperor, turned towards the right. In excellent 
 condition, and slightly coated with a brown patina. It was procured, by exchange, from 
 Mr. Burgon, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse* POR. OST. AVGVSTI. S. C. fPortus Augusti Ostiensis, Senatus Consulto.J The 
 placing of this legend has occasioned error; Augusti is on the upper verge, and S. POR. 
 OST. C. on the lower one, whence Havercamp engraved it S. P. Q. R. Ost. C. This medal 
 commemorates the harbour formed at Ostia ; but though the consent of the senate assign* 
 it to Nero, the honour unquestionably belongs to Claudius, who actually commenced and 
 completed it, to ensure a regular supply for the Roman markets. From a survey which 1 
 made of its ruins, in 1823, it must have been an undertaking as gigantic as it was useful. 
 On the lower verge of the coin, Neptune is seen reclining, with a rudder stuck into the ground 
 to denote being in port, where the latter implement is usually at rest, and a dolphin sporting 
 distinguishes the deity from a River-God, and? indicates the tranquillity of the waters. On 
 either side are magazines and docks, and the field is occupied with gallies, of which the 
 largest fills the centre. Upon a solid basement near the entrance of the haven is a colossal 
 statue with a spear, holding up his left hand ; this, Addison thinks, may have held a light 
 for guiding mariners by night; but he could hardly mean the Pharos alluded to by Suetonius, 
 as it was built upon a 'huge ship sunk for the purpose, and was said to resemble the stu- 
 pendous structure at Alexandria. 
 
 XLIX. 
 
 Obverse. NERO CLAVD. CAESAR AVG. GERM. P.M. TR. P. IMP. P. P. {Nero Claudius 
 Ccesar, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator, 
 Pater Patrice.) A frowning head of Nero in very high relief, with the Gorgon's head, as an 
 amulet upon his breast. This was a common ornament with Nero andDomitian; and was 
 perhaps worn for the purpose of averting the evil eye, as I have seen a modern Italian 
 sovereign use a piece of coral. This charm has been miscalled bulla, amongst numismatists : 
 but the bulla was only retained by the Roman youths while they wore the pretexta; and on 
 assuming the " manly gown," it was offered to the Dii Lares. Baudelot was of opinion that 
 the Bulla aurea was worn by generals in their triumphs ; but the evidence of Macrobius, 
 whom he quotes, is extremely conjectural ; while the contrary may be inferred from ihe 
 fact, that it is found upon such statues only as represent youths,— neither is it to be met with 
 upon any of the marbles, arches, or coins, bearing a representation of triumphal chariots. 
 
 Reverse. CONG. II. DAT. POP. {Congiarium secundum datum populo.) On the exergum S. C. 
 
 The Emperor is seated upon an ornamented tribunal, near a temple, in the front of which is 
 a colossal statue of Rome. By his side is an assistant, and before him an officer presenting 
 the tablet of Liberality to a citizen. This medal has been chronologically assigned to the 
 year 57, — but I think without good grounds. There are three of Nero's congiaries celebrated 
 on coins ; the first we have described, and the third may have been struck when a donative 
 was made on the suppression of Piso's conspiracy. The middle, or that in question, probably 
 records the munificence of the tyrant after the disastrous fire at Rome. He was at Antium 
 when the conflagration burst forth, but he returned in time to witness the flames. Seeing the 
 general distress he caused sheds to be erected in his gardens, for the houseless multitude, 
 lowered the price of grain, took wise precautions to prevent a scarcity, and supplied all the 
 most pressing wants of the populace. These measures would have gained him great credit, 
 had not the suspicion of his being the author of the calamity, still maintained its ground in 
 the minds of the people. 
 
 L. 
 
 Oiverse. NERO CLAVD. CAESAR AVG. GER. P. M. TR. P. IMP. P. P. {Nero Claudius 
 Ccesar, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator, 
 Pater Patrice.) An exceedingly characteristic profile of Nero, with the hair dressed with 
 singular care. This is one of the finest specimens of Roman art in its finest period : and in 
 
( 43 ) 
 
 order to shew the numismatic Tyro, how little dependance can be placed upon those books in 
 which the medals are priced, it may be proper to give its story. As the reverse is very com- 
 mon, a tolerable specimen may be had for five or six shillings ; but from having had upwards 
 of a score pass through my hands, I had selected one which could not be worth less than a 
 couple of guineas. This, however, was gladly resigned to replace it by the present medal, 
 with which I had long been acquainted, and had admired as the first of its class. It was 
 knocked down at Mr. Henderson's sale, in 1830, for four pounds, eight shillings, — and is 
 undeniably worth more. 
 
 Reverse. PACE P. R. TERRA MARIQ. PARTA, IANVM CLVSIT. (Pace Populo Romano 
 Terra Marique, parta, Ianum clusit.) In the field, S. C. The small square temple of 
 Janus, magnificently decorated, and its gates closed. The cornices, capitals, and indeed the 
 whole detail of this edifice are so accurately delineated, and in such perfect preservation, that 
 a statuary of Bedford made a beautiful model from it, in marble, to support the meridian-mark 
 of a transit instrument, at Hartwell House. This medal was struck when Nero, taking 
 advantage of the successes of Corbulo, A. D. 58, shut up the temple, " with airs of self- 
 gratulation," as if his valour had wrought an universal peace. On this occasion, Tiridates 
 having been compelled to repair to Rome, and receive the crown of Armenia from the hands 
 of Nero, a pompous spectacle took place, in which Roman pride and oriental servility were, 
 equally conspicuous : but the pageant was rendered everlastingly infamous, by its being 
 stained with the precious blood of Thrasea, Soranus, and the unfortunate Servilia. 
 
 LI. 
 
 Obverse. NERO CLAVD. CAESAR AVG. GER. P. M. TR. P. IMP. P. P. {Nero Claudius 
 Ccesar, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator, 
 Pater Patrice.) The laurelled head of Nero, with a frowning aspect. This medal is in very 
 excellent condition, and slightly patinated. I procured it at Cephallonia, in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. ROMA, on the exergum. In the field S. C. A dignified Amazon, with a helmet and military 
 vestments, is seated in a commanding attitude upon a pile of armour, with her left hand 
 resting on the short sword called parazonium, and her right extended, supporting a winged 
 victory, the appropriate attributes of the deified " Mistress of the World." The whole design 
 is excellently executed. 
 
 LTI. 
 
 Obverse. NERO CLAVD. CAESAR AVG. GER. P. M. TR. P. IMP. P. P. (Nero Claudius 
 Ccesar, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator, 
 Pater Patrice.) Portrait of the Emperor, with the usual forbidding expression. In tolerable 
 preservation, and purchased at the Hon. R. E. Digby's sale, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. MAC. AVG. ( Macellum Augusti ) In the field S. C. A very noble edifice of two stories, 
 and a central cupola, decorated with numerous columns, and a figure on the steps of the porch. 
 This medal is usually dated A. D. CO, and considered as being in honour of the flesh-market, 
 which Dio tells us was consecrated. But Jobert cannot allow of such magnificence for 
 mere shambles : it resembles, he says, the ruins of the mausoleum mentioned by Suetonius, 
 " Inter Flaminiam viam, rimamque Tiberis ;" that the letters have been misinterpreted, 
 and that for Macellum we should read Mausoleum. An oversized second-module. 
 
 LHI. 
 
 Obverse. NERO CLAVD. CAESAR AVG. GER. P. M. TR. P. IMP. P. P. (Nero Claudius 
 Ccesar, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator, 
 Pater Patrice ) The laureated head of the Emperor turned towards the left, with the talis- 
 manic Medusa on his breast. This medal is in excellent preservation, and covered with a 
 brownish-green patina. I procured it at Ponza, (Pontia,) an island which is now as corrective 
 to the Neapolitan courtiers, as it was formerly to those of Rome. 
 
 Reverse. DECVRSIO, on the lower verge. In the field S. C. Two horsemen galloping towards the 
 right, the foremost of whom represents Nero with a couched spear : the other bears a military 
 standard. The ancient Romans called the chariot-race of the circus, Decursio, but that 
 
( 44 ) 
 
 cannot be here intended, because there are only equestrians. It appears, however, 
 that the same appellation was also given to the training of soldiers, the diversion of 
 Ludus Trojce, and the procession made three times round funereal pyres. But this medal 
 may have been struck by a servile senate, A. D. 60, upon the institution of the Neronian 
 games, wherein wit, genius, and poetry, were to be improved by music, gymnastics, and 
 horse-racing. In these exercises, the Emperor claimed the pitiful honour of applause ; 
 whence Julius Vindex * stung hiiu with the title of a paltry and contemptible musician. 
 
 LIV. 
 
 Obverse. NERO CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG. GER. P. M. TR. P. IMP. P. P. ( Nero Claudius 
 Ccesar, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Imperator, 
 Pater Patrice.) Profile of the Emperor, with a laurel wreath, and the hair dressed with the 
 utmost art. This medal is coated with green patina, and is in fair condition : it was pre- 
 sented to me by M. Carstensen, the Danish Consul-General, at Tripoli, in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. DECVRSIO, along the exergum. In the field S. C. Nero on horseback, as in No. LIU. but 
 between two foot-soldiers, one bearing a shield and a standard. From apparent evidence, this 
 medal may have been struck on the same date and occasion as the last ; yet it may be con- 
 sidered as alluding to the marches by which the Roman troops were exercised; and which 
 Vegetius tells us, were put into practice three times a month, — " Non solum autem in campis 
 sed etiam utraque acies cogebatur, ut nulla res, vel casus possil accidere, qu6d non ante boni 
 milites assidua exercitatione didicissent." 
 
 LV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. NERO CAESAR AVG. PONT. MAX. TR. POT. P. P. {Imperator Nero 
 Ccesar, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Patrice.) A charac- 
 teristic profile of the Emperor, turned to the left. The medal is of the fine yellow brass, 
 {orichalcum,) so highly valued by the ancients, and though in perfect condition is without 
 patina. It was found amongst the ruins of Antium, where I procured it. 
 
 Reverse. ( Sine epigraphe.J In the field S. C. A magnificent triumphal arch, with the victor in a 
 quadrigated car upon the summit, preceded by two victories, below whom are two small 
 figures. Between the columns is seen a very colossal statue, perhaps the gigantic one made 
 for the golden palace, and upon which Commodus afterwards placed his own likeness. Most 
 antiquaries have assumed that this medal was struck in honour of Corbulo ; and IJiragi, who 
 can seldom be trusted, places it, accordingly, in the mintage of A. D. 58. But from Nero's 
 character, this assumption may be questioned : it is more probably a commemoration of 
 the only triumph of this reign, when A. D. 66, returning as an Olympic victor, the hair- 
 brained tyrant successively entered Naples, Antium, Albanum, and Rome, through a breach 
 in the wall of each city, with the defeated singers and actors in his train, and in all the pomp 
 and circumstance of national exultation. Mons. Seitz regards the horses of this quadriga as 
 representing the celebrated gilt-copper ones of Chios, which decorate the portal of St. Mark's, 
 at Venice : part of the memoir in which he endeavours to prove this, has probability, — but 
 on the whole, it is too daring in conjecture. 
 
 LVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. NERO CLAVD. CAESAR AVG. GER. P. M. TR. P. P. P. {Imperator Nero 
 Claudius Ccesar, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater 
 Patrice.) The laureated head of Nero, looking to the right. This fine medal is in very perfect 
 preservation, and entirely covered with an olive-green patina. It was presented to me, by 
 General Sir George Don, at Gibraltar, in 1824. 
 
 Rfverse. ROMA, on the exergum. In the field S. C. A galeated female of majestic aspect, but not 
 so Amazonian, as on No. LI. She is sitting on a pile of spoils, with her foot upon a helmet ; 
 
 * Nero was sorely afraid of this sturdy 6oIdier : having constructed an hydraulic organ — perhaps the very one 
 represented upon a medallion in the Florentine collection — he promised to exhibit it in the theatre, "si per Vindicem liceat." 
 Vindes. being told that the tyrant had publickly offered 10,000 sesterces for his head, exclaimed — « well, and he who 
 kills Nero, and brings me his bead, shall have mine in exchange." 
 
( 45 ) 
 
 Tier left hand supports a hasta pura, and on the right one stands a small winged victory, 
 holding a laurel-wreath towards the " Eternal Mistress." Rome, on account of the supposed 
 descent of Romulus from Mars, was always represented armed, and seated upon a trophy 
 to denote military success. That public worship was paid to the city, is abundantly testified 
 by the poets : Prudentius says — 
 
 M Delubrum Romse (colitur nam sanguine et ipsa 
 More Deae) nomenque loci ceu numen habetur." 
 
 GALBA. 
 
 Servius Sulpitius Galba was born B. C. 3, of illustrious parentage ; and he was 
 the last Emperor who claimed descent from the ancient families of Rome. Omitting 
 his boasted lineage from Pasiphae, it may be mentioned that his mother was great- 
 grand-daughter to Mummius, the noted conqueror of Corinth, a man much more 
 renowned for virtue, than for virtu. By the interest of Livia, to whom he was re- 
 lated, Galba was raised to employments before the age required by the laws ; but he 
 always acquitted himself with credit ; and so greatly to the satisfaction of his august 
 patroness, that she bequeathed him five millions of sesterces; but the legacy being 
 set down in figures and cyphers, and not written at large, Tiberius, the heir-at-law, 
 sifted it down to half a million, and even that was never paid. Galba was raised to 
 the consulship A. D. 33, and in the year following, was sent to supersede Getulicus, 
 in Germany. On the death of Caligula he was urged to assume the Purple, but 
 declined, — in consequence of which Claudius conferred upon him the proconsulate 
 of Africa. In A. D. 68, he was declared Emperor, and the death of Nero immediately 
 followed ; but as the aged veteran refused the usual bribe to the soldiers, he was 
 slain in a camp-tumult, after a reign of but seven months and a week. He thus 
 miserably expired at the age of 72 ; and, while falling under a multitude of wounds, 
 uttered the sentence, — " Feri, si ex re sit Populi Romani V s 
 
 Although Tacitus, not having the fear of the " no medium " doctrines before 
 his eyes, has said of Galba — " Magis extra vitia quam cum virtutibus," — yet it 
 may be inferred that his virtues considerably overbalanced his vices ; for he lived 
 with such high repute, during the reigns of five emperors, that he was considered 
 both worthy and capable of supreme authority. He was well versed in all the liberal 
 sciences, and was so excellent in the profession of arms, as to have succeeded in 
 restoring the ancient discipline to his legions. His conduct in domestic life pre- 
 sented a pleasing contrast to that of the wretches we have been describing, for the 
 propriety and fidelity both of himself, and his wife Lepida, were always such as to 
 give no room for censure or detraction. After the death of that excellent woman, 
 Galba led a single life, notwithstanding the allurements and solicitations of the 
 
( 46 ) 
 
 beauteous and accomplished Agrippina, — a lady whose passion for him was so 
 violent, that in the life-time of Lepida, she had had a boxing-match on his account. 
 He has been accused of incompetence to govern, of penuriousness, of cruelty, and 
 of delegating his authority to three detestable " pedagogues." These charges are but 
 imperfectly proved in evidence, and the reign of Galba was altogether too brief to 
 manifest what would have been the sway when the turbulent factions left by Nero, 
 and the disaffection of the slothful praetorians, had been calmed. Plutarch bears 
 witness that he always preferred the good of the public to any private considerations, 
 — and pays him this high tribute: " It is an acknowledged truth, that Sulpitius 
 Galba was the richest private man that ever rose to the imperial dignity : but though 
 his extraction was of the noblest, from the family of the Servii, yet he thought it a 
 greater honour to be related to Q. C. Capitolinus, who was the first man in his time 
 for virtue and reputation." Galba was frugal and free from pride and prejudice; 
 but some of his appetites are said to have been grossly depraved, and, perhaps 
 from the natural infirmities of age, he trusted too blindly to his counsellors : at all 
 events, the plea for the seditious invectives which wrought his destruction, was 
 founded on an expression worthy of the brightest period of Roman virtue ; — when 
 urged to bestow largesses upon the army, he said, " I have been accustomed to levy 
 soldiers, not to buy them." And among his public virtues, it should be remem- 
 bered that he adopted Piso in preference to Otho, because the former was a man of 
 more principle than the latter. 
 
 The medals of this unfortunate Emperor are rare in gold, but common in large- 
 brass, and very common in silver, and second-brass, except the restitutions by Titus, 
 which are greatly prized. There are no Latin small-brass, but some were struck 
 in the colonies. The head is sometimes bare upon the medals, of all sizes and metals, 
 except the large-brass, where it is constantly laureated. A Greek Imperial coin has 
 been shewn me, by a friend, as of Lepida, the wife of Galba ; but it is probably 
 a fabricated one, for there is no mention whatever of her having received such a 
 token of commemoration. 
 
 LVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. SER. SVLP. GALBA CAES. AVG. TR. POT. {Imperator Sergius Sulpitius 
 Galba, Ccesar Augustus, Tribunitia potestate.) The laurelled head of Galba, with strong 
 marks of age, and an aquiline nose, of size sufficient for a gnomon to Trajan's animated dial. 
 This medal was struck A. D. 68 ; it is in fair condition, though it has been somewhat injured 
 by the Scriblerian wire-brush of a former owner. 
 
 Reverse. ADLOCVTIO. On the field S. C. The emperor, with the commander of the praetorian guards, 
 on a suggestum, addressing a party of soldiers, who, by the horse's head, represent both cavalry 
 and infantry. It may not have been the design of the medallist, but by turning the man's 
 head, who is nearest the emperor, towards his comrades, there is an air of confusion in this 
 adlocution, not usual upon those struck on similar occasions, — whence it seems to shew the 
 discontent of the cohorts, on being refused the donative they demanded. But it is usually 
 thought to refer to the speech which Galba made to his troops in Spain, when he first revolted 
 from Nero. 
 
( 47 ) 
 
 LVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. SER. GALBA AVG. TR. P. (Imperalor Sergius Galba, Augustus, Tribunitia, 
 potestate.) The head of Galba, in style and workmanship resembling that last described. 
 It is in excellent preservation, and was presented to me at Jerba, by Sidy Mustapha, the 
 governor, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. LIBERTAS PVBLICA. On the field S. C. A robed female standing, with a wand in her left 
 band, and the pileus, or cap of liberty, in the other. The wand represents the vindicta, with 
 which the praetor touched a slave on manumitting him ; and the cap was assumed as the 
 badge of freedom, because slaves went bare-headed. To these emblems were sometimes 
 added a cornucopias, because from liberty springs abundance. This medal was struck by 
 order of the senate upon the condemning of Nero, and proclaiming of Galba his successor, — 
 and so sure did they make of freedom being regained by the death of the last of the Caesars, that 
 they struck also, at the same time, coins inscribed Libertas Augusti, and Libertas restituta. 
 
 Among other ceremonies used in the manumission of slaves, was the giving of blows 
 previous to the imposition of the pileus, — whence the satirist, — 
 
 " Vindicta postquam raeus a ^ r ^ tore X recessi." 
 r * valpeio \ 
 
 And when we recall the horrid ergastula in which they were kept, and the probable fate which 
 awaited old age and infirmity, of either being exposed on the Tiber island to starve, or sold 
 for any price, as was practised by the virtuous Cato, we may imagine what a release the 
 pileus implied to those unhappy beings. They were dead in the eye of the law as to all the 
 rights of man, but sufficiently reminded that they were quick in all points of bondage. Hence 
 they were liable to be hung by the heels, while eight " valentes virgatores" laid on their 
 stripes, and castigated them with tortures, — 
 
 ■ " stimuli, laminae, crucesque, compedesque, 
 
 Nervi, catenae, carceres, numellae, pedicae, bojae, 
 
 Tortoresque acerrimi, gnarique nostri tergi." 
 
 LIX. 
 
 Obverse. SER. GALBA IMP. CAESAR AVG. TR. P. (Sergius Galba, Imperator, Gmsar 
 Augustus, Tribunitia potesate.) A fine profile of Galba. This medal is coated with a 
 brownish-green patina, is in a remarkably pure state of preservation, and was procured from 
 a gentleman at Bonorva, in Sardinia, in 1823. 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. OB CIV. SER. fSenatus Populus Que Romanus, Ob Gives Servalos.J 
 This is inserted as a legend in the centre of a garland of broad oak-leaves ; and was struck in 
 allusion to Galba's having rescued the citizens of Rome from Nero. (See No. XXXIV.) 
 
 The civic crown was not only bestowed upon him who had saved the life of a citizen, but 
 also for any public success, and was therefore frequently voted to the emperors at the com- 
 mencement of their reigns. Now, though these gentry more commonly proved destroyers 
 than preservers of the people, the opportunity was taken of reminding them that clemency and 
 humanity would be the surest means to establish the empire in peace, make them acceptable 
 to their subjects, confirm their power, and render their government popular. It was more 
 highly esteemed than mural, gold, vallarian, or rostral crowns ; and it gave the right of a sena- 
 torial seat at the theatres. The fine compliment of Claudian to Stilicho must be repeated : — ■ 
 
 " Of old, when in the war's tumultuous strife, 
 
 A Roman sav'd a brother Roman's life, 
 
 And foil'd the threat'ning foe, our sires decreed 
 
 An oaken garland for the victor's meed. 
 
 Thou who has sav'd whole crowds, whole towns set free. 
 
 What groves, what woods, shall furnish crowns for thee ? 
 
 LX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. SER. GALBA AVG. TR. P. (Imperalor Sergius Galba, Augustus, Tribunitia 
 potestate.) The profile of the Emperor, lookir.g towards the left ; and, what is remarkable, 
 
( 48 ) 
 
 crowned with oak-leaves instead of laurel, in token of his being deemed the liberator of Rome. 
 This medal is varnished with a deep brown patina, and is in good condition ; it was presented 
 to me by my shipmate, Lieutenant Thomas Graves, R. N. 
 Reverse. ROMA, on the exergum ; in the field S. C. The galeated figure of Rome, seated upon various 
 spoils of war. Her left arm rests on a shield placed upon a helmet, and her right is supported 
 by the wand of divinity, — the whole signifying the restoration of tranquillity after the toils 
 of war. 
 
 LXI. 
 
 Obverse. SERG. GALBA IMP. CAES. AVG. TR. P. (Sergius Galba, Tmperalor, Casar 
 Augustus, Tribunitia potestaie. The laureated head of Galba, with a portion of the palu- 
 damentum on the breast. A brown-patinated coin in tolerable preservation, which was pro- 
 cured at Pisa in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. ROMA R. XL. (Roma, remissa quadrigesima.) In the field S. C. A bold standing figure 
 of Rome Nicephorus, or victorious, the right-hand holding an idol of victory with a crown 
 and cornucopiae, as symbols of power and abundance ; and the left supports a transversal 
 wand surmounted with wings, the elbow resting on a trophy. The inscription shews the 
 whole to be in commemoration of the abolition of an impost. 
 
 LXII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. SER. SVLP. GALBA CAES. AVG. TR. P. (Imperator Sergius Sulpitius Galba, 
 Ccesar Augustus, Tribunitia potestate.) The crowned profile of the emperor, with an 
 amulet on the breast. Procured of Capt. Falbe, the Danish Consul, at Tunis, in 1822. The 
 patina is grass-green. 
 
 Reverse. HISPANIA CLVNIA SVLP. {Hispania, Clunia, Sulpitia.) On the exergum S. C. 
 
 The emperor seated in state, with a parazonium, or sceptral sword, reclining on his left arm, 
 while his right is extended towards a well-robed female figure, bearing a cornucopiae, and 
 who is presenting the palladium to him. It seems that when Galba was at Clunia he received 
 information of his exaltation to the empire, which, coupled with an ancient prediction of the 
 place in his favour, inclined him to honour it with the appellation of Sulpitia. This medal 
 therefore commemorates the fact, — and it is the tutelary deity of the City who is presenting 
 the symbol of success to the emperor. 
 
 OTHO. 
 
 Marcus Salvius Otho, the eighth emperor of Rome, though of Hetrurian descent, 
 was of illustrious birth, being the son of L. S. Otho and Albia Terentia. He was 
 born A. D. 32 ; joined the revolt against Nero A.D,68; and conspired against 
 Galba in the following year, when he became emperor. After getting the better of 
 the troops of Vitellius in two or three skirmishes, he lost a pitched battle atBedriacum, 
 whereupon he destroyed himself, on the 17th of April, A. D. 69, in his 37th year, 
 and after a reign of but 3 months and 5 days. 
 
 The tender years of Otho were spent in idleness, and his youth in such profligate 
 debauchery, that he became very acceptable to Nero. Otho having taken a fancy 
 to Poppsea Sabina* — whose husband died most opportunely — he married her; 
 and either in the indiscreet warmth of a lover, or from a more sordid inducement, 
 he so extolled the charms of his wife to the emperor, that Nero desired an 
 interview with her. Here the address of Poppsea was so artfully plied that she was 
 
 * For notice of the medals of Poppsea, see page 41. 
 
( 49 ) 
 
 forthwith conducted to the palace, where she so wounded the pride of Nero, by still 
 pretending fondness for Otho, that the parasite would probably have been murdered, 
 had not Seneca suggested his being sent to govern Lusitania, in honourable exile. 
 If he had been victorious over Vitellius, he was engaged to marry Statilia Messalina, 
 the widow of Nero ; these were affairs and crosses which the Romans made very 
 light of, as was evinced in the memorable instance of Cato's bargain : yet it was not 
 for such acts that Martial compared the Censor and Otho, for constancy * 
 
 Having entered upon his government, Otho acquired no less reputation in 
 authority, by his gravity, justice, and regular conduct, than he had deserved infamy 
 in a private station, by his voluptuous and dissolute life. He was the foremost to 
 espouse the cause of Galba, in expectation of being declared his successor ; but the 
 aged veteran, doubting the " Roman Absalom's" principles, adopted the more virtuous 
 Piso, and destroyed the hope. Out of hatred and revenge he determined to murder 
 both, and establish himself in the empire ; and the unlucky refusal of a donative to 
 the soldiers, by Galba, paved the path to success. Otho was the first illegitimate 
 sovereign who was advanced to the throne solely by means of the Praetorian Guards, 
 which time and experience proved to be so pernicious a precedent. Juvenal, as the 
 friend perhaps of Domitian, was very malignant towards Otho, accusing him of every 
 vice, and asking, in mock-heroics, whether the murder of Galba — a poor decrepit 
 old man — was a general's action. He has been accused of ungratefully turning 
 against Nero, — but it fortunately happensthat minions have ever borne a detestation 
 to those who caused their flagitiousness. 
 
 Otho commenced his reign by the popular acts of honouring Celsus, and de- 
 stroying the hateful Tigellinus; but while establishing himself, the armies of 
 Germany declared for Vitellius. None could be more abhorrent than the two can- 
 didates for empire — indolent, incontinent, and sensual — the Emperor licentious to 
 an extreme, and his rival a gluttonous drowsy drunkard ; both of effeminate habits, 
 and both deeply in debt. But, as is harshly said of Sir Walter Raleigh, his death 
 was the most commendable act of the life of Otho, — and hence he proved himself 
 superior to Vitellius. " It is better that one die for many," said he, " than that for 
 one, many should die;" and finding the battle lost, he — without any impeachment 
 of his fortitude — sacrificed himself for the public tranquillity, although his troops 
 were unshaken in their attachment, and his affairs were far from desperate. " By two 
 acts," says Tacitus, " one the most odious, and the other the most laudable, he 
 equally deserved infamy and renown among posterity." 
 
 * Both Plutarch and Suetonius differ in their account of this, and make Otho only the keeper of Poppsea until 
 Nero could make away with Octavia ; but no one will be blamed for adhering to Tacitus. Even the distich cited by 
 Suetonius himself, proves the marriage, — 
 
 " Cut Otho mentiio sit, queer ilis, exsul honore? 
 Uxoris Maxims caperat esse *u<e." 
 
 H 
 
( 50 ) 
 
 The Roman coins of Otho are entirely confined to gold and silver: from which — 
 and his known contempt for ignoble metals — it is probable that the Italians named 
 brass Ottone, by antiphrasis. Several antiquaries have been of opinion that no 
 brass coins were struck during this reign, because the Emperor was proclaimed 
 Augustus by the army only ; but it would seem rather from some accidental delay 
 of the senate : those of gold and silver were by the sovereign's personal order. Be 
 this as it may, it is certain that no senatorial medal has been hitherto produced, 
 which has not been suspected ; for the second-brass one in the Florence cabinet, 
 is but a restitution by Titus, and even that, from the title of Pater Patrice which 
 it bears, is not unimpeachable, notwithstanding it was dispatched to Rome to get 
 its legitimacy formally established. So great was the anxiety of potentates, and 
 scholars, to obtain large-brass medals of this Emperor, that much ingenuity was 
 exerted in fabricating some, and the learned Chifflet wrote a work to prove the 
 deceptions abroad. " He who shall find an antique coin of Otho in bronze," said 
 Christina, Queen of Sweden, " will have found the philosopher's stone." 
 
 LXIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. M. OTHO CAE. AVG. flmperator Marcus Otho, Ccesar Augustus.) The lau- 
 reated head of Otho, with a profile representing a handsome young man, having an aquiline nose, 
 and a placid brow ; with but little of that resemblance to Nero, which had caused the people 
 to cry out Othoni Neroni/ In the gold and silver coins, this Emperor is represented with 
 several rows of curled hair, resembling a peruke, which is not the case on the present speci- 
 men ; and in all others that I have examined, he is without the wreath. The wig constitutes 
 a striking confirmation of the historical description of the Emperor, who is recorded to have 
 had but very little hair, — " galericulo capiti propter raritatem capillorum adaptato," says 
 Suetonius ; and it may be advanced, though Folard would oppose it, that Otho introduced the 
 use of periwigs into Italy. This most rare and precious medal is in finer preservation than 
 any other which either myself, or my friends, have seen of its kind; and I purchased it, 
 with several of meaner degree, from an Arab Scheikh, of the Weled Orfili, in 1821, and thus 
 accidentally became possessed of one of the richest prizes of a cabinet. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. (Senatus Consultu.) These are large uncial characters surrounded by a garland of 
 laurel, placed within two circles, — the leaves tied in threes, and interspersed with berries. 
 This medal, though bearing a latin legend, was struck at Antioch, A. D. 69; for that city 
 had the privilege of a Roman coinage, and it is probable that intelligence of the fall of Otho 
 was not speedily announced to the authorities there. No doubt can possibly exist upon this 
 point, for the metal and fabric are precisely identical with those of other Emperors which are 
 known to have been minted at Antioch, from Augustus down to Volusian. 
 
 1 may here notice the great difference that existed between the relative and political 
 situation of the Greek and Roman colonies, as contrasted with those of the modern mer- 
 cantile nations of Europe. Gibbon remarks that the colonies of Rome, in their manners 
 and internal policy, ** formed a perfect representation of their great parent, and they were 
 soon endeared to the natives, by the ties of" friendship and alliance ; they effectually diffused 
 a reverence for the Roman name, and a desire which was seldom disappointed, of sharing, in 
 due time, its honours and advantages." The spirit of this differs most widely from the sus- 
 picious policy of colonial legislation in later times. With the ancients, the name of colonies, 
 far from being disadvantageous, was a privilege, owing to their sound system, which was 
 sought even by allies ; and far from excluding their colonists from metropolitan rights, they 
 even conferred them on the conquered, especially where previous compacts existed. 
 
( 51 ) 
 
 V1TELLIUS. 
 
 Aulus Vitellius, the ninth Emperor of Rome, was probably born about A. D. 
 15, but there is a difference of three years among historians ; and they are equally 
 at variance as to whether he was nobly descended. The name affords but little 
 clue, being derived from circumstances similar to those of the Fabii, Porcii, Pisones, 
 Lentuli, and Cicerones, who owed their appellations to the beans, pigs, pease, lentils, 
 and vetches, sold by the founders of their families : Metellus, in the same way, took 
 his name from a suttler, and Codes from his " one eye there were others also 
 called by the name of the fish they caught, as Orata, and Mur-sena. The parents 
 of this Prince were Lucius Vitellius, an abject courtier, and Sextilia, a woman, who 
 in objecting to be saluted Augusta by her son, manifested a judgment very superior 
 to that of Nero's mother. Aulus was sent, when a child, to attend Tiberius at 
 Capreae, in which diabolical school he contracted those infamous vices which have 
 for ever branded his name. He was elected consul A. D. 48, and as it was thought 
 that his sensual propensities would occupy all his study, and render him harmless 
 to the state, Galba sent him as legate into Germany, A. D. 68. Here however he 
 revolted against that Emperor, and after his death, overthrew Otho, A. D. 69. He 
 enjoyed the imperial power but eight months and a few days, for towards the end of 
 December in the same year, the soldiers of Vespasian pulled him from behind a bed 
 in a porter's lodge, and having pinioned his arms, dragged him through the streets 
 with a rope about his neck, and a poniard at his throat, in order that he might not 
 hide his face. In this manner he was forced to the Scala Gemonise, where, under 
 accumulated insults and many wounds his ignominious life was terminated. 
 
 In examining the character of this ephemeral sovereign, there will be found in it 
 but few qualities worthy of commendation, — yet no man was more constantly popular 
 with the licentious soldiers who held the fate of Rome ; and they fought for him to 
 desperation. In the short reign of Vitellius, no less than 900 millions of sesterces, 
 or more than 7 millions sterling, were prodigally wasted ; and Josephus thinks that, 
 had his life been prolonged, the whole revenues of the empire would not have 
 sufficed to defray the expences incurred by his monstrous gluttony. If he did not 
 eclipse Nero in ferocity, it was from the sluggishness of intemperance: for, the vin- 
 dictive murder of Dolabella, — the imputed poisoning of his mother and son, — 
 his relishing the stench of dead citizens, — and the atrocious executions he person- 
 ally witnessed, evidently betray his natural bent to bloodshed. He abandoned the 
 functions of an emperor, and entirely resigned himself to riot, gluttony, and drunken 
 debaucheries. In his court no man strove to rise by virtue, or ability ; preferment 
 
( 52 ) 
 
 was won by consuming of banquets, and gorging the appetite of the ever craving 
 and never satiated Emperor. " Edunt ut vomant, vomunt ut edant." The bound- 
 less extravagance of these entertainments has excited disgust through all succeeding 
 ages. On one occasion his brother prepared a repast, in which were 2000 choice 
 fishes, and 7000 exquisite birds ; and at the consecration of a silver dish, which 
 from its magnitude was called the shield of Minerva, Vitellius filled it with the livers 
 of scares, (Labrus scarus,) the brains of pheasants and peacocks, the tongues of 
 flamingoes,^ and the sounds of foreign lampreys. By the luxurious vices of such 
 sovereigns the Roman people had become so unnaturally debased that, in the 
 struggle between the troops of Vitellius and Vespasian within the walls of the city, 
 the populace enjoyed the havoc as a public spectacle ; and, in the midst of desolation 
 and murder, continued their revels with inhuman indifference to the contending 
 parties. " Whatever the libidinous passions can inspire in time of peace," says the 
 indignant Tacitus, " was intermixed with all the horrors of war, slaughter, and 
 destruction. The whole city seemed to be inflamed with frantic rage, and, at the 
 same time, intoxicated with bacchanalian excesses." 
 
 With the exception of the silver ones, all the coins of Vitellius are of great 
 rarity, especially the gold, and large-brass ; indeed, from the scarcity of the latter, 
 forgers have derived profit by palming skilful alterations of Vespasian upon young 
 collectors. It does not authentically appear that any medal was struck in honour 
 of Galeria Fundana, the Emperor's second wife, — a woman to whom all writers, 
 save Dio, ascribe prudence, humility, and virtue ; and it were happy for Vitellius 
 had he listened to her counsel, instead of that of the insolent Triaria, his sister- 
 in-law. The title of Caesar has never been found upon the coins of this reign, 
 which corroborates history ; nor has that of Pater Patriae been known, as genuine. 
 It should be mentioned that both gold and silver coins were struck in honour of 
 Lucius Vitellius, father of the Emperor, of which the former are extremely rare. 
 
 LXIV. 
 
 Obverse. A. VITELLIUS GERMAN. IMP. AVG. P. M. TR. P. fAulus Vitellius, Germanieus, 
 Jmperator, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia poiestate.J The laureated head of 
 Vitellius in bold relief, bearing strong traits of the grovelling sensuality ascribed to hiin by 
 Suetonius ; — " For, of stature he was beyond measure tall : a red face he had, occasioned for 
 the most part by swilling in wine, and a great fat paunch besides." f 
 
 • I once ordered a dish of the tongues of these birds, whieh proved but indifferent eating, owing perhaps to our 
 rooks being less skilful than those of Vitellius. He who wishes for further particulars of the luxury of those times, may 
 consult Brotier's edition of Tacitus. 
 
 f This is " done into English" by the plodding Doctor Philemon Holland, who dedicated his filthy and unfaithful 
 translation of the twelve Caesars, to a VERTVOV& LADIE. The wits of the day got weary of bis leaden labours, 
 and thus vented their spleen :— 
 
 " Philemon with translations so does fill us, 
 He will not let Suetonius be Tranquillm" 
 
( 53 ) 
 
 Reverse. VICTORIA AVG. /'Victoria Augusti. J In the lower part of the field S. C. An elegant 
 and finely executed figure of Victory, naked to the middle, and her left foot placed upon a 
 helmet ; she is inscribing OB. CIVES SER. (Ob Cives Servatos,) on a shield placed against 
 a palm-tree, in allusion to (he slaughter of Roman citizens being stayed by the battle of 
 Bedriacum. This magnificent medal fell into my possession in 1825, having been previously 
 the ornament of the Hon. R. E. Digby's collection. It is slightly coated with patina, through 
 which the yellow brass appears like gold. 
 
 LXV. 
 
 Obverse. A. VITELLIVS GERMAN. IMP. AVG. P. M. TR. P. (Aulus Vitellius Gcrmanicus, 
 Imperator, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate.) The laureated head of 
 Vitellius " amputatus," having the bust covered with the paludamentum. A singularly 
 fine and bold medal, coated with a greenish-brown patina, and formerly belonging to the 
 well-known cabinet of Mr. Neave. 
 
 Reverse- MARS VICTOR. In the field, S. C. Mars gradiens armed in rather an unusual type. His 
 right hand holds a winged victory with a garland, his left grasps a trophy which is supported 
 on his shoulder, and a sword is girt to his loins. As the latter weapon is supposed not te 
 exist on a Roman coin, it may be proper to say that it resembles a parazonium in shapt. 
 See No. LXXl. 
 
 LXV1. 
 
 Obverse. A. VITELLIVS GERMANICVS IMP. AVG. P. M. TR. P. [Aulus Vitellius, Get-- 
 manicus, Imperator, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate.) A character- 
 istic laureated head of the Emperor. This medal is in tolerable preservation, and covered 
 with a very dark-green patina : it was obtained from Mr. Young, in 1826. 
 
 Reverse. PAX AVGVSTI. In the lower part of the field, S. C. between which letters, stands a robed 
 female bearing a cornucopia;, while her right hand holds forth an olive branch. This com- 
 memorates the short peace which followed the defeat of Otho. 
 
 LXVII. 
 
 Obverse. A. VITELLIVS GERMANICVS IMP. AVG. P. M. TR. P. {Aulus Vitellius, Ger- 
 manicus, Imperator, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate.) A very ex- 
 pressive laureated head of the Emperor. The medal is in beautiful preservation, and coated 
 with a bottle-green patina; it was obtained, by exchange, atSpalatro, in Dalmatia, in 181J>. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. (Senatus Consultu,) in uncial characters. Between these letters, stands a bold 
 galeated figure of Romulus, as Mars gradiens, with the spolia opima of Acron on his left 
 shoulder, and a lance held transversely, with the point upwards, in his right-hand. He is 
 naked except that a robe floats round his loins. This symbol has been held to imply the 
 consent of the army to an emperor's election, a supposition which has not yet been proved. 
 Others think it alluded to the warlike qualities of the prince, — but though Vitellius triumphed 
 over Otho, what were his ? — Vitellius ventre, et gula sibi hostis J"uit." 
 
 LXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. A. VITELLIVS GERMAN. IMP. AVG. P. M. TR. P. (Aulus Vitellius, Germa- 
 nicus, Imperator, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate.) The laureated 
 head of the Emperor, with his usual sordid aspect, and the shoulders robed. A thinly 
 patinated coin in pretty fair condition, presented to me at Athens, by Sig. Lusieri, the 
 well-known and admirable arlist, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. L. VITEL. CENSOR II. (Lucius, Vitellius^ Censor iterum.) On the exergum S. C. 
 
 The Magister morum is seen on a curule chair placed upon a tribunal, in the exercise of his 
 office. Before him are three Romans, one of whom offers his hand to the censor, and above 
 them is another sedent figure : the whole are togated. This was struck to flatter the Em- 
 peror by recording the honours to which his father was advanced. Suetonius informs us of 
 Lucius's having been three times consul, and once censor, but the iterum which is here 
 shewn, has never been properly accounted for. 
 
( 54 ) 
 
 The office of censor was considered as more honourable than even that of consul, — for besides 
 their business of registering and valuing all effects, and imposing the excise duties, they 
 were also armed with authority for the correction and reformation of manners. The liability 
 of citizens of every rank, not excepting consuls and dictators, to be summoned before the 
 censors, and be there required to render an account of their actions, must have operated as a 
 check to licentiousness, till the power of those magistrates had become " an old song." 
 
 VESPASIAN. 
 
 Flavins Vespasianus, the tenth Emperor of Rome, was descended from a respectable 
 Sabine family near Reate, where he was born A. D. 9, — his parents being Flavins 
 Sabinus, and Vespasia Polla. In the reign of Caligula, young Vespasian was a con- 
 spicuous " toad-eater " about the court, and being afterwards over-head -and-ears in 
 debt, bore but an equivocal character. After being made a senator by his imperial 
 patron, he attended Claudius into Britain, where he fought in thirty pitched battles, 
 subdued two mighty nations, took upwards of twenty towns, and reduced the Isle of 
 Wight. For these successful proofs of military skill he was highly honoured, and 
 largely rewarded. He then served as pro-consul in Africa ; and though, from 
 nodding or dozing while Nero was singing, he had fallen into disgrace, that 
 musical despot selected him for the conquest of Judaea, A. D. 66. In the disorders 
 which followed the death of Galba, the legions of the East proclaimed him Emperor, 
 although, according to Josephus, Vespasian refused the dignity till he was compelled, 
 bv the drawn swords of his soldiers, to accept it. The execution of Vitellius left him 
 sole master of the empire at the close of A. D.69, and his two sons were elected Caesars. 
 He appointed Titus his colleague in the censorship, A. D. 74, and they took the last 
 general census that we find recorded in history. Having caught a fever, he died, 
 universally lamented, at his paternal estate in the vicinity of Reate, in the summer 
 of A. D. 79, at the age of 69 years, 7 months, and 7 days. He was the first Em- 
 peror who changed his character for the better, on attaining supreme authority, as 
 well as the first who was succeeded by a son ; and if it be admitted that Livia 
 hastened the deification of Augustus, he was also the first who died a natural death. 
 
 When this excellent sovereign was fairly seated upon the throne, his first care 
 was to restore the edifices which had been destroyed in the late cruel contests ; and, 
 by rewarding virtue and reforming abuses, to establish order and confidence. In 
 this third building of thecapitol he carried the first basket of earth, and the example 
 was followed by all the patricians and courtiers : the custom of laying a first stone in 
 pomp, if not arising from this event, probably then gained its form and ceremony. 
 V espasian avoided every kind of parade, and restrained luxury by his personal 
 example ; he administered justice -with impartiality, and manifested the mildness of 
 
( 55 ) 
 
 his disposition in his general conduct. In what concerned the commonwealth he 
 acted like an emperor; in all things else as a private person. "Greatness and 
 majesty, " says Pliny," worked no alteration in him, save that of making his power 
 of doing good answerable to his will and Eutropius declares that he was, as to 
 other princes, "optimis comparandus." His clemency — though deeply sullied by 
 the foul murders of Priscus, Sabinus, and the admirable Eponina — was known and 
 felt throughout the empire ; and so little was he given to the horrid revengefulness of 
 his predecessors, that he dismissed a former enemy with the " ito tnorboniam" whicli 
 the fellow had caustically addressed to himself; and he gave to the daughter of Vitellius 
 an honourable husband and splendid dower. Imputations of covetousness have been 
 cast on him, for reviving suppressed impositions, and for his exceptionable modes of 
 obtaining money ; but these practices must have been chiefly owing to the exhausted 
 condition in which he found the treasury, and the urgent necessities of the state. It is 
 well known that he applied his revenues to great and noble purposes, and laid them 
 out with uncommon generosity ; — he was the first who pensioned the Greek and 
 Roman orators ; and his liberality in all cases of distress or disaster, as well as his 
 munificence to men of genius, and artists, are too minutely recorded to be doubted. 
 It is true that his private morals were not without stain, but under him it was 
 remarked that " truth came into fashion." Like Augustus he had great faith, during 
 his fortunate career, in the sign Capricorn, under which they were both born ; and 
 like that prince, he was much given to pleasantry. When a deputation promised 
 to raise a statue to him, he smiled, and holding forth his hand said — "let this be 
 the base of your statue; place your money here." And when apprized of danger, 
 in his last illness, he jested at the customary apotheosis awaiting his demise, by 
 remarking— "utputo, DeusjioP 
 
 The effects of such policy are visible in the occurrences of his reign. A danger- 
 ous rebellion in GauT was suppressed, Judaea was conquered and triumphed over, 
 and Comagenac was subdued : and to rescue Greece from her intestine broils she was 
 again subjected to Roman law and tribute. After closing the temple of Janus, he 
 erected that of Peace — of which such magnificent ruins still remain ; besides 
 which, Vespasian embellished the city with many new buildings, and commenced 
 that architectural wonder, the Flavian Amphitheatre. 
 
 The Latin coins of Vespasian of all metals and modules, except the fourth brass, 
 are common and moderately priced, unless the reverses happen to be of unusual 
 type : but colonial coins of this Emperor are of great rarity. Those attributed to 
 Vespasia Polla, are declared to be false, though that in the cabinet of M. J. J. de 
 Hauern, of Vienna, has been defended by plausible advocates. 
 
( 56 ) 
 
 LX1X. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. VESPAS. AVG. PM. TR. P. P. P. COS. III. (lmperator Ccesar Ves- 
 pasianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potesiate, Pater Patrice, Consul 
 tertiuvi.J The laureated portrait of Vespasian ; he is represented as a man of advanced age, 
 with a wrinkled forehead, hollow eye, aquiline nose, and prominent chin, — the whole ex- 
 pression recalling the sarcasm of an unlucky wit, recorded by Suetonius ; and the " Et faciem 
 duram," &c. of Martial. 
 
 Reverse. AQVAS CVRTIAM ET CAERVLEAM PERDVCTAS_ A DIVO CLAVDIO ET 
 POSTEA INTERMISSAS DILAPSASQ. PER AN. IX SVA IMPENSA VRBI 
 REST1T. This, which is one of those extraordinary fabrications that bid fair to baffle the 
 most patient antiquary, is retained in my cabinet for its ingenuity. It was purchased at 
 the sale of Mr. T rattles' magnificent collection, in 1832, and 1 no sooner examined it, than 
 it struck me that the obverse was that of a true coin, but that an insignificant reverse had 
 been scraped away, and this inscription tooled in its place. It has been executed, however, 
 with such singular care, both in the form and disposition of the letters, that it requires an 
 experienced eye to detect informality, insomuch that my learned friends, the Rev. Dr. Philip 
 Hunt, and Francis Douce, Esq. were for some time undetermined as to its genuineness. 
 What seems to stamp it as a fraud is, that the legend is found verbatim in Gruter's " Corpus 
 Inscriptionum," p. CLXXVI. cap. Operurn el JLocorum ; and moreover, the inscriptions 
 on Roman medals are so remarkable for the admirable brevity of expression with which they 
 convey a fulness of ideas, that the very length of this alone, excites suspicion. 
 
 LXX. 
 
 Ohvcrsr. IMP. CAES. VESPASIAN. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. COS. 111. (lmperator Ccesar 
 Vespasianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Patriot, Consul 
 tcrtium.) The laureated head of the Emperor turned to the left. This medal is in excellent, 
 condition, and as well as all those struck in A. D. 71, prove Suetonius to be mistaken in 
 asserting that Vespasian was not invested with the tribunitian power, nor dignified with the 
 title of Father of his Country, till the latter part of his reign. Procured at Pola, in 1S11J. 
 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. ADSERTORI LIBERTATIS PVBLICAE. (Senaius Populus Que Rom a- 
 nus, Adsertori liber tat is publicce.) " Erat in ore, famaque Vespasianus," and to mark the 
 estimation in which such a favourite was holden, the senate struck this unique and very com- 
 plimentary inscription encircled by a civic garland. For the reason of S. C. being omitted, 
 see No. XXXI I. 
 
 LXXI. _ 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. VESPASIAN. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. COS. III. flmperator Ccesar 
 Vespasianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Patrice, Consul 
 tertium.) The laurelled portrait of Vespasian. This coin was procured from Mr. Young, in 
 1830, but though sound, is only in secondary preservation. 
 
 Reverse. SPES AVG VST A. On the exergum S. C. A light-robed female presents her hand to 
 three soldiers, of whom the foremost bears a military standard, the middle one a lance held 
 transversely, and the third has a sword girt to his waist. The latter fact is the more re- 
 markable, since I have not met with a sword upon any other large-brass medals, except that 
 mentioned at No. LXV, and those of Titus, and Domitian, on horseback, where the foe is 
 represented as wielding one. Though this piece was not struck till A. D. 71, the three 
 soldiers may typify the legions of Mysia, Judsea, and Egypt, which were the first to salute 
 Vespasian as their Emperor. 
 
 LXXII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. VESPASIAN. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. COS. 111. (Imperator Ccesar 
 Vespasianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Patrice, Consul 
 tertium ) The laurelled head of the Emperor. A coin in tolerable preservation, and of con- 
 siderable rarity ; it was procured by exchange, in 1829. 
 
( 57 ) 
 
 Reverse. ROMA RESVRGES. On the exergum S. C. Here the Emperor is seen togated, and before 
 him is a kneeling female to whom he offers his hand : between them stands Minerva galeata, 
 with a shield on Iter left arm. This was struck by the senate to commemorate the munificence 
 of Vespasian, in rebuilding the edifices destroyed in the late conflict with Vitellius. On some 
 coins the legend is Roma resurgens, or Rome rising- again ; but here the n being omitted, 
 it signifies—" Rome ! thou shalt rise again." 
 
 LXXIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. VESPASIAN. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. COS. III. {Imperator Ccesar 
 Vespasianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Patrice, Consul 
 tertium.) A very expressive laureated head of the Emperor. This beautiful medal — of the 
 mintage of A. D. 71 — is covered with a dense-green patina, and bears a small silver eagle, 
 the stamp of the Modena collection. It is in perfect condition, and was presented to me by that 
 zealous antiquary, M. Hubert, chief engineer to the Bey of Tunis. 
 
 Reverse. IVDAEA CAPTA. On the exergum S. C. '1 his is a reverse of great historical interest, 
 because it tells the entire subjugation of the Jews. A palm-tree rises in the centre of the 
 field, as emblematic of the country it grows in : whence Pliny's " Judcea vero inclyta est vel 
 magis palmis." See No. CLXXVl. On the right sits Judaea, personified as a female, her head 
 leaning upon her left hand, with a deep expression of affliction and captivity. On the opposite 
 side of the tree stands the Emperor in a military habit, with a parazonium and lance, having 
 his left foot upon a helmet, in the attitude of a victor. 
 
 LXX1V. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. VESPASIAN. AVG. P. M. TR P. P. P. COS. III. {Imperator Ccesar 
 Vespasianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Patrice, Consul 
 tertium.) A characteristic portrait of Vespasian. This fine medal is in surprising preserva- 
 tion, and entirely varnished with a black patina; it was found at Argos in 1822, and was 
 presented to me shortly afterwards, by Miaulis, the Greek admiral. 
 
 Reverse. IVDAEA CAPTA. On the exergum S. C. Here a veiled female has "sate down and wept " 
 under the palm-tree, as in No. LXXIII, but instead of the Emperor, stands a man with his 
 hands bound behind him ; — he is probably intended for the ferocious Simon, who was paraded 
 in the triumph, and, after the brutal practice of the Romans, put to death the same day. Th< 
 captive female is seated on a cuirass, which is thereby denoted to have become useless ; and 
 the bucklers around recal the words — " the shield of the mighty is vilely cast away." 
 
 LXXV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. VESPASIAN. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. COS. III. {Imperator Ccesar 
 Vespasianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Patria, Consul 
 tertium.) The laurelled head of Vespasian, with harsh features. This coin, which was pur- 
 chased in London, in 1829, is in rather indifferent preservation. 
 
 Reverse. PAX AVG. {Pax Augusti.) On the exergum S. C. A female standing, who with a torch is 
 setting fire to some spoils of war, which are heaped up before an altar ; her left hand holds an 
 olive branch. Behind her is a pillar with a small armed statue upon it, and an unemployed 
 shield at its base. This is, perhaps, the " noted column " described by Pomponius Festus, 
 as standing before the temple of Bellona, from which a javelin was thrown whenever war was 
 declared. Peace is therefore turned from it. The whole alludes to the Roman custom of 
 piling up the armour from the field, after a battle, and making it a burnt-offering to Mai s. 
 
 Addison thinks this coin was struck when Vespasian, having finished all his wars, had 
 closed the temple of Janus ; but though this is very probable, such a symbol seems to celebrate 
 a particular rather than a general peace, or such as was fondly dreamed by that Emperor would 
 be " eternal." 
 
 LXXV I. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAESAR VESPASIAN. AVG. P. M. TR. POT. P. P. COS. 111. [Imperato? 
 
 Ccesar Vespasianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Patria, 
 Consul tertium.) The laureated profile of the Emperor, with hard lineaments, and the neck 
 naked. A coin in middling condition, but of considerable rarity. Purchased in London, in 1S29. 
 
( 58 ) 
 
 Reverse. SIG...REC... (Signis receptis.) On the exergura S. C. An elegant winged Victory pre- 
 senting a legionary standard to Vespasian, who is placed on a suggestum. It is difficult 
 to ascertain what event gave birth to this type: it may, in imitation of one by Augustus, 
 allude to a recovered eagle ; or, perhaps, to some standards taken from Fonteius Agrippa, by 
 the Sarmatic Jazyg'ian. 
 
 LXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. VESPASIAN. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. COS. 111. [Imperator Ccesar 
 Vespasianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Patrice, Consul 
 tertium.) The laurelled head of Vespasian, with bis usual expression. A good conditioned 
 medal of A. D. 71, with a green patina, which was procured from Mr. Till, in 1830. 
 
 Reverse CAESAR COS. DES. IT. CAESAR DOMIT. COS. DES. IT ( Ccesar, Consul 
 
 designatus iterum, Ccesar Domitianus, Consul designalus iterum.) In the field S. C. 
 Struck by Vespasian in honour of his two sons, Titus aud Domitian, on their both attaining 
 a second consulship. The two Caesars are in military habits, with the hasta pura, but bare- 
 headed ; Titus is the manlier of the two, and is further distinguished by the parazonium. 
 
 LXXVII1. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. VESPASIAN. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. COS. ITT. [Imperator Ccesar 
 Vespasianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Patrice, Consul 
 tertium.) A harsh profile of the Emperor, with the neck bare. A medal in good preservation, 
 though thinly patinated ; it was struck A. D. 71, and presented to me by Major General Sir 
 Manley Power, at Malta, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. (Senatus Consu/to.) A magnificent temple of six columns, elaborately decorated with 
 statues ; and Jupiter seated between Juno and Pallas in the adytum. See No. CCCXXIII. 
 This symbol is usually called the " temple of Peace;" but it is evidently a commemoration 
 of the rebuilding of the Capitolium, which had been destroyed in the Vitellian disturbances : 
 it is well figured in the " Discours de la Religion des anciens Romains," by Du Choul, 
 1581. 
 
 LXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. VESPASIAN. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. COS. Vll. [Imperator Ccesar 
 Vespasianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Patrice, Consul 
 septimum.) A hard-featured laureated head of the Emperor. This medal, by the consular 
 date, was minted A. D. 76 ; it is coated with a dark-green patina, and fell into my possession 
 in London, in the spring of 1828. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. [Senatus Consulto.) Between the letters rises a conic pillar called Meta, which though 
 unlike the Meta Sudans of Titus, may have been struck on repairing an aqueduct. The 
 name of meta was originally given to the three columns, or pyramids, around which the 
 chariots of the circus performed their races : the " metaque fervidis evitata rotis" of Horace. 
 The " starting post " was called the meta Murcia, from its proximity to the fane of a goddess, 
 to whom the females sacrificed for the "embonpoint;" lean ladies having no more chance of 
 getting a husband amongst the ancient Romans, than amongst the modern Moors and Turks. 
 
 LXXX. 
 
 Obverse. DIVO AVG. VESP. [Divo Augusto Vespasiano.) On the exergum S. P. Q. R. [Senatus 
 Populus Que Romanus.) A sedeut togated statue of the Emperor, with the radiated head 
 and wand of divinity, and holding an alate Victory, is placed upon a superb car drawn by 
 four elephants, each mounted by a mahaut : a type palpably borrowed from that of Augustus, 
 No. VIII. The medal is covered with a deep-brown patina ; and is singularly perfect ; it 
 was presented to me by Padre Blasi, a Dominican, at Albano, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. IMP. T. CAES. DIVI VESP. F. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. COS. VIII. (Imperator 
 Titus Ccesar, Divi Vespasiani Jilius, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, 
 Pater Patrice, Consul octavum.) This legend surrounds an uncial S. C. and stamps the 
 date A. D. 80. It is recorded that the obsequies of Vespasian were performed with extra- 
 ordinary pomp, by Titus ; and the consequent apotheosis is hereby typified. At the circus, 
 the images of deified emperors were paraded after those of the twelve great gods. 
 
( 59 ) 
 
 DOMITILLA. 
 
 Flavia Domitilla was of very obscure birth, being the daughter of Flavius 
 Liberalis, a Quaestorian scribe. She was originally a bond-woman, or slave, to 
 Statilius Capella, a Roman knight, but having been manumitted was married to 
 Vespasian, A. D. 40. Domitilla died before her husband's elevation to the empire, 
 and her name was almost unknown in Rome, till it was drawn from oblivion by 
 divine honours. This public deification, though unnoticed by Tacitus, Dio, or 
 Suetonius, is recorded upon gold and silver medals of extreme rarity ; and we learn 
 from an inscription preserved by Gruter, the excellent philologist, that an order of 
 priests was instituted for her altars : Sacerdos Divce Domitillce. 
 
 This lady bore two sons and a daughter, the latter of whom died in infancy ; 
 it appears that she was named after her mother, whence antiquaries have been 
 inclined to share the posthumous honours between them, — but, I think, without 
 just grounds. 
 
 LXXXI. 
 
 Obverse. MEMORIAE DOMITILLAE. On the exergum S. P. Q. H. (Senatus Populus Que 
 Romanus.) A rich carpentum, profusely ornamented, and drawn by two mules. See No. 
 XVII, and XXXII. This medal was purchased at the sale of Mr. Trattle's collection in 
 1832, when it displaced a remarkably fine one which I had procured in Italy. It is in excel- 
 lent preservation, and of the bright-yellow brass erroneously termed Corinthian,— for that 
 compound, whether occasioned by the accidental mixture of metals at the conflagration of 
 Corinth, or made by judicious amalgamation, was never used in the mint. 
 
 Reverse. IMP. T. CAES. D1VI VESP. F. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. COS. VIII. (Imperator 
 Titus Ccesar, Divi Vespasiani filius, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestatt , 
 Pater Patrice, Consul octavum.) In the centre of the field an uncial S. C. (Senatus 
 Consulto.) This may very safely be pronounced to have been struck by Titus, A. 1). 80, in 
 honour of his mother. Yet Occo, Biragi, Mionnet, and other medallists, insist that it 
 commemorates his sister, because the title " diva" is omitted : but surely the sacred thensa 
 is sufficient to stamp the consecration. This objection seems as little tenable as does the 
 common practice of giving Titus as a praanomen to Vespasian. 
 
 TITUS. 
 
 Titus Flavius Vespasianus, the son of Vespasian and Domitilla, was born at 
 Rome, " in a little dark chamber," A. D. 41. He was brought up in the court of 
 Nero, with Britannicus, whose fate he narrowly escaped sharing. At an early age 
 he was remarkable for his proficiency in eloquence and poetry, and Mas so expert 
 a calligrapher, that he could forge any man's writing. His first military services 
 were in Germany and Britain, but he acquired the greatest renown as lieutenant to 
 Vespasian, and the supporter of his authority. He was saluted Caesar, and Prince 
 of the Youth, A. D. 61 ; and was shortly afterwards decorated with the title of 
 Emperor, and associated with his father in the sovereign power : the two being 
 honoured with a most magnificent triumph for the conquest of Judaea. Titus 
 succeeded to the whole empire A.D. 79: and various public calamities— such as 
 
( 60 ) 
 
 the eruption of Vesuvius, which destroyed Herculaneum and Pompeii, the confla- 
 gration of Rome, and the epidemic disease which followed it — gave occasion for the 
 exercise and display of his compassionate bounty. To the inexpressible grief of 
 the public, he died A. D. 81, after a short reign of 2 years, 2 months, and 20 days, 
 under suspicion that his fate was contrived, or accelerated, by Domitian. Aurelius 
 Victor, and Philostratus, speak positively to the fact ; but Suetonius merely says 
 that in the last hours of Titus, all assistance was withdrawn, by the artful brother. 
 
 Titus was comely in person, and engaging in disposition ; and though in the 
 opening of his career he fell into the indulgence of youthful propensities, he 
 did not therefore neglect serious occupations. This period of his life is said to 
 have been marked by pride, cruelty, and covetousness ; but it is a fine moral, 
 that he, against whom such imputations existed, should ripen into a sovereign, so 
 nearly without blemish as to earn the glorious title of the " Delight of Mankind/' 
 it has been advanced that, had Augustus died sooner, or Titus later, neither of them 
 would have possessed the reputation they acquired, — since the one would not have 
 obliterated the memory of his severity by beneficence, nor could the other have 
 maintained the empire by virtue, mildness, and popularity. But the latter argu- 
 ment would be lamentable in an ethical point of view, were it indisputable. 
 
 Though the clemency of this prince has been as much vaunted as his " diem 
 perdidi," it did not prevent the unprincipled assassination of Aulus Caecina ; nor 
 did it check a penchant for gladiatorial horrors. These, however, as well as a 
 propensity still more detestable, may be ascribed to the effect of education and 
 example ; but his anxiety to diffuse happiness could hardly have sprung from any 
 but the best of motives. As an emperor he was liberal, humane and beneficent. 
 Vpon assuming the office of Pontifex Maximus, he avowed it to be a solemn contract 
 against shedding blood ; and no senator was slain by his command, nor did any 
 other person suffer death under his government, notwithstanding a dangerous con- 
 spiracy against himself was detected. In the opinion of the anciente he far exceeded 
 all his predecessors in every virtue becoming a prince, and was equalled by few of 
 his successors. He was a stranger to parade and ostentation, choosing to live with 
 his people rather as a father with his family, than as a despot with his subjects ; and 
 lie knew no purpose of being higher than others, but to do good to all. 
 
 The medals of this reign are of little rarity in any metal, — except small-brass, of 
 which there are none known ; the choice mainly rests upon the scarcity and interest of 
 the reverses ; and it must be recollected that in the large-brass series, TI. stands for 
 Tiberius, and T. for Titus. A large portion of them were struck in the life-time 
 of his father, with whom he was seven times Consul. With a view of restoring public 
 faith, which had been shaken in the wantonness of power, he not only confirmed 
 
4 
 
 ( 61 ) 
 
 the grants and immunities of his predecessors, but also preserved their memory by 
 minting their medals anew ; he thus extended the class called Restitutio of which 
 No. X. is a fine specimen.* A Greek coin, heretofore attributed to Marcia Fnr- 
 nilla, the wife of Titus, has recently been adjudged to Plautilla, the wife of Cara- 
 cal ; and it is very unlikely that such a token of regard should have been paid to 
 a woman divorced long before. 
 
 LXXXII. 
 
 Obverse. T. CAES. VESPASIAN. IMP. PON. TR. POT. COS. II. (Titus Ccesar Vespasianus, 
 Imperator, Pontifex, Tribunitia potestale, Consul secundum.) The laurelled portrait of 
 Titus, which, though much more handsome, bears some likeness to that of his father. The 
 coin was struck A. D. 72, and is curiously patinated, being brown on the obverse, and green 
 on the reverse; it is in very sound condition, and was procured from T. Buigon, Esq. by 
 exchange, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. CONGIAR. PRIMVM P. R. DAT. (Congiarium primum Populo Romano datum.) On 
 the exergum S. C. The Emperor is seated on a curule chair, with Minerva standing by him. 
 At the foot of the tribunal is a man holding the frumentarian tessera, or ticket, and before 
 him is a citizen opening the folds of his robe to receive the donation. See No. XL VII. 
 
 LXXXII I. 
 
 Obverse. T. CAES. VESPASIAN. IMP. PON. TR. POT. COS. II. Titus Ccesar Vespasianus. 
 
 Imperator, Pontifex, Tribunitia potestate, Consul iterum.) The laureated portrait of the 
 Emperor. It is coated with a brownish-red patina, and is in fair preservation ; it was pro- 
 cured from Mr. Matthew Young, in 1830. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. (Senatus Consulto,) on the exergum. A triumphal car drawn by four horses abreast, 
 after a custom derived from the Etruscans. In the car stands Titus holding an olive-branch, 
 and from the consular date, which answers to A. D. 72, it clearly marks the pageant given 
 on the subjugation of Judaea. This remarkable conquest gave birth to many medals, which 
 are easily obtainable; and among them is a second-brass with the legend VICTORIA 
 NAVALIS, around a Victory placed on the prow of a ship : this alludes to a fight upon the 
 Lake of Genesareth, about which all historians, save Josephus, are silent. 
 
 LXXX1V. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. T. CAES. VESP. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. COS. VIII. (Imperator Titus 
 Ccesar Vespasianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Patrice, 
 Consul octavum.) The laurelled head of the Emperor turned to the left. This medal was 
 minted A. D. 80 ; it is in capital preservation, and covered with an emerald-green patina. 
 It was found by an Arab of Rosetta, in 1822, from whom I obtained it. 
 
 Reverse. IVD. CAP. [Judcea capta,) placed across the field: under the insciiption S. C. In the 
 centre rises the palm-tree, the symbol of Judaea ; to the right stands a pinioned captive, 
 probably representing the reckless Simon ; on the opposite side of the tree sits a female, be- 
 wailing her misery, and around them are scattered pieces of armour. The good disposition, 
 talents, and high fortune of Titus rendered him an idol of popularity, yet, in the hand of 
 Providence, he was a terrible scourge to the Jews. For, as our Saviour prophesied, that not 
 one stone of Jerusalem should remain upon another, so was it accomplished forty years after 
 his ascension. From famine, and by the sword, 111,000 people perished, great numbers were 
 crucified and impaled, 0,000 were burnt in the porch of the temple, and 97,000 prisoners were 
 taken at the sack of the city, and dragged into miserable and hopeless bondage. When the 
 demolition of the city was resolved upon, Titus stretched forth his hands, and called Heaven 
 and Earth to witness, that the Jews were more to blame than he.f 
 
 * The restituti of Titus, and his two immediate successors were in brass ; but Trajan, the third in succession, coined 
 them in gold and silver. Those of brass are all Imperial medals, — none being known of the republic, in that metal. 
 
 f This conquest was a theme of great exultation in after ages. Wynkyn de Worde printed the " Dystruccyon and 
 Vengeaunce of Iherusalem," in 1528 •, and in another edition by Pynson, his successor, Vespazyun is exhibited in a print, 
 vrith eanuon on carriages near him, holding a parley with Pilate and Archelaus, who are upon the city walls. 
 
( 62 ) 
 
 LXXXV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. T. CAES. VESP. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. COS. VIII. {Lnperator Tttus 
 Ceesar Vespasianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Patrice, 
 Consul octavum.) The laureated profile of Titus turned to the left, with a kind and benevo- 
 lent expression ; and in singularly beautiful preservation, though scarcely patinated. It was 
 struck A. D. 80, and was procured by exchange, at Sassari, in Sardinia, in 1824. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. (Senatus Consulto,) in the field. Two cornucopias saltier, filled with corn and fruits, 
 and between them a winged caduceus; the two first being significative of plenty, and the 
 last of peace, in allusion to the happiness, abundance, and tranquillity enjoyed under the 
 gentle rule of Titus. It has been averred, that with these symbols on a coin, the S. C. is 
 omitted, because they were a cognizance of the senate and people ; but this specimen, as well 
 as most of those bearing Felicitas, clearly prove the rule to have exceptions. 
 
 LXXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. T. CAES. VESP. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. COS. VIII. {Lnperator Titus 
 Ceesar Vespasianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Patria, 
 Consul octavum.) The laurelled head of Titus, with a calm expression. This medal was 
 struck A. 1). 80 ; it is in excellent preservation, and varnished with an olive-green patina. 
 It was presented to me by Colonel Otto Beyer, at Goza, in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. ANNONA AVG. {Annona Augusti.) It bears no mark of senatorial authority. A standing 
 robed female, personifies the protectress of the annual store of corn. By the ship, with the 
 goose-neck prow behind her, it is seen that a supply arrived from abroad, and the garlands 
 with which the bow is decorated, shew the voyage to have been prosperous : Virgil notices 
 this custom, — 
 
 " So sailors, when escap'd from stormy seas, 
 First, crown their vessels, then indulge their ease." 
 The cornucopias held upwards, by Annona, denotes the importation to be moderate, for with 
 abundance it is reversed. At her feet stands a modius, with ears of wheat in it, signifying 
 that the allowance must be measured : and her right hand holds a figure of Equity, with 
 scales, to testify that the distribution must be made with strict impartiality. 
 
 The supply of corn was an affair of the utmost importance. Augustus, finding the 
 granaries reduced to but three days allowance, determined to kill himself by poison, should 
 not the fleets arrive from the Provinces, within that space of time. Claudius awarded the 
 freedom of the city to him that built a ship capable of holding 10,000 modii of bread-corn ; 
 and Nero granted privileges, and immunities, to those who constructed vessels to carry 50,000 
 modii. 
 
 LXXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. T. CAES. VESP. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. COS. VIII. {Jmperator Titus 
 Ceesar Vespasianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Patrice, 
 Consul octavum.) A very characteristic laureated head of Titus, turned to the left. In 
 singularly fine preservation, and coated with a deep chocolate-coloured patina : it was procured 
 at Genoa, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. PROV1DENTIA AVGVST. (Providentia Augusti.) On the exergum S. C. Two togated 
 Romans standing, one of whom, with a radiated crown, is presenting a mundus, or globe, to 
 the other, in token of universal empire ; and their united hands resting upon a rudder, denote 
 that they are to steer and govern it. This medal has been thought to illustrate the passage 
 of Suetonius, where he says "Neque ex eo distitit participem, atque etiam tutorem Imperii 
 agere,''' in reference to Vespasian's having admitted Titus to a share of the Imperial power : 
 but from the date it would rather seem to commemorate a similar participation between the 
 latter and Domitian. 
 
 LXXXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. D1VO AVG. T. DIVI VESP. F. VESPASIAN. [Divo Augusto Tito, divi Vespasiani 
 Jilio, Vcspasiano.) On the exergum S. C. Titus is here represented as togated, and seated 
 on a curule chair placed on a globe, among the spoils of war; his right hand holds an olive 
 
( 63 ) 
 
 branch, anil his left a roll or volume. This medal, of pale-yellow brass and in excellent con- 
 dition, was purchased at Bonorvo, in Saidinia, in 1824. 
 Reverse. (Sine epigraphe.) The Flavian Amphitheatre, between the MetaSudans and the Domus Aurea, 
 as it was actually situated. It is marked with its proper number of stories, or arcades ; and 
 from the open top it is seen to be filled with people, the upper row having festoons of flowers 
 over their heads. This edifice was commenced by Vespasian, A. D. 77, and was finished and 
 dedicated by Titus, three years afterwards. It is of an elliptical form, and covers nearly six 
 acres of ground ; the majoY-axis being 616 feet, and the minor 510, with a height of 160 — and 
 it was said to be capable of containing 70,000 spectators, at their ease.* These vast dimensions, 
 and the gigantic statue of Nero, procured it the name of Colossgeum, now by corruption Coliseum ; 
 and it is thus eulogized by Martial — 
 
 "Omnis Csesareo cedat labor Amphitheatro, 
 Unum pro cunctis Fama loquatur opus." 
 The atrocious festivals of its dedication were protracted to 100 days, during which 5,000 wild 
 beasts, or more, were slaughtered, so that it might be said of the dedicator — "caedes belluarum 
 fecit in Amphitheatiis." To say nothing of so demoralizing a loss of time, these unintellectual 
 pleasures of a half-starved mob, must have cost more than three millions sterling, including the 
 structure. When I wandered over this scene of guilt, I could not but regard it as a costly monu- 
 ment of prodigal folly and savage sensuality. Moreover, from the haste with which it was run 
 tip, there are numerous architectural eye-sores, which, with its cumbrous attic, render it very 
 inferior in design to the elegant amphitheatre at Pola, in Istria. 
 
 That the Romans, after all, were essentially a barbarous people, is strikingly evinced by these 
 wholesale slaughter-houses, even had we no other evidences of their heartless cruelty. The taste 
 for blood was not confined to the soldiers and butchers only, who attended the spectacles ; — grave 
 senators, tender poets, and stern philosophers, shared in this inhuman exultation. Even Cicero, 
 who deservedly has a prodigious host of admirers amongst the moderns, was sufficiently unfeeling 
 to eulogize such licentious murders, closing his argument with the illogical assertion — " Oculis 
 nulla poterat esse fortior contra dolor em et mortem disciplina a dogma confuted by the 
 vitiated taint given to the Romans, who — exchanging magnanimity for cruelty — sunk from the 
 warlike opponents of Hannibal, to the contemptible crouchers of the Lower Empire. This how- 
 ever, is comparatively but a slight shadow in the picture of ancient manners : the deepest and 
 most odious stain was, that the beauties of Rome flocked there in all their blandishments ; and, 
 inflamed by quivering limbs and streams of blood, acquired so execrable a delight in deadly com- 
 bats, as to lose the natural disposition of their sex, and even enter the arena themselves ! " Sed 
 feeminarum illustrium, senatorumque filiorum plures per arenam fccdati sunt."-\ 
 
 LXXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. T. CAES. VESP. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. COS. Villi. (Imperator Titus Ccesar 
 Vespasianus, Augustus, Ponti/ex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Pater Palria>, Consul 
 nonum.) The laurelled head of Titus, with full expressive features, and broad bare throat. 
 A well-spread medal, in most excellent condition and covered with dense-brown patina, which 
 was found near Mesratah, in Barbary, in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. PIETAS AVGVSTA. On the exergum S. C. The goddess of Concord, joining the right hands 
 of Titus and Domitian, a type of fraternal love ; the group being admirably drawn and finished. 
 The female — in whom some recognize Domitilla, and the revivers of ancient scandal Berenice — 
 is veiled, and the men are togated and bare-headed. This medal is remarkably well figured in 
 Du Choul's " Discours de la Religion des anciens Remains" 1581. 
 
 XC. 
 
 Obverse. DIVO AVG. T. DIVI VESP. F. VESPASIANO. (Divo Augusta Tito, divi Vespasiani 
 Jilio Vespasiano.) A seated statue of Titus, with the radiated head, and wand, of divinity. In 
 
 * According to Publius Victor, there were 77,000 seats — "Regio III. Amphitheatrum quod capit loca LXXVII. millia." 
 Yet, in a troublesome process of admeasurement which I adopted, and by allowing only 16' inches, which is more than man of- 
 war's allowance, to each spectator, 1 could not make it contain more than 50,600. 
 
 f Suetonius, in Caligula, relates the killing of a score of Roman knights, and as many ladies, who had forestalled seats 
 in the theatre, by occupying them the previous midnight! And Juvenal, alluding to the extravagant rage of the Roman ladie* 
 for spectacles, after telling us that Hippia had abandoned her husband, children, father, and sister, for a common gladiator, 
 adds— '« Utque magis stupeat, ludos, Paridemque reliquit." 
 
( 64 ) 
 
 his right hand is a branch of laurel, his foot is on a suppedaueum, and before him is an altar with 
 a sacred flame ; it is decorated with festoons of flowers. (See No. IX.) 
 Reverse. IMP. CAES. DIVI VESP. F. DOMIT. AVG. P. M. TR. P. P. P. (Imperator Ccesar, 
 divi Vespasiani Jilius, Domitianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, 
 Pater Patrice.) In the centre of the field a large S. C. This was struck about A. D. 81, by 
 Domitian, who caused his brother to be ranked amongst the gods, and was the first who paid him 
 divine honours; but at the same time he studied, both in public and in private, to revile his 
 memory, and lessen the esteem and veneration which all orders of men had for so worthy a prince. 
 This medal escaped Vaillant, and Eckhel esteems it as very rare ; it is in good condition, is 
 covered with a deep-green patina, and was purchased at Frejus, in IS23. 
 
 JULIA. 
 
 Julia, the daughter of Titus and Marcia Furnilla, was brought into the world but a 
 short time before the divorce of her mother. The Emperor was desirous of uniting 
 her to Domitian, but the latter, who was too deeply enamoured of Domitia to prefer 
 fortune to the gratification of passion, saw her given in marriage to his cousin-german, 
 Flavius Sabinus, with utter indifference. No sooner, however, had the union taken 
 place, than Domitian was captivated by the charms of his niece, tore her from her 
 husband, whom he afterwards murdered ; and though intending to marry her, caused 
 her to miscarry, in order to hide their intercourse, and thus occasioned her untimely 
 death. In this incestuous commerce, Julia, instead of resenting the contempt with 
 which her uncle had treated her, behaved with such profligacy as to prove that want of 
 principle and genuine delicacy are incompatible : and we cannot but regret such should 
 have been the daughter of Titus. 
 
 The medals of Julia are of considerable rarity, especially in gold and silver : and 
 there are none, except Greek-Imperial, in small-brass. From them it appears that she 
 was called Augusta by her father, that she died A. D.90 or 91, and was consecrated 
 by Domitian. The effigies indicate an age of about 30 years, but we are ignorant of 
 the time of her birth. 
 
 XCI. 
 
 Obverse. IVL1A IMP. T. AVG. F. AVGVSTA. (Julia, Imperatoris Titi Augustifilia, Augusta.) 
 
 The profile of Julia, with the hair closely tressed into a knot behind, and full curls in front. Her 
 features bear a strong resemblance to those of her father, but are of greater beauty. This coin, 
 though only of the second module, is, as with some of those of the house of Augustus, retained here 
 merely for the portrait, there being none on large brass: it was found at Leptis Magna, in 1817. 
 
 Reverse. VESTA, on the exergum. In the field S. C. An elegant seated female personates the patroness 
 of chastity, holding a wand in her left hand, and the palladium in her right. This precious idol 
 was held to be the identical one upon which the fate of Troy depended ; and as universal rule was 
 supposed to follow those who kept it, it was committed to the custody of one vestal only, who 
 preserved it in the innermost recess of the sanctum of the temple. See Julia Domna, reverse 
 V esta Mater. 
 
 %* I have here to notice a singular medal of Julia, in my possession. It has a carpentum, 
 the roof of which is supported by females, but the legend bears the tribunitian date XII II. As 
 this stamps it an altered medal, I dismissed it from the Cabinet, though it has strong marks of 
 authenticity ; for we know that title was borne by Titus before he came to the throne, and yet 
 the time of his death was only between the 10th and 1 Ith return of its nomination. 
 
( 65 ) 
 
 The actual tribunes of the people were annually appointed in December, but the po- 
 testas was conferred at any time ; and it seems that the y?ar of the Emperor was reckoned 
 on the anniversary of his nomination, as two different tribunitian dates may be seen to the 
 same consular one. 
 
 XCII. 
 
 Obverse, DIVAE 1VLIAE AVG. DIVI TITI F. (Divas Julice August*, Divi Titi Jilice.) On 
 the exergum S. P. Q. R. (Senatus Populus Que Romanus.) A rich carpentum drawn by 
 two mules. This differs from the preceding, in that the supporters of the tilt are male figures, 
 a portion of the interior decoration is visible, the side-pannel has but one figure upon it, and the 
 reins are carried to a higher foot-board. It is in very good preservation, and covered with a 
 thick grass-green patina ; it was procured at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832. Of the consecration 
 here perpetuated, Martial says, — 
 
 " Dum voce supplex, dumque thure placabit 
 
 Matrona divse dulce Juliae nomen : 
 
 Manebit altum Flaviae decus gentis, 
 
 Cum sole, et astris, cumque luce Roinana." 
 
 Reverse. IMP. CAES. DOMIT. AVG. GERM. COS. XV. CENS. PER. P. P. (Imperaior 
 Caesar Domitianus, Augustus, Germanicus, Consul decimum quintum, Censor perpetuus, 
 Pater Patrice.) In the field an uncial S. C. [Senatus Consulto.) It thus appears that this 
 deification-medal was struck A. D. 91, by Domitian, after he had caused the death of the 
 wretched object who was deified. For office of Censor, see No. LXV11I. 
 
 DOMITIAN. 
 
 Flavius Domitianus, the second son of Vespasian and Domitilla, was born A. D. 
 51, and passed a penurious youth in idleness and infamy. When his lather was 
 proclaimed Emperor in the East, he took refuge from the Vitellians in the capitol ; 
 after narrowly escaping the deplorable fate of Sabinus, when hostilities had ceased he 
 was saluted Caesar, at the age of 18. On the death of his brother he ascended the throne, 
 and after a detestable reign of 15 years and 5 days, was assassinated A. D. 96; 
 being the last of the Flavian family, and likewise of those princes who are com- 
 monly called the twelve Caesars. 
 
 On succeeding such a ruler as Titus, Domitian found it necessary to dissemble his 
 vices, and to give instances, by several very laudable edicts, of a design of following 
 in the footsteps of so illustrious a predecessor. But the constraint was unnatural, 
 and his real character quickly blazed forth a compound of rapacity, ferocity, lust, 
 vanity, and cowardice. He affected military virtue; but his unprovoked expedition 
 against the Catti, displayed no more courage than did his practice of killing flies, — 
 " quas, stylo prceacuto configebat" Tacitus, describing the reception of the 
 despatches in which Agricola related his success in Britain, tells us that Domitian 
 received them in the true spirit of his character, " with a smile on his countenance, 
 and malignity at his heart :" and in congratulating himself that his renowned father- 
 it 
 
( ™ ) 
 
 in-law escaped the tyrant by death, he depicts the horrors of standing by, while — 
 " with that fiery visage, of a dye so red that the blush of g uilt could never colour his 
 cheek"— the despot marked the pale languid countenances of the unhappy victims 
 who shuddered at his frown. By the persecution and carnage of that horrid reign, the 
 islands were peopled with exiles; the rocks contaminated with murder and blood; but 
 more hideous still were the ravages of cruelty at Rome. The being a father, or 
 being childless, were alike obnoxious: it was treasonable to be noble, a capital 
 offence to be rich ; criminal to have borne honours, criminal to have declined 
 them ; and the reward of worth and virtue was quick and inevitable destruction. 
 When Juvenal lashes the summoning of the senate to deliberate upon the dressing 
 of a turbot presented to Domitian, he says — 
 
 ** But long ere this, were hoary hairs become, 
 A prodigy, among the great, at Rome." 
 
 Bating a defect in the toes, which Suetonius has immortalized, Domitian appears to 
 have been comely of person, and with a countenance of better character than Lavater 
 would have looked for. He was an expert archer, but too impatient of study, or 
 toil, to become eminent in higher departments, — although Quinctilian, amongst 
 other base adulations, was fulsome enough to praise his poetry. His wit amounted 
 to the practical joke of terrifying senators with the prospect of execution, but his 
 vanity knew no bounds. In order to count more consulships than any of his 
 predecessors, he numbered 10, in anticipation ; instead of 12 lictors he was attended 
 by 24 ; he always, when presiding in the senate, wore the vestments used at his mock 
 triumph ; and, to complete the consummate arrogance of this truly infamous brute, 
 this generis humani jlagitium, he enacted that all men should pay him divine honours, 
 by the style and title of Lord God ! " Edictum Domini Deique nostri" says Martial, 
 who fawned on the living tyrant, and bitterly reviled him when dead. Among 
 other notable matter, we should mention that, under Domitian, the rights of the 
 ocean were sordidly encroached upon to increase his exchequer, — for flatterers 
 maintained that every thing which swam in the sea, or rivers, belonged to the 
 Emperor's demesne: — Juvenal is angry with the versatile Palphurius, as judge of 
 the Admiralty Court, — 
 
 ** Nay, if Palphurius may our credit gain, 
 Whatever rare or precious swims the main, 
 Is forfeit to the crown, and you may seize 
 Th'obnoxious dainty, when and where you please." 
 
 The medals of Domitian are abundant, and cheap, and are therefore prized 
 according to their preservation, and the degree of interest attached to their reverses. 
 Many of them were struck in the life-time of his father, principally in gold, silver, 
 
( 67 ) 
 
 and small-brass ; which last, when bearing the likeness, are held in consideration 
 by collectors, for although they lay no claim to the workmanship or consequence of 
 large module, they are not destitute of interest. 
 
 XCIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. DOMITIAN. AVG. GERM. COS. XI. {Imperator Ccrsar Domitianus, 
 Augustus, Germanicus, Consul undecimum.J The laureated head of Domitian, with an 
 animated countenance, and an amulet upon the breast. The coin is in excellent preservation, 
 and covered with a thin brown patina; it was procured, in exchange for a cheese, from an 
 inhabitant of Rio, in Elba, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. {Senatus Consultu.J The Emperor, with a paludamentuvn over his armour, standing 
 in the attitude of a conqueror. He holds a lance in his left hand, and the right is laid upon 
 his breast. Before him is a kneeling- captive, naked to the waist, who by his oblong- shield 
 and his trousers, is seen to be a German. Between the shield and the Emperor's foot is a 
 helmet ; and on the exergum, a broken spear, the symbol of defeat. This medal was struck 
 A. D. 85, and from commemorating a rank falsehood, is a lasting disgrace to the Senators who 
 ordered the mintage : but, poor wretches, they had become terror-struck and tragic legisla- 
 tors, — curia timida et elinguis. The circumstance was thus. — Domitian, piqued perhaps 
 at his brother's military glory, affected a warlike ardour, and made a sudden incursion into 
 Germany, where he preteuded to have gained a victory over the Calti, whom he never saw. 
 Returning to Rome, in all the parade of a victor, a magnificent triumph was decreed ; and to 
 give semblance to the scene, slaves were purchased to personate captives, who, attired a* 
 Germans, marched along with dishevelled hair, and all becoming tokens of grief. 
 
 XCIV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. DOMITIAN. AVG. GERM. COS. XI. /"Imperator Domitianus, Augustus, Ger- 
 manicus, Consul, undecimum-J A fine laurelled head of Domitian, in exquisite preservation, 
 with an amuletic Medusa on the breast. It was struck A.D. 85, is of pale yellow-brass 
 without patina, and was purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. (Senatus Consultu.) Victory alate, writing DE GER. (De Germanis.) upon a 
 shield which is supported by a trophy : her left foot rests upon a helmet. At the base of the 
 trophy sits a weeping female. As no historian records an advantage gained at this time, the 
 medal probably commemorates the hoax just described. (No. XCI11.) 
 
 xcv. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. DOMITIAN. AVG. GERM. COS. XI. (Imperator Ccrsar Domitianus, 
 Augustus, Germanicus, Consul undecimum.) An excellent laureated profile of the Emperor, 
 with the Medusa's head on his breast. A medal of the mintage of A. D. 85; it is in fin* 
 preservation, covered with a deep brown pati la, and was purchased at Naples, in 1817. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. (Senatus Consultu.) Between those two uncial letters Domitian, veiled and attired as 
 a priest, is standing at a decorated altar, and holding a patera over the flame. Behind the 
 altar is a temple of four columns, with a female statue displaying a simpulum, to which the 
 Emperor is sacrificing. The pediment is ornamented with a piece of sculpture, and to the 
 capital of the left hand column is suspended a garland. As there is no legend, it is rather 
 difficult to pronounce the peculiar object of this reverse. Antiquaries have usually assigned 
 it to Minerva, from the veneration in which Domitian held that goddess. He even, "with 
 matchless propriety," as Gifford says, claimed her as his mother, and instituted the Quin- 
 quatriau games in her honour : the birth of ignorance and brutality from the goddess of 
 wisdom, would certainly have been as wondrous as that of Minerva herself, according to the 
 pleasant relation of Lucian. 
 
 XCVI. _ 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. DOMIT. AVG. GERM. COS XII CENS. P. P. P. (Imperator Casar Do- 
 mitianus, Augustus, Germanicus, Consul duodecimum, Censor perpetuus, Pater Patrice.) 
 
( 68 ) 
 
 The laurelled portrait of Domitian, with the usual amulet. This medal was purchased frew 
 Mr. Young; and though rubbed in anrient times, is now entirely coated with a thick grass- 
 green patina. It was struck A. D. 86, when the Emperor had been dubbed perpetual 
 Censor ; and truly, a man petulans et libidinosus was a pretty fellow to be the first so 
 appointed. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. (Senatus Consultu,) on the exergum. The Emperor is here represented on horseback, 
 with a spear and shield ; he is in the act of smiting a foe who has fallen on his knee, but 
 who, grasping his buckler firmly, is making a blow at his antagonist with a sword. See No. 
 LXX1. This is another allusion to the real or pretended victories of the Romans in Germany, 
 to which we have no historic clue. For though Domitian proudly assumed the name of Ger- 
 manicus, it was notorious, his armies beyond the Rhine were repulsed and defeated ; insomuch 
 that Pliny indignantly asserts that his triumphs were always proofs of signal advantages 
 gained by the enemy. 
 
 XCVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. DOMIT. AVG. GERM. COS. XII. CENS. PER. P. P. {Jmperator Ccesar 
 Domitianus, Augustus, Germanicus, Consul decimum secundum, Censor perpetuus, 
 Pater Patrice.) The laurelled head of Domitian, with an amulet on his neck. The medal 
 is of some rarity, but only in secondary condition ; it is brownly palinated, and was purchased 
 at Mr. Philip Neave's sale, in 1830. 
 
 Reverse. GERMANIA CAPTA. On the exergum S. C. A trophy composed of German spoils, on 
 one side of which stands a man with his hands bound behind him, and on the other sits a 
 female bewailing her fate. Broken armour is strewed around. 
 
 XCVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. DOMIT. AVG. GERM. COS. X1III. CENS. PER. P. P. (Imperator Ccesar 
 Domitianus, Augustus, Germanicus, Consul decimum quartum, Censor perpetuus, Pater 
 Patrice.) A fine and expressive head of Domitian, without the amulet on his neck. This 
 medal is in good condition, and slightly coated with a dark green patina ; it was procured from 
 Mr. T. Burgon, in 1826, and formerly had a berth in the well-known cabinet of Mr. Tyssen. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. (Senatus Consultu,) on the exergum. The Emperor standing with a paludamentum 
 over his shoulders ; his left hand supports a spear, and his right grasps a thunder bolt, as 
 though he were another Jupiter : behind him stands a graceful winged victory, in the act of 
 placing a laurel crown on his brow. 
 
 XCIX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. DOMIT. AVG. GERM. P. M, TR. P. VIII. CENS. PER. P. P. (Imperator 
 Ccesar Domitianus, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate 
 octavum, Censor perpetuus, Pater Patrice. J A capital laureated portrait of Domitian, 
 with an intelligent and animated expression, — and without the amulet. This coin is in fine 
 preservation, though but barely varnished with yellow patina ; it was purchased on the 
 25th day of Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. COS, X 1 1 1 1 . LVD. SAEC. (Consul decimum quartum, Ludos Sceculares.) On the exer- 
 gum, S. C. The togated Emperor is sitting upon a curule cbair, placed upon a tribunal 
 which is supported by four balls; it is inscribed SVF. P. D., (Suffimenta populo data, J 
 and bears two large vases, to contain the drugs. Before the Emperor stands a citizen, who is 
 in robes, to shew that freemen only are included in the donative, — and between them is a boy 
 holding up his hands. In the back ground is a temple of four columns in front, with a garland 
 on its pediment. This medal is one of a very interesting series which was struck by Domitian 
 to record his having ordered the seventh celebration of the secular games; and it represents the 
 giving of perfumes, torches, tapers, tsedae, sulphur, and bitumen for the lustral fumigations. 
 Zosimus tells us that the people were summoned by sound of trumpet, several days before- 
 hand, and that the Quindecemviri, or keepers of the Sibylline oracles, sat in the capitol to dis- 
 tribute the lustralia amongst those who were appointed to chaunt the prayers, The date of 
 
( 69 ) 
 
 this event, as shewn by the medal, and given by Censorinus, is A. D. 88, or only 40 years 
 after the celebration by Claudius, — for Domitian, bent upon the occupation, took his compu- 
 tation from that of Augustus. The illustrious Tacitus assisted on this occasion, in quality 
 of Quindecemvir. 
 
 The Ludi Sceculares are among the most remarkable games, and most solemn festivals 
 that we meet with in the Roman history : nor does it appear that any modern ceremony has 
 at all approached them in splendour. Valerius Maximus ascribes an odd origin to them; and 
 the date of their introduction, though questionable, may be about B. C. 509.* It is also 
 debated whether the period of celebration was every century, or every 110 years, while a third 
 party maintains that the name merely implied its being renewed but seldom. So great was 
 the ambition of some emperors to engross secular honours, that regularity of return was 
 disregarded. The most flagrant instance of anticipation was that of Claudius, whose heralds 
 were scoffed at because many living persons recollected the Augustan festival 64 years before, — 
 and the form of proclamation was to invite all the people to a sight which none had seen, nor 
 would ever see again. Though Livy, Varro, and Zesimus may be quoted as authorities for 
 centenary returns, Ovid and the Sibyl are on the opposite side of the question ; and the 
 " uterque" chorus of the Secular Hymn appears decisive,— 
 
 " Certus undenos decies per annos 
 
 Orbis ut cantus referatque ludos 
 
 Ter die claro, totiesque grata 
 Nocte frequentes." 
 
 C. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. DOMIT. AVG. GERM. P. M. TR. P. VIII. CENS. PER. P. P. {Imperaior 
 CcBsar Domitianus, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, 
 octavum, Censor perpetuus, Pater Patrice. J A striking and intelligent profile of the 
 Emperor, with his head laureated, and an amuletic medusa on his breast. This splendid 
 medal is in singularly good conservation in every respect, and is uniformly coated with a brown- 
 ish green patina ; it was found at a farm in the vale of Arno, in 1823, about a fortnight before 
 I purchased it in Pisa. 
 
 Reverse. COS. X1III. LVD. SAEC. A. P. (Consul decimum quartum, Ludos Sceculares, a 
 populo.) On the substructure FRVG. AC. [fruges acceptce.) The Emperor is here seated 
 as in the last, but the curule chair has a covering with a rich border, and there are no vases. 
 The temple is of four columns also, but the pediment is ornamented with an eagle. Before 
 the Emperor are three togated eitizens, the foremost of whom is pouring ©ut offerings of the 
 first fruits, from the folds of his robe. The whole of this is very admirably designed and 
 executed. On the exergum S. C. 
 
 CI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. DOMIT. AVG. GERM. P. M. TR. P. VIII. CENS. PER. P. P. (Impe- 
 rator Ccesar Domitianus, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia 
 
 * The form and object of the Secular Games, will be understood by the celebrated Sibylline prophecy ; and the neglect of 
 them Zosimus thinks is sufficient to account for the fall of the Eternal City. "Remember, Romans, to offer sacrifices to 
 the immortal gods, after every century, the term of the longest life. The field which is washed with the waters of the 
 Tiber, shall be the place for this sacrifice. When the day closes, and the night draws on, prepare to offer goats and sheep 
 to the Parcee, then offer proper sacrifices to the Lucinse, who have the care of women in childbed. Then offer a hog, and 
 a black sow to the fruitful earth. The next day kill the white oxen on Jupiter's altars. The sacrifices which are offered 
 up by day-light please the celestial gods. For this reason thou shalt offer a young heifer, of a fine coat, to Juno. Thou 
 shalt also make the like sacrifices to Phoebus, or Apollo, who is called the sun. Some Latin boys, accompanied with 
 girls, shall sing hymns in the sacred temples ; but in such manner that the boys shall sing on one side, and the girls on the 
 other; and let the fathers and mothers of the children be living. Married women shall pay their duty on their kneee 
 before the altar of Juno. They shall intreat the goddess to hear their prayers, and those of the public. Let every on« 
 according to his ability, offer first-fruits to the gods, to render them propitious to him. Let those first fruits be carefully 
 kept, and let them be distributed amongst those who have assisted at the sacrifices. Let the statues of the gods be exposal 
 day and night, to the adoration of the people, on stately beds. Let this solemnity be celebrated with seriousness, and with 
 joy. O Romans ! never forget the rules 1 give, so shall the land of the Italians and Latins be always subject unto you." 
 
( 70 ) 
 
 potestate, octavum, Censor perpetuus. Pater Patrice.) The laureated profile of Domitian, 
 without the amulet. This medal is only in secondary preservation, though sound, and was 
 presented to me by the Rev. Mr. Hall, chaplain to the Factory at Leghorn, in 1823, on my 
 shewing him the former. 
 
 Reverse. COS. XIIII. LVD. SAEC. FEC. /'Consul decimum quartum, Ludos Sceculares fecit.) On 
 the exergum, S. C. Domitian, in his robes, standing before a temple of four fluted columns 
 or rather a sacellum, for I am persuaded, though the coin is lightly rubbed towards the upper 
 verge, that there are only rafters extending across, and leaving the roof open. The Emperor 
 displays his right arm, with an air of imperious majesty, towards three figures kneeling on 
 the plinth, with their hands raised in acknowledgement of his divinity. He may only be 
 addressing them in his office of Pontifex Maximus, but the attitude also recalls the arrogance 
 of his own assumed worship. The " timorous monster," as Pliny calls him, had so many 
 sacrifices made to him, that the common roads were too narrow for the herds which were driven 
 into the capital; while every street, every ascent, every corner of the temple was defiled with 
 gold and silver statues of him. The same excellent writer describes the delight of the Romans 
 at seeing this legion of images rudely battered down, and made a sacrifice to public exultation. 
 
 CII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. DOMIT. AVG. GERM. P. M. TR. P. VIII. CENS. PER. P. P. (Imperalor 
 Ccesar Domiliavus, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, 
 octavum, Censor perpetuus, Pater Patrice.) The laureated head of Domitian, with a naked 
 neck, and the hair highly dressed. This coin is but in secondary conservation, yet such is 
 the interest of its reverse, that I willingly gave a numismatic friend three fine silver ones 
 of the same emperor, in exchange for it. 
 
 Reverse. COS. XIIII. LVD. SAEC. FEC. (Consul decimum quartum, Ludos Sceculares fecit.) 
 
 On the exergum. S. C. Here we have the Emperor with a scroll in his hand, and an officer, 
 both togated, following a procession indicated by three robed youths bearing palm branches ; 
 this was a custom borrowed from the Athenian festivals Pyanepsia and Thargelia, and it 
 has been continued to the present times. The ceremonies opened in nearly the same form as 
 we still see practised in Italy, with a procession, in which the priests of each college assisted 
 in a body, and men of all orders joined, dressed in white, crowned with flowers, and carrying 
 palm branches in their hands. As they chaunted through the streets, the images of the gods 
 were every where exposed on stately beds, the lectislernia deorum. There were two choirs, 
 one of 27 youths, and the other of 27 virgins, for each of the divinities, and on the last day they 
 sang the admirable secular hymn, which has justly been esteemed as the master-piece of 
 Horace. Great care was taken, agreeably to the oracle, that the parents of the children should 
 be living, as the sight of an orphan, amidst the rejoicings, might have occasioned melancholy 
 recollections; aud the full exertion of the girls was ensured by the belief of its leading to a 
 happy marriage, — 
 
 " Nupta jam dices ; ego Dis amicum, 
 Seculo festas referente luces, 
 Reddidi carmen, docilis modorum 
 Vatis Horati." 
 
 , cm. 
 
 Obverse, IMP. CAES. DOMIT. AVG. GERM. P. M. TR. P. VIII. CENS. PER. P. P. (Impera- 
 tor Ccesar Domitianus, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, 
 octavum, Censor perpetuus, Pater Patrice. J The profile of the Emperor, laureated, and 
 bearing a Medusa's head on the neck, a medal in fair condition, though but slightly patinated : 
 it was purchased of a knicknackaterian, at Naples, in 1817. 
 
 Reverse, COS. XIIII. LVD. SAEC. FEC. {Consul decimum quartum, Ludos Sceculares fecit. J 
 On the exergum, S. C. The togated Emperor is standing at an altar, with a patera in his 
 hand, in the act of sacrificing, while one of the by-standers plays upon two tibiae, or flutes, 
 at once, and another on the cithara. On the right side of the altar is the popa, whose businesc 
 
( 71 ) 
 
 it was to kill the victim, which in this instance is a large hog. At the Emperor's feet is a 
 reclining female with a cornucopia? ; on the other sacrifices of this series, the Tiber is repre- 
 sented in her place, in allusion to the rites being celebrated on its banks. This female is 
 probably Tellus, to whom the hog was thought appropriate because he always looked towards 
 the earth : the Sibyl said 
 
 Inde feraci 
 
 Telluri porcus mactator, cum sue nigra. 
 
 During the three days and nights which were occupied in these sacrifices, music resounded 
 from every altar; all the theatres, circi, and other public places of amusement were thrown 
 open ; and what with races, wrestling, hunting, matches, combats with wild beasts, nauma- 
 chia?, and dramatic entertainments, the people divided their whole time between mirth and 
 devotion. At the close of day, all the streets of Rome were illuminated with bonfires and 
 numberless lights; " lumina cum rogis accenduntur." 
 
 CIV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. DOMIT. AVG. GERM. P. M. TR. P. VIII. CENS. PER. P. P. {Imperator 
 Ccesar Domitianus, Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunilia potestate 
 octavum, Censor perpetuus, Pater Patrice.) A fine head of Domitian, with the laurel over 
 hair attentively dressed, without an amulet on the neck. This beautiful medal is in perfect 
 condition, being entirely covered with an olive green patina ; it was purchased with No. XCIX. 
 
 Reverse. COS. XIII I. LVD. SAEC. A POP. {Consul decimumquartum, Ludos Soeculares, 
 ' a populo.J On a substruction appears FRVG. AC. which joined to the legend reads 
 A populo fruges acceptce. The Emperor is here seated as on No. XCIX, and apparently 
 near the same temple, but there are three vases on the tribunal. He is distributing the 
 offerings to togated citizens ; thus illustrating what we learn from history, that a portion was 
 returned to the people, who received the presents as objects of veneration. This ceremony 
 closed the solemnity of the Secular Games. 
 
 CV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. DOMIT. AVG. GERM. COS. XV. CENS. PER. P. P. (Imperator Ccesar 
 Domitianus, Augustus, Germanicus, Consul decimum quintum, Censor perpetuus, Pater 
 Patrice.) A very animated portrait of the Emperor, without his amulet ; and the head dressed 
 with such evident care as to recall him whose reading was limited to the Commentaries of 
 Tiberius, and whose authorship was confined to a treatise on the nourishment of hair. This 
 medal is in a high state of preservation, though only thinly varnished by a brown patina ; it 
 was minted A. D. 90, and was presented to me by Consul General Salt, in Egypt. 
 
 Reverse. IOVI VICTORI. On the exergum, S. C. A majestic sedent Jupiter with the wand of 
 divinity supporting his left hand, and his right holding a winged victory with a garland. 
 The body is naked to the waist, except that a robe descends from the left shoulder, down the 
 back, and is gracefully folded over the thighs and legs : the feet rest on a suppedaneum. 
 This has been thought to commemorate the destruction of the rebels under L. Antonius, 
 which happened two years before ; but it was more probably in honour of the peace which he 
 begged from Decebalus, after his own signal defeat by the Marcommanni, a defeat for 
 which he nevertheless triumphed. Domitian affected great gratitude to Jupiter as his pre- 
 server ; he built a chapel to him in Vespasian's time, and a magnificent temple after his 
 accession. Ha was, at all times, profusely sumptuous in his public buildings, and not only 
 restored many of the edifices destroyed by fire, but also spent 12,000 talents in merely gild- 
 ing the capitol. 
 
 CVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. DOMIT. AVG. GERM. COS. XVI. CENS. PER. P. P. [Imperator Ccesar 
 Domitianus, Augustus, Germanicus, Consul decimum sextum, Censor perpetuus, Pater 
 Patrice.) The laurelled profile of the Emperor, without the usual amulet. In the field is the 
 
( 72 ) 
 
 little silver eagle, which was formerly the stamp of the Modena collection. This medal is 
 in very fair conservation, of a pale unpatinated yellow brass, and was purchased at the Hon. 
 R. E. Digby's sale, in 1825. 
 Reverse. S. C. (Senatus Consulto,) on the exergum. Victory is crowning the Emperor, who stands 
 majestically with a thunderbolt in his hand, as in No. XCVIII., but from the consular date 
 this coin is seen to have been struck A. D. 92, or four years afterwards. It is equally 
 uncertain whether this was on occasion of some advantage over the Dacians, or one of those 
 counterfeit victories for which every street and corner of Rome was then decorated with trophies 
 and triumphal arches. The only remarkable event of the 16th consulate was, the decree 
 which, as wine was very plentiful and corn very scarce, — ordered half the vines to be rooted 
 up, and no more to be planted. 
 
 DOMITIA. 
 
 Domitia Longina, daughter of the illustrious Cn. Domitius Corbulo, was first 
 married to Lucius Lamia, a senator, who was murdered by Domitian, in order that 
 he might retain undisturbed possession of the widow, after an adulterous intercourse 
 with her. She was kept sometime as a concubine, and then solemnly married to 
 tire Emperor, A. D. 70 ; but the dignity of her station did not check her licentious- 
 ness. Scandal was rife in attributing the anguish of the last moments of Titus, to 
 his remorse for having had criminal intercourse with his brother's wife ; but Sue- 
 tonius clears him from the aspersion, upon the solemn protestation of Domitia 
 herself, who, had the charge been true, would rather have gloried in it, as in all 
 her other crimes, than denied it. She was supposed to have died under the reign 
 of Trajan ; but from a curious inscription found amongst the ruins of Gabii, and 
 published by Visconti in his JMuseo Pio-Clementino, it would seem that she 
 attained extreme old age, and died about A. D. 140. 
 
 Domitia affords a lamentable instance that, descent from one of the greatest men 
 that Rome ever produced, and engaging beauty of person, were insufficient barriers 
 against depravity, where virtue was wanting. Lucius Lamia is said to have pos- 
 sessed all the merit that was possible for a man to have, whence it has been alleged 
 that pride and ambition wrought her fall. But she was vile to the core, for under 
 the base pretence of avenging herself of the Emperor's neglecting her for Julia, she 
 abandoned herself publickly to libertinism with the vilest and most contemptible of 
 mankind. This was continued with singular impunity for some time, till her shame- 
 less attachment to Paris, a player, aroused the despot, who assassinated the man, 
 and banished the woman. The love of Domitian, however, had but slumbered, 
 and no sooner was Julia dead, than he revoked the divorce, and declared in an edict 
 that he recalled her in pulvinar suum, assuming that his couch was sacred ; — nay 
 the reconciliation was recorded by a gold medal, with a peace ck, inscribed 
 
( 73 ) 
 
 Concordia Augusta, as though she were another Juno, for the emblem was usually 
 a special allusion to the consecration of deceased Empresses. This exposed the 
 Emperor to the shafts of satire; he was, however, delighted to hear the populace 
 at large exclaim, Domino et Dominw, feliciter, on her return ; but the union 
 was an unhallowed one, — and while Domitian was compassing his wife's death, 
 she became an accomplice with the conspirators who despatched him. The alarm 
 was first given to her by a paper which a boy, playing in the Emperor's room, 
 had taken from under his pillow, while the despot was sleeping. In caressing this 
 boy, Domitia quickly spied the scroll, and as quickly seized and read it; whem 
 with surprise and horror, she beheld her own name bowing the list of those who 
 . had but a day to live ! The time was brief — the peril extreme — she revealed the 
 fact to her companions in danger, and the tyrant was despatched. 
 
 This depraved woman has met with such lenity from historians, that some of 
 them have barely mentioned the part she took in this tragedy ; and Procopius 
 records an anecdote, which, if true, would invalidate the act, and entitle her to un- 
 qualified praise. He relates, that she, never having approved of her husband's 
 tyrannical conduct, was much esteemed by the senators, who offered all that she 
 should demand of that wicked prince's possessions. She only desired leave to bury 
 him, and to erect a statue to his memory ; which being granted, she caused all the 
 dispersed and mangled parts of his body to be sought for, and joined them as well 
 as she could. The body thus patched up was the model of the statue she erected 
 to her husband, with the aim of preserving a monument of the barbarity of his 
 murderers. Tristan certainly has great reason to marvel that so extraordinary a 
 thing, if worthy of the slightest credit, should be omitted by the numerous authors 
 who have mentioned her. Josephus has also extolled Domitia as a virtuous and 
 amiable princess ; but however honest that historian may be in other respects, he 
 has, on this subject, merely exchanged fulsome compliment for the substantial 
 patronage which he received at her hands. 
 
 Latin medals of Domitia are of great rarity, and those of large-brass singularly 
 so ; it is therefore usual to substitute for them Greek Imperial coins, which, though 
 scarce, are more easily obtained, especially where perfect preservation is not an 
 object. All those which I have seen bear a young and beautiful countenance, so 
 that this female Nestor lived long enough to see her own coins prized as antiques. 
 One of the most interesting was struck both in gold and silver; it bore her effigy, 
 with her deified son sitting naked upon a globe, in the midst of seven stars, on 
 the Reverse : he was born about A. D. 82, and his sister two years afterwards,— 
 they both died young. 
 
 L 
 
( 74 ) 
 
 cvn. 
 
 Obverse. DOMITIA AVG. IMP. CAES. DIVI. F. DOMITIAN. AVG. (Domitia Augusta, Im- 
 
 peratoris Ccesaris divi Jilii Domitiani Augusti.) The head and part of the bust of 
 Domitia, with a countenance decidedly beautiful, but blended with assurance. The hair is 
 very carefully dressed, with a profusion of curls in front, and twisted into a loop hanging 
 behind. In saying that this rare medal is in perfect condition, I cannot entirely omit my 
 doubts as to its being really genuine. Indeed, I may say with Eckhel, that it has not 
 the look of antiquity, — a vexatious Patavinity interferes with its apparent purity of 
 legend, edge, and other usual tests, and recalls to mind the fraudulent brothers who headed 
 the falsarii of the XVI. century. It is unquestionably a fine and correct likeness of the 
 Empress, but from the objection advanced, it was " knocked down" for only five guineas, at 
 Mr. Henderson's sale, in 1830. It is singular that the head-dress of this specimen and that 
 of Vaillant's are identical, while those in the Cabinet of Queen Christina and the British 
 Museum have the hair braided round the head,— the legends and reverses being alike in all 
 the four. The legitimacy of the last was long under question, although Ennery had bought 
 a whole collection to secure it ; but my friend Mr. Hawkins, in whose charge it is, informed 
 me that the erudite Steinbiichel, of Vienna, after repeated examinations, pronounced it to 
 be a genuine medal. 
 
 Reverse. DIVI CAESARIS MATER. On the exergum S. C. Domitia, attired in becoming robes, 
 and holding the wand of divinity, is seated on a curule chair, with an air of majestic elegance. 
 Before her stands a youth habited in the pretexta, who is presenting an olive branch ; it is 
 supposed to represent the deified son of the Empress, — the Domitian Junior of numis- 
 matists — to whom medals were struck on his apotheosis being decreed by the senate. 
 
 NERVA. 
 
 Marcus Cocceius Nerva born A.D. 32, at Narnia in Uinbria, was the son of M. C. 
 Nerva, a man of consular dignity, and Plautilla, a lady of respectable descent. He 
 was early distinguished by civil dignities, and became a favourite with Nero, who con- 
 ferred triumphal honours upon him, A. D. 65. After having served as praetor, and 
 twice as consul, he was, on the death of Domitian, with one voice declared Emperor; 
 and, after a judicious reign of 16 months and 9 days, died of a fever, in the beginning 
 of A. D. 98. 
 
 Nerva was humane, wise, and generous ; and though said to have been consti- 
 tutionally timid, and somewhat enervated by age and infirmity, he acted with great 
 personal fortitude in the compliance forced upon him by the mutinous pras- 
 torians. He was very eloquent, and one of the best poets of his day : Pliny speaks 
 of his epigrams with commendation; and Martial says, — "Quanta quies placidi, 
 tanta est facundia Nervae." The first acts which graced his assumption of the purple 
 were — the liberation of state prisoners,* the enactment of poor laws,^ the punish- 
 
 • This popular act was commemorated by a medal, inscribed Exules Rom<e red. S. P. Q. R. 
 
 t A medal inscribed Tutela Italia:, was struck when the edict was promulgated, which ordered the cities of Italy t» 
 feed their orphans, and poor children, at the public cost. 
 
( 75 ) 
 
 ment of delators, the reform of abuses, the redress of grievances, the relief of 
 distress, the establishment of liberty of conscience, and the abolition of the odious 
 lex Jllajestatis. Besides these, he was himself a personal example of equity, 
 moderation, and virtue: and the professed spirit of his administration was — so to 
 govern that he might return to private life without apprehension. It is harsh to 
 condemn the exercise of virtue because summum jus may become summa -injuria ; 
 but lenity may be carried too far ; and the murder of those who had wrought his 
 elevation, in spite of his entreaties to the contrary, has blotted the otherwise fair fame 
 of his reign. But the mortifying insolence of the soldiery, on that occasion, proved 
 of vital advantage to the empire in the end; for Nerva, now sensible of the necessity 
 of firmness, passed over his own kindred, and, with deep sagacity, solemnly adopted 
 Trajan as his son and successor, — an act by which he brought forward one who 
 was able to support the throne with vigour, and also to continue an equitable govern- 
 ment after his demise. 
 
 The harmonious Moore, in introducing his " Loves of the Angels," alludes to the 
 " Heaven and Earth" of Lord Byron, as about to appear. This makes him hurry; 
 so that by an earlier appearance in the literary horizon, he might gain an heliacal 
 rising, and shine previous to the coming of the luminary, in whose light he was to 
 be lost. So Pliny, in his pointed style, observes it is the nature of the heavenly 
 bodies, that the smaller and more obscure are lost in the lustre of more dazzling 
 orbs. And, apostrophizing Nerva, whose virtues were eclipsed by those of Trajan, 
 he adds — "Thus you were not afraid of adopting one whose brighter eminence 
 should, in some measure, obscure and eclipse your waning lustre." 
 
 The medals of this excellent prince are rather common, and generally cheap, 
 with the exception of the gold ; and such of the large-brass series as relate the 
 public events of the reign. From some of the silver coins, it seems that Nerva took 
 the title of Imp. II. in the latter part of the year 97, on account of a victory in 
 Pannonia, upon which historians are silent. Others bear Trib. Pot. III. in the 
 legend, which has created much discussion, as to their proper date. 
 
 Some writers have stated that Nerva was married, and that he had a son named 
 Calpurnius ; but though the assertion is without foundation, it was too favourable 
 an incident to be lost ; and a crafty fabricator seized the opportunity of foisting an 
 imposition upon the public, as a colonial coin in honour of the youth. 
 
 CVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP NERVA CAES. AVG. P.M. TR. P. COS. II. P. P. (Impcrator Nerva Ccesar, 
 Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia polestate, Consul ilerum, Pater Patrur.) The 
 laureated profile of Nerva, bearing all the characteristics of sense and thought, with a deep 
 tinge of the gravity assigned to him ; and stamped with internal evidence of being a good 
 
( 76 ) 
 
 likeness. It is in excellent condition, and slightly varnished with yellow patina ; it was 
 found in the marshes near Astura, in 1822, and was brought to me shortly afterwards. 
 Reverse. CONGIAR. PR. ( Congiarium primum.J The Emperor, seated on an elevated tribunal, 
 the base of which is marked S. C is inspecting a distribution. Before him stands Rome 
 Nicephora, and one who holds up a frumentarian tessera ; between them a togated officer 
 sits on a curule chair, of a form different from that of Nerva ; he is in the act of giving the 
 donative to a citizen on the steps, or ladder, — the " de gradibus, in gradibus, et gradibus, 
 panem distribucre" of the Theodosian code. There is no mention of this largess, among 
 the ancient records, and but for this medal, posterity would have been altogether ignorant 
 of it. 
 
 CIX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. NERVA CAES. AVG. P.M. TR. P. COS. II. P. P. {Imperator Nerva Ccesar, 
 Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia poteslate, Consul iterum, Pater Patrice. J 
 The portrait of Nerva is here seen under the same character as in the last, but with features 
 less decided, and a nose rather more aquiline. It is in capital preservation, and was. pur- 
 chased at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832. It is covered with a dark-brown patina. 
 
 Reverse. CONGIAR. PR. {Congiarium primum.J This medal was struck on the same occasion as 
 No. CVIII. — but differs from it, in that the figure of Rome Nicephora is omitted. 
 
 CX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. NERVA CAES. AVG. P. M. TR. P. COS. III. P. P. (Imperator Nerva Caesar, 
 Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium, Pater Patrice.) An 
 expressive likeness of the Emperor, covered with a deep green patina. This medal is in very 
 fine condition, and was presented to me by W. S. Craig, Esq. at La Maddelina, in Sardinia, 
 in 1824. 
 
 Reverse. LIBERTAS PVBLICA. In the field S. C. A robed female standing, with the pileus in 
 one hand, and the rudis in the other. (See No. LVIII.) This was minted in honour of a 
 reign, which Cornelius Tacitus, who was one of its consuls, observes, blended liberty and 
 sovereign power — elements till then considered incompatible. 
 
 CXI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. NERVA CAES. AVG. P. M. TR. P. COS. III. P. P. [Imperator Nerva Ccesar, 
 Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium, Pater Patrice.) A 
 bold laurelled head of Nerva, covered with olive-green patina, and very perfect. This speci- 
 men was purchased at Lord Morton's sale, in 1830. 
 
 Reverse. FORTVNA AVGVSTI. In the field S C. A robed female standing, with her right hand 
 on a rudder, and her left supporting a cornucopise, emblems of sovereignty and plenty, The 
 ancients adored Fortune as the ruler of all events, both good and bad : which is in reality 
 nothing more than ascribing every sudden and unexpected change of things to chance. Yet 
 altars, temples, and statues were erected to her as a deity, under various adjunctive attributes, 
 as publica, redux, manens, libera, felix, &c. ; — and Horace, invoking her to protect Au- 
 gustus while among the distant Britons, gives her this power : — 
 
 " O Diva, gratum qu;e regis Antium, 
 
 Praesens vel imo tollere de gradu 
 Mortale corpus, vel superbos 
 
 Vertere funeribus triumphos." 
 
 Fortune is represented by painters with a bandage over her eyes, to shew that she acts without 
 discernment, " insanam esse, et ccecam ;" but this is not imitated upon medals. When she 
 appears seated, on the latter, there is generally a wheel to the chair, which has been said to 
 typify her revolutions and inconstancy ; yet this is a solecism, inasmuch as the being seated 
 denotes stability ■ it was rather used to shew that Fortune presides over expeditions by laud : 
 those by sea being expressed by the gubernaculum. As sovereign directress of human 
 
( 77 ) 
 
 affairs, her rudder is sometimes placed upon a globe.* Gifford in one of his versions of the 
 passage in which Juvenal so handsomely ridicules his countrymen for making such a surrep- 
 titious goddess, says — 
 
 " Fortune, Fortune ! all thy boasted powers 
 Would shrink to nothing, were but wisdom ours." 
 
 CXII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. NERVA CAES. AVG. P.M. TR. P. COS. III. P.P. (Imperalor Ncrva Ccesar, 
 Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia pot est ate, Consul tertium, Pater Patrice.) 
 An expressive laureated profile of Nerva, in exceedingly fine preservation. It is of bright 
 yellow-brass, without patina, and was purchased in Tuscany in 1818. 
 
 Reverse. CONCORDIA EXERCITVVM. In the field S. C. " Inde fides dextrceque data." Two 
 right-hands joined — the symbol of faith and good understanding — hold a military trophy, 
 which is planted on the prow of a ship, and surmounted by a garland, and an eagle. This 
 was struck A. D. 97, and indicates the unanimity of the army and navy in the election of 
 Nerva ; and though the " trained bands" under Casperius disgraced themselves, those of the 
 "United Service" were steadily attached to their Emperor. 
 
 CXIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. NERVA CAES. AVG. P. M. TR. P. COS. III. P. P. {Imperator Nerva Ccesar, 
 Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia polestate, Consul tertium, Pater Patrice.) 
 A laurelled bust of the Emperor, with the usual expression. This extremely rare medal 
 has been much rubbed, but the wear must have occurred in former times, for it is entirely 
 coated with a dark -brown patina. It was purchased at the sale of P. Neave, Esq. in 1830, 
 whose countenance, by the way, strongly resembled that of Nerva. 
 
 Reverse. ADLOCVT. AVG. ( Adlocutio AugustiJ on the exergum. The Emperor on a substruc- 
 ture, with two other togated figures, is haranguing four soldiers, in front of a grand temple. 
 From the date it is not at all improbable that the address here commemorated, took place after 
 the mutiny of the praetorian guards. 
 
 CXIV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. NERVA CAES. AVG. P. M. TR. P. COS. III. P. P. (Imperalor Nerva Ccesar, 
 Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium, Pater Patrice. J 
 A strongly marked portrait of Nerva, with the head laureated. This medal is in singularly 
 fine condition, and coated with a dense green patina : it was found at Gozo, in 1819, and 
 presented to me by Col. Otto Beyer, the lieut. governor. 
 
 Reverse. ANNONA AVGVSTI. On the exergum S. C. The good prince having secured a supply 
 of provisions from abroad, Amalthsea is here presenting her horn to a seated female, who, hy 
 her torch and altar, is known to be Ceres. Iu the back ground a ship appears, and as there 
 is no modius, the stock was probably plentiful. See No. LXXXV1. 
 
 cxv. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. NERVA CAES. AVG. P. M. TR. P. COS. III. P. P. f Imperator Nerva Ccesar, 
 Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium, Pater Patrice. J 
 The laurelled head of the Emperor, with the usual sensible countenance. This mf;dal was 
 purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832, to replace an indifferent one which I had procured 
 in Spain ; it is in good condition, and coated with a brownish-green patina. 
 
 Reverse. PLEBEI VRBANAE FRVMENTO CONST1TVTO. In the field S. C. A large modius, 
 with six ears of wheat slicking in it, and a poppy in the centre. This affords another proof 
 of the liberality of Nerva, who, as Dio truly observed " compluribus ingentia beucficia con- 
 tulit ;" and beside being typical of plenty, relates to a fund which the Emperor established for 
 furnishing corn to the people. 
 
 « It should be mentioned that there is another Fortune of Nerva, which is tolerably common. It, has FORTVNA P. It. 
 f For tuna Populi Romani,) as a legend, and the figure is seated, with ears of wheat in her hand. My specimen is not 
 sufficiently good for a place in this cahinet. 
 
( 78 ) 
 
 CXVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. NERVA CAES. AVG. P. M. TR. P. COS. 111. P.P. (Imperator Nerva Ccesar, 
 Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia polestate, Consul tertium, Pater Patriot. J 
 A fine portrait of Nerva, in bold relief. This coin is in good condition, though so thinly 
 patinated as to be rubbed in several places : it was procured ut Corfu, in 1818. 
 
 Rvvnse. VEH1CVLAT10NE ITALIAE REMISS A. On the exergum S. C. Two mules are here 
 quietly feeding, liberated from their yokes which appear in the back ground ; the symbol of 
 peace and liberty. This medal was struck on the exemption of Italy from the " munus 
 vehicular iwm," or the obligation to furnish horses, mules, and conveyances, for persons 
 travelling upon public business, — an imposition grievously complained of. It is thus evi- 
 dent that the people were relieved from this oppression by Nerva ; but that fact has been 
 overlooked by historians, who assign the merit to Hadrian, and Antoninus Pius, by whom 
 the plan was only completed. 
 
 CXVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. NERVA CAES. AVG. P. M. TR. P. COS. III. P. P. (Imperator Nerva Ccesar, 
 Augustus, I'untif'ex Maximus, Tribunitia potes/a/e, Consul tertium, Pater Patrice.) A 
 fine and expressive laurelled head of Nerva, in perfect preservation, and covered with a dense 
 chocolate-coloured patina. It was procured at Ben-ghazi, in 1821, from an Arab who had 
 picked it up among the ruins of Cyrene. 
 
 Reverse. FISCI IVDAICI CALVMNIA SVBLATA. In the field, a large S. C. and between these 
 letters, a palm tree, the symbol of Judea. Domitian raised a trifling tax laid by Vespasian 
 upon the Jews, as a license for the profession and exercise of their leligion, to a heavy ex- 
 action called the Fiscns Judaicus. This was abolished by Nerva, consistently with his 
 idea of liberty of conscience, and the fact is here commemorated. By such measures, he who 
 forbad the erecting of gold and silver statues to himself, created monuments of a more lasting 
 nature. 
 
 CXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. NERVA CAES. AVG. P. M. TR. P. COS. III. P. P. (Imperator Nerva Ccesar, 
 Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia poteslafe, Consul tertium, Pater Patrice.) 
 The laureated profile of the Emperor, with a robe on the breast. Behind the neck is the 
 little silver eagle known as the Modena stamp. This medal is in fair condition, though un- 
 patinaled, and was purchased from Mr. M. Young, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. ROMA RENASCENS. On the exergum S. C. The galeated figure of Rome seated, 
 with a victory on the right hand, and a lance supporting her left ; her feet rest on a suppe- 
 daneum.* This was struck in honour of a real revival of Rome : and the poet might justly 
 have accosted Nerva, and his consuls, exclaiming : — 
 
 " O clari salvete duces generosa propago 
 Principis invicti, sub quo senium omne renascens 
 Dcposui." 
 
 The symbol also typifies the happiness enjoyed by the Roman people, under so mild and 
 auspicious a reign. An instance of the absence of imperial rapacity in those halcyon days, 
 deserves note : Herodes Atticus, the father of the sophist, found a treasure in his house, and 
 fearing informers, revealed the secret in a letter to Nerva. The Emperor answered, " use it." 
 But Herodes, still anxious as to the result, wrote him word that the treasure exceeded the 
 condition of a private man. Nerva nobly replied, — "ergo abutere." 
 
 * The term suppedaneum is applied by numismatists to an ornamented footstool, — yet as it was not used till the time of 
 
 Julius Firmicus, it can hardly be considered classical. 
 
( 79 ) 
 
 TRAJAN. 
 
 Marcus Ulpius Trajan us Crinitus, was born at Italica, in Bretica ; being a 
 Spaniard both by birth and extraction. Early inured, by his father, to the use of 
 arms, he served ten years in the rank of a tribune ; was appointed Pnetor, A. J). 
 86 ; and was honoured with the Fasces, A. D. 91. While governing in lower Ger- 
 many, he was adopted by Nerva, A. D. 97, and succeeded to the sovereign power 
 in the following year. Having reigned gloriously for 19 years, 6 months, and 15 
 days, he sunk under a paralytic attack, at Selinus, in Cilicia, A. D. 117 ; leaving a 
 character which led senators, in their acclamations 250 years after his demise, to 
 utter aloud the wish that their new prince might prove — " more fortunate than 
 Augustus, and better than Trajan;" 
 
 Besides embellishing the city, and constructing harbours and highways, this 
 excellent prince founded public libraries, reformed the laws, and extended the do- 
 minions of Rome. His success over Decebalus led him to reduce Armenia, Meso- 
 potamia, and Arabia: after which, he subdued the whole of Assyria, and descending 
 the Tigris with his fleet, had the honour of being the first and last Roman general 
 who navigated the Indian Ocean. 
 
 Trajan was of large and majestic stature, with manly features, a dignified aspect, 
 and vigorous mind ; and he possessed, in an eminent degree, all the qualities 
 which form a great and excellent prince. Being promoted to the empire at a ma- 
 ture age, he happily tempered the ardour of youth with the wariness of age, so 
 that he was well prepared for authority and enterprise. He was affable, economic, and 
 bountiful ; frugal in private, but magnificent in public ; and though, not a man 
 of learning himself, a zealous patron of education. With regard to military affairs, he 
 was, without dispute, the best commander of his age, and equal to the greatest 
 generals of antiquity ; besides which, he was as good a soldier as he was a general. 
 When he first assumed the purple, he took an oath to obey the laws, as diligently as the 
 meanest of the people, which he religiously observed : " I have delivered a sword," 
 said he in a sally, " into the hands of the captain of my guards, with a command 
 that he should draw it against me, if I act contrary to the duty I owe to the public." 
 His government was administered with such mildness, justice, and impar- 
 tiality, together with such wisdom and sagacity, as called forth the admiration, as 
 well as the love and gratitude of the senate and people of Rome. To secure 
 the happiness of his subjects, he cheerfully lessened his revenue, and relinquished his 
 prerogatives. He took great care to advance the most worthy and virtuous men to 
 the highest posts and offices, and such as were otherwise he reclaimed by mildness 
 
( 80 ) 
 
 and clemency. His praise resounded in all quarters, amongst the old and the 
 young, even, we are told, in the kitchens, — places " unused to dissimulation and 
 compliment: "it is delightful," said Pliny, "to see one of the good old Roman 
 stamp convince the world that as he reigns alone, so he alone deserves to reign/'* 
 
 These deductions are not altogether drawn from the celebrated and eloquent ora- 
 tion of the illustrious writer just quoted, but proceed from a consideration of this 
 Prince's actions. Pliny, who was one of the honorary consuls, termed "suffecti," cer- 
 tainly details particulars enough, — even to Trajan's pulling a better oar than the 
 effeminate Domitian. But the discourse was uttered at the beginning of the reign, 
 as a professed panegyric ; and it was afterwards expanded into an essay, in which 
 those shades and failings which dimmed the lustre of the virtues displayed, are 
 carefully omitted. It therefore pourtrays a divinity rather than a man ; but there 
 are some awkward admissions in Dio, for which the elaborate composition of the 
 encomiast does not at all prepare us. An unfortunate passion for war and conquest, 
 made Trajan more desirous of extending the empire, than was consistent with policy, 
 equity, or humanity. He was addicted to sensual indulgences, of which wine- 
 bibbing was the least infamous : yet the last was carried to such intemperance, that, 
 according to Aurelius Victor, he enjoined his officers not to put in execution such 
 orders as he should give at, or after his banquets. He allowed himself to be styled 
 Dominus, a title peculiarly odious to Roman ears, and constantly refused by other 
 good Emperors, even by Augustus himself. He likewise permitted sacrifices to be 
 offered to his statues, and the people to swear by his Life and Immortality, as most 
 sacred things. He suffered the religious persecutions which had been abolished by 
 Nerva, to be revived, though he put forth no new edicts against those who rejected 
 the national faith. That he was a prejudiced enemy to the christians, is manifest 
 from his answer to Pliny's letter, and the absurd ordinance which he sent into 
 Bithynia, — forbidding inquisition into the " new superstition" but ordering such 
 as were accused to be punished : " declaring them innocent," says Tertullian, " and 
 yet treating them as criminals."* It must in justice be admitted that these were 
 blemishes of the age; and notwithstanding the vices we lament, the magnanimous 
 Trajan must ever be placed in the foremost rank of the greatest Roman Emperors. 
 
 Although the mints of Rome, and the Colonies, were freely worked to celebrate 
 the exploits of this Emperor, there are some years of his reign uncommemorated. 
 
 * Pliny requested permission to found a " Mechanic's Institute" at Nicomedia ; to this the careful Emperor gave a 
 refusal, assigning as a reason that such societies are always prone to faction, and are common nurseries of riotous and 
 discontented spirits. Before concluding this note, we should observe that the same honest philosopher, in describing the 
 Christians to Trajan, states, among other highly interesting facts, that they were wont to assemble, before daylight, and 
 sing a hymn " to Christ as God." Can this be any other than the "Te deum laudamus" continued to the present hour? 
 
( 81 ) 
 
 Several authors recorded the acts by which Trajan distinguished himself, both as 
 an experienced officer, and as a general ; but their works being lost, it remains 
 uncertain, from history, whether he ever returned to Rome after setting out for 
 the conquest of Armenia. Yet it is unlikely that he should have continued in the 
 East, without once visiting the Metropolis of his Empire, for the space of 11 or 12 
 years ; and it appears probable, from medals, that he did return before A. D. 112, 
 and left it the same or the following year. Some suppose that he was present at 
 the dedication of his grand Forum, A. D. 114, after a lapse of time of which there 
 is no account. It may be added that medals of Trajan, of every size and metal, 
 are easily obtainable; and, with the exception of those which bear significant re- 
 verses, at low prices. 
 
 CXIX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVA TRAIAN. AVG. GERM. DACICVS P. M. {Imperator Ccesar 
 Ncrva Trajanus, Augustus, Germanicus , JDacicus, Ponlifex Muximus.) The laureated 
 head of Trajan, with a look rather expressive of pleasing dignity than thought. This coin is in 
 fair condition, and slightly varnished with brown patina: it was purchased from Mr. M. 
 Young, in 1825. 
 
 Rever se. COS. V. CONGIAR. SECVND. (Consul quintum, Congiarium secundum.*) On the exer- 
 gum, S C. The Emperor on a suggestuin, superintending one of his largesses to the people : 
 between him and the distributing officers, is a high and singularly formed tripod, of which 
 the import is not quite clear, though it may be held to denote a sacerdotal office. Havercamp 
 thinks it is intended to typify Apollo, and Pedrusi suggests that it represents a measure. 
 (See No. XLVI1.) Respecting the date COS. V. which appears so frequently on the coins 
 of Trajan, it cannot be assigned to a particular year, for it is applicable to any part of the 
 reign, between A. D. 104, and 111 inclusive: as, in consequence of his absence from Rome, 
 bis consulate was continued, not renewed. 
 
 cxx. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GER. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS. V. P. P. 
 
 (Imperatori Ccesari Nervce Trajano, Auguslo, Germaniro, JJacieo, Pontijici Maximo, 
 Tribunitia poteslale, Consuli quintum, Patri Patrice.) The laurelled portrait of the 
 Emperor, with the usual character, but the cheek bones remarkably high. In fine preservation, 
 and covered with a brown patina, tinged with green : it was procured from the Rev. Mr. Hall, 
 Chaplain to the British Factory, at Leghorn, in 1823, having formerly belonged to the cele- 
 brated Abbe Barthelemy. 
 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. OPTIMO PRINCIPI. (Sena/us Populus Que Romanus, Optimo Principi.J 
 On the exergum ALIM. ITAL. f Aliment a Italia'. J In the lower verge S. C. which proves 
 the rule mentioned at No. XXXIV. to have exceptions. The title of " Optimus," so much 
 more significant than the abused one of " Great," was decreed by the senate, and Trajan 
 valued it above all his other titles : " Nihil omnino erat, quod optimc non exerceret." 
 
 A stately female, in long robes, stands in the middle of the field, holding a cornucopia? 
 on her left arm ; and in her right hand some ears of wheat are turned towards a child who 
 stands by her. This indicates the care of the Emperor for the families of the poor, by 
 feeding them at the public expense. The panegyrist tells us thai, out of these the armies 
 were to be recruited, and the tribes filled up : but the measure which tended to release 
 parents from suppoiting their offspring, was of as questionable a policy as our own statute, 
 43 Eliz. c. 2 ; and in its operation incessantly created fresh claims upon the treasury. By 
 these, and other prodigaf largesses, frequently renewed, Trajan is said to have supported 
 
 M 
 
( 82 ) 
 
 nearly two millions of his people. But in excuse for such wholesale pauperism it must be 
 remembered that, in his reign, most of the provinces suffered greatly by earthquakes ; and 
 many places were grievously afflicted with plague, famine, floods, and frequent conflagrations. 
 
 CXXI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GER. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS. V. P. P. 
 
 (Imperatori Ccesari Nervee Trajano, Augusto, Germanico, Dacico, Pontifici Maximo, 
 Tribunitia potestatc, Consult cjuintum,\Patri Patrice.) The laureated portrait of Trajan, 
 with a frowning brow. This medal has been injured by time, but is sound, though unpati- 
 nated ; it was purchased from Mr. Till, in 1831, and was allowed to supplant a Providentia 
 in high condition. 
 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. OPTIMO PRINCIPI. (Senatus Populus Que Romanus, Optimo Principi. 
 
 In the field S. C. ; and on the exergum ALIM. ITAL. (Alimenta Italice.) Trajan enthroned 
 on a magnificent curule seat, with his feet on a suppedaneum ; he is crowned with laurel, 
 attired in the paludamentum, and supports his left arm on a lance. Before him is a mother 
 presenting two of the Ulpian children, who hold out their little hands in token of gratitude. 
 This is struck upon a similar occasion to that of the preceding medal, and corroborates history 
 by shewing that the public magazines were well filled ; for, instead of supplying the city by 
 oppressing the provinces, Trajan wisely took off all the restrictions, and laid the traffick in 
 provisions open. This, and punctual payment, inspired confidence ; and the provinces sent 
 their corn to Italy in such abundance, that Rome was in a condition to relieve Egypt, the 
 granary of the world, when distressed by famine. This fart is admirably detailed in the 
 panegyric ; and was so remarkable a return for former obligations, that the encomiast dwells 
 upon it with manifest delight. 
 
 CXXII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GER. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS. V. P. P. 
 
 {Imperatori Ccesari Nervee Trajano, Augusto, Germanico, Dacico, Pontifici Maximo, 
 Tribunitia potestate, Consult quintum, Patri Patrice.) This medal bears a boldly re- 
 lieved head of Trajan, with the " aegis " on the left shoulder : it is in exceedingly fine pre- 
 servation, thinly coated with green patina, and was presented to me at the Tunisian town of 
 Bizerta, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. OPTIMO PRINCIPI. (Senatus Populus Que Romanus, Optimo Principi.J 
 On the exergum, S. C. A bold Herculean figure marked as a river god, by an aquatic plant 
 in his left hand and the floating veil emblematic of divinity, rests his knee against a van- 
 quished female, and has his right hand upon her throat. Havercamp thinks the fallen figure 
 is that of a man ; but a glance at my medal would have convinced him of the contrary : nor 
 is he more lucky in taking the victor for the Tiber, — since the medal obviously alludes to the 
 conquest of Dacia, as a result of crossing the Danube, by the stupendous bridge which the 
 Emperor threw over that rapid river, in a single summer. This bridge was one of the most 
 wonderful and magnificent of all Trajan's works, and the stateliest fabric of that kind in 
 the universe. It was constructed of square massive stones, and is said to have contained 20 
 arches, each 170 feet apart, and 60 in breadth. From what is now seen on Trajan's column, 
 the road over the arches appears to have been flat, as on our newest bridges. There are, 
 near Severin, some vestiges of the works which protected the approaches both on the Mcesian 
 and Dacian shores ; and they are figured in Count Marsigli's gigantic work on the Danube. 
 This structure might have defied the current of the stream for ages ; but Hadrian, recollecting 
 that barbarians could as well pass it as Romans, broke down the arches. Trajan lived before 
 Swift had impugned punning, for, if Leunclavius may be credited, he placed this inscription 
 on his work : — 
 
 PROVIDENTIA AVG. 
 VERE PONTIFICIS VIRTVS ROMANA 
 QVID NON DOMAT ? SVB 1VGVM ECCE 
 RAPITVR ET DANWIVS. 
 
( 83 ) 
 
 CXXIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GER. DAC. P. P. M. TR. P. COS. V. P. P. 
 
 (Imperalori Ccesari Nervce Trajano, Augusto, Germanico, Dacico, Parthico, Pontifici 
 Maximo, Tribunitia potestate, Consult quintum, Patri Patrice.) An animated portrait of 
 the Emperor, with part of a rich robe on his left shoulder. This splendid medal was probably 
 struck A. D. 105, and is in perfect condition ; it is uniformly covered with an olive-green 
 patina; and was presented to me, at Zante, in 1820, by Sir Patrick Ross, the present 
 governor of Antigua. 
 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. OPTIMO PRINC1PI. fSenaius Populus Que Romanus, Optimo Prineipi.J 
 On the exergum S. C. The Emperor on a richly caparisoned horse, is darting a javelin at a 
 prostrate foe, who by his cap and trousers is seen to be a Dacian, and may possibly represent 
 Decebalus. This proud and powerful king destroyed himself on the fall of his capital ; but 
 the act did not save his head a journey to Rome, any more than secreting his treasures under 
 the bed of a rapid river secured them from his conquerors.* 
 
 This emblem of military virtue prevailing over its adversary, is well conceived and 
 admirably executed : the original was probably copied from a coin of Acherontia, one of the 
 cities of the Brutii ; but it was so popular with the Romans that it is found occasionally from a 
 medallion of Nero, to the Debellatori Gentium Barbararum of Constantinus Maguus. This, 
 however, of Trajan is the most spirited ; whence it was closely imitated in a medal of the 
 Napoleon series, inscribed JENA, 1806. When I hinted to Mons. Denon the source of several 
 of his best designs, he frankly replied " Eh bien ! Ou done trouver de meilleurs modeles ?" 
 
 CXX1V. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GER. DAC. P. P. M. TR. P. COS. V. P. P. 
 
 (Impcratori Gcesari Nervce Trajano, Augusto, Germanico, Dacico, Parthico, Pontifici 
 Maximo, Tribunitia potestate, Consuli quintum, Patri Patrice.) A fine laureated head of 
 Trajan, with part of a chlamys appearing on the left shoulder. This medal is in the highest 
 conservation ; it is coated with a deep brown patina ; and was procured at Jerbah, in the 
 Lesser Syrtis in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. OPTIMO PRINCIPl. fSenaius Populus Que Romanus, Optimo Principi.) 
 
 In the field S. C. The conquest of Dacia is here commemorated by a female bewailing the 
 fate of herwarlike sons ; she is seated upon a pile of shields, by the side of a trophy, which 
 vividly recalls the description of the poet, when ./Eneas 
 
 " First to the gods discharg'd a victor's vows, 
 And bared an oak of all her verdant boughs. 
 High on a lofty point the trunk he plac'd, 
 Which with Mezentius' radiant arms he grae'd ; 
 The shivei'd lances that the monarch bore, 
 The plumy crest that dropp'd with recent gore ; 
 The cuirass next; transfix'd in every part 
 By the keen jav'lin, or the flying dart. 
 Then on the left, the brazen shield was ty'd ; 
 And the dread sword hung glitt'ring at the side." 
 
 The use of trophies is immemorial : they consisted in early times of a stake, a post, or the 
 trunk of a tree, on which the spoils were suspended ; but under progressive refinements were 
 ma,de of brass, or marble, with suitable inscriptions for perpetuating their story. Plutarch 
 tells us, in his Roman Questions, that antiquity abhorred the innovation, from its inhumanity 
 
 * It may be readily conceived that it was no difficult task for the Romans to pick a quarrel whenever they listed, and 
 that rage for conquest made them disagreeable neighbours : but we cannot wonder that Trajan was unable to brook the 
 indignity of paying an annual stipend to the Dacians, — a measure as disgraceful as the tribute rendered by the potentates 
 of Europe, to the pusillanimous pirates of Barbary. 
 
( 84 ) 
 
 in transmitting the shame and misfortune of the vanquished to future ages. Trophies were 
 placed before the door of every officer who had distinguished himself : and, Pliny tells us, 
 it was illegal to take down these testimonies of brave minds and valiant hearts, even after 
 a sale or alienation of the house ; because the site retained its dignity, and might urge 
 the purchaser to valour and virtue. The "jus imaginis," or right of statues was similar to 
 our law of armorial bearings, and was allowed only to those whose ancestors, or themselves, 
 had borne some curule office. He who exhibited the pictures, or statues, of his forefathers 
 was styled Nobi/is ; he who had only his own, Novus ; he who had neither, Ignobilis. 
 
 cxxv. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVA TRAIAN. AVG. GERM. DACICVS. P. M. {Imperator Ccesar 
 Nerva Trajanus, Augustus, Germanicus, Dacicus, Pontifex Maximus.) The laureated 
 head of Trajan, with a bare neck, and the countenance very expressive. This medal is iu 
 fine taste and superior preservation ; it is entirely covered with a dark bottle-green patina, 
 and was procured at Cephalonia in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. TR. P. VII. IMP. 1111. COS. V. P. P. (Tribunitiapoteslate septimum, Imperator quartum* 
 Consul quintum, Pater Patrice.) On the exergum S. C. This was struck in honour of the con- 
 quest of Dacia, — for we see Roma Victrix gracefully seated upon armour, with her left foot upou 
 a helmet, in the act of receiving a small winged-victory from the hand of the Emperor, who 
 has now laid aside his military attire and resumed the toga. Addison thinks, fancifully 
 enough, that Virgil alludes to the custom of thus holding the idol : 
 " Non adeo has exosa mauus Victoria fugit." 
 
 CXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GER. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS. V. P. P. 
 
 {Imperalori Ccesari Nerves Trajano, Augusto, Germanieo, Dacico, Pontifici Maximo, 
 Tribunitia potestale, Consuli quintum, Patri Patrice.) The laurelled portrait of the Em- 
 peror, with a portion of the " eegis" on the left shoulder. This medal is lightly covered 
 with green patina; it is tolerably preserved, and was presented to me by Vice- Admiral Sir 
 Charles Penrose, in 1817. 
 
 Reverie. S. P. Q. R. OPTIMO PRINCIPI. fSenatus Populus Que Romanus, Optimo Principi.) 
 
 On the exergum S. C. The Emperor and another figure, both togatec!, appear upon a 
 suggestum ; the former elevates his right hand towards four citizens who are applauding him ; 
 on the left is a female decumbent at the base of three obelisks. This marks the general joy 
 at Trajan's return, and also alludes to the magnificent circensian spectacles which followed it ; 
 and which lasted 123 days, to the slaughter of many thousand beasts and gladiators. (See 
 No. LXXXVIII.) Pedrusi in mentioning this medal says, "Certo, che egli, cum populo 
 humaniter, cum senatu honorijice versabatur, e tanio era charus omnibus, possedendo 
 1' universale amore, quanto hosti formidolosus. 
 
 CXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GER. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS. V. P. P. 
 
 (Imperalori Ccesari Nervce Trajano, Augusto, Germanieo, Dacico, Pontifici Maximo, 
 Tribunitia potes/ate, Consuli quintum, Patri Patrice.) A tine laureated head of Trajan, 
 with the neck bare, and the countenance in characteristic expression. The medal is in ex- 
 cellent condition, and coated with a grass-green patina ; it was procured from an Arab at 
 Tripoli, in 1817. It was probably struck A. D. III. 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. OPTIMO PRINCIPI. {Senatus Populus Que Romanus, Optimo principi.) 
 
 On the exergum S. C. This was struck to commemorate the enlargement of the Circus 
 Maximus, which is fairly represented, with the Egyptian obelisk of Augustus in the centre of 
 the spina; together with the metae, and the ostia, or openings for admission. This enormous 
 structure was capable of containing upwards of 200,000 spectators, and was the very paradise 
 of the Roman rabble ; whence Juvenal, — 
 
( 85 ) 
 
 " For since their votes have been no longer bought, 
 All publick care has vanished from their thought ; 
 And those who once, with unresisted sway, 
 Gave armies, empire, every thing, away, 
 For two poor claims have long renounc'd the whole, 
 And only ask, — the Circus and the Dole." 
 
 CXXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GEM. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS V. P. P. 
 
 (Imperatori Ccesari Nervce Trajano, Augusto, Germanico, Dacico, Pontifici Maximo, 
 Tribunitia potestate, Consuli Quintum, Patri Patrice. J A fine laurelled profile of Trajan, 
 with part of a robe on the left shoulder. This medal is barely patiuated, yet in very good 
 condition ; it was purchased at the sale of P. Neave, Esq. in 1830. 
 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. OPTIMO PRINCIPI. (Senatus Populus Que Romanus, Optimo Principi.) 
 
 On the exergum S. C. A temple of eight columns, with two porticoes, and numerous orna- 
 ments. In the Adytum, a deity is seen upon a pedestal, and the central pediment is decorated 
 with three figures in relief, apparently Jupiter and two goddesses. On the apex is a colossal 
 statue of the same god, with a lance of divinity ; and below him are two winged victories 
 bearing trophies upon their shoulders. It would seem that this fane was erected in honour of 
 Trajan's successes, and though it is uncertain to whom it may have been dedicated, the cha- 
 racter of the whole makes me conclude that it was to Jupiter " Custos ;" a popular idol whom 
 Seneca defines — " Quern nos Jovem Custodem, rectoremque universi." 
 
 CXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GER. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS. V. P. P. 
 
 ( Imperatori Ccesari Nervce Trajano, Augusto, Germanico, Dacico, Poniijici Maximo, 
 Tribunitia potestate, Consuli quintum, Patri Patrice. J A characteristic portrait of the 
 Emperor, with part of the " aegis" appearing over the left shoulder. This medal is varnished 
 with a brown patina, tinged with green ; it is in remarkably clean condition, and was procured 
 from Mohammed Khojah, the minister of revenue, at Tunis, in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. OPTIMO PRINCIPI. (Senatus Populus Que Romanus, Optimo principi.) 
 
 On the exergum S. C. A very magnificent triumphal arch, the intercolumnia of which are 
 entirely covered with military insignia, and emblems of pomp, sculptured in relief. On the 
 front appear the letters I. 0. M. [Jovi Optimo Maximo ;) and the whole is surmounted by a 
 sejugi, or chariot and six horses, between two trophies, with appropriate statues. This 
 was erected to the glory of Trajan, and was probably the vestibulum, or porch of the capitol, 
 mentioned in the Panegyric. Pedrusi, following Xiphilinus, thinks it stood in the forum ; 
 but Aulus Gellius tells us that structure was inscribed EX M ANVBIIS. 
 
 cxxx. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GER. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS. V. P. P. 
 
 (Imperatori Ccesari Nervce Trajano, Augusto, Germanico, Dacico, Pontifici Maximo, 
 Tribunitia potestate, Consuli quintum, Patri Patrice.) The laurelled head of Trajan, with 
 part of the chlamys on the breast. This medal was struck about A. D. 111. and is in very 
 superior condition ; it is densely covered with patina of a tint between that of the turquoise 
 and sea-green — a very cerugonobilis. It came into my possession by exchange, at Cagliari, 
 in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. OPTIMO PRINCIPI. (Senatus Populus Que Romanus, Optimo principo.) 
 
 On the exergum S. C. Here we have a grand arch between two towers, on which warriors are 
 standing; under it is a boat held to the pier by a painter, and before it is a line of waves, 
 which has been mistaken for a chain. Occo describes this reverse, — " Pons supra Danubium 
 cum aedificio anteriori, et navicula ;" but it is in no respect like the bridge on Trajan's column,. 
 Others have named it the " Port of Ancona," but I cannot see why • for the towers bear no 
 
( 86 ) 
 
 more resemblance to the triumphal arch* at that place, than does the design before us to the 
 usual type of ports upon Roman coins. Trajan certainly patronized the cabotage of Italy ; 
 and besides establishing Ancona, he re-edified Ostia, and constructed Centum Cellae, a pretty 
 haven, in a part of which 1 have more than once taken shelter. But the Portus Trajani, 
 with its docks, piers, and vessels, is a well known large-brass reverse, — and I am persuaded 
 that the medal under consideration commemorates a bridge's being thrown over some river, 
 which, by the emblem of the boat, was navigable. 
 
 CXXXI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GER. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS. V. P. P. 
 
 (Tmperatori Ccasari Nerves Trajano, Augusto, Germanico, Dacico, Pontifici Maximo, 
 Tribunitia potestate, Consult quintum, Patri Patrice.) The laurelled head of the Em- 
 peror, with part of a robe on the left shoulder. This specimen is thinly coated with brown 
 patina ; it is in good condition, and was purchased at Lord Morton's sale, in 1830. 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. OPTIMO PRINCIPI. (Senatus Populus Que Romanus, Optimo Principi.) 
 
 On the exergum and lower verge, AQVA TRAIANA. S. C. A river-god with an aquatic 
 reed in his hand, is reclining in an arched grotto, and instead of the usual effluent urn, 
 a spring is gushing from the rocks below him ; it celebrates the conduit by which Trajan di- 
 verted a portion of the pure and limpid Aqua Martia into the Aventine quarter of the city. 
 This medal is opposed to the notion of Vaillant, that a recumbent Fluvius denotes a river 
 which receives other streams, and wading figures mean those which are tributary. Other 
 antiquaries presume the river to be a navigable one, where the gods have beards, — yet here, 
 at a mere spring, we have a regular Barba-nera, — while a reverse of Philip shews the deity 
 of the Meander without that appendage. 
 
 CXXXII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GER. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS. V. P.P. 
 
 (lmperatori Ccesari Nervce Trajano, Augusto, Germanico, Dacico, Pontifici Maximo, 
 Tribunitia potestate, Consult quintum, Patri Patrice.) A characteristic and expressive 
 portrait of Trajan, in excellent preservation, and covered with yellow patina. It was pur- 
 chased at Girgenti, in 1814. 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. OPTIMO PRINCIPI. (Senatus Populus Que Romanus, Optimo Principi ) 
 In the field S. C. and on the exergum ARAB. ADQVIS. (Arabia adquisita, in the or- 
 thography of the day, which is also that of many of our best modern editions.) A long-robed 
 female, with a garland on her Head, is standing gracefully with a diminutive camel beside her : 
 she holds a bough, probably the Sabsean, in her right hand, and the "calamus odoratus" in 
 her left. From the time of Augustus, who had no luck with them, the Arabs remained 
 unmolested till Trajan reduced them. Lucian, who is supposed to have flourished about that 
 time, mentions the successes of the " victorious and invincible prince ;" yet he was foiled 
 before the city of Atra, partly because the barrenness of the country denied supplies to the 
 besiegers, — and also because, though the wall was breached, he was driven back by the 
 Arabians, seconded by thunder, lightning, rain, and myriads of tormenting flies. 
 
 CXXXIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GER. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS. V. P. P. 
 
 (lmperatori Ccesari Nervce Trajano, Augusto, Germanico, Dacico, Pontifici Maximo, 
 Tribunitia potestate, Consult quintum, Patri Patrice.) The laureated portrait of the 
 Emperor, with the neck bare. This coin is unpatinated and in secondary condition ; it was 
 purchased at Lord Morton's sale, in 1830. 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. OPTIMO PRINCIPI. (Senatus Populus Que Romanus, Optimo Principi.) 
 
 On the exergum S. C. The togated Emperor, standing on a basement covered with a rich 
 carpet, stretches out an olive-branch with his right hand, and holds a roll of paper in his 
 
 * This arch, when I surveyed Ancona, was in high preservation, though its bronze ornaments are gone. It stands 
 on that solid work, the mole of Trajan, and appears to advantage from its situation ; for though such structures possess 
 both architectural richness and grandeur, they are so unconnected as to appear, in general, only like parts of a plan. 
 
( & ) 
 
 left; while Victory descending from heaven is crowning him with laurel. Below him are 
 two smaller figures extending their arms in supplication, and along the base are four eagles, 
 each of which supports a military standard in its beak. This elegant compliment seems to 
 have been struck about A. D. Ill, and relates to the peace bestowed by Trajan upon 
 Armenia and Parthia : the standards may allude to as many engagements ; and the suppliants 
 probably represent colonies imploring succour and patronage. 
 
 CXXX1V. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GER. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS. VI. P. P. 
 
 {Tmperatori Ccesari Nervce Trqjano, Augusto, Germanico, Dacico, Pontifici Maximo, 
 Tribunitia potestate, Consuli sextum, Palri Patrice.) The head of Trajan in high-relief, 
 with a laurel crown, and a portion of the " aegis," with an amulet on the breast. This is in 
 excellent preservation, and covered with mottled-green patina ; it was procured at Albano, 
 near Rome, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. DACIA AVGVST. (Dacia Augusti.J On the exergum PROVINCIA. S. C. Though 
 this fine medal was struck so late as in the sixth consulate, it records the conquest of Dacia, 
 seven years before. It may, however, relate to the complete subjection of that vast and war- 
 like province, — for we see a female, with a German cap, seated in sign of tranquillity : 
 in her left hand she bears a Roman legionary standard as a symbol of being garrisoned by 
 the conquerors, and before her are two infants — the one at her knee, holding some ears of 
 wheat, and the other with an apple in its right hand, and a bunch of grapes in its left — in 
 token of fertility. A difficulty occurs tome: led away by the Daci monlibus inhccrent, 
 and other descriptions from Statius, Eutropius, and Xiphilinus, numismatists have figured 
 the Province as seated upon a rock, which but ill harmonizes with the corn and wine. On the 
 medal before me it certainly looks so at first sight; but on examination I perceive a chair 
 filled, between the supports, with a quantity of round balls, very unlike crags. 
 
 The Rev. W. Cooke, whose knowledge of medals yielded to his regard for them, sees in 
 these children a little Roman emperor, crowned with laurel, and standing upon the shoulders 
 of a captive ! Dropping the absurdity of such an attitude, he ought, before engraving it, to 
 have recollected the provinces, in such cases, never play first-fiddle. 
 
 CXXXV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GER. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS. VI. P. p 
 ( Imperatori Ccesari Nervce Trqjano, Augusto, Germanico, Dacico, Pontifici Maximo, 
 Tribunitia potestate, Constili sextum, Patri Patrice.) The laurelled portrait of Trajan, 
 with the shoulders covered by the pallium. This rare and valuable medal was minted A. D. 
 113, and from being unfortunately rubbed, is in secondary condition, without patina ; it was 
 purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. OPTIMO PRINCIP1. {Senatus Populus Que Romanus, Optimo Principi.) 
 
 On the exergum FORVM TRAIANI. S. C. A very elegant edifice, adorned with sculp- 
 ture, columns, and spoils. This was the most magnificent of all Trajan's works, and 
 Ammianus describes Constantius as being lost in amazement when he beheld it. We still 
 see the superb column, and a portion of the basement : but the battalion of statues, and other 
 records of triumphal glory have disappeared. Some of the decorations of the arch, however, 
 are still displayed in the chaos of inconsistencies erected in honour of Constantine, — who not 
 only wore the crown of Maxentius, but also, by a less allowable treason, fitted the head of 
 Trajan to his own image ; and the incongruity still exists at Rome, affording undeniable proof 
 that the politic murderer was as much of a " parietarius," as the hero whose honours he 
 unworthily assumed, while he sneered at him as a " wall-flower," from the inscriptions 
 which told his virtues in all parts of Rome. 
 
 CXXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO AVG. GER. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS. VI. P. P. 
 
 (Imperatori Ccesari Nervce Trajano, Augusto, Germanico, Dacico, Pontifici Maximo, 
 Tribunitia potestate , Consuli sextum, Patri Patrice, J An expressive laureated head of 
 
( 88 ) 
 
 Trajan, with his shoulders corered with part of a sagum. The medal is coated with a brown- 
 ish green patina, and is in excellent condition; it was procured by exchange at Cagliari, 
 in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. S. P. Q. R. OPTIMO PRINCIPI. On the exergum, VIA TRAIANA. S. C. A robed 
 female reclining against a bank, supporting a wheel — here the symbol of a highway — upon 
 her knee, and holding a branch in her left hand. This was struck in honour of Trajan for 
 having repaired the Via Appia, and especially that portion of it which led over the Palus 
 Pontina, a pestilent marsh, of which Silius Italicus says—" Et quos pestiferi Pomptina 
 uligine campi." This was done at a vast charge, for Dio says that no magnificence was spared, 
 yet, except a few milliariiand other vestiges, nothing is left of this Regina Viarum. 
 
 CXXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO OPTIMO AVG. GER. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS. 
 
 VI. P. P. ( Imperatori Ccesari Nervce Trajano, Optimo, Augusta, Germanico, Dacico, 
 Pontifici Maximo, Tribunitia polestate, Consuli sextum, Patri Patrice. J The laurelled 
 profile of Trajan with drapery over the shoulders. The proud title of " Best " now ap- 
 pears on the obverse, and is retained to the end of the reign. In good condition, and covered 
 with a deep brown patina; it was minted A. D. 113, and was procured at Spalatro, in 
 Dalmatia, in 1819. 
 
 Rtverse. SENATVS POPVLVS QVE ROMANVS. In the field S. C. A coulmn, spirally orna- 
 mented with sculptures stands upon a noble base, on the upper angles of which are eagles 
 supporting a festoon. On the summit, is a colossal statue of Trajan, with the wand of divinity 
 in his left hand, and a globe in his right. All who have visited Rome will at once perceive 
 that this is an accurate type of the column which still rears its head from among the ruins of 
 the Forum, though Pope Sixtus V. with palpable absurdity, made St. Peter preside over 
 Dacian battles, instead of replacing the soldier whose exploits are commemorated. Di© 
 relates that, to construct the forum, a part of the mountain equal to the height of a pillar, 
 (144 feet) was cleared away ; and the assertion is borne out by the testimony of the inscription 
 upon the structure itself. This elaborate and gigantic work forms a most valuable thesaurus 
 of antiquarian lore, — being an authentic representation of the arms, implements, and vest- 
 ments, as well as the ceremonies and tactics of the age : and to it Raphael confessed himself 
 beholden for his art. Ciacconius thought the ashes of Trajan were inclosed in the ball held by 
 the statue ; but Eutropius and Publius Victor inform us that they were interred, in a golden 
 urn, under the column, — being the first buried within the city. One can hardly help regretting 
 that his affairs in the East deprived the Emperor of the sight of so noble a monument. 
 
 CXXXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO OPTIMO AVG. GER. DAC. P.M. TR. P. COS. 
 
 VI. P. P. (Imperatori Ccesari Nervce Trajano, Optimo, Augusto, Germanico, Dacico, 
 Pontifici Maximo, Tribunitia potestate, Consuli sextum, Patri Patrice.) The laureated 
 head of Trajan, with a singularly fine expression, and the shoulders covered with the sagum. 
 This medal is of yellow unpatinated brass, and in excellent preservation ; it was purchased at 
 Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 Reverse. SENATVS POPVLVS QVE ROMANVS. In the field S. C. A column of elegant pro- 
 portions rises from a plinth, and on the summit is placed a large owl. This is another of the 
 ornaments with which Rome was embellished in honour of Trajan, and which formed a 
 striking contrast to the panegyric spoken at the commencement of the reign. "Your 
 came," said Pliny, "becomes transmitted to future ages, not engraven upon marbles, and 
 bulky columns, but treasured up in the more lasting memorials of books." Now he after- 
 wards engrossed not only a respectable share of marbles and columns, but also an unusual 
 portion of the labours of the miut, — 
 
 " Ambition sigh'd, she found it vain to trust 
 
 The faithless column, and the crumbling bust ; 
 
 Convinc'd she now contracts her vast design ; 
 
 And all her triumphs shrink into a coin." 
 
( 89 ) 
 
 After all, I feel "free to confess," although I love sculpture dearly, that the contemplation 
 of triumphal arches and pillars, only obtrudes upon my mind melancholy pictures of slaughter, 
 pillage, and subjugation : and for this reason I look upon the monument of London — even 
 with a fib on its pedestal — to be morally worth a dozen of columns such as that of Trajan, with 
 twenty dozens of its Place Vendome imitations. 
 
 CXXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NERVAE TRAIANO OPTIMO AVG. GER. DAC. P. M. TR. P. COS. 
 
 VI. P. P. (Imperalori Ccesari Nervce Trajano, Optimo, Augusto, Germanico, Dacico, 
 Pontifici Maximo, Tribunitia potestate, Consuli sexltim, Palri Patrice.) A laurelled 
 portrait of the Emperor, with the paludamentum fastened over his shoulders by a fibula. 
 This medal is in beautiful condition, but singulaily patinated, being red on the obverse, and 
 green on the reverse. I procured it at Tiipoli, in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. IMPERATOR Villi. [Impcrator nonum.) This is inscribed on the exergum, with S. C. 
 
 under it. The Emperor wearing a lorica, is seated on an X-shaped curule chair, upon a 
 high suggestum, with an assistant standing on each side of him. He is addressing his army, 
 which is represented by an officer, three aquiliferi, an infantry soldier, and one of cavalry, — 
 some of whom hold up their hands in applause. This was struck A. D. 115, in which 
 year are others of the same type stamped VII. and VIII. of each of which 1 have had spe- 
 cimens, but preserved the present one for its superior beauty. Now the two former relate to 
 victories gained over the Parthians, as no doubt the latter also does; the precise occasion 
 however is doubtful, as historians are silent respecting Trajan's second rupture with that 
 people ; but this reverse is usually ascribed to the reduction of Ctesiphon, the capital of 
 Parthia. 
 
 I should have mentioned in p. 4, that though the praenomen of Imperator had been assumed 
 as an equivalent for that of King by the Emperors, the custom of conferring it upon victorious 
 generals also, was continued, albeit 1 lie sovereign, as commander-in-chief, usually engrossed 
 it to himself. This medal therefore shews that Trajan had been so saluted by the army nine 
 times ; and combined with the two large-brass ones just cited, proves that he had gained three 
 signal advantages in that year. 
 
 CXL. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NER. TRAIANO OPTIMO AVG. GER. DAC. PARTHICO P. M. 
 
 TR. P. COS. VI. P. P. (Imperatori Ccesari Nervce Trajano, Optimo, Augusto, Ger- 
 manico, Dacico, Parthico, Pontifici Maximo, Tribunitia potestate, Consuli sextum, 
 Patri Patrice.) An expressive portrait of the Emperor, with part of a sagum on his 
 shoulders ; in very superior preservation, and covered with pea-green patina. This medal 
 was apparently struck A. D. 110, for here Trajan bears the title of Parthicus, which he 
 received after the victories mentioned above: I procured it by exchange at Athens, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. ARMENIA ET MESOPOTAMIA IN POTESTATEM P. R. REDACTAE {Armenia 
 et Mesopotamia in potestatem populi Romani reductce.) In the field S. C. The Emperor, 
 attired in military vestments with a spear and parazonium, stands in the attitude of a con- 
 queror, with his left foot upon a vanquished foe, who by the crenated mitre and the trousers, 
 appears to unite in one figure, the symbols of an oriental sovereign and a province. On each 
 side is a river deity reclining on an effluent urn, and holding an aquatic reed. This typifies 
 the successes obtained between the Tigris and Euphrates, which are the rivers here repre- 
 sented. The comprehension of so much design in so circumscribed a space, is thus beauti- 
 fully expressed by the poet, — 
 
 " A narrow orb each crowded conquest keeps ; 
 Beneath her palm here sad Judaea weeps ; 
 Now scantier limits the proud arch confine, 
 And scarce are seen the prostrate Nile and Rhine. 
 A small Euphrates through the piece is roll'd : 
 And little eagles wave their wings in gold." 
 N 
 
( 90 ) 
 
 CXLI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NER. TRAIANO OPTIMO AVG. GER. DAC. PARTHICO P. M. TR. 
 
 P. COS. VI. P. P. [Impcratori Ccesari Nervce Trajano, Optimo, Augusto, Germanico, 
 Dacico, Parthico, PonttficiMaximo,Tribunitiapolestate, Consult sextum, Patri Patrice.) 
 A fine Iaureated head of the Emperor, with a robe on his shoulders. It is in a secondary state 
 of conservation, and unpatinated; and was presented tome, in 1824, by Chev. Albert de la 
 Marmora, a gentleman distinguished by his researches in Sardinia. 
 
 Reverse. REGNA ADSIGNATA, on the exergum S. C. The Emperor seated between two Prsetorian 
 officers on a suggestum, at the foot of which, three figures are standing, the foremost of whom, 
 is receiving a gift from Trajan's hands. This noble and significant medal is as remarkable for 
 the simplicity as the force of its legend; and it relates to the assignment of dominions to 
 the kings of Parthia, Armenia, and Mesopotamia. Adsignata was the ancient orthography 
 for assignata, and appears thus on inscriptions. 
 
 CXLI I. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. NER. TRAIANO OPTIMO AVG. GER. DAC. PARTHICO. P. M. 
 
 TR. P. COS. VI. P. P. {Imperatori Ccesari Net'vce Trajano, Optimo, Augusto, Ger- 
 manico, Dacico, Parthico, Pontifici Maximo, Tribunilia potestate, Consu/i sextum, 
 Patri Patrice.) A very expressive laurelled portrait of Trajan, with the sagum on the 
 shoulders. This medal is thickly coated with a deep olive-green patina, and is in singular 
 preservation : it was procured from M. Nyssen, the Austrian Consul, at Tunis, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. REX PARTHIS DATVS, on the cxcrgum S. C. The Emperor, seated on a curule chair, 
 with a military prsefect standing by him, is in the act of crowning a king, whom Parthia — 
 in the national costume — is kneeling to receive. This medal was minted A. D. 116, and is 
 illustrated by Dio, — for he says that Trajan, when he came to Ctesiphon, assembled the 
 Romans and Parthians, and formally placed the diadem upon Parthamaspates. The Prince 
 thus chosen, continued faithful to Rome, for which he was despised by his countrymen, and 
 could maintain but little authority over them. Trajan was extremely elated with his Eastern 
 conquests : but in the event, they proved an useless expenditure of toil, blood, and treasure, 
 for after his death the new provinces threw off the yoke, and recovered their former condition. 
 
 PLOTINA. 
 
 Pompeia Plotina was one of the most illustrious of all the Roman Empresses, 
 though history is silent as to her family, country, and the date of her birth. She 
 was married to Trajan a considerable time before his adoption by Nerva, and died 
 without issue, A. D. 129. Hadrian, who was indebted to her for the Empire, 
 caused her obsequies to be performed with the utmost pomp and magnificence. 
 He bewailed her with many tears, appeared for nine days in deep mourning, 
 composed verses in her praise, caused her name to be consecrated, and dedicated a 
 noble mausoleum to her memory, near the ruins which still exist, at Nismes. 
 
 Plotina was highly esteemed by the people of Rome for the modesty and piety 
 with which she filled her exalted station, — manifesting all the good qualities of 
 Livia, without her pride and haughtiness. She accompanied Trajan when he as- 
 sumed the Purple, and turning to the people when she mounted the steps of the 
 palace, uttered these memorable words, — " 1 hope to come out the same as I go in." 
 
( 91 ) 
 
 Indeed, during the whole time of her husband's reign, her conduct was so irre- 
 proachable, as to deprive of their venom the malicious shafts aimed at her, on 
 account of her patronising Hadrian. Julian acknowledged that the advice of this 
 judicious princess was always such as tended to the public good ; and most authors 
 agree that she contributed largely to the glory of Trajan, and the splendour of his 
 reign. Several ancient inscriptions testify the extraordinary kindness with which 
 she treated Marciana, her sister-in-law ; and she is highly complimented on that 
 account by Pliny. The senate offered both of these ladies the glorious though 
 often misused title of Augusta, which they declined so long as Trajan refused that 
 of Pater Patrice. Plotina went into the East, and afterwards conveyed the sacred 
 urn, which contained the deceased Emperor's ashes, from Cilicia to Rome. Pliny, 
 who eulogizes the affability, sanctity, frugality, modesty, affectionate disposition, and 
 unsullied reputation of Plotina, exclaims, — "Tibi uxor in decus, et gloriam cedit ; 
 quid enim ilia sanctius, quid antiquius? Nonne, si Pontifici iMaximo eligenda sit 
 conjunx, aut hanc, aut similem, (ubi autem similis ?) elegerit ?" 
 
 Some of the imputations against Plotina originate in an expression of Dio 
 Cassius, but the intimation is no proof of her having transgressed the bounds of 
 virtue. She appears to have considered Hadrian as a proper husband for her 
 grand-niece, and a worthy successor to the Emperor, whose prejudice against him 
 was so marked, that she interposed her kind offices to prevent it from ruining 
 his interests. Spartian, who however is not a very competent voucher, carries this 
 kindness to an extraordinary pitch. He tells us that she took care not to press 
 upon Trajan the naming of his heir, lest his choice should prove prejudicial to 
 her favourite ; but that, as soon as the Emperor expired, Plotina, who kept it 
 very secret, sent in all haste for a trusty dependant, and having placed him in 
 Trajan's bed, she caused a number of senators and officers of distinction to come 
 into the chamber, in whose hearing the pretended sick man declared, with a faint 
 and dying voice, that he adopted Hadrian for his successor. 
 
 The medals of Plotina are of a high degree of rarity in gold and silver, and still 
 more so in brass, — for there are of the large size those of one type only known, and 
 of the smaller none whatever. Both Colonial and Greek medals of second and third 
 brass, were struck to her honour, but they are difficult to procure. Of the gold series, 
 the one conveying the best compliment is, perhaps, that with an altar, inscribed 
 Ara Pudicitice. 
 
 CXLIII. 
 
 Obverse. PLOTINA AVG. IMP. TRAIANI. {Plotina Augusta, Imperaloris Trajani.) The 
 head of Plotina, ornamented with a frontal diadem, and having the hair neatly plaited and 
 hanging in a loop behind. The features of the face are regular, and have a grave and 
 
( 92 ) 
 
 serious expression ; the neck is long, and the shoulders covered with a robe. This medal 
 was procured from J. C. Ross, Esq. at Malta, in 1821 ; it is of yellow-brass, and, like most 
 of those of this Empress which I have seen, considerably rubbed. I was, therefore, very 
 desirous of superseding it by the perfect specimen sold at Mr. Trattle's sale; but from my 
 directions having been misunderstood, it was " knocked down" to the Due de Blacas, for £ 32. 
 Reverse. FIDES AVGVST. (Fides Augusta.) A robed female standing in a stately attitude, be- 
 tween a large S. and C. with ears of wheat in her right hand, and a salver filled with fruits 
 and flowers supported on her left. This probably celebrates the constancy of Plotina to 
 Trajan, for Fides presided over the observance of promises, and was attired in white vestments, 
 as indicative of the candour and sincerity of Truth ; thus Horace — 
 
 Te Spes, et albo rara Fides colit 
 Velata panno. 
 
 MARCIANA. 
 
 This prudent Princess was the sister of Trajan, the mother of Matidia, and 
 grandmother to Julia Sahina, who married Hadrian. The date of her birth is 
 unknown, as is also the name of her husband, albeit he was the father of such 
 august personages. She appears to have been a widow at the time of her brother's 
 adoption, and, after forming a principal ornament of his court, died about A. D. 
 114, when her memory was consecrated by deification, — a date and fact identified 
 by the evidence of medals and marbles. 
 
 Marciana has been highly praised by historians, and, apparently with great 
 reason. So strict a friendship subsisted between her and the Empress, that no cool- 
 ness was ever known to disturb or diminish their unanimity ; and the conformity of 
 inclinations and sentiments between these two ladies, contributed materially to the 
 happiness enjoyed alike by the court and city. The names of both Plotina and Mar- 
 ciana are inscribed on the triumphal arch at Ancona ; and the uninterrupted 
 harmony which subsisted between them is highly extolled by Pliny.—" Nothing is 
 so apt to breed quarrels as emulation/' says that orator, "especially in women, 
 where it is oft begot by nearness in alliance, fomented by equality, inflamed by 
 envy, till it end at last in the most inveterate spite and hatred. From hence it ought 
 to be esteemed the greater wonder, that two ladies in the same palace, of the same 
 quality, should have no feuds, nor contention. They bear with each other, they 
 never dispute the right of precedence, and while both passionately love you best, 
 they think themselves unconcerned, which of them you shall please best to love." 
 
 The medals of Marciana are of great rarity, in each of the metals, and there are 
 none known in brass of the second and third sizes. That of gold, or silver, bearing 
 Soror Imp. Trajani, with a reverse, Matidia and two children, is highly prized 
 in cabinets. 
 
( 93 ) 
 
 CXLIV. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA AVGVSTA MARCI ANA. A grave and dignified portrait of Marciana, with a su- 
 perb frontal diadem, and the hair tastefully tressed round the head, in a mode different from 
 that of Plotina. This medal was presented to me, with several others, in the spring of 1832, 
 by my friend, Mr. W. Hamilton, so well known for his diplomatic and literary merits. That 
 gentleman, aware of the deficiences of my cabinet, most handsomely invited me to examine 
 his collection, and take from it whatever I pleased, — a license of which, knowing the sincerity 
 of the offer, 1 unhesitatingly availed myself. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. On the exergum S. C. An ornamented thensa drawn by two mules, — 
 one of the emblems of a female apotheosis. See No. XVII. It was probably struck about 
 the 19th year of Trajan's reign. 
 
 CXLV. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA AVGVSTA MARCIANA. The head of Marciana, attired as above. This medal is 
 of unpatinated yellow metal, and has been roughly handled ; it was purchased at Mr. Hen- 
 derson's sale, in 1830. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. On the exergum S. C. An eagle standing, or rather cowering, with 
 expanded wings. This noble bird, the Jovis Armiger of Virgil, and Minister Fulminis 
 of Horace, is a symbol of divinity, — but it is more usually applied to the apotheosis of an 
 Emperor than to that of an Empress, the latter being expressed by a peacock, as sacred to Juno. 
 
 CXLVI. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA AVGVSTA MARCIANA. A portrait of this excellent Princess, with ornaments 
 and head-dress as in No. CXLIV. The medal is of pale yellow-brass, and in secondary 
 conservation ; it was purchased at Mr. Henderson's sale, in 1830. 
 
 Reverse. EX SENATVS CONSVLTO. On the exergum S. C. A curious car, on which is placed 
 a seated statue of Marciana, with the veil, patera, and lance of divinity. It is drawn by two 
 elephants, with a mahaut, or driver on each ; they are guided apparently by a wand, and not 
 by the hawkush or goad, resembling a boat-hook, now used in India, to direct the animal 
 by either catching hold of his ear, or pricking him. See No. VIII. 
 
 MATIDIA. 
 
 Matidia was the daughter of Marciana, and though she was the favourite niece 
 of one emperor, and mother-in-law to another, we are alike ignorant of the times of 
 her birth, marriage, and widowhood, as well as of the names, rank, and offices of 
 her father and her husband. From this uncertainty, it may be inferred that they 
 were both dead when Trajan arrived at Rome after his adoption, or history would 
 have been more communicative. She had two daughters, of whom Sabina became 
 empress, and Matidia junior, the youngest, died in early life, but in what year we 
 are uncertain: nor was the latter distinguished from her mother till Welser, 
 by the aid of an inscription, disproved their identity. Matidia is supposed to have 
 lived till the reign of Antoninus Pius; but a bronze medallion in the Vienna 
 collection, inscribed Divce JVtaiidice Socrui, would prove, if genuine, that she 
 died in Hadrian's time ; its authenticity is however strongly suspected. And, as 
 if all the events in the life of this princess were to be involved in equal obscurity, 
 though medals clearly shew us that she bore the title of Augusta, we know not 
 when it was assumed. 
 
( 94 ) 
 
 Matidia has generally been praised by the historians who have mentioned her. 
 She was in the first class of those illustrious dames who adorned the court of Trajan, 
 and redeemed the character of the palace. She accompanied her uncle into the 
 East ; and Spartian expressly tells us that she assisted Plotina in bearing his ashes 
 to Home. The friendship of the Empress for Marciana has been mentioned, and 
 she was equally kind to Matidia and her two daughters ; for she was so gracious 
 to them, and espoused their interests with such cordial zeal, as to prevent their 
 feeling the superiority of her rank. Their living together in so much harmony 
 afforded Trajan infinite pleasure ; he saw, with great satisfaction, this amiable un- 
 derstanding among ladies so nearly allied to him, and so dear to his heart ; and 
 thus, having no domestic anxieties, he was the more at leisure to attend to the 
 public welfare. The excellent effects of such virtue and policy were very widely 
 felt, and went far towards reinstating the empire in its first splendour, by rendering 
 odious the cruelty, vice, and flagrant abominations of most of the preceding reigns. 
 Indeed, so great an influence has a court upon the public mind, that learned men, 
 it has been observed, abounded in the reign of Augustus ; vicious debauchees under 
 Tiberius ; grave men and good soldiers under Trajan ; and infamous ruffians 
 under Commodus. 
 
 As with Plotina and Marciana, so the Roman mintage in honour of Matidia is 
 restricted to gold, silver, and large-brass medals, and of the latter there is only one 
 type known, viz. that which is about to be described. I am not aware of any 
 Colonial coin of this Princess, but there is a third-class Greek Imperial one, which 
 is extremely rare. 
 
 CXLV1I. 
 
 Obverse. MATIDIA AVG. DIVAE MARCIANAE F. (Matidia Augusta, Divce Marciana 
 Jilia.) The head of Matidia, with an amiable and sensible countenance, indicating an age of 
 about 40 years. The hair is curiously and tastefully dressed in a style similar to that of 
 Marciana, but the frontal diadem is one of still greater elegance. The neck is long and well- 
 turned, the shoulders are covered with neat drapery, and the whole design marks Matidia as 
 a fine woman. This exceedingly rare medal is entirely covered with a dark brownish-green 
 patina, and is in splendid condition ; it formed No. 2929 of Mr. M. Trattle's sale, in 1832, 
 where it was sold for £32. 10*. and displaced a tolerable one which had been some years in 
 my cabinet. 
 
 Reverse. P1ETAS AVGVST. {Pietas Augusta.) On the exergum S. C. A stately female 
 standing between two children ; she is attired in the stola, and kindly extends her hands to 
 the heads of her young companions. Piety is sometimes thus represented to denote charity 
 and benevolence, and therefore many numismatists have considered this as a mere symbol of 
 the moral Virtue. Havercamp, who has engraven a monstrous distortion of the elegant 
 female before us, makes the left-hand figure naked ; but both on the medal under consideration, 
 and on the one formerly in my possession, all the group is in female robes : and as the principal 
 wears a diadem instead of the usual veil, I presume the type may denote Matidia and her 
 two daughters. 
 
( 95 ) 
 
 HADRIAN. 
 
 Publius iElius Hadrianus, was of Spanish extraction, being the son of JElius 
 Hadrianus Afer (a cousin of Trajan) and Domitia Paulina. He was born at 
 Rome, A. D. 76,* and joined the army at the early age of 15 ; he served as quaestor, 
 A. D. 101, and four years afterwards as tribune of the people. He was selected by 
 the Mcesian legions to congratulate Trajan on his adoption to the Empire ; and 
 when Nerva died, was the first who communicated the important tidings to his 
 successor. He was married to Sabina before he assumed the duties of quaestor, yet 
 Trajan never conferred any extraordinary honours upon him, though he gave 
 him the diamond which he had received from Nerva, — a present which Hadrian 
 considered as a pledge of his future elevation. Still, he was rather raised to 
 the Purple by the friendly offices of Plotina, than from any predilection on the part 
 of his kinsman, who rather consented to than approved of his adoption. He 
 succeeded to the throne, A. D. 117, and after a prosperous reign of 21 years, expired 
 at Baiae, A. D. 138, shortly after having uttered certain vague misgivings, in these 
 verses, — which are as applicable to the mind, as to the soul :^ 
 
 " Animula vagula, blandula, 
 Hospes, comesque corporis ! 
 Quae nunc abibis in loca ? 
 Paliidula, rigida, nudula ; 
 Nec, ut soles, dabis jocos." 
 
 It is with considerable pain that I attempt a sketch of this Prince's character, 
 because it is to be deplored that so splendid a governor should be so vile a man ; 
 that one who proved himself capable of ruling the world with vigour, and rivalled 
 Caesar in memory and versatility of talent, should be defiled by cruelty, lust, envy, 
 revenge, and the habitual indulgence of most infamous propensities. In the act of aban- 
 doning almost all the conquests of Trajan, Bayle sees only — on the part of Hadrian — 
 a modest confession of inferiority to his illustrious predecessor ; but with due defe- 
 rence to such an authority, a jealousy of his glory is too manifest ; for he ordered, 
 as soon as he was declared Emperor, some of Trajan's intimate friends to be put to 
 death, and his greatest generals to be disgraced. To divert the odium arising from 
 this barbarity, he publicly declared, upon oath, that those men had been executed 
 against his will ; but imbecility itself could urge no poorer a pretext ; and as no 
 one was punished for the atrocity, he cannot be benefited by the apology. Indeed, 
 
 * It seems probable that Eutropius is mistaken when he says that Hadrian was born at Italica, in Baetica, as 
 Spartian, in his account of this Emperor's family, cites documents written by Hadrian himself. 
 
 f The exact meaning of this death-song has been greatly contested. I am of opinion that Hadrian did not express a 
 doubt as to the existence of a future state, but only as to his own prospect of enjoyment or suffering. It is like the doubt 
 expressed by Hamlet, in his soliloquy on " the dread of something after deuth." 
 
( 96 ) 
 
 owing to the incongruity of his character, Antoninus Pius encounted great oppo- 
 sition in procuring, from the indignant senate, a consecration of his memory. 
 
 Jt were grateful if nothing mitigated the pleasure with which we might con- 
 template the official virtues and attainments of this extraordinary man, who was at 
 once an orator, poet, artist, physician, mathematician, and, but for his astrology and 
 magic, a philosopher. He visited every province of his mighty empire, that he 
 might personally inspect their state and condition ; and he signalized himself by 
 bountiful largesses to the poorer classes in all the places through which he passed. 
 He ordered temples, porticos, and other structures to be raised at his own expense, 
 in the chief cities which he visited— " alias ex aliis provincias, regionesque 
 and, exclusive of public duties, he gratified his mental taste by mounting the sum- 
 mit of iEtna to see whether the rising sun, from thence, exhibited the hues of the 
 rainbow, — by initiation into the Eleusinian mysteries, at Athens, — and by a pil- 
 grimage to the tomb of Pompey, at Pelusium. He reformed the administration of 
 the laws ; and softened the rigour of servitude by depriving masters of arbitrary 
 power over the lives of their slaves. He never seized any man's property unjustly, 
 nor would he receive legacies from persons unknown to him, or from such of his 
 friends as had children. His liberality exceeded even that of Trajan, in allotting 
 large sums for the maintenance of poor children ; he distributed yearly an immense 
 quantity of corn among the populace ; and made suitable presents to those knights 
 and senators who were unable to support their dignity. Though he was, unques- 
 tionably vain, an appetite for popularity made him wear the mask of moderation, 
 by which he became an apparent enemy to all pomp and parade ; a fact evinced 
 by the plain and simple legends of his medals. Out of Rome, he quite laid aside 
 the port and majesty of an emperor, and varied little from a private gentleman, in 
 his dress and diet : and however wanting in true magnanimity of soul, yet he was 
 great enough to declare the commonwealth to be the property of the people : — 
 " Ita se rempublicam gesturum, lit sciret populi rem esse, non propriam." 
 
 The increasing wealth and luxury of Rome, gave birth to a passion for splen- 
 dour which was exceedingly gratifying to Roman pride. This taste soon con- 
 founded proportion and principle, in colossal size and extravagant dimensions. The 
 villa which Hadrian built as a retreat, and which became a second Capreae, still 
 exhibits traces so vast as to astonish the spectator ; and the mausoleum which he 
 erected merely to receive his body, has been, from the time of Justinian to the present 
 hour, the principal castle and fortress of Rome, — although much reduced in size. 
 Spartian, to give some idea of the height of this edifice, tells us that the chariot 
 
( 97 ) 
 
 placed on the top of it, seemed very small to those who stood upon the ground ; 
 though in reality of so large a size, that a corpulent man could, with great ease, 
 pass through the openings which represented the eyes of the horses. 
 
 It is most lamentable that a man so richly endowed, by nature and fortune, as 
 was Hadrian, should have proved by qualities so opposite and discordant, that his 
 virtues were only assumed, while his vices were inherent. For the sake of his 
 own fame, and the benefit of example, we could wish that his caprice had been 
 expended in building cities to commemorate his hunting matches ; and his weak- 
 ness in maintaining spies to feed his ever-craving curiosity with domestic secrets. 
 The execrable vice by which he was infected, may perhaps be traced to the idolatry 
 which associated Ganymede with Jupiter ; but that a man of his genius and 
 discernment should flagitiously dare to consecrate his contaminated Bithynian, 
 would not have obtained belief, were it not for the overpowering evidence of his- 
 tory, marbles, medals, and, proh pudor ! a constellation! The last, we trust, 
 will not always remain, to disgrace Astronomy,* for it would require but little exer- 
 tion to wipe off the "sporco JVume." 
 
 Addison has said that, a series of an emperor's coins is his life digested into an- 
 nals ; and the remark is truly exemplified in those of the present reign. They 
 abound in all metals and sizes, and would in themselves form an interesting cabinet. 
 They exhibit a peculiarity, in that the beard now first appears on the imperial por- 
 trait, — for Hadrian, as Spartian tells us, permitted that appendage to grow, in 
 order to conceal some scars which disfigured a part of his face. It is difficult to 
 arrange these medals chronologically, because the Emperor did not assume the 
 honours of the consulship more than thrice ; and as he never accepted the office 
 after his return to Rome, the title COS. Ill, was used during the remainder of his 
 reign. Nor can we find the number of the TRIB. POT. ; but Eckhel thinks 
 this general darkness may be relieved by a small light which the title of Pater 
 Patrice supplies ; it seems that coins of COS. III. without P.P. should precede 
 those with it. The reverses which illustrate the travels of Hadrian, are usually 
 termed his geographical series, and, for the sake of a ready reference, are placed 
 alphabetically. 
 
 * Medals of Antinous are very numerous ; but though executed with singularly fine taste, I cannot approve of their being 
 received into cabinets, while there are crucibles to receive them. Not a shadow of utility can arise from the contempla- 
 tion of them •, unlike those of bad emperors which we are obliged to retain, they are not necessarily connected with the 
 events of the world ; and nothing but disgusting recollections can follow the infamous name. I profess as great a regard 
 for works of art as a sailor ought to do ; yet I would gladly destroy every trace of the minion, so that he should no longer 
 defile either cabinet, gallery, or celestial globe. 1 once uttered this idea in the Vatican, while passing his well-known 
 statue ; when Signor Torlonia, the celebrated Roman banker, who accompanied me, replied after a short pause, — « Well, 
 1 more than half agree with you." 
 
 O 
 
( 98 ) 
 
 CXLVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. DIVI TRAIAN. AVG. F. TRAIAN. HADRIAN. OPT. AVG. GER. 
 
 ( Imperatori Ccesari divi Trajani Augustijilio, Trajano Hadriano, Optimo, Augusto, 
 
 Germanico.J The laurelled head of Hadrian, with a handsome and intelligent countenance, 
 
 the shoulders partly covered with a sagum. This medal is in fine preservation, and densely 
 coated with dark-brown patina ; it was procured by exchange from Mr. Tulin, the British 
 Vice-Consul, at Tunis, in 1822. 
 Reverse. DAC. PARTHICO P. M. TR. P. COS. P. P. (Dacico, Parlhico, Pontifici Maximo, 
 Tribunitia potestate, Consult, Patri Patrice.) On the exergum, S. C. Two noble figures 
 standing, togated and laureated, one of whom consigns a globe to the other. A difficulty 
 arises upon this medal. From the subject of the obverse, and the length and import of the le- 
 gend, it seems to have been struck A. D. 117, for the purpose of recording the adoption of 
 Hadrian, by Trajan. But the title of Paler Patrice which the Emperor bears is contrary to 
 that supposition, as he did not assume it till eleven years afterwards ; and it therefore forms 
 an exception to the chronological rule of Eckhel, just mentioned. 
 
 CXLIX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAESAR TRAIANVS HADRIANVS AVG. (Tmperator Ccesar Trajanus Ha- 
 driamis, Augustus.) The laureated head of the Emperor, with an animated expression, and 
 bold bust. This medal is covered with browu patina : it is in excellent preservation, and was 
 procured at Mr. M. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. PONT. MAX. TR. POT. COS. II. [Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Consul 
 iterum.) On the exergum, ADVENTVS AVG. S. C. (Adven/us Augusti, Senatus 
 Consultu.) Roma Victvix seated upon armour, with her left foot upon a helmet, takes a 
 togated figure by the hand. This was struck A. D. 118, to commemorate the return of 
 Hadrian to Rome, from Syria, where he commanded when Trajan died. 
 
 CL. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAESAR TRATANVS HADRIANVS AVG. P. M. TR. P. COS. II. {Imperator 
 Ccesar Trajanus Hadrianus, Augustus, Pontif ex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Consul 
 iterum.) A bold and characteristic bust of Hadrian, thinly covered with yellow patina. 
 The medal is in fair condition, and was purchased from Mr. Till, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. RELIQVA VETERA HS. NOVIES MILL. ABOLITA. {Reliqua vetera, sestertium 
 novies millies abo/ita.) In the field S. C. A figure habited in the chlamys, with a sceptre, 
 is setting fire to a heap of papers with a torch. From the attitude and attire, I consider it 
 as representing the Emperor ; but Eckhel says, that on a very perfect medal in the Cgesarian 
 Museum the supposed sceptre is seen to be a fasces, and that therefore the man is a lictor. 
 See No. CLI. In either case it commemorates the unparalleled generosity of Hadrian, in 
 voluntarily burning all the obligatory bonds of the sums owing to the treasury for the last 16 
 years, — sums amounting to no less than 7| millions sterling. By reliqua vetera is meant 
 the exchequer, and the public debts of the provinces. From the COS. II. this popular deed 
 must have been transacted A. D. 118. 
 
 CLI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAESAR TRAIANVS HADRIANVS AVG. P. M. TR. P. COS. II. (Impe- 
 rator Ccesar Trajanus Hadrianus, Augustus, Pontifcx Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, 
 Consul iterum. J A broad-breasted bust of Hadrian, with the head laureated. This medal 
 is coated with a fine green patina, and is in fair preservation ; it was procured at Bonifaccio, 
 in Corsica, in 1824. 
 
 Reverse. RELIQVA VETERA HS. NOVIES MILL. ABOLITA. /"Reliqua vetera, sestertium 
 novies mi/lies abolila.) On the exergum S. C. A figure in the act of burning papers to 
 cancel the debts due to the state, before three togated citizens, who are rendering applause 
 with upraised hands. The figure is here certainly a lictor, for the axe-head is plainly shewn 
 on the fasces ; the last, however, has much less circumference than is usually given to that 
 badge of office. 
 
( 99 ) 
 
 This medal, it is seen, is struck upon the same occasion as No. CL. ; and the plaudits of 
 the citizens typify the restoration of the popularity which Hadrian had forfeited by the exe- 
 cution of four men of consular dignity. Spartian says, — "Ad colligendum autem gratiam 
 nihil praetermittens, infinitam pecuniam, quae fisco debebatur, privatis debitoribus in Urbe 
 atque Italia, in Provinciis vero eliam ex reliquis ingentes summas remisit, syngraphis in Foro 
 Divi Trajani, quo magis securitas omnibus roboraretur, incensis." 
 
 CLII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAESAR TRAIANVS HADRIANVS AVG. P. M. TR. P. COS. III. [Impe- 
 rator Ccesar Trajanus Hadrianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potesta/e, 
 Consul terlium.) The laurelled head of Hadrian, with a beard ; the shoulders covered with a 
 paludamentum. This rare medal is of yellow brass without patina, and in good condition ; 
 it was purchased from Mr. M. Young, in 1829. 
 
 Reverse. ANN. DCCCLXXIIII NAT. VRB. P. CIR. CON. This legend has been very variously in- 
 terpreted, and is still left in the perplexity which so frequently arises from the objectionable 
 custom of using abbreviations in writing. From the reclining female who holds a wheel on her 
 knee, and with her left arm embraces three melae, the object of the medal is evidently to com- 
 memorate games in which there were chariot-races. Vaillant therefore reads — Anno 874, 
 natali urbis Populo Circenses concessit. But Baron Bimart thinks, that as those games 
 were so frequently celebrated, the Monetales could hardly advance that they were established 
 by Hadrian, Harduin conjectures that the legend should be read — Anno 874 natali urbis 
 primum Circenses constituta, and that new games were instituted in honour of the founding 
 of the city. Others dispute whether the P means populus, plebeii, publici, or primus ; and 
 it is not a little singular that both in the engraving of the Florence medal, and that of Queen 
 Christina, this letter has been omitted. The true object may be, to record that Hadrian, in 
 celebrating the birth-day of Rome, which was usually done by holding the Parilia,* added 
 to those simple games the more splendid exhibitions of the Circus. 
 
 This very valuable medal is interesting in other'respects. It is the first of the large-brass 
 series which bears the sera of the foundation of Rome ; and though we cannot now discover 
 which of the methods of computing that sera was followed, the date of this third Consulate of 
 Hadrian is pretty nearly ascertained, — a point which cannot be determined from any other 
 of the COS. III. The female in this device is evidently the same with that on CXXVI. 
 
 CLIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAESAR TRAIANVS HADRIANVS AVG. P. M. TR. P. COS. 111. (Impe- 
 rator Ccesar Trajanus Hadrianus, Augustus, Ponlifex Maximus, Tribunitia potest ate, 
 Consul tertium.) A fine laurelled head of Hadrian, with a beard. As this is the first 
 appearance of that appendage in the cabinet, it may be mentioned that the early Romans 
 wore long beards, and had no barbers among them for 450 years. One Menas brought a 
 shaver from Sicily, when smooth chins became the general fashion, except in times of afflic- 
 tion, when a ragged beard, neglected hair, a slovenly look, and a pale countenance, were the 
 usual marks of mourning. The medal is in very excellent preservation, and covered with 
 dark.brown patina ; it was found near Algiers, in 1814, and presented to me shortly 
 afterwards. 
 
 Reverse. LOCVPLETATORI ORBIS TERRARVM. On the exergum S. C. This title is a high 
 compliment to the munificence of Hadrian, both at home and abroad ; and as he was the 
 only one who received so honourable a designation, so was he the only one who truly merited 
 it. He is seated on a curule chair upon a suggestum. Beside him stands a female, sym- 
 bolical of liberality, who is pouring out riches from a cornucopia? into the vests of two 
 citizens below her. 
 
 * The Parilia, or Palilia, were festivals established in honour of Pales, the tutelary goddess of Shepherds; they were 
 celebrated on the 21st of April, when the flocks were brought in and purified with lustral water and fumigations, — a cus- 
 tom still existing at Rome, with regard to horses. 
 
( 100 ) 
 
 CLIV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAESAR TRAIAN. HADRIANVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Trajanus Hadri- 
 anus, Augustus.) A bold laurelled head of Hadrian, with armour on the shoulders. This 
 medal is in fine conservation, and covered with a clear brown patina; it was purchased at 
 Rome, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. COS. III. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium.) 
 
 In the field S. C. and on the exergum EXPED. AVG. (Expeditio Augusti.) This 
 medal, which appears to be struck on the declaration of war with the Sarmatians and Roxo- 
 lanians, represents the Emperor on a prancing horse, with his chlamys floating behind him. 
 He bears a sceptre in his left hand, and gracefully extends his right. 
 
 CLV. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS. The obverse legends of Hadrian are henceforward exceed- 
 ingly simple, after the numerous titles we have hitherto seen. Some antiquaries have accused 
 him of short-lived gratitude in dropping the name of Trajan, — but conciseness was probably 
 the end in view. We have here a laureated and bearded head of the Emperor, of proportions 
 to Jit a medal most admirably. It is of superior workmanship, and in surprising preservation ; 
 the portrait is coated with a light-brown patina, and the device with a dark-green one. 
 I procured it at Lucca, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. COS. III. (Consul tertium.) In the field S. C. A singularly majestic statue of Neptune, 
 with a hasta pura ; his right foot is placed on the rostrum of a ship, and his hand — resting 
 on his knee — grasps an acrostolium, the prow ornament which was torn from captured vessels 
 and borne in triumphal processions. This device is more simple than where the deity is 
 placed in a conchal car, and probably alludes to the sea voyages of Hadrian ; it appears to 
 have been a common reverse in his reign, for I have had several, — some inscribed NEP. 
 RED. (Neptuno Reduci,) and others, in which the figure holds a dolphin on his hand. 
 Neptune presided over the Mediterranean, as Oceanus did over the circumambient sea, or the 
 waters supposed to surround the whole earth. (See No. XVI1L) 
 
 CLVI. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS. A superb laureated head of Hadrian, with a beard, and 
 the shoulders bearing the straps of a thorax. It is in remarkably fine condition, and 
 covered with a dense brown patina ; it was presented to me by Mr. Henry Beechy, who pro- 
 cured it near Cyrene, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. FELICITATI AVG. (Felicitati Augusti.) In the field S. C. On the exergum COS. 
 
 111. P.P. (Consulis tertium, Patris Patrice.) A praetorian galley, with the gubernator 
 and five sitters, but with ten oars, or rather sweeps, over the side : as these appear to have 
 no communication with the persons in view, but carry their looms through the upper works, 
 the sitters are rather passengers than rowers, and they wear hats, as if to protect them against 
 trie heat upon deck. The prow is armed with three spikes, the roslrique tridentibus of 
 Virgil ; the tutela is highly decorated, and the poop shews the bend mentioned by that author, 
 and Ovid, — puppique recurvce. Upon the bow appears the parasemon, and over that the 
 labarum or banner, on a staff which sleeves like a bowsprit. Both this, and ihe streamer from 
 the corymbus, by blowing forwards, shew that the vessel has a fair wind, an ancient symbol 
 of felicity which will be readily understood by moderns. It appears to have been struck by 
 the senate for the success of the Emperor's voyage. 
 
 CLVII. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANUS AVGVSTVS. The laurelled profile of Hadrian, with part of a sagum over 
 the shoulders. Of a yellowish-red brass, and though unpatinated, in very fair condition ; it 
 was purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. FELICITATI AVG. {Felicitati Augusti.) In the field S. C. On the exergum COS. 
 
 III. P. P. (Consulis tertium, Patris Patrice.) A Praetorian galley rowing swiftly over the 
 
( ioi ) 
 
 waves. The poop is high and curved, like that of a Chinese sampan, and the post occupied 
 by the pilot recalls the idea of his liability to be washed overboard : 
 
 " Ipse Gubernator puppi Palinurus ab alta." 
 
 Over the aplustre appear two military standards, which are considered as a testimony that an 
 important personage is embarked. A colossal sea-god — half man and half fish — is placed 
 on the prow; on some medals this is a triton blowing a flabra, or conch, — but here he is in 
 the act of darting a spear, or trident. This is equivalent to the modern figure-head, and 
 represented the tutelary protector to whom, as with the modern Mediterranean sailors, the 
 ship was dedicated. There are six sitters in a line below the pilot, and the rudder is pro- 
 jected through the upper works of the quarter. 
 
 clvhi. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS. The laureated head of the Emperor. A medal in good, but 
 secondary condition, which was procured at Susah, on the coast of Tunis, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. FELICITATI AVG. (Felicitali Augusti.) In the field S. C. and on the exergum COS. 
 
 III. P. P. (Consults tertium, Patris Patrice.) A Praetorian galley, full of men, impelled 
 along both by oars and a large square sail, across which the inscription is written, in the 
 taste then prevalent; for we are assured that, in the time of Trajan, it was not uncommon 
 to have the name of the Emperor embroidered on the sails in gold or silver. Besides being 
 the type of felicity, this medal is supposed to allude to the prudent government of Hadrian ; 
 for as in a ship — though the officers and crew are liable to the same hazard, the success of the 
 voyage will chiefly depend on the skill and judgment of the commander ; — so in the manage- 
 ment of the state, the happiness and prosperity of the community depends upon the wisdom 
 and prudence of the sovereign at the helm of affairs. 
 
 The sail to this ship — this " navis velis ventoque " — is stretched to a yard supported 
 by lifts; it is deep roached, with both sheets aft, in token of auspicious winds — the emblem 
 of happiness : — 
 
 "En ego non paucis quondam munitus amicis, 
 " Dum flavit velis aura secunda meis." 
 
 And the oars being out at the same time illustrate another passage of Ovid,— 
 
 " Sive opus est, miniinam velis bene burnt ad auiam, 
 " Sive opus est remo remige carpit iter." 
 
 CLIX. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Paler 
 Patrice.) The bare head of Hadrian, with the shoulders covered by part of a sagum. The 
 being unlaureated is rare with the Augusti ; it is generally indicative of the Caesars, or 
 sous, either real or adopted of Emperors. In this instance it may possibly allude to what 
 Spartian and Dio tell us, that Hadrian was wont to brave both cold and tempest with his 
 head uncovered ; for which he eventually suffered. This medal has been rubbed, but is in 
 fair condition ; it was procured at Via Reggio, in Tuscany, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. DISCIPLINA AVG. (Discip/ina Augusti,) written on the exergum ; in the field S. C. 
 
 The Emperor — bare-headed and with his robe over his arm — followed by a Praetorian prefect, 
 marches at the head of his army, which is typified by four soldiers with two standards and a 
 labarum. This illustrates what historians have told us of Hadrian's inuring his legions to 
 discipline, by his own personal example ; for though he was pacifically inclined, he took care 
 to keep up military virtue. While accompanying his troops he subsisted on coarse fare, 
 living on bacon, cheese, and posca, or lora, a spurious wine made by pouring water over 
 grape-lees in the press. The legend is sometimes spelt DISCIPVL1NA, — as may be 
 6een in Havercamp, Pedrusi, and Occo. 
 
 In addition to this, it may be observed that, Hadrian reformed the regulations of the army, 
 which had been gradually deteriorated since the days of Augustus. He was the first who 
 
( 102 ) 
 
 established pioneers and a staff-corps. He gave promotion to none but men of courage, 
 strength, and merit, saying, — " Such as the officers are, such will the soldiers become." In 
 allusion to the manner in which he braved hardships with his legions, the poet Florus 
 addressed him thus : — 
 
 " Ego nolo Caesar esse, 
 Ambulate per Britannos, 
 Scythicas pati pruiiias." 
 
 To which — as Florus was a noted frequenter of taverns — Hadrian replied — 
 
 " Ego nolo Florus esse, 
 Ambulare per tabernas, 
 Latitare per popinas, 
 Culices pati rotundas." 
 
 CLX. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS. A remarkably-fine laurelled head of Hadrian, with a bare 
 neck, and an expression more noble than intelligent. It is covered with a chocolate-coloured 
 patina, is in superior preservation, and was presented to me by Major Scriven, governor of 
 the Tuscau isle of Giglio, in 1S22. 
 
 Reverse. COS. III. P. P. {Consul tertium, Pater Patrice.) On the exergum S. C. This is an 
 acclamation-medal. The Emperor stands ou a tribunal, decorated with rostra, before a 
 temple. He is haranguing the public, and making a welcome announcement ; the latter are 
 represented by three togated citizens, who lift their hands in the fulness of admiration 
 and applause. 
 
 CLXI. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. {Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice.) A noble laureated profile of Hadrian, with a beard, and the shoulders robed. This 
 medal is in very excellent conservation, and covered with a dark chocolate-coloured patina ; it 
 was procured, by exchange, from a numismatist at Cagliari, in 1S23. 
 
 Reverse. REST1TVTORI ACHA1AE. On the exergum S. C. The Emperor togated and standing 
 in a majestic altitude, is raising a kneeling female by the hand. Between them there is a 
 vase with ansae, in which is a palm-branch. This has been mistaken by Tristan, Pedrusi, 
 and others, for a sprig of Parsley, merely because a crown of that herb was the victor's 
 reward at the Neineaen games ; but a glance at the medal before us, would have convinced 
 them of their mistake. 
 
 This device commemorates the visit of Hadrian to Achaia, and a benefit conferred 
 thereon ; but the exact date cannot be ascertained, for from the P. P. — which was not 
 assumed till A. D. 128, — it is clear that many of his geographical coins must have been struck 
 several years after he had travelled to the places mentioned. 
 
 CLXII. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. HI. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice.) A remarkably fine head of Hadrian, with part of the sagum on his shoulders, and 
 a more intelligent expression of countenance than his likeness usually bears. This medal is 
 of yellow brass, and though unpatinated, is in splendid condition; it was purchased from 
 an Arab, near Benghazi, in 1821. 
 
 Hcrerse. AEGYPTOS. On the exergum S. C. An elegant decumbent female, in full robes, with 
 her hair dressed in the long-curled ringlets observable on the coins of Berenice. Her left 
 arm reclines on a basket filled with fruits, the emblem of fertility, and her right hand holds 
 a sistrum, — an instrument not only sounded in the worship of Isis, but also, accordiug to 
 Servius, indicative of the increase and flowing of the Nile ; whence some medallists have 
 denominated it a nilometer. It consisted of an oval-shaped bronze frame, with three trans- 
 verse bars, which, being rattled, produced the required melody, — "crepuit sonabile Sistrum." 
 
( 103 ) 
 
 It may be imagined that it was sufficiently unmusical, — and Propertius upbraids Cleopatra for 
 putting it in opposition to the Roman trumpet. At the feet of the female is a cippus, on 
 which stands the sacred Ibis, a bird so peculiar to Egypt that it was said to die if taken to 
 other countries. "The Egyptians," said Cicero, " whom we are apt to ridicule so much, 
 conferred honours upon animals only in proportion to the advantage derived from them ; — 
 thus their reason for worshipping the Ibis was, because it destroyed the serpent." Hero- 
 dotus tells us, it was a capital offence to kill an Ibis, whether intentionally or otherwise : 
 and Strabo says, that they walked up and down the streets of Alexandria. So have I seen 
 the storks respected in Greece and Turkey, — and still more so in India, where from the 
 Bramin bird to the Bengal Adjutant, the whole genus enjoys immunity. 
 
 CLXIII. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice.) A singularly animated laureated head of the Emperor, with a thick short beard, 
 and the neck naked. This is a splendidly perfect medal, covered with a green patina tinged 
 with red : it was purchased on the 25th day of Mr. Trattle's celebrated sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. (Sine Epigraphe.) In the field S. C. A majestic figure of the Emperor with his left foot 
 upon a crocodile : he is in armour, with the paludamentum at his back, his right hand is sup- 
 ported by a spear with the point peacefully downwards, and his left holds a parazonium. From 
 the moneyer's having raised the reptile's head too much, it has been called a serpent, — but the 
 legs, scales, and shape are too plainly visible to be mistaken. This was probably minted in 
 remembrance of the visit to Egypt, and its date may therefore be nearly approximated, — for 
 Hadrian, having passed through Judaea and Arabia, arrived at Pelusium, A. D. 130, where 
 lie repaired the tomb of Pompey — 
 
 £< Ossa viri magni, tenui quam clausa sepulchro." 
 CLXIV. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice.) The bare head of Hadrian, with a saguin over the shoulders. This medal, which 
 is in secondary condition, was purchased at the Hon. R. E. Digby's sale, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. AFRICA. On the exergum S. C. A robed female is seated against a rock, with a cornu- 
 copias in her left hand, and a scorpion in her right; at her feet is a modius, with ears of 
 wheat through the top. The female is quoiffed wilh an elephant's proboscis, which has been a 
 symbol of Africa from the time of Agathocles, as is shewn by his coins. The fertility of the 
 province is denoted by the modius and corn, " Frumenti quantum metit Africa" and, 
 from Lucan's baving named it among the venemous reptiles of Lybia, we may infer that the 
 scorpion has long been a cognizance of the same place : — 
 
 "quis fata putaret 
 
 Scorpion, aut vires maluraa mortis habere ? 
 Ule minax nodis, et recto verbere saevus, 
 Teste tulit ca?lo victi decus Orionis." 
 
 CLXV. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice.) The laurelled profile of Hadrian, wilh the shoulders robed. A medal of yellow 
 brass, thinly patinated, and in secondary condition ; it was purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale, 
 in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. RESTITVTORI AFR1CAE. On the exergum S. C. The togated Emperor raises a 
 female who, by the coiffure, is seen to be Africa ; she gives him her right hand, and the left 
 grasps some ears of wheat. Corn is also springing from the ground between them, in allu- 
 sion to the amazing fertility of the "Altricem Orbis Terrarum." This testifies a benefit 
 bestowed on the province at Hadrian's visit : was it that after a drought of five years it 
 rained upon his arrival, and the inhabitants consequently ascribed the blessing to his presence? 
 
( 104 ) 
 
 CLXVI. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice.) The bare head of the Emperor, with the shoulders covered by the sagum. This 
 medal is in excellent preservation, and covered with a light-brown patina ; it was procured 
 at Patras, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. ALEXANDRIA. On the exergum S. C. A female seated on the ground, and reclining 
 against a basket of fruit. Her left arm bears a vine-branch, her extended right hand 
 holds ears of wheat, and a harvest appears to be growing at her feet. Hadrian disliked the 
 turbulent dicacity of the Alexandrians, and sarcastically wrote, that all of them — whether 
 Christians, Pagans, or Jews, — were ready to sacrifice their religion to self-interest ; yet he 
 repaired the city and restored their ancient privileges. For this they Teturned him solemn 
 thanks ; but no sooner was his back turned than they published bitter and virulent lampoons 
 against him and his favourites. 
 
 CLXV1I. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice.) A noble laureated portrait of Hadrian, with the shoulders robed. In excellent 
 preservation, and covered with a dense olive-green patina; it was presented to me by 
 Mohammed Khojah, the minister of the Marine, at Tunis, in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. RKSTITVTORI AS1AE. On the exergum S. C. Hadrian, in his toga, stands on the 
 leftside of the field, and extends his hand to Asia; which province is represented as a 
 kneeling female, in robes, with a diadem and sceptre. By the scroll which the Emperor 
 holds, it would seem that this device is in commemoration of an immunity. 
 
 CLXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice.) The bare head of the Emperor, with very characteristic features ; on his shoulder 
 appears the fibula and part of a cblamys. This medal is in very superior condition, and 
 coated with a deep-brown patina ; it was purchased at Genoa, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. REST1TVTORI BITHYNIAE. On the exergum S. C. A noble figure of the Emperor, 
 in senatorial vestments, taking by the hand a kneeling female, who wears a mural crown, is 
 in full robes, and bears a rudder on her left shoulder, emblematic of her navigable rivers 
 and ports on the Pontus Euxinus, and Propontis. This type probably commemorates the re- 
 building, at Hadrian's expense, of the towns of Bithynia, which were destroyed by an earth- 
 quake, about A. D. 129, chiefly Nicaea and Nicomedia. 
 
 CLXIX. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice.) The laureated profile of Hadrian, with the chlamys buckled over the right 
 shoulder. A coin in good preservation, though unpatinated ; it was procured from Mr. M. 
 Young, in 1825, having formerly belonged to the cabinet of Mr. Miles. 
 
 Reverse. ADVENTVI AVG. BRITANNIAE. ( A dventui August i Britannia.) On the exergum 
 S. C. The togated Emperor stands on the left of the field, and a majestic robed female on 
 the right, who holds a patera over an altar from which a flame rises. By this, and the victim 
 at her side, is expressed the sacrifice made by the Provincials in token of joy and cordiality 
 at the august arrival ; and the altar denotes mutual compact. He arrived A. D. 121, just 
 in time, according to Camden, to prevent the Britons from throwing off the Roman yoke. 
 Here he made many regulations ; and to secure his colonies from Caledonian incursions, 
 caused a mighty wall to be built, extending from the river Eden in Cumberland, to the Tyne 
 in Northumberland. 
 
 CLXX. 
 
 Obverse: HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice.) The laurelled head of Hadrian, with the shoulders covered by a robe. This medal 
 is in good preservation, and covered with brown patina; it was procured at Pantellaria, 
 in 1817. 
 
( 105 ) 
 
 Reverse. ADVENTVI AVG. CILICIAE. (Adventui Augusti Cilicice.) On the exergum S. C. 
 
 The Emperor and a galeated female, who bears a labarum, standing with an altar between 
 them and a victim ready for sacrifice. This typifies a general rejoicing on Hadrian's safe 
 arrival in Cilicia. From the attire and attitude of this female, it is evident the province was 
 deemed warlike ; but the Cilicians were despised by the Greeks as being prone to knavery, 
 cruelty, and mendacity, — whence the proverb, " Cilix hand facile verum dictf." 
 
 CLXXI. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. HI. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Paler 
 Patrice.) A fine laureated profile of the Emperor, with a part of the chlamys. This medal 
 is entirely varnished with a sea-green patina, and is in superior conservation ; it was pre- 
 sented to me, in 1820, by M. Belzoni, the Egyptian traveller. 
 
 Reverse. DACIA on the exergum, and in the field S. C. A manly personification of this extensive 
 province, bareheaded, and attired in trousers. He is seated on a rock, holding a legionary 
 eagle in his right hand, and a branch in his left, — with one of his feet resting against two 
 round balls. See No. CXXX1V. 
 
 CLXXII. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Paler 
 Patrice.) The bare head of Hadrian, the shoulders covered by a sagum. This medal is thinly 
 incrusted with dark-brown patina, and is in excellent condition ; it was presented to me by 
 Baron Schibberas, at Malta, in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. ADVENTVI AVG. GALLIAE. (Adventui Augusti Gallice.) On the exergum S. C. 
 
 The Emperor, bare-headed and togated, with his right hand elevated, is accosting a robed 
 female wearing the sagulum, or Gaulish cassock, on her shoulders. She holds a sacred 
 patera over the flame of an altar decorated with festoons, by the side of which is an animal, 
 called by Addison a sheep — " not only as a sacrifice, but to shew that the riches of the 
 country consisted in flocks and pasturage." Whatever it maybe, it is placed there as a 
 victim in the rejoicings that followed Hadrian's safe arrival in Gaul, where, as Spartian 
 assures us — " omnes causariis liberalitalibus sublevavit." 
 
 CLXXIII. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Patrr 
 Patrice.) The laureated portrait of the Emperor, looking towards the left, — a rare position 
 in this series. It is in very excellent condition, and covered with a chocolate-coloured patina ; 
 it was purchased at Lord Morton's sale, in 1830. 
 
 Reverse. RESTITVTORI GALLIAE. On the exergum S. C. Hadrian, in his toga, holds a scroll 
 in bis left hand, and with his right raises a supplicating female, who is robed and wears the 
 sagulum. The senate had hardly glorified the Emperor's arrival in Gaul, before they declared 
 him its " Restorer; " a compliment due for the benefits which he granted in his progress. 
 
 CLXXIV. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice.) An animated profile of Hadrian, with a laurel wreath, and the laticlavium on the 
 shoulders. I purchased this medal at Naples, in 1818 ; it is covered with a light-yellow 
 patina, and is in good conservation. 
 
 Reverse. HISPANIA. On the exergum S. C. A robed female reclining against a rock, holds, in her 
 right hand, a branch of olive, — which, according to Pliny, flourished luxuriantly in Bsetica. 
 Her head is encircled by a sort of wreath, see No. CLXXV. which some medallists have pro- 
 nounced also to be of olive, from recollecting the ** Bcetis olivifera crinem redimite corona" 
 of Martial, and the description of Claudian, — 
 
 " glaucis turn prime Minervae 
 
 Nexa comam loliis." 
 
 P 
 
( 106 ) 
 
 At the feet of the female is a rabbit, which from the cuniculosce Celtiberice Jill of Catullus, 
 and the testimony of Strabo, ./Elian, Pliny, and Varro, as to the multitudes that abouuded 
 there, has become the well-known cognizance of Spain. Agostini, indeed, and other anti- 
 quaries, thought that as cuuiculus signified equally a rabbit, and a mine, the device was in 
 allusion to the mineral riches of the Iberian mountains. But Bochart, somewhat fancifully, 
 derives the name of the kingdom from S-epan, a Phoenician word expressing the animal. 
 
 CLXXV. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice.) The naked head of the Emperor, with a thick short beard, and the paludamentuin 
 fastened by a fibula to the right shoulder : the countenance is manly, animated, and more 
 intelligent than usual in his profiles. This singularly fine medal was found by a faggot- 
 maker, in the marshes near Port Nettuno, in April, 1823, and came into my possesion two 
 or three days afterwards. It is of fine yellow brass, and though unpatinated, is so case 
 hardened, as it were, as to be in splendid preservation. 
 
 Reverse. RESTITVTORI HISPANIAE. On the exergum S. C. An admirable togaled figure of 
 the Emperor, on the right of the field ; he is raising a kneeling female by the hand, who, 
 by the rabbit at her feet and the olive branch on her shoulder, is manifestly the personification 
 of the province. As this medal is in much higher condition than the last, the ornament 
 around her head is more distinct ; and on a close examination appears to be rather a head- 
 dress, than a wreath, — there is, moreover, a curious ornament depending from it, down the 
 back of her neck, perhaps a species of crotalia. 
 
 The exact date of this coin is uncertain ; but it is probable that Hadrian wintered at 
 Tarraco, A. D. 122, where a slave, in a fit of insanity, assaulted him with a sword, for which 
 the Prince merely committed the maniac to the care of physicians. 
 
 CLXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. [Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice.) The laureated head of Hadrian. This medal is in secondary condition, and covered 
 with yellow patina ; it was purchased in lot No. 199, of Mr. Trattle's sale, displacing one 
 somewhat different, as that portrait was bare-headed, and the reverse had but two children. 
 
 Reverse. ADVENTVI AVG. IVDAEAE. [Adventui Augusti Judcea.) On the exergum S. C. 
 
 The province, in full robes and veiled, is holding a patera over an altar, at the foot of which 
 is a victim ; she has a ball in her left hand, and beside her are three naked children bearing 
 palm-branches, symbolical of Judaea, as forming a part of Palestine, of which the palm-tree 
 is the appropriate emblem. This device represents the sacrifice which welcomed the arrival 
 of the Emperor, who stands before the altar with his hands upraised, so as to give his attitude 
 an appearance of severity. 
 
 Hadrian, in re-establishing Jerusalem, named it iElia Capitolina, and on the ruins of the 
 temple built by Solomon, he erected one to Jupiter. The Jews, — " Gens sola, et in toto orbe, 
 prceter cceteras, mira,^ — who had again become formidable/were so exasperated by this in- 
 sulting profanation, that they rebelled, and committed most dreadful ravages. For these acts 
 the Romans took awful vengeance, — for, after slaughtering 580,000 men, besides those who 
 perished by famine, fire, aud disease, they razed the city so that not one stone was left upon 
 another, — and salt was sown in the ground whereon the temple had stood, in token of igno- 
 minious desolation, A. D. 135. Nor was this all. A new colony was formed there into which the 
 Jews were prohibited, under pain of death, from entering, — or even dwelling in any place 
 whence it could be seen. Every sacred site was studiously defiled, and the marble figure of 
 a hog, which they held in religious abhorrence, was fixed over the Bethlehem gate.* Thus 
 
 * Julius Severus, the officer who was recalled from Britain to conduct this bloody war, has been erroneously termed 
 " Severus, who afterwards became Emperor ;" for Septimius Severus, who acquired the Purple, was not born till the 
 8th year of Antoninus Pius. The conqueror of Palestine was rewarded with, the government of Bitbynia, where his conduct 
 wa* so just, that his name was honoured for 100 years after his death. 
 
( 107 ) 
 
 was the memorable prophecy of our Saviour completely though undesignedly fulfilled, by 
 a Pagan. 
 
 CLXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. HADRI ANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul terlium, Pater 
 Patrice.) The laurelled portrait of the Emperor, with part of a pallium over his shoulders. 
 This medal is in good condition, though unpatinated ; it is of pale brass, and was procured at 
 Lord Morton's sale, in 1830, — being rather better than my former one. 
 
 Reverse. MAVRETANIA. On the exergum S. C. A man leading a barb-horse by the mane; he is 
 lightly attired, and bears a wand. Claudian, who is one of the most particular of all the Ro- 
 man poets in describing the personification of Provinces, says this wand was used in guiding 
 the animal, — 
 
 ■ " " Sonipes ignarus habense : 
 
 Virga regit." 
 
 But it may be the weapon thus alluded to by Horace — 
 
 "Integer vitae, scelerisque purus 
 Non egit Mauri jaculis." 
 
 In either case, one cannot examine the medal without being struck with the propriety of a 
 cognizance so suited to the present Moorish taste, which delights in horses and assagayes ; 
 and it realizes the " pugnant frequentibus ab equo hastati, equis nudis utentes, et junceis 
 Jrenis," of Strabo. 
 
 CLXXVI1I. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. [Hadrianus Augustus, Consul lertium, Paler 
 Patrice.) The laureated head of the Emperor, in excellent relief, with the shoulders 
 covered. This medal is in very good preservation, and thinly coated with a light-brown 
 patina; it was purchased at Algeziras, in Andalusia, in 1824. 
 
 Reverse. ADVENTVS AVG. MAVRETANIAE. (Adventus Augusti Mauretania.) On the 
 exergum S. C. The Province in a semi-virile habit, and with a military banner on her left 
 arm, holds a patera over the flame of an altar, at the base of which is a victim for sacrifice. 
 On the opposite side stands Hadrian, bare-headed and togated, as is usual on these reverses. 
 This device celebrates the happy arrival of the Emperor in Mauretania. 
 
 CLXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. 111. P. P. {Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice. J The laurelled head of Hadrian, with part of a sagum fastened by a fibula to the 
 right shoulder. This medal, though but thinly patinated, is in excellent condition ; it was 
 purchased through the agency of Mr. M. Young, in 1831. 
 
 Reverse. EXERCITVS on the upper verge, and MAVRETANICVS S. C. on the exergum. The 
 Emperor on horseback, and paludated, harangues three soldiers bearing military ensigns. 
 This device alludes to a review of the army stationed in Mauretania, — for Hadrian sagaciously 
 maintained peace, by being always prepared for war. 
 
 CLXXX. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. {Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice.) A fine laureated profile of the Emperor, in excellent relief, and with an intelligent 
 expression. This rare medal is in very superior preservation, and thickly coated with a grass 
 green patina ; it was purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale in 1832, where it formed lot 2936. 
 
 Reverse. RESTITVTORI NICOMEDIAE. On the exergum S. C. Hadrian, in senatorial vest- 
 ments, is taking by the hand a kneeling female, who wears a mural crown, and has a trophy 
 over her left shoulder. The Senate, ever attentive to glorify the Emperor, appears to have 
 struck this coin in token of the relief afforded by him to Nicomedia, after it had been 
 desolated by a dreadful earthquake, A. D. 129. See No. CLXVIII. 
 
( 108 ) 
 
 CLXXXI. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice.) The laurelled head of Hadrian in fine relief, and with a good expression. The 
 medal is in capital condition, and covered with a dense chocolate-coloured patina ; it was pre- 
 sented to me by Mr- Lee, Consul at Alexandria, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. NILVS. On the exergum S. C. A colossal river-god, whose upper half is naked, reclining 
 on the bank of a stream, with a reed in his left hand, and a cornucopice in his right, — rest- 
 ing upon a sphynx, accompanied by a small figure. Three children are playing about him, 
 one of whom is mounted on a hippopotamus ; and in the fore-ground is a crocodile, and an 
 aquatic plant. The urn is concealed, because the source of the Nile was unknown. 
 
 This device seems to be borrowed from the statue in the Vatican, where Nilus is repre- 
 sented with 16 children, symbolical of the number of cubits to which it was desirable that the 
 water should rise. The Monet ales were, however, right in reducing the number upon 
 the medal, or the god would have resembled a Surinam toad. Lucan, speaking of Egypt, 
 says, in commendation of her justly celebrated river, — 
 
 *' Rich in the fatness of her plenteous soil, 
 She plants her only confidence in Nile." 
 
 CLXXXII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAESAR TRAIANVS HADRIANVS AVG. P. M. TR. P. COS. III. {Impe- 
 rator Caesar Trajanus Hadrianus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia poiestate, 
 Consul tertium.) A laureated profile of Hadrian, with a spirited expression, and the bust 
 bare. This medal is in excellent preservation, though but thinly patinated on the reverse ; 
 it was procured, by exchange, from Dr. Dickson, at Tripoli, in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. RESTITVTORI ORBIS TERRARUM. On the exergum S. C. The Emperor, bare- 
 headed and togated, extends his hand to an elegant female crowned with turrets, who is sup- 
 porting a terreslial globe on her ieft knee. There is a small dot, or ball, in the centre of the 
 field, which I would not have noticed, but that some medallists, who have seen three of them, 
 pronounce them to represent the divisions of Europe, Asia, and Africa. 
 
 This coin was struck to signify the many and signal advantages which almost all the 
 provinces received from the visits of Hadrian ; and, when his liberality is considered, the 
 title of Restitutor is an honour without flattery. But the supplicating attitude in which 
 every province was represented, and especially the emblem of the Earth itself, must have 
 been exceedingly gratifying to the Imperial vanity. 
 
 CLXXXI1I. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. {Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patricp.) The laurelled portrait of Hadrian, turned to the left, a position scarcely met with 
 on large-brass, after this reign. This medal is in secondary though sound condition, and is 
 thinly covered with brown patina ; it was procured at Palermo, in 1813. 
 
 Ueverse. RESTITVTORI PRHYGIAE (sic. J On the exergum S. C. The Emperor is majestically 
 raising a kneeling figure, who by the attire and pileus is evidently a Phrygian, holding a gar- 
 land in his left hand. This garland is difficult to account for, unless it be one of flowers, in 
 token of those voluptuous and effeminate manners which gave truth to the proverb — " Phryges 
 serd sapiunt." The dances and songs with which they solemnized the festivals of their gods 
 were called lityerses, and they are thus mentioned by Rhodiginus, the " Varro of his age ; " 
 £!rat sua idiotis Saltatio Anthema nomine, quam Saltantes sic fere pronunciabant, 
 Ubinam mihi rosce? ubi violce? ubi apia Jlorentia? 
 
 A numismatist, of some celebrity, has given his opinion that where the Emperor is placed 
 on the right hand of the province, it shews the place to be situated to the east of Rome : but 
 in the medals just described, — though the rule answers for Achaia, Africa, Britain, Gaul, 
 Judsea, Mauretania, Nicomedia, and Phrygia — he stands to the left of Asia, and Cilicia, and 
 to the right of Hispania. This opinion therefore has no sufficient foundation. 
 
( 109 ) 
 
 CLXXXIV. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. 111. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, C onsul tertium, Puier 
 PatrLe.) The bare head of Hadrian, with the sagum buckled upon his shoulder. This 
 medal is slightly coated with a brown patina, but is in fine preservation ; it was purchased 
 at Mr. Trattle's sale in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. EXERCITVS on the upper verge, and RHAETICVS. S. C. on the exergum. The Emperor, 
 on horseback, is addressing a party of soldiers bearing military standards. The foremost 
 of these men holds an unusually large square shield before him, which may allude to 
 Rhsetia's being deemed a buckler against the depredations of the Gauls and Germans : 
 " Clypeus ille exercitus nosiri quietem debet prcestare Romanis."* 
 
 CLXXXV. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS. P. P. {Hadrianus Augustus, Pater Patrice.) The lau- 
 relled portrait of Hadrian, with an intelligent expression ; the neck is naked, and longer than 
 is usual on his medals. It is in the highest preservation, and covered with a dark-brown 
 patina; it was procured at Zante, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. HILARITAS P. 11. (Hilaritas Populi Romani.) On the exergum COS. III. (Consul 
 tertium.) In the field S. C. An elegant female bearing a cornucopiae intimates that plenty 
 produces cheerfulness ; and she holds a long palm branch which rests on the ground, as an 
 emblem of durable peace. On her left is a girl in robes, and on her right a naked boy who 
 assists in supporting the branch, as a bint that posterity would regard the treaties which 
 insured the public tranquillity. These children have been thought to betoken the happiness 
 of matrimony, — but the type was often struck without them. See Didia Clara. 
 
 This medal was minted to express the felicity of the Roman people, under the 
 government of Hadrian. Amongst other acts he had prohibited those nefarious sinks of 
 wretchedness and slavery, the private work-houses, wherein many a wayfarer had been 
 entrapped, and ended his days in want and hard labour. 
 
 CLXXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. HADRIANVS AVG. COS. III. P. P. (Hadrianus Augustus, Consul tertium, Pater 
 Patrice. J The laureated head of the Emperor in good relief. This medal i9 slightly var- 
 nished with yellow patina, and is in fair condition : it was presented to me by Consul General 
 Warrington, at Tripoli, in 1816. Biragi thinks it was struck A. D. 132. 
 
 Reverse S. P. Q. R. A. N. F. F. HADRIANO AVG. P. P. This compliment is inscribed within 
 a garland of laurel ; and I follow the learned Eckhel in reading it Senatus Populus Que 
 Romanus, Annum Novum, Faustum, Felicem, Hadriano Augusta, Patri Patrice, — 
 although, from the vexatious ambiguity of abbreviations, Havercamp may be correct in 
 interpreting A. N. F. F. Anno natali, Fieri fecit. There is a doubt what new year is 
 meant, — whether from the founding of the city, the birth-day of the Emperor, or that of 
 the kalends of January. When Claudius died and Nero commenced his reign, Seneca dated 
 a new year from his assumption of power. For the omission of S. C. see No. XXXII. 
 
 CLXXXVII. 
 
 Obverse HADRIANVS AVGVSTVS. A remarkably fine-finished profile of Hadrian, with a bare 
 head, and a chlamys fastened over the shoulders with a fibula. The couutenance is more 
 than usually expressive, and the beard and mustachios are well marked. This splendid 
 coin is covered with a bright-green patina, and is in perfect preservation; it was presented 
 to me at Ithaca, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. IVSTITIA AVG. COS. III. P. P. [Justitia Augusti, Consul tertium, Pater Patrice.) 
 
 On the exergum S. C. A dignified female in robes is seated on a magnificent throne, with 
 
 * Several coins of the subsequent Emperors which represent Provinces, have been purposely withdrawn from my 
 Geographical series of Hadrian, in order to admit of as great a variety of reverses as possible, in so small a cabinet : the 
 reader must therefor* consult the Index. 
 
 4 
 
( no ) 
 
 a patera in her right hand, and a sceptre, indicating the authority of her decisions, in the 
 left. Astraea is sometimes represented with the balance, but here the sacred saucer may sig- 
 nify the sacrifices offered up to the Emperor, for his strict administration of justice. In no 
 department of government did Hadrian's genius display itself better than in this. He 
 reformed the body of laws, and compressed them into a Code which was to continue in force 
 for ever, under the name of The Perpetual Edict, in order to prevent the confusion 
 arising from the recurrence of new ordinances, and to serve as a guide and rule in all the tri- 
 bunals of the Empire. This beneficial design was originally conceived by Caesar ; but it was 
 reserved for Salvius Julianus, an erudite civilian, to digest and compose it, and for Hadrian 
 to ratify it as an invaluable standard of civil jurisprudence. 
 
 SABINA. 
 
 Julia Sabina was the daughter of Matidia, the grand-daughter of Marciana, and 
 grand-niece to Trajan, but we are ignorant of the name and rank of her father. 
 She was greatly beloved by Trajan ; and being regarded as the heiress of the Em- 
 pire, the politic Hadrian was very assiduous in paying his court to her. Still all 
 his endeavours would probably have been fruitless, had not Plotina befriended him. 
 He married Sabina A. D. 100; but notwithstanding the splendour of her dower, 
 she passed a life of bitter anxiety, and perished A. D. 137, either by her own hand, 
 or by poison, — either extremity being the effect of Hadrian's cruelty and rigour ; 
 " etiam Sabina uxor, non sinefabuld veneni dati ab Hadriano, defuncta est," 
 is the assertion of Spartian.* 
 
 From the brilliancy of the Emperor's career, authors have started forth to vin- 
 dicate even his vices ; and poor Sabina has been painted as a shrew with little 
 eyes, wrinkled forehead, and a sharp nose — unerring symptoms of the peevishness 
 by which, it is said, her husband's ill-usage of her may be excused. Now medals 
 and marbles will fully bear out the assertions of other writers, that she was one of 
 the finest women of her time ; and, as Tristan has observed, her countenance itself 
 expresses those virtues for which she was distinguished, and which justified him in 
 adding — " veritablernent elle estoit sage, vertueuse, et magnanime." Her fea- 
 tures have certainly a grave expression, but the being united to Hadrian was 
 sufficient to banish gaiety from the face of any female. Yet she dutifully accom- 
 panied him in all his journeys, though in addition to her other cares, she was 
 treated with contumelious indignity. It is admitted that while in Britain, the 
 Emperor dismissed the celebrated Suetonius Tranquillus, his secretary, and Septimius 
 
 * The late discoveries in Hieroglyphic reading have shewn that the fine obelisk on Monte Pincio, at Rome, wa» 
 dedicated to the memory of Antinous, in the joint names of Hadrian and Sabina .' 
 
 > 
 
( 111 ) 
 
 Clarus an officer of the guards, for disrespectful behaviour to her ; but as their dis- 
 grace was expressly owing to their having acted thus without his permission, we may 
 imagine that she was usually treated with very little ceremony by the courtiers who 
 watched the nod of their master. This consideration, coupled with other glaring 
 and odious facts, may easily account for the bitter and otherwise hateful expression 
 which is said to have fallen from her ; " ne ex eo, humani generis pernicies 
 gravidaretur." 
 
 There is nothing historically particular in the Latin medals of Sabina, though 
 they are abundant in every metal, and — if we include Greek and Colonial — in every 
 form. Those of large-brass are valued in proportion to their perfection, and rarity 
 of reverse, for when in middling condition their price is very low; — the Con- 
 secration, the Carpentum, and the bust of Hadrian, are the scarcest, — but the 
 genuineness of the last is questioned. A striking peculiarity belongs to the series, 
 in that there are two distinct head-dresses, — the one in the elaborate style of 
 Matidia, and the other somewhat after the clubbed fashion of Antonia and the 
 Agrippinas. 
 
 CLXXXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. SABINA AVGVSTA HADRIANI AVG. P. P. {Sabina Augusta, Hadriani Augusti, 
 [scilicet uxor,) Patris Patrice.) The portrait of Sabina, with her hair beautifully tressed 
 round her head to a rich froutal diadem ; the features are fine and expressive of dignity, the 
 neck is well turned, and the shoulders are covered with a robe. It is thought that the Em- 
 press was honoured with the title of Augusta, on the very day that Hadrian became an 
 Augustus. This spleudid medal is densely coated with a dark-green patina, and is in sur- 
 prising preservation ; I purchased it at Pola, in Islria, in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. [Senalus consullu) on the exergum. A female veiled, and robed in the suffibuhim, is 
 seated on a curious cista ; she holds a torch, (he symbol of the search after Proserpine, in her 
 left hand, and some ears of wheat, as the inventress of tillage, in her right. This probably 
 represents Sabina herself in the characler of Ceres, — for iu a second-brass medal of this 
 Empress, we find her profile crowned with corn. 
 
 The worship of Ceres at Rome was anterior to that of Jupiter and Juno ; she was usually 
 described " mammis cum grandibus," but otherwise as a handsome and stately female, who 
 delighted in beautiful meadows, and perpetual springs. " La Guerre est enemye morlelle de 
 la Deesse," sailh old Du Choul, and whoever has seen corn-fields after a skirmish, will very 
 readily agree with him. 
 
 CLXXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. SABINA AVGVSTA HADRiANI AVG. P. P. [Sabina Augusta, Hadriani An gusli, 
 Patris Patrice.) An expressive profile of the Empress, with the hair bound by an anadema, 
 and hanging at the back of her neck. This medal is in good condition, and slightly var- 
 nished with a brown patina ; it was presented to me by Mr. T. Burgon, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. IVNONI REGINAE. In the field S. C. Juno stands in the dress of a Roman matron, 
 .with a sacred patera in her right hand, and the wand of divinity in her left : it being a com- 
 pliment to place the Augusta of the Romans with the Queen of the Gods. Juno Regina, or 
 Martialis, was greatly venerated in Rome as the sovereign dispenser of empire and riches; 
 whence Ovid, — 
 
 " Cur igitur Regina vocor, princepsque deorum ? 
 Aurea cur dextrae sceptra dedere meae ? " 
 
( 112 ) 
 
 cxc. 
 
 Obverse. S A BIN A AVGVSTA HADR1ANI AVG. P. P. (Sabina Augusta, Hadriani Augusti, 
 Patris Patrice.) A fine profile of Sabina, in bold relief, with a pleasing expression, fin* 
 neck, and shoulders covered with drapery. This medal is in excellent condition though 
 scarcely patinated, and was procured at Nice, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. VENERI GENETRICI. In the field S. C. A very elegant female, in light robes, stands 
 in an easy attitude, holding part of her drapery with one hand, and an apple in the other. 
 The last evidently alludes to the prize obtained from Paris ; bu-t the throwing of the apple in 
 love-feasts is also mentioned by Artemidorus, and alluded to by Virgil : — 
 " Malo me Galatea petit, lasciva puella ; 
 Et fugit ad salices, et se cupit ante" videri." 
 There were several goddesses of the name of Venus among the ancients ; but the illustrious 
 Newton seems to recognise no other than Calycopis, the daughter of Otreus, and mother of 
 JEneas, — the very one who was worshipped as the genetrix of the Julian race. Hence 
 Ausonius : — 
 
 " Orta salo, suscepta solo, patre edita Ccelo 
 iENEADUM Genetrix, hie habito, alma Venus." 
 And Lucretius, writing of the nature and origin of things, thus finely invokes her : — 
 "iENEADUM Genetrix, hominum divumque voluptas, 
 Alma Venus, Cceli subter labentia signa 
 Quae mare navigerum, quae terras frugiferentes 
 Concelebras. 
 
 CXCI. 
 
 Obverse. SABINA AVGVSTA HADRIANI AVG. P.P. (Sabina Augusta, Hadriani Augusti, 
 Patris Patrice.) The profile of Sabina, with a good and sensible expression of character, the 
 hair bound by an anadema, a finely-turned neck, and the shoulders covered by a robe. This 
 medal is coated with a chocolate-coloured patina, and is in perfect preservation ; I purchased 
 it from an Arab, at Zowarah, near Tripoli, in 1816. 
 Reverse. CONCORDIA AVG. (Concordia Augusti.) In the field S. C. A female in the robes 
 of a Roman matron standing against a small column, which signifies stability, bears a 
 double cornucopia? on her left arm, to denote the abundance and beneficial effects of mutual 
 agreement ; and she holds forth the sacred patera. This memorial of the harmony between 
 Hadrian and his wife, must have been struck in the spirit of a monumental lie, for a Senatus 
 Consultum could hardly be deemed a mere compliment. Notwithstanding Concord was a 
 favourite deity, as a beneficent promoter of family affection, we may gather from Juvenal that 
 her fane was somewhat ruinous : — 
 
 " O gold ! though Rome beholds no altar's flame, 
 
 No temples rise to thy pernicious name, 
 
 Such as to Victory, Virtue, Faith are rear'd, 
 
 And Concord, where the clamorous stork is heard, 
 
 Yet is thy full divinity confest, 
 
 Thy shrine establish 'd here, in every breast." 
 
 CXCII. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA AVGVSTA SABINA. The veiled head of the unfortunate Empress, with a placid 
 expression of countenance. This medal is unpatinated, and in secondary though sound con- 
 dition ; it was purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. On the lower verge S. C. The Empress, with a sceptre, ascending to 
 heaven on the back of a flying eagle. After her death, Hadrian may have been pleased to 
 procure his hapless wife a consecration, being regardless whither she was consigned, provided 
 he was left unshackled in his vicious courses. It is, however, more probable that the diva 
 was conferred by the authority of Antoninus Pius, as Hadrian died shortly after Sabina. 
 
( 113 ) 
 
 #1LIUS CESAR. 
 
 Lucius Aurelius Cejonius Commodus Verns was the son of Cejonius Commo- 
 dus, a man of consular rank, descended from an illustrious Hetrurian family. He 
 was adopted about A. D. 135, by the name of Lucius iElius Verus ; and Caesar 
 now first appears upon medals as an adjunct title of the presumptive heir to the throne. 
 He was elected Consul A. D. 136, created Pnetor, and sent to govern Pannonia, 
 where he acquitted himself with considerable credit ; but habitual debauchery having 
 broken a weak constitution, he returned to Rome, and died A. D. 138, on the very 
 day appointed for him to deliver a florid eulogium in honour of Hadrian's kindness 
 to him. 
 
 iElius possessed some good qualities, and accomplishments, but the motives 
 which induced his unexpected adoption by Hadrian are more than suspicious. His 
 capacity for ruling did not rise above mediocrity ; for it was remarked that he was 
 rather "not unfit" for the empire, than equal to it. He married Domitia Lucilla, the 
 daughter of Nigrinus, who was put to death by Hadrian in the beginning of his 
 reign. By her he had Lucius Verus, who was afterwards Emperor, and Fabia, who 
 was betrothed to Marcus Aurelius, but never married to him : it is said that after 
 the funeral of Faustina she made a " dead set " at him again, but the Philosopher did 
 not think it advisable to subject his children to the authority of a step-mother. iElius 
 treated Lucilla with disdainful neglect, telling her that wife was a title of honour, 
 not of pleasure ; — but what better could be expected from an effeminate sensualist, 
 whose studies were latterly confined to Ovid's Amours and Martial's Epigrams; 
 whose bed was decked with lilies and roses ; and who, on his journeys, had his chariot 
 attended by domestics with wings to their clothes, attired like so many Cupids 1 
 
 The medals of iElius are rare in the precious metals, but common in large and 
 middle-brass. There are no small-brass Latin coins; but Greek, Colonial, and 
 Egyptian specimens of that series, may be obtained. They are not of high his- 
 torical importance; on which account, though I have had fair types of Concordia, 
 Spes, Fortuna, Pietas, and Salus, I restricted my small cabinet to the two about to 
 be described, as possessing the greatest interest. 
 
 A numismatic hallucination must be noticed here. Many antiquaries have con- 
 tended stoutly to obtain for Domitia Lucilla, that medal of the wife of the Emperor 
 Verus which is inscribed FECVNDITAS, on the presumption that Domitia had 
 three, or more children, and Annia Lucilla but two. Moreover a remarkable cir- 
 cumstance is advanced in favour of the claim, viz: that all the other medals of 
 Aunia Lucilla have the distinctive legend LVCILLA ANTONINI AVG. F. while 
 
 Q 
 
( H4 ) 
 
 the contested one bears only LVCILLA AVGVSTA. Now both the features and 
 the fashion of the likeness on the medal are opposed to this supposition ; besides 
 which, so far from Domitia's obtaining the rank of Augusta, her very existence- 
 has been rendered disputable from her not being mentioned by Spartian. In fine, 
 there are no genuine medals in honour of the wife of iEiius Caesar ; and those de- 
 scribed as such by Occo, Biragi, Cooke, and others, are unquestionably misapplied. 
 
 CXCII. 
 
 Obverse. AELIVS CAESAR. A naked head, with curly hair, a beard, and handsome features. This 
 medal is in superior condition, and thickly coated with a deep-brown patina ; it was found at 
 Port Baratto, in Tuscany, (the site of Populonia,) in 1823, and immediately afterwards came 
 into my possession. 
 
 Reverse. TR. POT. COS. II. [Tribunitia poteslafc, Consul ilernm.) On the exergum S. C. 
 
 Fortune, with her rudder and cornucopias, is meeting- Hope, who advances in light vestments, 
 and bears the blossom before her. See No. XXXIX. This elegant device alludes to the 
 fortunate exaltation of iEiius, and the expectation of his becoming Emperor. But the hope was 
 vain, — and Hadrian — who had celebrated (he adoption with magnificent games, a public 
 largess, and a donative to the soldiers — could not conceal his chagrin, on perceiving that the 
 Caesar was passing to a sepulchre rather than a throne : In caducum," said he, if we may 
 credit Spartian, " parietem nos inclinavimus, ct perdidimus quater millies H. S. quod 
 populo et mi/ilibus pro adopt ione Commodi dedimus.'"* Alluding to the approaching 
 apotheosis of the sickening Caesar, the Emperor exclaimed — "Ego Divum udoplavi, non 
 Jiliutn ; and the event verified his prediction. 
 
 cxcnr. 
 
 Obverse. L. AELIVS CAESAR. The naked head of iEiius, with curly hair and beard, and a very 
 handsome countenance. This medal was struck A. U. 137 ; it is of pale-yellow brass, and 
 in good preservation though unpatinated. I purchased it at Rome, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. TR. POT. COS. II. [Tribunitia potestate, Consul iterum.) Across the field PAN- 
 NONIA, with S. C. under it. A stolated female with a crenate mitre, stands as a per- 
 sonification of the Province which was governed by iEiius. In her right hand she holds a 
 labarum, in token of the valour of her people; and with her left gathers up part of her vest 
 before her, as if containing something. 
 
 ANTONINUS PIUS. 
 Titus Aurelius Fulvius Boionius Arrius Antoninus, the son of Titus Aurelius 
 Fulvius and Arria Fadilla, was born at Lanuvium, a town of Latium, A. D. 86. 
 From his youth he behaved himself in a very dutiful and obliging manner to all his 
 relations, which proved the means of his being greatly enriched by legacies ; and 
 he acquitted himself in his public employments with reputation and success. 
 Having attained the fasces A. D. 120, he became one of the four appointed to 
 govern Italy, and afterwards served as Pro-consul in Asia, where he gained the 
 attachment of persons of all ranks and parties. On the death of JElius he was 
 
 * It should be noted that the above is an extract from Spartian's Life of Hadrian ; and that, in the /Elius Verus of the 
 same author, the Sesterces are reduced to " ter millies." 
 
( 115 ) 
 
 adopted by Hadrian, who is said to have decided upon choosing him, in consequence 
 of having" seen Antoninus lead his old and decrepit father-in-law to the senate 
 house. He assumed the names of Titus iElius Hadrianus Antoninus, A. D. 138, 
 was decorated with the title of Caesar, and advanced to the tribunitian power. To 
 the general joy of the whole empire, he succeeded Hadrian in the same year, and 
 was honoured with the usual imperial distinctions, to which the senate added that 
 of PIUS : the reason for this new and admired surname is variously given, — as his 
 JEneas-like filial affection, his saving the lives of the citizens whom Hadrian had 
 devoted to death, and his preventing that Emperor from committing suicide — butall 
 the accounts agree in assigning it to his affability, humanity, and regard for 
 religion, — to a character " miUi acei bus, cunctis benignus." Having reigned in 
 the hearts of the people 22 years, 7 months, and 26 days, he died of a fever, 
 at Loriuui in Hetruria, A. D. 161, universally lamented, immediately after having 
 given " JEquanimitas " as the parole to the praetorian guard. 
 
 Antoninus Pius has been described as tall, comely, and majestic ; mild, jocose, 
 well-informed, and eloquent ; bountiful, prudent, and diligent ; strongly inclined to 
 peace, and mercy ; yet withal both resolute and formidable. — and moreover, so 
 remarkable for the patient equity and minuteness with which he investigated causes, 
 that he was called " Cymini Sector," or divider of cummin-seed. He was an utter 
 enemy to pomp, being magnificent without ostentation, and frugal without parsi- 
 mony. He made no long journeys, because the "train of a prince, however moderate, 
 was too burtheusome to the people." He issued Rescripts to protect the Christians 
 from popular rage and legal persecution; he lessened the tribute, abolished all 
 sinecure offices, and extirpated the whole tribe of quadruplators, or fellows who 
 reaped a fourth part of the substance of those who were convicted of crimes upon 
 their accusation. Indeed his whole attention was directed to improve his dominions 
 and render his subjects happy ; and his goodness was so unalterable, that there is 
 record of its being superior to injuries. This fact has furnished little minds with a 
 notion that his lenity amounted to weakness, but it is a very mistaken view of 
 magnanimity : when Polemon, by whom he had been grossly affronted at Smyrna, ar- 
 rived at Rome, the Emperor, who considered revenge as a grovelling passion, received 
 the crabbed sophist with hospitality ; but, at the same time, to let him feel that 
 the injury though forgiven was not forgotten, lodged him in a handsome apartment, 
 and, with noble raillery, reminded him that " there was no fear of his being turned 
 out of it." 
 
 Although Antoninus was one of the greatest rulers that ever graced a throne, we 
 know but little of his actions — for he who merited the pens of a Virgil, a Tacitus, 
 
( 116 ) 
 
 or a Pliny, has, by the accident of ages, been almost left to the stumbling mis- 
 cellany of Julius Capitolinus.* Fortunately his character has been preserved, and 
 from the portrait so ably drawn by the illustrious Marcus Aurelius, we learn his 
 unshaken constancy in resolution formed upon mature deliberation — his freedom 
 from vain-glory — his application to business — his inflexible justice— -his contempt 
 of flattery — his aversion to state-mystery — his general talents, understanding, and 
 knowledge. We cannot wonder that such a sovereign was popular to such a degree 
 that neither the citizens nor soldiers could, for many years, look upon any one as 
 truly Emperor, who did not bear the venerated name of Antoninus. 
 
 Antoninus Pius was married to Annia Galeria Faustina, a woman of disposition 
 diametrically opposite to his own ; by her he had four children, of whom the two 
 boys died in their infancy, and probably before his own preferment, — for otherwise 
 it would have been unreasonable in Hadrian to insist on the adoption of M. Aurelius 
 and L. Verus, to their prejudice. Both the daughters were married, the second 
 being the notorious Faustina Junior. The dissolute life of his wife occasioned 
 great sorrow to the good Emperor, and he has been taunted with having extended 
 his lenity towards her, to a culpable extreme: but how applicable to the domestic 
 condition of so worthy a man, is the admirable observation of Pliny ? — " Multis 
 illustribus dedecori fuit, aut inconsultius uxor assumpta, aut retenta patientius. Ita 
 foris claros domestica destruebat infamia, etne maximi haberentur hoc efficiebat, 
 quod mariti miuores erant." 
 
 The Latin medals of Antoninus Pius are abundant in all but the smaller sizes, 
 and, except in cases of rare and historical reverses, at low prices ; Greece, Egypt, 
 and the Colonies, also minted largely to his honour. Including Annonas, Libe- 
 ralities, and the Moral Virtues, I had upwards of 90 of the large-brass series ; but 
 to avoid needless repetition and compress the series within moderate limits, I dis- 
 carded all except those here described. 
 
 CXCIV. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS. P. P. (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater Patrice.) A fine 
 laureated head of Antoninus, with a beard, and the countenance expressive of mildness and 
 gravity. This medal is coated with yellow patina, and is in excellent condition ; it was pro- 
 cured at Cephallonia, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. COS. II. (Consul iterum .) On the exerguin ASI A ; and in the field S. C. A stately 
 female crowned with turrets, in token of her numerous cities, stands with her left arm. on a 
 large anchor, which has two flukes, and a ring below the shank. In her right hand she 
 holds a curious casket, or basket, which the old Lord of St. Amand, probably from his 
 
 * The history of this Prince, by Dio, was lost above 800 years ago, and therefore before Xiphilinus undertook his 
 epitome. Gordianus Africanus, who was afterwards Emperor for about five weeks, wrote a poem entitled Antoniniades, 
 in honour of Antoninus Pius and Marcus Aurelius, but it has not reached our times. 
 
( H7 ) 
 
 specimen's being in a bad state, calls the prow of a ship ! This medal was struck A. D. 139, 
 and testifies the obligation which Asia felt towards their former governor, of whom Capitolinus 
 records, — " Proconsulalum Asice sic egit, ut solus avum vicerit." 
 
 There are various geographical medals of this reign, in which the Provinces are repre- 
 sented in the same attitude, — not sitting or reclining at ease, but standing with a casket on 
 the right hand. This casket is of debatable signification. Victors in the simple ages of 
 Rome were decorated with wreaths of laurel ; but as luxury advanced they were presented 
 with golden triumphal crowns, in great numbers, or with a certain quantity of gold deno- 
 minated aurum coronarium. Now it is likely that the caskets in question contained such 
 crowns; and the device may mean the congratulations which poured in from all parts of the 
 Empire, on the elevation of Antoninus Pius. This is the more probable because some of 
 these personifications are represented as actually holding crowns. 
 
 cxcv. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P., (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater Patrice.) A well 
 executed laurelled profile of Antoninus, with a thick beard, fine expression, and bare neck. 
 This medal is incrusted with a dense olive-green patina, and is in remarkably fine condition ; 
 it was purchased at Mr. M. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. CAPPADOCIA. On the exergum S. C. A martial female standing in a bold attitude, with 
 a corona turrita on her head, the meaning of which is conveyed in the " multce in Cappadocia 
 urbes inclytce" of Solinus. She is bearing a peculiar casket, as in No. CXC1V, and holds 
 a vexillura, or banner, with her left hand. At her feet is the type of Mount Argreus, with 
 a flame on its summit — a part which, according to Strabo, was always covered with snow. 
 The Romans despised the Cappadocians as a debauched and vicious people ; and Cicero, 
 alluding to their base servility, says — "De Grege Fenalium." This is a poor national character 
 for our Patron Saint ; nor did his countrymen fare better in earlier times — for the ancient 
 " rpta Kamma KaKisra " showed the contempt in which the Greeks held the Cretans, Cilicians, 
 and Cappadocians ; and their dislike for the last was expressed in a bitter epigram : — 
 
 " A viper, deadliest of the serpent brood, 
 
 In wrath, to kill a Cappadocian tried; 
 But ere it well had tasted of his blood, 
 
 The wretched reptile sickened, swelled, and died." 
 
 CXCVI. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS. P. P. (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater Patrice.) The 
 laureated head of Antoninus, with a grave aspect, and the neck bare. This medal was struck 
 A. D. 139, it is slightly patinated, but in fair condition; and was purchased at IVIr. M. 
 Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. PARTHIA. In the field S. C. A Parthian youth holding a tiara on his right hand, and rest- 
 ing his left on a bow and quiver of arrows, which being on the ground, denote peace. This 
 appears to allude to a present from Parthia on the same occasion as with No. CXCIV, — but 
 not being a Province, it was probably more to conciliate favour than tender a duly : t( Parthis 
 fides nulla, nisi quantum expedit, quibus utilitas semper est fide sanctior > ,, says Alex, 
 ab Alexandro. 
 
 CXCVII. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater Patrice.) A fine 
 and intelligent laureated profile of Antoninus, with a bare neck. This coin has a thin brown 
 patina, but is in good preservation; it was minted A.D. 139, and purchased from Mr. 
 Young, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. PHOENICE. In the field S. C A youthful figure wearing a singular cap, and with gar- 
 ments girded high up, has a wand in his left hand, and a casket, like that on No. CXCIV. on 
 his right. Beside him rises a palm-tree, the appropriate emblem of Phoenice. The 
 orthography of this reverse is quoted by Cellarius in his Ancient Geography. 
 
( 118 ) 
 
 CXCVIII. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater Patrice.) The 
 head of Antoninus laurelled and bearded. This medal is in good condition, and covered with 
 olive-greeen patina; it was procured at Palermo, in 1813. 
 
 Reverse. SICILIA. In the field S. C. An elegant robed female standing with a casket as in No. 
 
 CXC1V. and some ears of wheat in her left hand. This device differs widely from that on 
 Hadrian's coins, which exhibits Medusa's head with a full face, a thing very rarely met with on 
 large-brass. Sicily was also represented as Trinacria, by three legs issuing from a common 
 centre, like (lie present armorial bearings of the Isle of Man. 
 
 CXCIX. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS. P.P. (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater Patrice.) A fine 
 laureated head of the Emperor, with beard and marked muslachios. This medal is of bare 
 yellow-brass, and in good preservation ; it was struck A. D. 139, and was purchased of Mr. 
 Matthew Young, in 18'29. 
 
 Reverse. COS. IS. {Consul iterum.) In the field S. C. and on the exergum SYRIA. A female in 
 full robes, with a corona turrita on her head, is standing with a cornucopise on her left arm, 
 and holds a casket similar to that of No. CXCIV. on her right hand. At her feet is seen a 
 figure in the attitude of a swimmer, which is thought to typify the river Orontes. 
 
 CC. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater Patrice, 
 Tribunitia polestate.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with a placid countenance. This 
 medal is in excellent preservation, and coated with black patina ; it was fouud at Cerigotto, 
 and presented to me shortly afterwards. 
 
 Reverse. HONOR! AVG. COS. III. (Honori Augusta, Consul tertium.) In the field S. C. 
 
 A man clothed in the toga and laticlavium is holding a branch of olive in his right hand, and 
 a cornucopia? in his left, shewing that Honour tends to utility. This is the only moral virtue 
 depicted as a male, and its temple was so contrived that no one could enter it without having 
 previously passed through that of Virtue. The Romans used the term Honos in preference 
 to Gloria, because the latter admitted of a bad as well as good sense, and might imply 
 vain-glory — as in the "Miles Gloriosus " of Plautus ; and again in Horace : — 
 
 " Quern tulit ad scenam ventoso Gloria curru." 
 
 CCI. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG PIVS P. P. TR. P. COS. III. (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Paler 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestale, Consul tertium.) A fine laureated head of the Emperor, 
 with beard and mustachios. This medal is in a superior condition, and covered with a 
 brownish-green patina; it was purchased at Ischia, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. GEN 10 SENATVS. In the field S. C. A majestic figure in senatorial vestments, holds 
 an olive branch in his right hand, and a sceptre surmounted by an eagle, in his left; symbols 
 of the inclination to govern by peace. This is Antoninus, represented as the good genius of 
 the Senate, both on account of the respect he paid to that body, and also for his reversing the 
 law of Caligula, by which a moiety of the estates of senators devolved to the Emperor on 
 1 heir demise. 
 
 Though the Senate was the chief council of state, it had no fixed place of assembly, but 
 usually met in some temple. The senators were styled fathers out of respect to their years and 
 duties, and they were chosen from among candidates of the best reputation. In the early 
 ages of Rome, Patricians only sat in the Senate, — but afterwards all citizens, except freed- 
 men, had a right to aspire to that honour. 
 
 CC11. 
 
 Obverse ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. COS. III. {Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium.) A fine and expressive head of Antoninus 
 
( 119 ) 
 
 Pius, bearded and laureated, with the neck bare. This medal is in splendid condition, and 
 coated wiih yellow patina; it was found near the ruins of Carteia, by a Spanish peasant in 
 1824, of whom I purchased it. 
 Reverse. APOLLINI AVGVSTO. In the field S. C. A fine standing figure of Apollo Lyristes, 
 with the sacred patera in his right hand, and a cithara, or lyre of four strings, in his left ; and 
 he is habited — as if in token of the effeminate tendency of music — in female robes. Some me- 
 dallists consider this device as allusive to Antoninus's being the " Auctor publicce sospitatis ; 
 others consider it as the Apollo of Actium, to whom a temple was raised by Augustus, after his 
 victory over Antony : either explanation is admissible — though it is still more probably a com- 
 memoration of the Emperor's bounty to the theatres — " Amavit histrionum artes," says 
 Capitolinus. 
 
 CCIII. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. COS. III. {Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia poleslate, Consul tertium.) A singularly fine laurelled head of the 
 Emperor, with a countenance beaming thought and majesty. This medal is thickly covered 
 by a brown patina, and is in singular perfection ; it was minted about A - D. 140, and was 
 found among the ruins of Leptis Magna, by one of my Arab labourers, in 1810. 
 
 Reverse. IVNQNI SISPITAE. In the field S. C. A majestic robed female in the act of casting a 
 dart ; she bears a long shield on her left arm, and wears a goat-skin over her head and back, 
 thus testifying the description given by Cicero — " cum pel/e caprina, cum hustd, cum scu- 
 tulo, cum calceolis repce/idis." A sacred serpent is creeping before her, which Agostini 
 will have to represent the dissensions among the Britons ; but it is more probably an emblem 
 that prudence should precede an attack. — or perhaps it is a mere symbol of health, for Sis- 
 pita watched over those afflicted with Malaria. This reptile was fed annually, and as it 
 would not receive food from the hands of incontinent persons, Propertius says that it was an 
 ordeal of virginity. The device seems a compliment to the Emperor's birth-place, Lanuvium, 
 where he rebuilt, or repaired, the famous temple of the goddess. 
 
 Juno was stiled Sispita or Sospita, Pronuba, Mater Deum, Lucina, &c. from her office of 
 presiding over marriages, and their consequences ; and the month named from her was deemed 
 the most auspicious for the celebration of nuptials. 
 
 CC1V. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. COS. III. {Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium.) A sensible head of Antoninus Pius, 
 laureated and bearded, and with the neck naked. This rare medal was struck about A. D. 
 140, and is in excellent preservation, being covered with brown patina; it was procured by 
 exchange, at Cagliari, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. REX ARMEN1S DATVS. On the exergum S. C. Antoninus, in his toga, is placing a 
 diadem upon the head of the King of Armenia, who points his hand to the ornament, and is re- 
 presented as a smaller and younger person than the limperor. History has not informed us 
 of this interesting act, — all that we gather from the words of Capitolinus — " Parihorum 
 regem, ab Armeniorum expugnatione solis litttris repulit" — is, that Antoninus was a 
 successful mediator. 
 
 ccv. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. COS. III. [Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium.) The laureated profile of the Emperor, 
 with his shoulders covered with part of a sagum. This rare medal is barely patinated, and 
 in secondary condition ; it was purchased at Mr. M. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. REX QVADIS DATVS. On the exergum S. C. The togated Emperor extending his 
 right hand to a long-bearded athletic Barbarian, who, excepting a pallium over the shoulders, 
 is naked. This commemorates another important event upon which history is silent, — though 
 it is clear, from this evidence, that between the years A. D. 140, and 145, Antoninus 
 enthroned, or appointed a king over the Quadi. 
 
( 120 ) 
 
 CCVI. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVGVSTVS P1VS. Tlie laureated head of the Emperor, with a thick 
 beard, and an amulet on the neck. This medal is of considerable rarity ; it is in very fair 
 preservation, though thinly patinated, and was purchased at Mr. M. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. P. P. TR. P. COS. III. (Pater Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, Consul 'tertium.) 
 
 iEneas, as a bare-headed warrior, walking across the field ; on his shoulders sits Anchises, 
 covered with a robe, and holding a casket ; and he leads by the hand Ascanius, who wears a 
 Phrygian bonnet. This medal was minted between the third and fourth consulates of Anto- 
 ninus, and may be complimentary to his filial piety : " Patri etmalri, at que avis elj'ratribus 
 jam mortuis, statuas decretas libenter accepit." 
 
 The device may also imply the regard of the Emperor for the ancient religion of the Romans, 
 since he struck coins to Fortuna Obsequens ; Hercules destroying Cacus ; Navius cutting 
 a stone with a razor : and there is one representing Mars descending to the sleeping Rhea, 
 in second brass, by which Addison clearly explained the difficult passage in Juvenal, — 
 «' Ac nudam erfigiem clypeo fulgentis et hasta, 
 Pendentisque Dei perituro osteuderet hosti." 
 
 CCVII. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. COS. III. (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium.) A noble laureated profile of the Emperor, 
 with a beard, and the neck bare. This medal is in excellent perfection, and covered with a 
 dark-brown patiua; it was procured at Naples, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. IMPERATOR II. (Imperator iterum.) Across the field BRITAN. (Britannia,) with 
 S. C. under it. A graceful Victory alate, standing on a globe, holds forth a crown in her 
 right hand, and bears a palm-branch in the other. It appears that the Brigantes, a people 
 of Britain, having revolted and attacked the tribes in alliance with Rome, were signally 
 defeated by Lollius Urbicus, who constructed a new wall to remove the barbarians still further 
 northward. 
 
 CCVIII. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. COS. III. (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium.) The laurelled head of Antoninus, with a 
 bare neck. This medal is in sound condition, though from its redness it seems to have 
 been exposed to the action of fire; it was purchased at Mr. Henderson's sale, in 1830. 
 
 Reverse. BRITANNIA. On the exergum S. C. A warlike female with a diadem on her head, 
 and wearing trousers under her robes, is seated on a rock, in token of firmness and restored 
 tranquillity ; she holds a military standard in her right hand, and her left, which rests on a 
 shield, supports a long spear. The standard is the attribute of a garrisoned province, and 
 the spear and shield testify its warlike disposition ; for the Britons were then highly esteemed 
 for their valour and firmness, as may be seen in Pomponius Mela. The surface of the shield 
 is rubbed, but as the coin seems similar to that of the Florence Cabinet, its device was pro- 
 bably a bull's head. Pedrusi describes the spear as " doppiamenle armato," which is not 
 the case with any that I have examined. 
 
 CC1X. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. COS. III. (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium.) The Emperor's head, bearded, laureated, 
 and finely executed. This medal is thinly patinated, but is in capital preservation ; it was 
 procured from an officer, in 1831, by exchange, — "on paying the difference." 
 
 Reverse. BRITANNIA. On the exergum S. C. A martial figure with attributes, in close resem- 
 blance to those of No. CCVIII, with the exception of the shield being larger, and instead of 
 the bull's-head as an umbo, or boss, it is furnished with a long spike in the centre. 
 
 I must again notice the uselessness of pricing in medallic works, of which the Britannias 
 form an instance. From their local interest they are greatly sought by collectors, and when 
 
( 121 ) 
 
 in good condition fetch high sums, — insomuch that my friend, Mr. Thomas, paid no less than 
 £150. for a medallion of Commodus ; but it is a perfect gem. Now M. Mionnet has assigned 
 six francs as a general value for each of them ; — and he has, moreover, placed prices against 
 Germanicus, Britannicus, Agrippina Junior, Domitia, Plautilla, Annia Faustina, and Tran- 
 quillina, though possibly he never saw one of either of them on sale. In mentioning this, I do 
 not impugn the diligence and numismatic skill of that intelligent writer, but only regret 
 the trouble and waste of time he has thereby given himself. In fact, a person repairing to 
 Paris, to purchase large-brass coins, in consequence of such representations, would be bitterly 
 disappointed, — for they are dearer and more difficult to meet with there than in London. 
 See No. L. 
 
 ccx. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AYG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. COS. III. {Antoninus Augustus Pius, 
 Pater Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium.) A beautiful head of Antoninus, 
 laureated and bearded, and the neck bare. This medal is in perfect condition, though very 
 thinly patinated ; it was presented tome by Major General Sir Robert Travers, at Cephallonia, 
 in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. ITALIA on the exergum, and S. C.in the field. A majestic female, attired in magnificent 
 robes, is seated on a celestial globe marked with stars and a zodiac; and she is crowned 
 with turrets to denote the numerous cities of which she is the Mother. — "Turrigero canos 
 effundens vertice crines. In her right hand is a full cornucopiae, the emblem of fertility ; 
 and by the sceptre in her left, she claims universal dominion as the Bountiful Queen of the 
 World. Solinus thus sums up the advantages of which she can boast: — " Locorum salubri- 
 tatem, cceli temperiem, ubertatem soli, aprica collium, opaca nemorum, innoxios saltus, 
 olearumque proventus, ovilia, pecuaria, tot amnes, lacus tantos." 
 
 CCXI. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. COS. III. {Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium.) A fine laurelled head of Antoninus, with 
 the back of the head higher than usual on his profile ; the countenance is expressive of 
 goodness, the beard thick, and the neck naked. This medal is in very fine preservation, and 
 densely coated with green patina ; I procured it at Elba, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. CONCORDIAE. On the exergum S. C. The Emperor and Empress magnificently attired, 
 and standing on substructures, present their right hands to each other: in their left the 
 former holds an image of Concord, and the latter a sceptre — like another Juno. — Below 
 them are two smaller figures in exactly the same attitude, and a decorated altar in the centre 
 intimates that the rite was binding on all parties. This elegant device proclaims the addi- 
 tional bond of union in the Imperial Family by the marriage of Marcus Aurelius and Faustina 
 Junior — -a marriage which was celebrated with the utmost pomp and festivity. 
 
 CCXII. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. COS. III. {Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium.) A remarkably fine laureated head of the 
 Emperor, with a mild but dignified expression. This medal is coated with yellow patina, and 
 is in the highest possible conservation ; I procured it from the well-known Italian artist, 
 Signor Benucci,at Malta, in 1821. 
 
 Reverse. TIBERIS. On the exergum S. C. An admirably executed and venerable river-god, naked 
 to the loins, and of such colossal proportions as to merit the title of " Hesperidum regnator 
 aquarum.' 1 '' He reclines his left arm — bearing an aquatic plant — on an effluent urn; his head 
 is crowned with rushes, flowers, and fruits, in token of his fertilizing powers; and his right 
 hand is placed on a boat, to show that the Tiber is navigable. See No. CXXXI. This 
 device was probably struck on the Emperor's ordering an embankment, to prevent the ravages 
 of the river, for among the calamities which Capitolinus enumerates as happening about 
 that time — such as famine, fire, and earthquakes — he adds — "Fuit et inundatio Tiberis." 
 
 R 
 
( 122 ) 
 
 Even the cerulean robe of this deity is not forgotten by the ancient poets : thus Virgil says — 
 
 " Huic deus ipse loci fluvio Tiberinus amoeno 
 Populeas inter senior se attollere frondes 
 Visus ; eum tenuis glauco velabat amictu 
 Carbasus, et crines umbrosa tegebat arundo." 
 
 CCXIII. 
 
 Obverse. ANTON IN VS AVG. PIVS- P. P. TR. P. COS. III. {Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium.) A very characteristic profile of the Emperor, 
 with a beard, and a bare neck. This medal is densely incrusted with a bottle-green patina, 
 and is in perfect conservation ; it was presented to me by Dr. Dickson, at Tripoli, in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. (Senatus Consultu) on the exergum. A she-wolf giving suck to Romulus and Remus, 
 in a grotto, over which stands a cowering eagle. This illustrates the legendary tradition re- 
 specting the founder of Rome, a fable which may have originated in harlots being nick-named 
 lupce. The wolf and twins became the most popular symbol of the Roman state, and 
 Virgil mentions them as ornamenting the shield of iEneas, exactly as we see them upon 
 the medal : — 
 
 " Fecerat et viridi fsetam Mavortis in antro 
 Procubuisse lupam ; geminos huic ubera circum 
 Ludere pendentes pueros, et lambere matrem 
 Impavidos." 
 
 CCXIV. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. COS. III. (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium.) A fine laureated head of the Emperor, with 
 a remarkably mild expression. This medal is coated with a rich olive-green patina, and is in 
 the highest preservation ; it was purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832, being Lot 3029, and 
 is by far the best of several which I have had with the same reverse. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. (Senatus Consultu.) A large sow suckling seven pigs, with another standing under her 
 head. This relates to the oracular vision which revealed to iEneas the founding of Lavinium — 
 and the mysterious wild animal is under a spreading oak-tree — " sub ilicibus sus." 
 
 ccxv. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS. P. P. TR. P. COS. III. (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium.) The laurelled head of Antoninus, with a 
 beard, and the neck naked. This medal is in superior preservation, though thinly patinated ; 
 it was procured at Abukir, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. PRO VIDENTI A E DEORUM. In the field S. C. A mighty thunder-bolt, winged and 
 five-pointed at each end. This is an attribute of sovereign power equal with that of the gods ; 
 and some medallists have considered this reverse to have been in compliment to the Emperor, 
 while the legend reminded him that divine providence had raised him to greatness. But it 
 may merely commemorate what Capitolinus mentions — "Julgur caelo sereno sine noxa in ejus 
 domum venisse." 
 
 The fulmen is not always represented thus ; — it is sometimes a blazing mass wreathed 
 closely together, in a shape not unlike that of the fossil belemnite which is popularly called 
 thunder-stone ; — at other times there are two transverse darts, with wings to denote swiftness ; 
 and occasionally it is represented as a handful of flames, let loose in the utmost fury. As 
 trifidium, or trisulcum, it has three pointed forks, to denote the triple power of piercing, burning, 
 and melting : and Virgil thus describes a dreadful quadripotent weapon :— 
 
 " Three points of rain ; three forks of hail conspire ; 
 Three arm'd with wind ; and three were barb'd with fire. 
 The mass they temper'd thick with livid rays, 
 Fear, wrath, and terror, and the lightning's blaze." 
 
( 123 ) 
 
 CCXVI. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS. P. P. TR. P. COS. III. (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium.) A dignified laurelled head of the Emperor, 
 with an ornament on his left shoulder. This medal is densely covered with an olive-green 
 patina, and is in the best possible preservation ; it was presented to me by Shellah Rei's, the 
 Tripoline Admiral, in 18 1G. 
 
 Reverse. OPI AVG. [Opi Augusti.) On the exergum S. C. The goddess, holding a wand trans- 
 versely in her right hand, points with her left to her crowned head. She is attired as a Roman 
 Empress, and a part of the dress is spotted so as to resemble an ermined robe. There was a 
 temple at Rome, dedicated to the wife of Saturn, who was adored under the names of Ops, 
 Rhea, Cybele, and Terra ; but from Cicero's admission we may infer, that by Opi was particu- 
 larly meant a plentiful supply, from the earth, of all the things which render life happy, — 
 whence Plautus says " Ops Opulentia." The goddess is represented seated as an indication 
 of security and it is said that her worshippers sacrificed sitting, in allusion to the stability 
 of the earth. 
 
 Some antiquaries have confounded this goddess with Diana, and the nymph mentioned by 
 Virgil and Macrobius. There are only two inscriptions which mention her under the appellation 
 of Ops ; and Gruter remarks it as a singularity that her name is placed before that of Saturn on 
 the front of a temple raised to them, in which the public treasure was deposited. She was 
 exceedingly popular, and new-born babes wtre made to sit on the ground and squall, which 
 was termed "calling upon Ops." Pregnant women carried a figure of this goddess, which, 
 if the child was still-born, or deformed, was beat to powder, burnt, or thrown into the river. 
 SeeMatri Magnce of Faustina Junior. 
 
 CCXVII. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. COS. III. [Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, Consul tertium.) An expressive laureated profile of Antoninus, 
 with a bare neck. This is an unpatinated coin of yellow brass, in singularly high preservation ; 
 it was procured at Alcamo, in Sicily, in 1813. 
 
 Reverse. AVRELIVS CAESAR AVG. PII F. COS. (Aurelius Ccesar, Augusti Piifilius, Consul.) 
 
 On the lower verge S. C. The naked head of the youthful Marcus Aurelius, with curly hair, 
 and his shoulders covered with a laticlavium fibulated. The expression of the countenance 
 is open and pleasing. This was struck A. D. 140, the year in which Antoninus, having given 
 him his daughter Faustina in marriage, advanced Aurelius to the Fasces. 
 
 CCXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. [Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater Patrice, 
 Tribunitia potestate.) A finely executed head of Antoninus, laurelled and bearded, and with 
 the neck bare. This medal is scarcely patinated, but is in excellent condition ; it was pre- 
 sented to me by my friend, Mr. T. Burgon, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. COS. 1111. [Consul quartum.) In the field S. C. Apollo stands gracefully with a palu- 
 damentum over his shoulders ; in his right hand he holds a branch of laurel, his distinguishing 
 symbol, and in the other a javelin pointed at both ends, to denote the intensity of his power— 
 " ut per sagittas intelligatur vis emissa radiorum ; " yet its being held in the left hand 
 shews an unwillingness to destroy. The head of the deity is encompassed with a large nimbus 
 or glory — an ornament which was made of gold. According to the erudite Ciampini the 
 nimbus, or meniscus, was a symbol of Eternity among the pagans — and it was afterwards 
 transferred from their gods to the Christian saints. On the coins of the Lower Empire it is 
 a regal distinction, till the time of John Zemisces. 
 
 CCXIX. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. XII. (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate duodecimum.J A fine and characteristic portrait of the 
 Emperor, with his neck bare, and an ornament on the left shoulder, The medal is coated 
 with a spotted patina, and is in superior condition, — I procured it at Girgenti, in 1814. 
 
( 124 ) 
 
 Reverse. TEMPORVM FELICITAS. Towards the lower verge S. C. and on the exergum COS. IIII. 
 
 {Consul quartum. J Two cornucopiae placed saltier-wise, on each of which is an infant's 
 head and bust, placed on the fruit and corn with which the horns are charged. This type of 
 the felicity resulting from plenty was probably struck on the births of Lucilla and another 
 child to Marcus Aurelius and Faustina Junior, by which the happiness and prosperity of the 
 empire seemed to be consolidated. Numismatists, however, differ respecting its object. 
 Some consider it as having been struck in honour of the two infant sons of Antoninus — but as 
 they probably died long before his adoption, they could not have formed a felicitous presage 
 for A. D. 149. Others ascribe it to Commodus and his twin-brother, but this has been done 
 without attending to dates, since they were not born till 12 years afterwards ; and, moreover, 
 the heads are clearly of different sexes. A similar remark applies to the observation of 
 Oiselius, that it was struck in token of joy ou the marriage of Aurelius and Faustina, for that 
 union took place in A. D. 140. 
 
 ccxx. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS. P.P. TR. P. ( Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater Patriae, 
 Tribunitia potestate.J A remarkably fine head of Antoninus, laurelled, bearded, and the 
 neck naked. This medal is cased with a thin coat of brown patina, and is in splendid per- 
 fection ; 1 procured it at Corinth, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. COS. HIT. ( Consul quar him J on the exergum, and under it S. C. The Emperor in a 
 quadrigated car, the horses of which are in a slow walk ; he holds a sceptre before him sur- 
 mounted by an eagle. Pedrusi, Vaillant, and Havercamp think this device relates to the 
 victories over the Brigantes, Mauretanians, and other insurgents ; but as Antoninus never 
 triumphed, the type more probably represents a consular, or ceremonial procession. Another 
 large-brass medal representing Victory in a galloping quadriga, whipping the horses, may 
 have been struck to commemorate the successes of the Emperor's lieutenants. 
 
 CCXXI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. T. AEL. HADR. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. [Jmperator Ccesar, 
 Titus JElius Hadrianus Antoninus, Augustus, Pius, Pater Patrice.) A strikingly fine 
 laureated head of the Emperor, with a fuller forehead than usual. This medal is in excellent 
 preservation, and covered with bright brown patina ; it was purchased at Lord Morton's sale, 
 in 1830. 
 
 Reverse. TR. POT XV. COS. IIII. (Tribunitia potestate decimum-quintum, Consul quartum.) 
 
 On the exergum S. C. A splendidly executed equestrian figure of the Emperor, which 
 presents the union of ease and beauty in an eminent degree. Antoninus is bare-headed, and 
 wears the laticlavium ; his left hand is gracefully raised, and his right holds a parazonium. 
 Though the use of spurs was known for ages before the date of this medal, it is singular that 
 neither on medals nor statues are they ever represented. Lucian's Cobler says, the boy whom 
 Mars placed as his sentinel was turned into a cock, who to this day has the crest and " spun 
 he then wore.''' 
 
 CCXXII. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS P. P. TR. P. XVII. {Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, decimum-septimum .) The laureated and bearded head of the 
 Emperor, with a bare neck. This medal is in the finest condition, and covered with a light 
 brown patina; it was procured at Pola, in Istria, in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. 1NDVLGENTIA AVG. COS. IIII. (Indufgentia Augusti, Consul quartum.) A robed 
 female seated on a throne, with a sceptre in her left hand, and her right stretched out and open. 
 This reverse confirms the words of Capitolinus respecting this good Emperor — " Quod ad 
 indulgentias promptissimus fait." Antiquaries have, however, attributed the device to the 
 open-handed munificence with which Antoninus celebrated the 900th year of Rome, (A. D. 
 146,) when elephants, rhinoceroses, crocodiles, tigers, and other wild animals, with no fewer 
 than 100 lions, were exhibited. But this is not likely ; for by the tribunitian date, the medal 
 was not minted till seven years after those games. 
 
( 125 ) 
 
 Medals have done more to record the bounty of these princes, than history ; for the coins 
 of Antoninus make mention of eight largesses bestowed by him upon the people, none of 
 which are enumerated by Capitolinus. " He gave," saith Marcus Aurelius, "games, and shews, 
 and largesses by weight and measure, not from ostentation, nor with a view to popularity, but 
 to discharge a debt exacted by custom." 
 
 CCXXIII. 
 
 Obverse. ANTONINVS AVG. PIVS. P. P. TR. P. XXII. (Antoninus Augustus Pius, Pater 
 Patrice, Tribunitia potestate, vigesimuni-secundum.) An expressive laurelled head of 
 Antoninus, with a bare neck. This medal is very thinly patinated, but is in excellent con- 
 dition ; it was purchased of Mr. Mathew Young, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. TEMPL. DIVI. AVG. REST. (Templum Divi Augusti restitutum.) On the exergum 
 COS. 1111. (Consul guar turn.) In the field S. C. An octostyle temple, richly decorated 
 with sculpture. In the centre are two sedent statues, whence it is inferred to be the 
 fane dedicated to Rome and Augustus. See No. VI. Two togated citizens appear on the 
 plinth of steps. We have here a circumstance unnoticed by the historians of this reign ; and 
 by this, together with the repairs of the temple of Augustus and Livia inscribed Pietas, as 
 well as those of Venus Felix and Roma iEterna, Antoninus manifested the qualities which 
 placed him even before Numa, and justified his appellation of PIUS, — a name held in such 
 veneration as to be assumed by succeeding emperors. There is also medallic evidence that he 
 bore the title of " Optimus Princeps," though history does not mention it. 
 
 1 have a large-brass medal of this Emperor inscribed S. P. Q. R. AMPLIATORI 
 CIVIVM, — but it has so suspicious a look that I cannot vouch for its authenticity ; — yet 
 when, in addition to the abovementioned restorations, we recollect his other public works, we 
 cannot deny to Antoninus the agnomen of " Enlarger.'" 
 
 CCXXIV. 
 
 Obverse. DIVVS ANTONINVS. The head of the Emperor, with a grave countenance, unlaureated, 
 and the neck bare. This medal is densely coated with a deep-brown aerugo, and is in the 
 highest state of preservation ; it was presented to me by Consul-General Warrington, at 
 Tripoli, in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. In the field S. C. A magnificent Rogus, or funeral pile, of four stories 
 which decrease towards the summit 5 it is richly decorated with drapery, images, and festoons ; 
 and is surmounted by a triumphal quadriga, — verifying the words of Dio : — in summa ejus 
 eurrus inauratus, quo imperalor olim vehebatur, collocatus erat." Capitolinus tells us the 
 senate were unanimous in voting this consecration, and that every possible honour was paid to 
 the memory of a prince so remarkable for piety, clemency, and wisdom, and who had never 
 dipped his hands in the blood of a citizen : qualities which screened him from Julian's sar- 
 casms. The historian adds, — "Periit anno septuagesimo, sed quasi adolescens desideratus 
 
 CCXXV. 
 
 Obverse. DIVVS ANTONINVS. The bare head of Antoninus, as in the last. This medal is covered 
 with a grass-green aerugo, and in good condition; it was purchased from Mr. Till, in 18J6. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. (Senatus Consultu,) on the exergum. A colossal sedent statue of the Emperor, 
 holding a laurel branch in his right hand, and ahasta pura in his left ; it is placed on a mag- 
 nificent car drawn by four elephants in stately trappings, and mounted by their guides. See 
 Nos. VIII, and CXLVI. 
 
 This is another mark of respect for the obsequies of Antoninus. The ancients were so 
 scrupulous respecting these rites, that Chabrias, the Athenian admiral, having defeated the 
 Lacedemonian fleet, instead of pursuing the flying foe, chose rather to let the enemies of his 
 country escape, than neglect gathering up the bodies of the slain, fearing lest the superstition of 
 the people should lead them to destroy him, as had before been the case with the cor.querors in the 
 sea-fight at Arginussae. Priam braved the hostile camp to recover the corse of his son ; Cimon 
 
( 126 ) 
 
 redeemed his father's body from an enemy's prison at the price of his own liberty ; and Horace 
 makes the ghost of Archytas — the surveyor of Sea, Earth, and Heaven — thus implore a 
 passing sailor : — 
 
 "At tu, Nauta, vagae ne parce malignus arenas, 
 
 Ossibus et capiti inhumato 
 
 Particulam dare 
 
 Quanquam festinas, non est mora longa, licebit 
 
 Injecto ter pulvere curias." 
 
 CCXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. DIVVS ANTONINVS. The bare head of Antoninus, with a fixed cast of features, and the 
 neck naked. This medal is in excellent preservation, and varnished with brown patina; it 
 was procured at Pantellaria, in 1817. 
 
 Reverse. DIVO PIO. In the field S. C. An altar like that of Augustus, in second-brass, which is 
 inscribed Provident ia, and also like the Ara Pacis of Nero, but less decorated. In the 
 centre is a grated door resembling one to a similar structure among the tombs recently exposed 
 to view at Pompeii. This altar is another symbol of the adoration rendered to the defunct 
 Emperor,— " Meruit et Jiaminem, et circenses, et templum, et sodales Antoninianos." 
 
 CCXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. DIVVS ANTONINVS. The profile of the deified Emperor, with fixed features, the hair cut 
 close, and the head unlaureated. This medal is covered with a light-brown patina, and is in the 
 highest conservation; it was procured at Patras, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. DIVO PIO. In the field S. C. The celebrated Antonine column, with a colossal statue of 
 the Emperor on its summit, and its base surrounded by a rail-ivork. This column was 
 erected by Marcus Aurelius in the field of Mars, in imitation of that of Trajan, to which, 
 however, it was inferior in all respects except that of height. See Nos. CXXXVII and 
 CXXXVIII. The dimensons of this monument are thus given by Publius Victor : "Tem- 
 plum Divi, cum Coclide columnd, quae est alta pedes 175, habet intus gradus 206, et 
 fenestellas 56." It still exists in situ, though it has been greatly damaged by fire ; and 
 Pope Sixtus Vth, having placed St. Peter on Trajan's pillar, set up St. Paul on this. The 
 outside is spirally encrusted with the wars of Aurelius against the Marcomanni, whence some 
 antiquaries think it can hardly be the one represented on the medal ; and they would fain 
 substitute a plain granite pillar found about a century ago. But there was surely nothing in- 
 consistent in the Philosopher's dedicating the details of his career to his august predecessor. 
 
 A very remarkable part ot these sculptures ought not to be passed over unnoticed, the 
 figure of Jupiter Pluvius sending down rain to the famished soldiers of Aurelius — who are hold- 
 ing up their mouths, bucklers, and helmets to catch the shower — and at the same time, darting 
 thunderbolts upon their enemies. This has been hailed by some ecclesiastical writers as an 
 unequivocal confirmation of the story of the Christian Legion, and the efficacy of their prayers 
 for assistance. (See De Surmatis of M. Aurelius.) Yet the heathens attributed the same 
 miracle to the piety of their Emperor. It is singular that M. Dacier, among several quotations 
 upon this subject, has taken no notice either of this figure upon the column, or of the beautiful 
 passage in which Claudian paints the havoc which the lightning made among the barbarian 
 warriors, and says — 
 
 " Chaldaea mago seu carmina ritu 
 Armavere deos ; seu, quod reor, omne Tonantis 
 Obsequium Marci mores potuere mereri." 
 
( 127 ) 
 
 FAUSTINA SENIOR. 
 
 Annia Galeria Faustina, the daughter of Annius Verus and Rupilia Faustina, 
 was sister to iElius Caesar, and aunt to Marcus Aurelius. She was born A. D. 105, 
 and was married to Antoninus Pius before his adoption by Hadrian. She was 
 honoured with the title of Augusta in the first year of her husband's reign, but did 
 not long enjoy her imperial dignities, as she died A D. 141 ; — when, notwithstand- 
 ing her dissolute life she was, at the express request of Antoninus, honoured with 
 divine worship, — games were instituted to her memory, and her statue was carried 
 among those of the other deities, at the Ludi Circenses. 
 
 Faustina was a woman of singular beauty, cheerful disposition, and insinuating 
 manners, but as licentious in her conduct as her brother ; nor did her elevation to 
 rank check her vicious propensities. Antoninus was not unacquainted with her 
 irregularities ; but as he found it impossible to reform her, he did all that lay in his 
 power to keep her disorders concealed from the public eye, and maintain the credit 
 of the throne. To her other vices she added covetousness, and was thereby led to 
 chide the Emperor for his generosity to the indigent citizens. 
 
 The infamous behaviour of Faustina, does not seem to have lessened the regret 
 of the good Antoninus at her death ; whence it may be presumed that he held to 
 the maxim " whilst there is life there is hope." This regard is particularly shewn 
 by a more abundant mintage to her apotheosis, than was made to the memory of any 
 Empress before or after. From this cause her medals are very common in all metals 
 and modules, except third brass, and are therefore collected with a strict attention 
 to high preservation. Of her gold coins the most highly prized is one with the 
 legend " Puellte Faustiniance" as it commemorates the establishment of an asylum 
 for orphans, in her honour. 
 
 CCXXV1II. 
 
 Obverse. FAVSTINA AVG. ANTONINI AVG. PH. P. P. (Faustina Augusta, Antonini Au- 
 gusti /'scilicet uxor J Pii, Patris Patrice.) The portrait of Faustina with a beautiful 
 countenance, and her hair tastefully braided round the crown of her head — in a fashion which 
 still exists among the women of Gaeta. This medal and Concordia, are the only large-brass 
 specimens of this Empress that I have ever seen, which were struck before her apotheosis ; — 
 it is in singularly high preservation, and covered with a deep-brown patina; it was found by 
 one of the Arabs whom I employed in excavating Leptis Magna, in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. VENERI AVGVSTAE. In the field S. C. A soft and easy figure of Venus standing,— a 
 compliment to the personal beauty of Faustina. She is attired in light robes, and a superb 
 head-dress ; with her right hand she lifts the sacred veil, and holds the mystic apple in her 
 left. See CXC. 
 
 CCXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA AVGVSTA FAVSTINA. The head of Faustina, with her hair braided, and bound 
 in an anadema, — the neck graceful, aDd her shoulders covered with a robe. This medal is in 
 
( 128 ) 
 
 superior condition, and thinly coated with yellow patina ; it was presented to me at Gibraltar, 
 in 182!. 
 
 Reverse. EX. S. C. f Ex Senatus Consultu,] on the exergum. A magnificent thensa drawn by 
 two harnessed mules, in token of the deification of the Empress. The body of the car is orna- 
 mented with rich sculpture, and the tilt, or roof, is of a singular construction. See Nos. XVII. 
 and XXXII. 
 
 CCXXX. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA AVGVSTA FAVSTINA. A handsome profile of the Empress, with the hair as on 
 the last. This medal is in excellent condition, but without patina ; it was purchased at Mr. 
 Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. EX. S. C. ( Ex Senatas Consultu, J on the exergum. A statue of Faustina seated on 
 a throne, which is placed upon a richly decorated Jbur-ivheeled car, and drawn by two 
 elephants with trappings and guides. The Empress is attired and veiled as Ceres, with a 
 wand and some ears of wheat ; this was a favorite deity, for we find her on the medals of 
 Faustina under various forms, — some with one torch, and others with two, in allusion to the 
 search after Proserpine. This medal commemorates the funeral pomp which attended the 
 obsequies of Faustina, and was struck by a particular decree of the senate. 
 
 CCXXXI. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA FAVSTINA. A beautiful head of Faustina, with a slope of neck which confers grace 
 upon the bust ; the shoulders being neatly covered with drapery. This medal is in perfect 
 preservation, and is varnished with a bright brown patina ; it was procured at Corinth, in 
 May, 1820. 
 
 Reverse. AETERNITAS. In the field S. C. A standing robed female, who is holding her garment 
 out with her left hand, and with her right supports a globe, on which stands a phoenix with 
 a radiated head. This device was struck in compliment to the supposed immortality of Faus- 
 tina ; and it is one of about twenty of this Empress, under the semblance of different 
 goddesses, which 1 have had, with the legend of Mternitas, or Augusta. 
 
 Though Eternity was deified, we find neither temples nor altars dedicated to her; but 
 there are abundance of medals in her honour. She is usually represented as a female either 
 standing or sitting, with a globe, because, as Manilius says, there is "No end and no begin- 
 ning in an orb." Sometimes she holds a radiated head for Sol in one hand, and a crescent, 
 for Luna in the other, it being reckoned that, as they seemed to perish every night and renew 
 themselves every morning, their course would never have an end ; — and some of the figures are 
 veiled to denote that eternity is inscrutable. But the phoenix was the most popular attribute 
 of this goddess ; for it was believed to spring out of its own ashes, and so to be in a manner 
 immortal ; and it was decorated with a nimbus, or circle of rays round its head, to shew its 
 fancied lineage from the sun. Claudian says — 
 
 " A god-like bird, whose endless round of years 
 Outlasts the stars, and tires the circling spheres : — 
 Begot by none himself, begetting none, 
 Sire of himself he is, and of himself the son; 
 His life in fruitful death renews its date, 
 And kind destruction but prolongs his fate." 
 
 CCXXXII. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA FAVSTINA. A fine head of Faustina, with beautiful features, and the bust robed. 
 
 This medal is covered with a grass-green patina, and is in very pure condition; it was brought 
 
 to me by an Arab, in the Wadi Zemzem, near Ghirzah, in 1817. 
 Reverse. AETERNITAS. On the exergum S. C. A splendid two-wheeled elephant biga, on which 
 
 is a sedent statue of the defunct Empress ; and over it a canopy supported on four columns. 
 
 She is represented veiled and holding the sacred wand, which, together with the animals, are 
 
 emblems of immortality. See No. VIII. 
 
( 129 ) 
 CCXXXIII. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA AVGVSTA FAVSTINA. The profile of Faustina, with the hair dressed and the 
 bosom covered, as before. This medal is in very good preservation, and incrusted with brown 
 patina; it was presented to me by Signor Carlo Garibaldi, at Alghero, in Sardinia, in 1824. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. On the exergum S. C. A stately rogus, ornamented with columns, 
 tapestry, and festoons, and surmounted with a bigated car. From its magnitude and mag- 
 nificence, this has more the appearance of a mausoleum thau a funeral pyre. 
 
 CCXXX1V. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA AVGVSTA FAVSTINA. The head of the Empress, with the usual expression, but 
 veiled. This medal is in good preservation, though unpatinated ; it was purchased from 
 Mr. Young, in 1826. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. On the lower verge S. C. The Empress ascending to heaven, on the back 
 of a monstrous eagle; she holds a sceptre, and the floating veil over her head is marked with 
 stars. The frequent recurrence of this device proves that, the " King of Birds" was not so 
 exclusively assigned to the apotheosis of emperors, as hath been asserted. See No. CXLV. 
 This was closely copied on a medal struck in Germany, in 1832, to the memory of Goethe. 
 
 CCXXXV. 
 
 Obverse, DIVA FAVSTINA. An expressive veiled head of Faustina, with the bust robed. This 
 medal is entirely coated with a deep-green patina, and is in fair preservation; it was found at 
 Colchester, in 1825, and was presented to me by my friend Captain Henry Downes, R. N. 
 of that town. 
 
 Reverse. AETERNITAS. On the exergum S. C. A hexastyle temple, with a sedent deity in the 
 adytum ; it is inclosed in a railing, and the pediment and apex are adorned with statues and 
 sculpture. This commemorates the extravagant honours paid to Faustina, when deified ; and 
 among the many testimonies of this strange consecration, none are more remarkable than the 
 temple here represented, the original of which is still extant, with a corroborative inscription 
 as legible as if chiselled yesterday. It stands on the margin of the Campo Vaccino, as the 
 site of the Forum is rallpd, and is now the church of San Lorenzo in Miranda. The portico, 
 which flanked the Via Sacra, consists of six columns of Cipollino marble in front, and two in 
 depth ; it was formerly buried more than half the height of these columns, but they have now 
 been again laid open to their bases. This temple was at first dedicated to Faustina only, but 
 on the demise of Antoninus, became common to both. 
 
 GALERIUS ANTONINUS. 
 
 Marcus Galerius Antoninus, the son of Antoninus Pius and Faustina, appears to 
 have died in infancy, before the adoption of his father. This child has been barely 
 mentioned by historians, and entirely overlooked by the Latin iVIoneyers ; but the 
 Greeks struck a few medals in his honour, and from their love of adulation, a capital 
 likeness of the youth has descended to us, as well as his name, which otherwise would 
 have been lost. 
 
 CCXXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. M. rAA8PIOC ANT&NINOC AYTOKPATOPOC ANTG0N5INOY YIOC. 
 
 (Marcus Galerius Antoninus, Imperatoris Antonini Jilius.) A beautiful infantine head of 
 Galerius, with curly hair and robed shoulders. This rare medal, which is in the best condition, 
 and coated with brown patina, was purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832, where it formed lot 
 
 S 
 
( 130 ) 
 
 No. 3045. It differs from those published by Tristan, Patin, Pedrusi, and Alessandro Visconti ; 
 and is the more remarkable as the word Antoninus is spelled in different ways, on the same 
 legend. 
 
 Reverse. ©£A OAYCTSINA. A fine head of Faustina, with a veil, and her shoulders robed ; the 
 likeness is more correct than usual on Greek Imperial medals, from which it may be inferred 
 that Galerius is also faithfully represented. It is manifest that this medal was struck after the 
 death of the Empress ; but there is no clue to enable us to tell where it was minted. From 
 the fabric, and style of the inscription, it is pretty certain that it was struck in Asia Minor. 
 
 MARCUS AUREL1US. 
 
 Marcus Annius Verus Catilius Severus, son of Annius Verus the Praetor, and 
 Domitia Calvilla, was born at Rome, A. D. 121. As his father died while he 
 was yet very young, he was brought up by Hadrian, who, in compliment to his 
 sincerity, called him Verissimus, — an appellation by which Justin Martyr addresses 
 him in his second apology. He was adopted by Antoninus A. D. 138, and declared 
 Caesar, under the name of Marcus JEIius Aurelius Verus. He now married Faustina 
 Junior, became Consul, held the Tribunitian power, and was consulted by the 
 Emperor on all affairs of moment ; being suffered to govern as if he were a partner 
 on the throne. This mutual confidence and attachment continued for nearly 23 
 years, when Aurelius succeeded Antoninus, and realized Plato's observation, that 
 those commonwealths are happy whose rulers philosophise, and whose philosophers 
 rll ]e 5 — for his reign was generally styled the golden age of Rome. After diffusing 
 happiness throughout his dominions during a period of 19 years, and 10 or 12 days, 
 he expired at Vindobona, A. D. 180. Dio positively asserts that he was poisoned 
 by the emissaries of Commodus ; but Commodus has quite enough to answer for 
 without this grave charge, and the death of his father may be more reasonably 
 attributed to the fatigues of an inclement winter-campaign, acting on a constitution 
 naturally delicate, weakened by unceasing study, and too strict a regimen. 
 
 Padre Pedrusi, arriving at the first medal of Aurelius, exclaims—" Un nuovo 
 personaggio esce in teatro, e fa nobile scena" — and really it is no small pleasure 
 to scrape a kind of acquaintance with, perhaps, the best prince who ever swayed a 
 sceptre. His address was agreeable and engaging ; for he was modest without 
 timidity, and grave without austerity. He had no art, but was at all times the same 
 undisguised man, preserving even in the exercise of sovereign power, and all its 
 concomitant splendour, his simplicity of manners. He applied himself to the study 
 of philosophy and ethics with such success, that he has been surnamed Philosophus 
 by the unanimous consent of historians. In his care to render Rome happy, 
 
( 131 ) 
 
 Aurelius enacted wholesome laws, and expedited the legal processes. He took 
 especial care of the public roads and granaries, and provided with admirable judgment 
 and foresight against all the necessities of the state, — being so attentive and diligent 
 that it was remarked he neither spoke, wrote, nor did any thing negligently. He 
 had a rooted aversion to games and gladiatorial exhibitions — the expenses and pomp 
 of which he greatly reduced — yet he sometimes appeared in the Circus, that he 
 might not be offensively fastidious ; but then he used to write, or confer with his 
 ministers during the whole time of the sports. In the administration of justice he 
 displayed equal assiduity and impartiality ; though naturally inclined to mercy, 
 he nevertheless could punish the guilty with the utmost rigour; yet it must be con- 
 ceded that among almost innumerable instances of his clemency, there are but few of 
 his severity known. " We cannot," said he " make men what we would wish them to 
 be; we must take them as they are, and do the best with them that lies in our power." 
 
 A kind father* to the numerous family he had by his wife, he was equally con- 
 siderate as a sovereign ; and his magnanimous equity was strikingly displayed in his 
 associating Verus with him on the throne, though Antoninus had despised him, — 
 a measure by which Rome, for the first time, saw herself governed by two sovereigns 
 at once. Nor was it with less nobleness of nature that after the death of Cassius, he 
 committed that rebel's papers to the flames, without reading them, and protected 
 his family from insult. He detested war as the disgrace and calamity of human 
 nature ; but when the necessity of a just defence roused him to arms, he displayed the 
 vigilance, valour, and activity of a consummate general, and readily exposed himself 
 to eight winter campaigns on the frozen banks of the Danube, notwithstanding his 
 constitutional weakness and infirmities. Equally amiable with Antoninus, his virtue 
 was of a severer cast, — for he had, at an early age, embraced the system of the stoics, 
 which, with all its vanities, taught him to subject his body to his mind, his passions 
 to his reason ; and it is clear that he well understood one of the leading principles 
 of that sect— the importance of acquiring a knowledge of himself. In short, his con- 
 duct was marked with such wisdom and piety, clemency and justice, that the caustic 
 Julian says, v/hen Aurelius entered, Silenus became vexed at having nothing to lash 
 him about, except, a cut at his patience with the debaucheries of Faustina ; which, it 
 must be admitted was an inexcusable inattention to good morals. 
 
 But as some hawk-eyed astronomers love to gaze at the faculaj, or luculi of the 
 spots on the solar disc, so there are writers who apply their magnifiers to suc h 
 blemishes as they can espy on a bright character. Dio Cassius thinks the crying 
 
 • See the Emperor's reason for not marrying a second time, at p. 113. 
 
( 132 ) 
 
 fault of Aurelius consisted in his too great goodness, in that though he rewarded 
 with great generosity the good and virtuous, yet he did not restrain and punish with 
 due severity the vicious and wicked. Capitolinus blames him for promoting Verus 
 to the sovereign power, whom he knew to be unequal to, and altogether unworthy 
 of that high dignity. The Emperor Julian prefers Aurelius to all his predecessors, 
 as well he might; but at the same time gives him a shot, for bequeathing the empire 
 to his son Commodus, instead of his more virtuous son-in-law Pompeianus. To 
 these charges must be added the persecution which he permitted against the poor 
 Christians — of the real character of whose religion he must have been misinformed — 
 an act for which very conflicting motives have been assigned : andTatian, in sneering 
 at the pagan's bounty to the philosophers of all sects — stoic, platonic, peripatetic, and 
 even epicurean — assures us, they had no other merit than that of wearing long beards. 
 
 What is the amount of such allegations against the known virtues of the illus- 
 trious Marcus Aurelius? Were there no other evidences of his transcendent 
 goodness than his own "Meditations," his high and amiable qualities would be 
 sufficiently manifested : yet even this precious legacy has been carped at, by the 
 aforesaid faculse-hunters, as savouring less of comprehensiveness and judgment than 
 pedantry and ostentation. This is certainly severe upon a work which was written 
 for its author's own use, in the tumult of a camp, during actual warfare, — and one 
 which, there can be no scruple in asserting, is not more distinguished by liberality 
 of sentiment, than by occasional profundity of thought, and energy of expression ; 
 but as it may very reasonably be concluded that the readers of this page have studied 
 the book in question, with pleasure and advantage, no further remark upon it is 
 necessary. 
 
 " If a man," says Gibbon, " were called on to fix the period in the history of 
 the world, during which the condition of the human race was most happy and pros- 
 perous, he would, without hesitation, name that which elapsed from the death of 
 Domitian to the accession of Commodus. The vast extent of the Roman empire 
 was governed by absolute power, under the guidance of virtue and wisdom. The 
 armies were restrained by the firm and gentle hand of five successive emperors, 
 whose characters and authority commanded an involuntary respect. The forms of 
 civil administration were carefully preserved by Nerva, Trajan, Hadrian, and the 
 Antonines, who delighted in the image of liberty, and were pleased with considering 
 themselves as accountable ministers of the laws. Such princes deserved the honour 
 of restoring the republic, had the Romans of their days been capable of enjoying a 
 rational freedom." 
 
( 133 ) 
 
 Medals of Marcus A ureli us are abundant and cheap in all metals and forms; the 
 gold and silver quinarii, and the brass medallions, being the rarest. The observation 
 of Addison as to an emperor's coinage being his digested annals, applies very forcibly 
 to this reign, for we have the good prince from his boyhood to his apotheosis ; and 
 therefore those only are here noticed which are in the highest perfection. One of the 
 most rare devices of Aurelius is a medallion which was struck in his second consu- 
 late ; it is inscribed " Temporum felicitas," and represents Hercules, with a trophy, 
 in a triumphal chariot, drawn by four huge centaurs, each holding a different 
 attribute, apparently the symbols of the seasons. This interesting object is very 
 beautifully figured in the 2d edition of M. Mionnet's work, " De la Rarete ct du 
 Prix des Medailles Romaines" 
 
 CCXXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. AVRELIVS CAESAR AVG. PII F. COS. [Aurelius Ccesar, Augusti Pii Jilius, Con- 
 sul.) A youthful unlaurelled head of Aurelius, with a pleasing - expression of countenance, 
 and curly hair ; the bust is in armour. This fine, though not rare medal, was procured by 
 exchange from Lieut. Corner, R. N. Marine Magistrate at Malta, in 1818: it is in perfect 
 preservation, and covered with clear brown patina. 
 
 Reverse. PIETAS AVG. (Pietas Augusti.) On the exergum S. C. The instruments of sacrifice ; 
 
 a device struck A. D. 140, when Aurelius entered the Sacerdotal College to be initiated into 
 the profound mysteries of the Cavea Pullarioc. This reverse began with Augustus, when 
 he adopted Caius and Lucius ; — and thenceforward it is very frequent in the coins of the 
 Caesars not yet Augusti. Besides this, there were a great many other medals minted — as 
 Juventus, Honos, Spes, and Virtus — in allusion to the youth of Aurelius, — and they were 
 repeated for some years for the Romans termed every man adolescens, till he was turned 
 of forty. 
 
 The instruments consist of an elegantly-shaped praefericulum, or brazen vase to hold the 
 libation. On its right is the lituus, or augural wand with which the heavens were divined ; 
 its top is so turned that it seems to be the precursor of the pastoral staff of modern bishops. 
 Close to the lituus is a haustrum, or simpulum, a little earthen cup like a crucible, into which 
 the wine was poured. On the left of the vase is an aspergillum, or aspersorium, for sprinkling 
 the altars, and the people who attended the sacrifice, with lustral water; that which old 
 Corynaeus used was simply a branch of the olive tree, — but this is apparently made of horse 
 hair, and is tied to a carved handle, having somewhat the appearance of a neat mess hand- 
 swab. Close by it lies the sheathed secespita, or decorated knife for cutting up the victim ; 
 it is disproportionately broad at the haft, and tapers to a sharp point, precisely of the 
 same form as is still observable at Rome, and throughout southern Italy. 
 
 CCXXXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. AVRELIVS CAESAR AVG. PII F. COS. II. [Aurelius Ccesar, Augusti Pii Jilius, 
 Consul iterum.) The naked head of Aurelius, with an expressive and pleasing countenance, 
 and the neck bare. This medal is in admirable preservation, and covered with olive-green 
 patina ; it was procured at Santa Maura, in Leucadia, in 1810. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. fSenatus Consultu,) in the field. Minerva jaculatrix ; standing in a threatening- but 
 stately attitude, with the dreadful aegis on her breast, — she has a buckler on her left arm, and is 
 brandishing a spear with her right. She is attired in plain robes, but wears a helmet, and has 
 the Tritonian goat-skin hanging down her back. The most remarkable part of her dress, 
 however is a pair of shoes, with heels high enough to shame any of those worn in the last 
 century : somewhat like those still used at Constantinople. 
 
( 134 ) 
 
 This medal was struck A. D. 145, and though the goddess is without her owl, it is 
 doubtless a compliment to the prince's valour and learning. Still, her appearance blends so 
 much of the terrific with the beautiful, that Lucian is borne out in making Cupid afraid te 
 approach her. Ovid describes her figure, — 
 
 " At sibi dat clypeum, dat acutae cuspidis hastam : 
 Dat galeam capiti ; defenditur iEgide pectus." 
 
 And Virgil describes the horrid aegis, as being repaired by Vulcan — 
 
 " jEgidaque horriferam, turbatae Palladis arma, 
 Certatim squamis serpentum auroque polibant, 
 Connexosque angues, ipsamque in pectore divae 
 Gorgona, desecto vertentem lumina collo." 
 
 CCXXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. AVRELIVS CAESAR AVG. PII F. COS. II. (Aurelius Ccesar, Augusti Piijilius, 
 Consul iterum.) An expressive profile of Aurelius, with the head unlaureated, and the neck 
 bare. A coin in very superior condition, though scarcely patinated ; it is of yellow orichalcum 
 brass, and was found near Port Nettuno, the ancient Antium, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. S. C. (Senatus Consultu,) on the exergum. A magnificent triumphal car, slowly drawn by 
 four fine horses, apparently forming part of a consular procession. The Prince is habited iu 
 senatorial vestments, and holds a sceptre transversely before him, — it is surmounted by an 
 eagle, as was usual : so Juvenal,— 
 
 " Da nunc, et Volucrem Sceptro quae surgit eburno." 
 CCXL. 
 
 Obverse. AVRELIVS CAESAR AVG. PII F. COS. II. (Aurelius Ccesar, Augusti Pii Jilius, 
 Consul iterum. J The unlaureated youthful head of Aurelius, with part of a robe on his 
 shoulders. This medal is in secondary but sound condition, and unpatinated ; it was pur- 
 chased from Mr. M. Young, in 1829. 
 
 Reverse. VOTA PVBLICA. On the exergum S. C. Marcus Aurelius in senatorial robes, and Faus- 
 tina Junior veiled as a bride, join their right hands before a stately female personating 
 Concord. This was struck A. D. 145, to commemorate a marriage which appeared so pro- 
 pitious to the happiness of Rome, — and which, by the legend, was so welcome to the Roman 
 people. 
 
 CCXLI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. AVREL. ANTONINVS AVG. P. M. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Au- 
 relius Antoninus, Augustus, Pontifex Maximus.) Though Aurelius had now assumed the title 
 of Imperator, and the surname of Antoninus, we have here his head still unlaurelled ; — but it 
 differs from ihose just mentioned, in being of manly age, and bearded. This medal, struck 
 A. D. 162, is in the highest state of preservation, and finely varnished with an olive-green 
 patina; it was procured at Nice, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. CONCORD. AVGVSTOR. TR. P. XVI. (Concordia Augustorum, Tribunitia potestate 
 decimum-sextum.) On the exergum COS. III. (Consul tertium,) and in the field S. C. 
 Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus standing; they are togated and bare-headed; and the 
 likenesses are admirably preserved though on so small a scale. They are taking each other 
 by the right-hand, in testimony of the concord with which the two Emperors ruled in 
 common; and it may also allude to the visit which Aurelius paid to Verus, at Canusium, 
 on hearing that he had been taken ill, as that circumstance happened in the year in which 
 the medal was struck. This was the first instance of divided power subsisting in the Roman 
 empire without strife and hatred ; for the contentions of Romulus and Remus, of Caesar and 
 Pompey, had established the proverb — " Nec regna socium ferre, nec tcedce sciunt," The 
 
( 135 ) 
 
 wandering Alciati, whose " Emblems " received the praise of the elder Scaliger, probably 
 had this reverse in view, when he wrote this passage ; — 
 
 " Conjunctas dextras mutua dona dari. 
 Foederis hsec species id habet Concordia signum ; 
 Ut quos jungit amor, jungat et ipsa manus." 
 
 CCXLII. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVREL. ANTONINVS AVG. ARMENIACVS P. M. (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, 
 Augustus, Armeniacus, Ponti/ex Maximus.) An animated profile of the Emperor, with the 
 head laureated, and the neck bare. This medal is in superior condition, and densely covered 
 with a dark-brown patina; it was presented to me by Sig. Lusieri, at Athens, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. VICT. AVG. TR. P. XVIII. IMP. II. COS. III. (Victoria Augusti, Tribunitia potes- 
 tate decimum-octavum, Imperator secundum, Consul tertium.) In the field S. C. A winged 
 victory standing, with a trophy held by both hands transversely, like a weapon of offence, 
 which shews a battle gained, but the war unfinished. She is aitired in short robes, and at 
 her feet is a mourning captive in the oriental garb. This was minted A. D. 164, to com- 
 memorate the advantages gained by the generals of Verus, over the Parthians who were 
 ravaging Armenia, and for which each Emperor was saluted Armeniacus. 
 
 CCXL1II. 
 
 Obverse. M. ANTONINVS AVG. ARM. PARTH. P. P. (Marcus Antoninus, Augustus, Arme- 
 niacus, Parthicus, Pater Patrice.) The head of the Emperor, laurelled and bearded, and 
 with the neck bare. This medal is coated with a dense-brown patina, and in good con- 
 dition ; it was procured at Tunis, in 1822. There is a great singularity in the legend before 
 us, for it is generally held that Aurelius did not bear the title of Pater Patrice till the end 
 of A.D. 176, or nine years after this was minted; and on those published by Vaillant, 
 Eckhel, and others, the letters MAX. appear instead of the P. P. Yet mine is unquestionably 
 a genuine coin, and therefore countenances the assertion of Capitolinus, that after the 
 successes in the East, both the Emperors had the encomiastic title decreed them. 
 
 Reverse. CONG. AVG. IlII. TR. P. XXI. IMP. IIII. COS. III. (Congiarium Augusti quartum, 
 Tribunitia potestate vigesimum-primum, Imperator quartum, Consul tertium.) On the 
 exergum S. C. Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus seated on curule chairs, upon a suggestum, 
 are dispensing their fourth congiary to the people. (See No. XLVII.) Before them stands 
 a female with a tessera and cornucopia?, which personifies liberality ; and on the steps is a 
 citizen holding up his robes to receive the donation. The Emperor disliked the system of 
 largesses, and said to his soldiers, when they demanded one in the hour of victory, — " all that 
 is given you beyond your due, must come from the blood of your parents and relations." 
 
 CCXLIV. 
 
 Obverse. M. ANTONINVS AVG. TR. P. XXIII. (Marcus Antoninus, Augustus, Tribunitia 
 potestate vigesimum-tertium.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with a mild expression, 
 thick beard, and bare neck. This medal in excellent preservation, and covered with an olive- 
 green patina, was purchased at Orbitello, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. COS. III. (Consul tertium.) On the exergum PROFECTIO AVG. S. C. (Profectio Au- 
 gusti, Senatus Consultu.) The Emperor on a caparisoned horse, preceded by a warrior with 
 a spear and shield, and followed by three others ; he is in armour, but bare-headed, and 
 holds a long spear transversely with the point foremost, indicative of war. This was struck 
 A. D. 169, when he took the field against the Marcomanni ; and from the omission of the 
 titles Armeniacus and Parthicus, it seems to have been after the death of Verus in that year, 
 since Aurelius only bore those appellatives as long as his colleague was living. Antiquaries 
 have noticed a strong resemblance between this equestrian figure, and the celebrated statue 
 which still decorates the capitol of Rome. 
 
( 136 ) 
 
 CCXLV. 
 
 Obverse. M. ANTONINVS AVG. TR. P. XXIV. (Marcus Antoninus, Augustus, Tribunitia 
 potestate vigesimum-quartum.) The laurelled head of Marcus Aurelius with a full beard, and 
 bare neck. This medal has a blackish patina, and is somewhat rubbed, but is otherwise in 
 very good preservation ; it was purchased from Mr. Matthew Young, in 1826. 
 
 Reverse. COS. III. {Consul tertium.) On the exergum ADLOCVT. AVG. (Adlocutio Augusti,) 
 and under it S. C. The Emperor on a tribunal, accompanied by two Praetorian prefects, is 
 addressing three standard-bearers of the army. This was struck A. D. 170, on waging war 
 with the Marcomanni, a warlike people who, leagued with the Quadi, the Sarmatians, the 
 Roxolani, ti e Iazyges, and other barbarian nations, had invaded the Roman frontier. This 
 opened one of the severest contests that ever Rome sustained. 
 
 CCXLVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. M. ANTONINVS AVG. TR. P. XXV. (Imperator Marcus Antoninus, Augustus, 
 Tribunitia potestate vigesimum-quintum.) The laurelled head of Aurelius, with a pleasing 
 expression of countenance, thick beard, and bare neck. This medal is densely iucrusted 
 with a brownish-green patina, and is in the highest state of preservation ; it was presented 
 to me by Mr. Henry Beechey, who procured it at Ben-Ghazi, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. PRIMl DECENNALES COS. III. S. C. (Primi decennales, Consul tertium, Senatus 
 Consultu.) This is insciibed on a handsome garland of laurel, and was struck A. D. 170, on 
 payment of the hist " vota decennalia." This method of vowing arose, according to Du 
 Cange, from Augustus's feigning himself willing to quit the Empire, and having twice, at the 
 entreaty and prayers of the senate, consented to hold it for 10 years longer, it grew into a 
 custom with his successors, till the days of Theodosius. The vows were made for periods 
 of 5 or 10 years, and the completion of each term was celebrated with games, and other 
 rejoicings, in which the senate presented their sovereign with a civic crown, in acknowledg- 
 ment of his care of the commonwealth, — while medals and marbles commemorated the people's 
 having duly performed the obligations they had entered into. No decennial vow being found 
 beyond XXXX. it is probable that none of the emperors reigned above 40 years. 
 
 Vows were religious promises in great use among the ancients, in every emergency. They 
 constituted a considerable part of the Pagan worship ; being made either in consequence of 
 deliverance from imminent danger, or for the success of some enterprize. Thus Horace, having 
 narrowly escaped being knocked on the head by the fall of a tree, tells us of a vow which he 
 made on that occasion : — 
 
 " Voveram dulces epulas et album 
 Libero caprum, prone funeratus 
 Arboris ictu." 
 
 CCXLV1I. 
 
 Obverse. M. ANTONINVS AVG. TR. P. XXVI. (Marcus Antoninus, Augustus, Tribunitia 
 potestate vigesimum-scxtum.) A finely-finished head of Marcus Aurelius, with mustachios 
 and beard, and naked neck. This medal is coated with lead-coloured patina, and is in very 
 superior preservation ; it was minted A. D. 172, and carne into my possession at Scylla, 
 in Calabria, in 1814. 
 
 lieverse. IMP. VI. COS. III. (Imperator sextum, Consul tertium.) On the exergum V1RTVS 
 AVG. (Virtus Augusti,) and in the field S. C. The Emperor followed by five soldiers, two of 
 whom bear standards, and the others have their spears advanced to encounter resistance : they 
 are passing over a handsome bridge, constructed upon three boats, precisely like the one 
 over the Ister represented on the Trajan Column. The bridge before us was, no doubt, over 
 the same river, since the Marcomanni, in abandoning Pannonia, sustained a dreadful overthrow 
 while crossing it. 
 
( 137 ) 
 
 There is another large-brass coin with this reverse, but inscribed Adventus, instead of 
 Virtus, on the exergum — and recording IMP. VII. whence it affords a certain testimony 
 of the Emperor's return to Rome, A. D. 174. 
 
 CCXLVIII. 
 
 Obverse. M. ANTONINVS AVG. TR. P. XXVI. [Marcus Antoninus, Augustus, Tribunitia po- 
 testate vigesimum-sextum.) A well-executed profile of the Emperor, laureated and bearded ; 
 bearing the straps and ornaments of the lorica on his shoulders. This medal, though thinly 
 patinated, is in capital condition ; and was purchased from Mr. Till, in 1827. 
 
 Reverse. GERMANIA SVBACTA IMP. VI. COS. HI. (Germania subacta, Imperator sextum, 
 Consul tertium.) In the field S. C. A grand trophy, upon a tree, to the foot of which a 
 mourning captive is bound, and heaps of broken arms are strewed around. (See No. CXXIV.) 
 This medal, struck A. D. 172, together with several others of this campaign, which I have 
 had, proves that Germany was only subdued by repeated conflicts ; — the principal reverses 
 of these events are — Victory inscribing VIC. GER. on a shield, a trophy with two captives, 
 and VICT. GERMA. &c. in a wreath. 
 
 CCXLIX. 
 
 Obverse. M. ANTONINVS AVG. TR. P. XXVII. (Marcus Antoninus, Augustus, Tribunitia 
 potestate vigesimum-septimum.) The laureated head of Marcus Aurelius, with a placid 
 expression of countenance, the hair and beard dressed with care, aud his neck naked. This 
 medal was struck A. D. 173, it is covered with a Saxon-green patina, and is in excellent pre- 
 servation; I procured it at Sassari, in Sardinia, in 1824. 
 
 Reverse. RESTITVTORI 1TALIAE IMP. VI. COS. III. (Restitutori Italia, Imperator sextum, 
 Consul tertium.} On the exergum S. C. The Emperor attired in the paludamentum, stands 
 on the right of the field, with a sceptre in his left hand, and he is extending his right to a 
 kneeling female, who holds a globe, and wears a corona turrita. Having bravely rescued 
 Italy from Barbarian incursions, Aurelius well meiited the title of Restorer, — especially when 
 all the impending danger is considered. The Marcomanni, one of the most warlike nations 
 of Germany, leagued with the Quadi, the Iazyges of Sarmatia, the Roxolani, and the Vandals 
 — of whom we now first hear — had invaded the frontier of the imperial territory, and devastated 
 many places with fire and sword. This filled Italy with consternation ; and to add to the 
 general distress, a plague had been imported by the troops of Verus, and the calamity was 
 increased by flood and famine. The Emperor's humanity and generosity were extended to all 
 quarters — " Italicis civitatibus, /amis tempore, frumentum ex urbe donavit, omnique fru- 
 menlarioz rei co?lSllluit. ,, 
 
 The Marcomannic war, one of the greatest that Rome ever sustained, was kindled while 
 the flower of her army was engaged in the East. In this dilemma the Emperor was compelled 
 to recruit his legions with slaves and exiles ; and as the treasury was exhausted, he exposed to 
 sale, not only the rich furniture of the palace, but also the pictures, plate, and jewels — even 
 the very robes of the Empress. 
 
 CCL. 
 
 Obverse. M. ANTONINVS AVG. TR. P. XXVII. (Marcus Antoninus, Augustus, Tribunitia 
 potestate vigesimum-septimum.) The laurelled head of Aurelius, with the hair and beard 
 dressed as in the last, and the neck bare. This medal was struck A. D. 173; it is coated 
 with grass-green patina, and is in superior preservation. I procured it from an Arab, near 
 Tunis, in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. IMP. VI. COS. III. (Imperator sextum, Consul tertium.) On the exergum RELIG. AVG. 
 
 (Religioni Augusti,) and in the field S. C. A curious temple on a plinth of four steps, having 
 an epistyle decorated with sculptured attributes of Mercury. Though on so small a scale, there 
 are readily seen the ram, an animal especially dedicated to him, as tutelary patron of shepherds 
 and flocks; acock, the emblem of vigilance; a tortoise, for the invention of the lyre; a 
 
 T 
 
( 138 ) 
 
 marsupium, or purse, for commerce, whence the god derived his name — a mercibus ; a petasus, 
 or winged helmet, for readiness of counsel and celerity of dispatch ; and a caduceus, or mystic 
 wand, for peace and power : — 
 
 " With this he draws the ghosts from hollow graves, 
 With this he drives them down the Stygian waves, 
 With this he seals in sleep the wakeful sight, 
 And eyes, though clos'd in death, restores to light." 
 
 The pediment has a semi-circular crowning, and is supported by four colossal Termini or Her- 
 metes,* typical of the guide of travellers, and the preserver of highways ; and in the adytum 
 stands a statue of Mercury with a chlamys on his shoulders, a patera in his right hand, a 
 caduceus in his left, and the petasus on his head ; but the figure is too small to shew the talaria 
 or wings to the feet. (See Pietas of Herennius Hetruscus.) 
 
 This device is at once singular and interesting, as the legend is restricted to the mintages 
 of Aurelius and Valerian ; and the only Religio in the large-brass series, is the one under 
 discussion. It seems to have been struck on the erection or reparation of a temple to Mercury, 
 who was greatly venerated by Aurelius, as the Institutor of Religion, in having ordained the 
 worship and sacrifices of the gods : — "Hie enim primus litteras invenit, Deorum cu/tus, et 
 sacrijicia ordinavit.'" But this medal affords no evidence in favour of the supposition men- 
 tioned by Eckhel, that the Emperor ascribed the " miraculous shower" to this deity, and thus 
 testified his gratitude : — that prodigy is expressly attributed to Jupiter Pluvius on the Antonine 
 column ; and a large-brass medal inscribed Propugnatori, was struck, on which Jupiter is 
 represented casting a thunder-bolt at a prostrate Barbarian. (See CCXXVII.) Angeloni asserts 
 that ruins and relics of a temple, resembling that on the medal, were discovered in his time, in 
 a vineyard on Mount Aventine. 
 
 CCLI. 
 
 Obverse. M. ANTONINVS AVG. GERM. SARM. TR. P. XXXI. {Marcus Antoninus, Augus- 
 tus, Germanicus, Sarmaticus, Tribunitia potestate trigesimum-primum.) The head of the 
 Emperor, with a crowu of laurel, the hair, mustachios, and beard very carefully dressed, the 
 neck naked, and the countenance expressive and highly finished. This medal is varnished 
 with a bright-green patina, and is in beautiful preservation ; I purchased it at Capua, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. IMP. VIII. COS III. P. P. (Tmperator octavum, Consul tertium, Pater Patrice.) On 
 theexeigum DE SARMAT1S; and in the field S. C. A large kind of thorax, apparently of 
 chain-work over quilted stuff, not unlike one from the Sudan, presented to me by the late Cap- 
 tain Clapperton, R.N. It is surrounded by a pile of shields, spears, trumpets, banners, and other 
 implements of war, gathered together in order to be burnt on the field of battle. (See No. 
 LXXV.) This medal was struck A. I). 177, and testifies the Emperor's success over the 
 Sarrnatians : another of the same date, with very nearly the same device, is inscribed De 
 Germanis ; — but as either of them suffices for a limited cabinet, I retained that which is in the 
 best condition. Aurelius now returned to Rome, after an absence of more than six years, and 
 with his son Commodus, triumphed for his German victories ; on which occasion he gave 
 large sums to the people, and exhibited pompous and magnificent shews, though he took no 
 pleasure himself in such diversions. 
 
 It was in the arduous campaign from which Aurelius had just returned, that he fell into 
 imminent danger of being cut off, with his whole army, A. D. 174. Having been drawn into 
 an ambush among sterile mountains, the Romans were ready to perish with thirst, and not- 
 withstanding all that the Emperor could do to raise their flagging spirits, nothing was heard 
 but groans — nothing was seen but despair. In this distress, while expecting to be cut in 
 
 * These Hermetes, or Hermce trunci, were often shapeless direction posts of wood, with a stone bust of Mercury 
 upon them. See Juvenal, s. VIII. v. 53. From these came the saying " Ex quovis ligrw von jit Mer<urius" equivalent 
 to our " cannot make a silk purse of a sow's ear." I should add, that this curious medal is exceedingly well figured among 
 the Kummi Vetercs, appended to the "Emblems" ofSambucus — a curious specimeu of the typographical merit of the 
 celebrated Christopher Plantin, who printed it at Antwerp, in 1566. 
 
( 139 ) 
 
 pieces by the Barbarians who surrounded them on all sides, the sky was suddenly overcast 
 and a torrent of rain fell. While they were joyfully availing themselves of this bounty, the 
 Sarmatae, Quadi, and Marcoinanni, fell upon them, and would have probably destroyed them, 
 had they not been seasonably succoured by a dreadful storm of hail, mixed with lightning and 
 thunder-bolts, which discharged itself upon the advancing enemy, to their total discomfiture. 
 This memorable event has occupied the pens of ApolHnaris, Tertullian, Eusebius, and many 
 oilier writers — for it was attributed entirely to the prayers of a Christian legion which, they 
 assert, was thence-forward designated the Legio Fulminans ; and, moreover, they make 
 Aurelius himself acknowledge his being thus indebted to (he new sect. But there can be no 
 doubt — from the concurrent opinion of the best authorities — that the Emperor's cited letter to 
 the senate, alledging this as a fact, is spurious ; and that the good Christians, who invoked 
 divine interposition in favour of a persecutor of their faith, piously mistook accident for miracle. 
 
 On this occasion I would exclaim with the Frenchman, who, on being asked whether some 
 Anglicism was not French, replied — pas tout a fait, mats ilmerite bien de Vctre ; but my object 
 is to investigate a portion of the fact medallically. Xiphiline, and after him Onuphrius, maintain 
 that the band of Thunderers was not mentioned till this incident had taken place; — but from an 
 inscription cited by Baronius, this same legion, the Xllth, was distinguished by that appellative 
 in Trajan's time; and the medal No. XXXVI, of this catalogue, bears unequivocal testimony 
 that the fulmen, or thunder-bolt, was a legionary symbol a century and a-half before the Sar- 
 matian defeat. The laborious and erudite Mosheim observes, that it is an invariable maxim 
 universally adopted by the wise and judicious, that no events are to be esteemed miraculous, 
 which may be rationally attributed to natural causes, and accounted for by a recourse to the 
 ordinary dispensations of providence. For the opinion of the pagans on this phenomenon, see 
 Nos. CCXXVII, and CCL ; — in addition to which it may be added that, Dion Cassius ascribed 
 itto anTEgyptian magician named Arnuphis; while Suidas imputed it to the sorcery ofjulianus, 
 who was originally a Chaldaean— and Chaldceus had become synonimous with Astrologus. 
 
 CCLI1. 
 
 Obverse. M. ANTONINVS AVG. GERM. SARM. TR. P. XXXI. {Marcus Antoninus, Augustus, 
 Germanicus, Sarmaticus, Tribunitia poteslate trigesimum-primum.) The usual laureated 
 head of the Emperor, but with a robe over the shoulders. This medal is coated with a dark 
 bottle-green patina, and is in excellent preservation ; I procured it at Alexandria, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse* IMP. VIII. COS. III. P. P. (Imperator octavurn, Consul lertium, Puter Patrice.) On the 
 exergum LIBERALITAS AVG. VII. (Libcralitas Augusti, septimum.) In the field 
 S. C. Marcus Aurelius, and a small figure representing his son Commodus, seated on curule 
 chairs, raised upon a square substructure ; before them stands a female with a cornucopia;, 
 and a frumentarian tessera, as Liberality, and behind them is a Praetorian Prefect, with a 
 hasta pura. On the steps is a figure personating the Roman people, holding up its robe to 
 receive the Emperor's gift. From the date, A. D. 177, this device shews the largess which 
 was given on the marriage of Commodus and Crispina. The P. P. appears constantly on the 
 medallic legends of Aurelius, from this year to that of the Consecration ; but it is not easy to 
 account for its being omitted so long. See No. CCXLII. 
 
 CCLI1I. 
 
 Obverse. DIVVS M. ANTONINVS PIVS. (Divus Marcus Antoninus Pius.) The head of the 
 Emperor without laurel, and bearing a sedate cast of countenance, as though the likeness were 
 taken after death. The agnomen of Pius now appears, for though it belonged to him by the 
 right of adoption, it does not appear on the coins struck while Aurelius was living. This 
 medal is densely incrusted with an olive-green patina, and is in superior conservation ; I pro- 
 cured it at Zillten, near Lebidah, in 1817. 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. In the field S. C. A grand rogus of four stories, surmounted by a 
 quadrigated car ; it is decorated with images, drapery, and festoons — and it decreases from 
 the base to the summit, as depicted by Virgil : — 
 
 "aramque sepulchri 
 
 Congerere arboribus, cceloque educere certant." 
 
( 140 ) 
 
 lloman funerals were accompanied by games of the bustuarii, races, and theatrical ex- 
 hibitions. See No. CCXXV. The Campus Martius was the place assigned for the burial of the 
 great, especially such as were honoured with funeraindictiva. The corpse was covered with 
 the stragula vestis, and being borne thither, feet foremost, was laid upon the rogus, or pyra, with 
 the face turned to the sky, the eyes open, and an obolus, as Charon's fare, in the mouth. 
 This done, the nearest relations to the deceased turned their backs to the pile, and set it on 
 fire with torches which they held behind them : " Aversi tenuere Jacem." As soon as the 
 wood took fire, the soldiers, and all the company, made a solemn course three times round 
 the pile, to shew their respect for the deceased. Thus Virgil ■ — 
 
 "Ter circum adcensos, cincti fulgentibus armis, 
 Dtcurrere rogos ; ter inaestum funeris ignem 
 Lustravere in equis ; ululatusque ore dedere." 
 
 Perfumes, myrrh, cassia, odoriferous oils, and precious gums, were used in profusion; and 
 costly garments were thrown into the flame as munera, or offerings. In the ridiculous debate 
 about a turbot, to which Domitian summoned his senators, Juvenal tells us : — » 
 
 " Et matutino sudans Crispinus amomo, 
 Quantum vix redolent duo funera." 
 
 When the pile was burnt down, they put out the embers by sprinkling them with wine, that 
 the relations might the more easily gather up the bones and ashes for the urn ; as is elegantly 
 described by Tibullus, 1. 3. Eleg. 2. 
 
 On the demise of an emperor, the real body was burnt and the caput morluum disposed 
 of in the usual manner. But a waxen image of the deceased was made, which received 
 adoration for a week in the palace, and was then borne in solemn procession, first to the forum, 
 where a grand dirge w r as chaunted; then to the Campus Martius, where it was burnt amongst 
 perfumes, on a lofty pile, from the apex of which an eagle let loose, was supposed to convey 
 the soul of the defunct to the celestial regions. This last must have been the ceremony com- 
 memorated on the medal under consideration, since it appears that Aurelius having died at 
 Vindobona, A. D. 180, his ashes only were conveyed to Rome, for the Fiuius Indicticum. 
 
 CCLIV. 
 
 Obrerse. D1VVS M. ANTON1NVS PIVS. [Dims Marcus Antoninus Pius.) The bare head of 
 Aurelius, as in the last. This medal is covered with a deep chocolate-colourtd patina, and is 
 in very fair preservation ; it was procured from Mr. J. C. Ross, at Malta, in 1821. 
 
 Reverse. CONSEC11AT10. On the exergum S. C. A magnificent car drawn by four elephants, each 
 mounted by a guide ; and on the car is a sedent statue of the Emperor upon a throne under a 
 canopy. No honour was spared to the memory of Aurelius ; all men were convinced that he 
 was returned to the gods, who had only lent him for a season ; a statue of gold was erected 
 in the capitol, a temple and priests were dedicated to him, and his memory was revered by a 
 grateful posterity. Capitolinus, near a century afterwards, tells us that he was still woishipped 
 in most families with their domestic gods. 
 
 In those ages, not only the image of the deceased was borne in the funeral procession, 
 hut also those of his ancestors ; and it is in allusion to this that Horace says — 
 
 "Funus atque imagines 
 
 Ducunt tiiumphales tuum." 
 
 CCLV. 
 
 Obverse. D1VVS M. ANTONINVS PIVS. [Divus Marcus Antoninus Pius.) A fine head of the 
 Emperor, with the hair, beard, and mustachios carefully dressed, but without laurel, and the 
 neck bare. This medal is thinly coated with a dark-brown patina, but is in perfect preserva- 
 tion ; it was presented to me by Mr. T. Burgon, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. In the field S. C. An eagle with expanded wings, standing on a small 
 flat structure, which is decorated with festoons of verbena; this probably represents the 
 
( 141 ) 
 
 casket in which the ashes of Aurelius were transported from Germany to Rome. It is often, 
 notwithstanding its shape, called an altar — but, as with iheAltare Viaticum of Roman Catholic 
 saints, it may have served both purposes. 
 
 CCLVI. 
 
 Obverse. DIVVS M. ANTONINVS PIVS {Divus Marcus Antoninus Pius.) A bare and 
 remarkable head of Marcus Aurelius, with a grave aspect. This medal is varnished with an 
 olive-green patina, and is in the highest perfection; 1 procured it from a Greek peasant at 
 Patras, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. In the field S. C. A cowering eagle standing upon a globe. This is 
 held to be. emblematical of the anima, or soul of the Emperor, soaring from earth to heaven — 
 whence the farce of apotheosis has been ascribed to a taint of the Pythagorean doctrines ; but 
 it obviously originated in what Tacitus termed " the epidemic spirit of adulation," long before 
 the Samian was born. 
 
 CCLVII. 
 
 Oh verse. DIVVS M. ANTONINVS PIVS. (Divtis Marcus Antoninus Pius.) A very expressive 
 profile of the Emperor, unlaureated, and the hair and beard trimmed in curls. This medal is 
 in very fine condition, and covered with a dark-green patina; it was presented to me by 
 Mr. Craig, at La Maddalena, in Sardinia, in 1824. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. In the field S. C. Aurelius seated on the back of a "lusty" eagle— which 
 carries a thunder-bolt in its talons — is winged away to the celestials. He holds forth his right 
 hand in the attitude of allocution; and in his left supports a formidable sceptre. And this 
 is the last memorial of a sovereign who was so greatly venerated by his subjects, that whoever 
 did not keep a statue of him in his house, though able to afford it, was held to be a sacri- 
 legious person. 
 
 The sceptre of old was a very different weapon from the elegant truncheon now in use, as 
 Thersites could have told us ; it was a plain staff like a hunting pole, and was generally made 
 of a young tree, cut from the root, and stript of its branches. The Romans decorated them 
 with brass : — 
 
 "Utsceptrum hoc, dextra sceptrum nam forte gerebat, 
 Numquam frondelevi fundet virgulta, neque umbras, 
 Cum semel in silvis, imo de stirpe recisum, 
 Matre caret, posuitque comas et brachia ferro ; 
 Olim arbos ; nunc artificis manus acre decoro 
 Inclusit, patribusque dedit geslare Latinis." 
 
 FAUSTINA JUNIOR. 
 Annia Faustina, the daughter of Antoninus Pius and Galeria Faustina, was 
 betrothed by Hadrian to Lucius Verus ; but on the death of that Emperor, was 
 given in marriage to Marcus Aurelius — a man whom her father thought more 
 likely to promote her happiness. This event took place A. D. 140; and she 
 became the mother of a large family of children, the names of eight of whom ate 
 preserved. Having accompanied her husband into the East, she died suddenly at 
 Halala, a village at the foot of Mount Taurus, A. D. 175. 
 
 With so virtuous a father and husband, it is surprising that the beautiful Faustina 
 not only imitated her mother, but was even still more grossly licentious, insomuch 
 
( 142 ) 
 
 that she had an incestuous intercourse with Verus, her own son-in-law ; and not 
 content with procuring the advancement of Tertullus, Orphitus, Utilius, and other 
 paramours, to state-employments, she acted so infamously among the lower orders 
 that a common gladiator was reputed to be the father of Commodus: "siqui- 
 dem Faustinam satis constat apud Cajetam, conditiones sibi nauticas et 
 gladiatorias eleyisse." Dio suspects she was also an accomplice with Avidius 
 Cassius, against her husband ; but the letters which she wrote, urging the Emperor 
 to the utmost severity against that rebel's family, makes Vulcatius Gallicanus acquit 
 her of treason. Aurelius either gave no credit to the reports of her depravity, or 
 from prudence, dissembled his knowledge of it, and appeared not to perceive, what 
 was notorious to the whole empire : and when his friends advised him to divorce 
 her, he answered, that if he put her away, he ought also to return her dower — mean- 
 ing the throne. This, however, was a blameable lenity, and excused on a false 
 position ; besides which, where there is no dread of retribution, there is nothing to 
 restrain vice ; and the conduct of Aurelius exposed him to many scoffs. Indeed, 
 his wife's infidelity was so universally known, especially with Tertullus, as to be 
 publicly alluded to upon the stage — in no very obscure terms.* 
 
 Notwithstanding her baseness, Aurelius bewailed the loss of Faustina, more, 
 says the emperor Julian, than would have been becoming a man of his gravity, for 
 a woman of the most unblemished character. He pronounced her funeral oration, 
 and to the scandal of all who had a regard for morality and religion, begged of the 
 senate to rank her with Pallas — a virgin goddess. That august body obsequiously 
 complied with the absurd request, and she, who by her vices had disgraced human 
 nature, was placed among the divinities, and publicly adored. Aurelius also raised 
 the village in which she died, to the rank of a colony under the name of Faustinopolis, 
 and erected a magnificent temple to her : this building was afterwards consecrated 
 to Heliogabalus, as if its fate was to be assigned to the most infamous characters 
 among the imperial profligates. 
 
 The medals of Faustina Junior are exceedingly common in all metals, and are 
 therefore selected with particular attention to their state of preservation. In this 
 abundance, it is curious that a large-brass forgery should have been foisted in among 
 them, — it is of admirable workmanship, and represents a sacrifice to Vesta, somewhat 
 like that of Julia Domna ; and it is found in such numbers that I have had eight or 
 ten : the fraud has been ascribed to Benvenuto Cellini, but its Patavinity rather 
 assigns it to the noted Lewis Lee. Among the reverses of this Empress, is a quinarius 
 
 * Capitolinus gives the anecdote thus, "Mimus in scena, praesente Antonino, dixit cum stupid us nomen adulteri uxoris 
 a Servo quasreret, et ille diceret ter Tullus ; et adbuc stupidus quaereret, respondit ille, Jam dixi ter, Tullus dicitur. 
 
( 143 ) 
 
 with the legend Concordia around a dove, an entirely new type of this virtue ; and 
 certainly the type ought to be new which is designed to express the concord that 
 actually did exist between a couple who had so great a disparity of morals. One of 
 the emblems struck in honour of Faustina the Younger, is Pudicitia! But many 
 of her medals, with greater propriety, bear Venus as a reverse, with different attri- 
 butes — as the apple, the bow and arrow, the rudder and dolphin, rudder and snake 
 on a tortoise,* and the palladium and shield. In her Vcneri felici, Venus appears 
 to be cajoling Mars; and both Addison and Eckhel mention the idea entertained 
 by some antiquaries, that this is satirically allusive of the loves of Faustina and the 
 gladiator. "But," says the former, "besides that such a thought was inconsistent 
 with the gravity of a senate, how can one imagine that the fathers would have dared 
 to affront the wife of Aurelius, and the mother of Commodus ? " Nor is Cooke more 
 happy in mistaking the garland of Lretitia for the cestus of Venus, as that mystic 
 zone does not appear upon any of the coins of this Empress which have passed under 
 my examination. To this girdle, however, great influence was ascribed by ail the 
 ancients: — 
 
 "In this was every art, and every charm, 
 To win the wisest, and the coldest warm : 
 Fond love, the gentle vow, the gay desire, 
 The kind receipt, the still reviving fire ; 
 Persuasive speech, and more persuasive sighs, 
 Silence that spoke, and eloquence of eyes." 
 CCLVIH. 
 
 Obverse. FAVSTINA AVGVSTA. A fine profile of Faustina Junior, her tresses without ornament, 
 and having elegant drapery over her shoulders. The portrait of this Empress is readily dis- 
 tinguished from that of her mother, by a more aquiline nose, greater feminine beauty, and 
 the hair tied behind, instead of braided on the crown of the head. There is a second- 
 brass coin, quoted by Eckhel, which shews that she took the title of Augusta while her 
 husband was yet Caesar. The medal now described is in singular perfection, and covered 
 with a Saxon-green patina; I procured it at Syracuse, in 1814. 
 
 Reverse. DIANA LVCIF. (Diana Lucif'era.) in the field S. C. A robed female, holding a torch 
 transversely in her hands, represents Diana in her capacity of Genetyllis, or assistant at child- 
 birth — a device which may have been struck during the pregnancy of Faustina. This Diva 
 Triformis had offices in almost all parts of the universe — in heaven, earth, and hell — under 
 the names of Diana, Luna, and Hecate. See Nos. CCLXII. and CCEX1II. 
 
 CCLIX. 
 
 Obverse. FAVSTINA AVGVSTA. An admirably executed head of Faustina, with the hair more 
 elaborately dressed than in the last, and a countenance expressive of exquis'te personal charms, 
 and innocence. This medal is of fine yellow brass, barely patinated, but in the highest pre- 
 servation ; it was found near a ruin, in the Pontine Marshes, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. MATRI MAGNAE. On the exergum S. C. Cybele seated on a stately throne, between two 
 lions; she is crowned with turrets, and holds the tympanum, or tabor, on her knee; — an 
 instrument, as with the modern tambarine, played — " orbem digitu tempcrat." It is singular 
 
 * Jobcrt slily insinuates that the tortoise is a symbol of Venus, because it shews that "married women ought to keep 
 at home!" 
 
( H4 ) 
 
 that her right hand here is empty, for it often holds a branch of the pine, which was sacred to 
 her, or a key. The sedent posture of the goddess denotes stability ; the tame lions, the conquest 
 of civilization over barbarism ; and the tabor's disc, the circumference of the earth. The crown 
 is mentioned by most of the Roman poets ; and Lucretius says : — 
 
 " Muralique caput summum cinxere corona 
 
 Eximiis munita locis quod sustinet urbeis." 
 
 Cybele was known as Mater Deum, Tellus, Vesta, Rhea, Idaea, Ops, (see CCXVI.) &c. ; 
 and Sir Isaac Newton considers her as being the same with Europa, wife of Asterius, king of 
 Crete, and mother of Minos, who reigned about 1015, B. C. The title of Mater was given 
 by the pagans to certain goddesses of the first rank, as Cybele, Juno, and Ceres: in like 
 manner the god, whose aid was implored, was often invoked by the epithet of Pater. 
 
 The infamous orgies of the Galli, or priests of Cybele, were too mad and abominable, and 
 are too well known to need description. The villains, as St. Austin calls them, having perverted 
 the order of nature, were wont to appear in the dress of Phrygian women. Jn the masquerades 
 which took place, at the festival of this goddess, the rabble appeared in the habits, and coun- 
 terfeited the dignity of magistrates : and here we find the origin of the Romish Carnival. 
 
 CCLX. 
 
 Obverse. FAVSTINA AVGVSTA. A fine head of the beautiful Empress, with the hair elaborately 
 dressed, and a frontal diadem ; the neck has a graceful curve, and the shoulders are neatly 
 attired in drapery. A medal in first-rate condition, and covered with brownish-green patina. 
 1 procured it at Malta, fromSignor Benucci, the artist, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. SAECVLI FEL1C1T. [Sceculi fclicitas.) In the field S. C. A superb lectula bearing two 
 children — twins of Faustina — in playful attitudes ; in allusion to the custom of thus presenting 
 new-born infants in the temple of Juno Lucina. The medal in the Florence Cabinet, and one 
 in the British Museum, have a star over the head of each infant, which gives them the character 
 of the Dioscuri ; and were it not for the words of the legend, 1 should have taken the apparent 
 deification as a tribute of condolence for their death. It is said that before Faustina was 
 delivered of these twins, she dreamed that she brought forth two serpents, one of which was 
 more venomous than the other ; the ominous presage was verified in the eyes of the good peo- 
 ple of Rome, by the depraved reign of the first, and the premature death of the second — whose 
 character was probably saved by his exit. 
 
 CCLXI. 
 
 Obverse. FAVSTINA AVGVSTA. The profile of Faustina, with a pleasing expression, the hair 
 carefully dressed with an anadema, and her shoulders robed. This medal is in high perfec- 
 tion, and covered with a yellowish-green patina ; it was purchased at the Hon. R. E. Digby's 
 sale, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. TEMPOR. FELIC. {Temporum felicitas.) In the field S. C. A stately female figure, 
 in full robes, with a diadem on her head, stands in the centre of the field ; she supports an 
 infant on each arm, and has two others on each side of her feet. This is a monument of the 
 fecundity of Faustina, a quality held in the highest respect by the ancient Roihans, the legend 
 therefore is justified. So numerous a family would denote domestic harmony, but that writers 
 have furnished us with facts which prove the contrary. In the "Triumph of Love" Petrarch 
 observes : — 
 
 " Vedi '1 buon Marco d'ogni laude degno, 
 Pien di filosofia la lingua, e '1 petto : 
 Pur Faustina il fa. qui star a segno." 
 
 CCLXII. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA FAVSTINA PIA. The head of Faustina, who though deified, is not yet veiled ; the 
 hair is arranged somewhat differently from that of the medals just described, the shoulders are 
 robed, and the countenance is that of a woman not more than 35 years of age, though she had 
 been a wife that time, when she died. This coin is varnished with a thin brown patina 
 and is in excellent condition ; it was purchased at Mr. Neave's sale, in 1830. 
 
( 145 ) 
 
 Reverse. SIDERIBVS RECEPTA. In the field S. C. This was struck to denote the supposed 
 reception of Faustina into heaven. A female is represented of rather a robust make, with short 
 garments, in the character of Diana ; but though she holds a torch, as on No. CCLIX, the 
 style of drapery, and her legs — together with the knot confining her tresses behind — rather 
 indicate Venatrix than Lucifera. Upon her shoulders she holds a crescent, in a manner 
 similar to that of Lunus, the MHN of the Greeks, a god adored among those who thought 
 that by worshipping the moon as a female, they would be surely "hen-pecked." This is the 
 symbol of Diana presiding over the moon, whence Horace calhd her " Siderum Regina 
 bicornis," in the grand Secular Hymn. The poets, indeed, have been very full on the many 
 attributes of this triple goddess ; but it is in her capacity as the lunar Intelligence that she is 
 most interesting. In the plutonic fable of her love fur Endymion, there is some reason to think 
 that the eclipses of the rnoon are intimated, as the veil was an essential part of her attire 
 on thatoccasion. Catullus, when commending Conon, the illustrious friend of Archimedes, says 
 that he knew the reason of the eclipses of the sun ; why the stars are sometimes lost ; and 
 why the moon disappears in the midst of her course : — 
 
 " Flamraeus ut rapidi solis nitor obscuretur; 
 
 Ut cedant certis sydera temporibus ; 
 Ut Triviam furtim sub Latmia saxa relegans 
 
 Dulcis amor gyro devocet aerio." 
 
 CCLXIII. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA FAVSTINA PIA. The head of the Empress in style, workmanship, and aspect, 
 similar to the last. It is covered with a deep-brown patina, and is in capital preservation ; 
 I procured it at Zante, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. SIDERIBVS RECEPTA. In the field S. C. This is struck with the same design as the 
 one just described, but under a different type. A female, habited as Diana, with a floating 
 veil, stands in a small car drawn by two light prancing horses. This goddess is sometimes 
 represented as drawn by stags, does, and oxen, as well as horses ; both poets and artists have 
 agreed in giving her but two at a time, and it seems that the painters of old depicted them of 
 a perfectly white colour. See Nos. CCLIX. and CCLX1I. 
 
 CCLXIV. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA FAUSTINA PIA. A profile of Faustina, in style resembling the last, but with a less 
 pleasing expression. The medal is covered with a chocolate-coloured patina, and is in very 
 good conservation ; I purchased it at Rome, in 18"23. 
 
 Reverse. AETERNITAS. On the exergum S. C. The deceased Empress, with a sceptre, is seated 
 upon a throne, transported through space by two females, who, as well as Faustina, 
 have floating veils above their heads. These attendant figures have been pronounced by 
 Havercamp, Angeloni, and Visconti, to represent Horse, or nymphs of the air; and by 
 Tristan, the relations of the Empress who died before her, and were delegated to pay this 
 respect. Others see in these three figures an indication of the past, the present, and the future ; 
 and Eckhel hints that they may allude to the golden statue which Aurelius erected in Faustina's 
 usual place at the theatre, around which the principal ladies seated themselves, as in her 
 life-time. But the throne raised from the ground, and the arched iris-like veils indicative of 
 divinity, are arguments against this opinion. Indeed, nothing more can be made out with 
 certainty, but that the device commemorates the apotheosis of the defunct Empress. 
 
 CCLXV. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA FAVSTINA PIA. The usual head of the Empress, with a sweet expression of coun- 
 tenance. This medal is bare of patina, but is in sound, though secondary condition ; it was 
 purchased at Lord Morton s sale, in 1 830. 
 
 Reverse. AETERNITAS. In the field S. C. The Empress is borne through the empyreuni on 
 the back of a winged female, who holds a large torch in her hands. This figure, from its 
 light and flowing drapery, and the office it is performing, might at once be pronounced to 
 
 U 
 
( 146 ) 
 
 represent a celestial genius, or an angel; but Occo styles it "Victoria volans," — and 
 Archbishop Agostini, a winged eternity. Oiselius simply terms it a victory ; aud it accords 
 with that described in the dream of the father of Alexander Severus. Tristan quaintly and 
 satirically explains the medal thus, "Et voicy sa femme ported sur les ailes d'une Victoire, 
 ou de Minerve, surnomm£e Victrice. Pour donner a entendre qu'estant dec6d£e elle estoit 
 recompensed de la demure eHernelle du Ciel, pour sa sage et vertueuse conduite, et comme 
 ayant este victorieuse du vice et de Pincontinence, dont cette Deese estoit ennemie formelle." 
 
 CCLXVI. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA FAVSTINA PIA. The head of Faustina, with the hair carefully dressed, but 
 without ornament, and her shoulders covered with neat drapery. This medal is coated with 
 brown patina, and is in excellent preservation ; it was presented to me at Pola, in Istria, 
 in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. In the field S. C. A grand lectisternium, with a sceptre in the part which 
 is to be occupied by the new divinity ; and a peacock with an expanded tail — " avem quippe 
 Junoniam " — standing before the drapery, are here represented. This device denotes that the 
 throne prepared in heaven, for Faustina, was equal to that of Juno. 
 
 The lectisternia were religious feasts, made for the gods themselves, in times of danger or 
 success, as supplications or thanksgivings. On these occasions their statues were solemnly 
 brought out by the Epulones, and absurdly laid upon sumptuous beds, by the side of tables 
 which were profusely spread with viands — while the whole space — beds, temples, and 
 altars — were strewed with leaves, and odoriferous herbs and flowers ; whence the name. The 
 images of goddesses were placed on thrones, as better adapted to the delicacy of their 
 sex j and on the medal before us, the lectisternium appears fitter for sitting upon than reclining. 
 Horace, rejoicing on account of Cleopatra's death, exclaims : — 
 
 "Nunc est bibendum, nunc pede libero 
 Pulsanda tellus ; nunc Saliaribus 
 Ornare pulvinar Deorum 
 Tempus erat dapibus." 
 
 Until the time of Casaubon this custom was considered as being peculiar to the Romans ; but 
 that acute critic, examining a passage of the Scholiast upon Pindar, and there finding men- 
 tion made of the cushions which suppoited the gods, justly concluded that the lectislernium 
 was in use among the Greeks. Besides this evidence, Pausanias speaks decidedly of the 
 pulvinaria on which the deities were placed, and Valerius Maximus also mentions the practice. 
 Cut its source seems deducible from the Jewish principle of eating the passover, which 
 was a sacred symbol of federal communion with God. 
 
 CCLXVII. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA FAVSTINA PIA. The profile of the Empress, the hair curiously dressed but without 
 ornament, and the bust enrobed. A medal in very excellent condition, though but thinly 
 patinated; it was presented to me by Col. Sir Parker Carroll, in 1821, at Malta. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. In the field S. C. A noble peacock, strutting with its tail expanded. 
 
 This bird was especially consecrated to Juno, as the eagle was to the mighty Thunderer — and 
 therefore the "Avis Junonia'"'' was more appropriately used in apotheosis of empresses, than 
 the " Jovis Armiger." The peacock was also a symbol of that conjugal love and affection 
 which ought to exist between married people. 
 
 CCLXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA FAVSTINA PIA. The head of Faustina attired as in the last, but with a more 
 pleasing expresion of countenance. This medal is coated with green patina, and is in 
 excellent preservation ; it was procured at Marseilles, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. In the field S. C. An altar resembling the Ara Pacis of Nero, but of a 
 plainer fabric. See No. CCXXVI. We learn that an altar was erected by the senate to the 
 
( 147 ) 
 
 memory of the Empress; and it was ordained, that young women, immediately after their 
 marriage, should repair to it, and there offer a solemn sacrifice. For this scandalous institution, 
 adds the historian, they deserved that their daughters should all resemble Faustina, and their 
 sons Commodus. 
 
 CCLXIX. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA FAVSTINA PIA. The profile of the Empress with her hair neatly disposed in curls, 
 and a veil falling from the back of the head to her shoulders. This medal is covered with a 
 rich-brown patina, and is in singularly high perfection; it was purchased at Mr. Marmaduke 
 Trattle's sale, in 1832, being lot 3057. It superseded a less perfect one which I had brought 
 from Algiers, with the same reverse, but the face a little older. 
 
 Reverse. AETERNITAS. On the exergum S. C. A grand car drawn by two noble elephants ca- 
 parisoned, and each mounted by a naked guide. On the car is a throne bearing the statue of 
 Faustina, with a sceptre in her right hand, and a canopy over her head. This device is of 
 fine workmanship, and represents the golden statue of the Empress as it was drawn to the 
 great games. See No. VIII. 
 
 CCLXX. 
 
 Obverse. DIVAE FAVSTINAE PIAE. The head of Faustina, attired and veiled as in the last— but 
 having a more pleasing expression of countenance. A medal in very fine condition, and 
 incrusted with a dark-green patina ; I procured it at Sassari, in Sardinia, in 1824. 
 
 Reverse. MATRI CASTRORVM. On the exergum S. C. Here is another piece of adulation to the 
 deified Faustina, who is superbly robed and seated upon a throne. On her right hand she bears 
 ;i radiated phoenix on a globe, the emblem of power and eternity; (see No. CCXXXI.) and in 
 her left the wand of divinity ; while before her are raised three military standards. This 
 device proves the truth of what Dio has related, that the Empress was saluted by this pompous 
 title after the glorious victory obtained by Aurelius over the Marcomanni, Sarmatse, and 
 Quadi. This extraordinary title was afterwards assumed by Julia Domna, and Julia Mgesa. 
 
 CCLXXI. 
 
 Obverse. DIVAE FAVSTINAE AVG. MATR. CASTROR. (Diva Faustina, Augusta, Mutri 
 Castrorum.) The profile of the Empress, veiled and attired as in the last. This medal is 
 coated with a red-tinted patina, and is in good preservation : it was purchased from Mr. M. 
 Young, in 1826. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. In the field S. C. A rogus very splendidly ornamented with statues and 
 festoons, and surmounted by a curiously-wrought apex, with an equestrian statue, in allusion 
 perhaps to the designation of Mother of the Camp. As the Empress died at the foot of Mount 
 Taurus, this must represent an honorary funeral. See No. CCLIII. 
 
 CCLXX1I. 
 
 Obverse. DIVAE FAVSTINLE AVG. MATR. CASTROR. (Diva Faustina, Augusta, Matri 
 Castrorum.) The veiled head of Faustina, with a sweet expression of countenance. A medal 
 incrusted with a deep bottle-green patina, and in excellent condition ; it was found near 
 Oristano, in Sardinia, in 1824, and presented tome directly afterwards. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. On the lower verge S. C. Faustina, on the back of a large eagle, is con- 
 veyed to heaven ; and has a floating veil and wand, the symbols of divinity, to denote her 
 apotheosis. The interior of the veil is spotted with seven stars, a number which, has been 
 mystical from the earliest ages. This Empress is represented on some coins as borne on a 
 peacock — but the eagle may be considered as indicative of greater honour, and more suitable 
 to the Mother of the Camp. 
 
 Perhaps this medal ought to have been placed before the Sideribus Recepta, which 
 denotes the end of her flight, and her reception among the stars; but as it has not the deifying 
 veil on the portrait, their place in the cabinet has been determined by that circumstance. 
 
( 148 ) 
 
 ANNIUS VERUS. 
 
 Annius Verus, the son of Marcus Aurelius and Faustina Junior, was born A.D. 
 163 ; was decorated with the title of Caesar at the age of three years ; and died 
 A. D. 170, at Prfeneste, a town of Latium, of a glandular swelling in the throat, 
 which appears to have been unskilfully treated. Being the only surviving son ex- 
 cept Commodus, lie seems to have been greatly regretted, for statues, one of them of 
 gold, and many other honours, were decreed to him. 
 
 Latin medals of this young prince, are of extreme rarity ; and I have only heard 
 of two medallions, and a very few in large-brass — indeed so few, that the rich 
 cabinet in the British Museum, does not yet possess one. M. Beauvais and M. 
 Mionnet mention Latin coins of second-brass at the low price of 50 francs, but I 
 never yet met with one of that class. Greek-imperial coins were struck of second 
 and third-brass, but they are scarcely less rare than those of the Roman mintage: 
 these are distinguished from those of Lucius Verus, by the addition of Augustus, 
 a title which Annius never received. 
 
 CCLXXIII. 
 
 Obverse. AN MVS VERVS CAES. ANTONINI AVG. F1L. {Annius Verus Cccsar, Antonini 
 Augustifilius.) The youthful head of Annius, with short and curly hair, and a paludamen- 
 tum close round his neck. This very rare medal is covered with deep-brown patina, and is in 
 fair condition, though it appears to have been tooled ; I procured it from the Rev. Mr. Hall, 
 chaplaiu to the British Factory at Leghorn, in 1823, in exchange for some Carthaginian coins. 
 
 Reverse. COMMODVS CAES. ANTONINI AVG. FIL. [Commodus Ctesar, Antonini Augusti 
 Jilius.) The naked head of Commodus, with cuily hair, and a somewhat older appearance 
 than that of Annius; the paludanientum is fibulated to the right shoulder. As Commodus 
 was two years senior to his brother, his head, in strict justice, ought to be the obverse, and the 
 medal should fall into the series of his reign ; but in the present, arrangement, I have followed 
 that adopted in the best cabinets. 
 
 LUCIUS VERUS. 
 
 Lucius Ceionius Commodus, the son of L. iElius Verus and Domitia Lucilla, 
 was born at Rome, A. D. 130, and after the preferment of his father by Hadrian, 
 had iEiius Aurelius added to his name. He was adopted by Antoninus Pius, at the 
 same time with Marcus Aurelius ; but that good emperor complied with the ex- 
 press orders of Hadrian only according to the letter, and neither made him Caesar, 
 nor invested him with any power during his whole reign — a clear indication of the 
 light in which he viewed his character. After the death of Pius, A. D. 161, Aure- 
 lius associated him in the empire with the agnomen of Verus, although fire and 
 water are scarcely more opposed to each other than were the characters of these 
 
( 149 ) 
 
 princes. On this occasion the latter was not only declared Csesar but Augustus 
 also; and he experienced still further the kindness of his colleague, in having his 
 daughter Lucilla, bestowed upon him, A.D. 164. With all his faults, it must be 
 admitted that Verus shewed himself sensible of the considerate condescension of 
 Aurelius, and conducted himself with great deference in public matters, acting 
 rather as a lieutenant than a co-equal. He died A. D. 169, at Altinum, not without 
 suspicion of poison ; but from his depraved habits of life, drunkenness, and gluttony, 
 it is more probable that he died of apoplexy — an inference also countenanced by 
 the description of his death. Lucilla and Faustina have both been charged with 
 this crime; but it is unjust to entertain such a suspicion of the virtuous Marcus 
 Aurelius, as that thrown out by Dio Cassius. 
 
 Lucius Verus was a prince of effeminate habits and frivolous pursuits, on the 
 one hand entirely abandoned to debauchery, and on the other confining his studies 
 to the most trifling subjects. It has been asserted that he was proud, indolent, 
 unprincipled, and disgraced by every vice except cruelty — but with respect to the last, 
 such was his passion tor gladiators, that his character appears to have been saved only 
 by his not being the absolute master of Home. During his stay in the East, instead of 
 appearing at the head of his army, he scarcely stirred from Antioch, where he wallowed 
 in all the abominations of Daphne, its noted suburb, among comedians, gamblers, 
 charioteers, musicians, courtezans, and wretches still more infamous. On his return 
 to Rome, that awe for the superior virtue of Aurelius, which had been the only 
 check on his conduct, was considerably weakened, and his revels were shared by 
 the dregs of the rabble. In the height of his excesses, he would sally forth dis- 
 guised in the "cucullio," like another Nero, to scour the streets of Rome, and in 
 the consequent broils was often severely handled. 
 
 The lolly and extravagance of this Emperor were attended with a ruinous expense. 
 He was so fond of a horse which he called Celer, that he erected a golden statue 
 to him, fed him with pistachio-nuts, almonds, and raisins, assigned him apartments 
 in the palace, and clothed him in purple trappings. And Capitolinus — who paints 
 Verus as neither very good, nor extremely bad — has preserved an account of one of 
 his prodigal entertainments. The party consisted of a dozen persons, which was 
 esteemed a great number, for the proverb said — " Sept em convivium ; novem, vera, 
 convicium." The cost of the rare w ines and delicate viands served up was scarcely 
 worthy of consideration — for to each guest was presented the youthful cup-bearer 
 who had replenished his "bumpers," together with the carver or butler who waited 
 on him and the massy chargers from which he ate; and likewise living animals, 
 
\ 
 
 ( i&o ) 
 
 whether beasts, or birds, wild or tame, similar to those whose flesh had been brought 
 to the table. Murrhine^ vessels and crystal goblets from Alexandria were given to 
 each drinker, ^at every potation, as well as the gold, silver, and jewelled cups which 
 they severally used. He gave them chaplets of flowers which were out of season, 
 with fillets interwoven with gold ; and also gold vases shaped like those of alabaster, 
 filled with perfumed ointments. After the feast, the party played at dice till day- 
 break, when the entertainer bestowed on each of his guests, a vehicle with mules and 
 a muleteer, and harnesses glittering with silver, to carry them home. The expense 
 of this mad freak was estimated at 6,000,000 Sesterces, or £ 44,233 sterling, — 
 estimating the franc of M. Latronne equal to 9,525 of our pence : other calculations 
 of the standard and relative values of money at that period, raise the sum to nearly 
 £ 50,000. 
 
 In gold and silver of the usual size, medals of this Emperor are very numerous; 
 in large and middle-brass they are common ; and generally of the same type as 
 those of Marcus Aurelius. There are both silver and brass medallions, which fetch 
 high prices. No Latin small-brass have been met with; but Colonial, Greek, 
 and Egyptian coins of each of the three sizes, can be procured. 
 
 CCLXXIV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. L. AVREL. VERVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Lucius Aurelius Verus, 
 Augustus.) The laurelled head of Verus, with a thick beard, mustachios, and a bare neck. 
 The features are remarkably good, and the expression sensible ; which agrees with the historical 
 assurance that he was a handsome well proportioned man, and with a countenance that com- 
 manded respect. His hair was long, and the care he took of it, is thus told by Capitolinus : 
 " Dicitur sane tantam habuisse cuvam flaventium capillorum, lit capiti auri ramenta respergeret 
 <|uo magis coma illuminata flavesceret." 
 
 This medal is in brilliant perfection, and covered with a mottled red-and-green patina; it 
 was presented to me by my friend Commodore Sir Charles Schomberg, at Malta, in 1S22. 
 
 Reverse. CONCORDIA AVGVSTOR. TR. P. {Concordia Augustorum, Tribunitia potestale.) 
 
 On the exergum COS. II. (Consul iterum,) and in the field S. C. This reverse is so precisely 
 similar to the one on No. CCXLI. that it would not have retained a place in the present cabinet 
 but for its extreme perfection. The two Emperors are so boldly and yet minutely finished, that 
 their likenesses cannot be mistaken. 
 
 CCLXXV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. L. AVREL. VERVS AVG. (Impcrator Ccesar, Lucius Aurelius Verus, 
 Augustus.) A bold head of Verus, without laurel, the hair and beard carefully dressed, and 
 a robe appearing over the left shoulder. This medal is in excellent preservation, though 
 unpatinated ; it was purchased at the Hon. R. E. Digby's sale, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. FELIC. AVG. TR. P. III. (Felicitati Augusti, Tribunitia potestate, tertium.) In the 
 field S. C. and on the exergum COS. II. (Consul iterum.) A large Praetorian galley, with 
 the Emperor reclining under the aplustre of the poop ; there are six rowers ; and on the fore- 
 castle is a mast raking forwards, with a sail upon it, shewing that the vessel is going with the 
 
 * Jos. Scaliger thought the Mnrrhine cups introduced by Pompey, were porcelain from China ; and that opinion has 
 been adopted by some modern writers : but Pliny's description of the unwrought Murrha, and its irisdescence, rather indicate 
 an Aduldria. Martial tells us that the stone they were made of was spotted and variegated : "pocula maculosa murrce." 
 
( 151 ) 
 
 wind aft. In the work of Bayfius, " De Re Navali," the sail is represented as a banner; 
 but here it is unusually large, roached, bent to one yard, and sheeted home to another, and cer- 
 tainly assists in propelling the vessel. This medal was struck A.D. 163, for the safe navigation 
 and happy deliverance of Verus from the perils of sea and war. But instead of being at the head of 
 his army, the luxurious prince took that opportunity of visiting Greece, in a vessel magnificently 
 adorned, and freighted with mimes and musicians : "Apud Corinthum,et Athenas, inter sym- 
 phonias et cantica navigabat, et pei singulas maritimas civitates Asise, Pamphyliae, Ciliciaeque 
 clariores, voluptatibus immorabatur." 
 
 CCLXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. L. AVREL. VERVS ARMENIACVS. (Lucius Aurelius Verus, Armeniacus.) A fine 
 head of Lucius Verus laurelled, with his beard and hair carefully dressed, and the strap of a 
 lorica over his right shoulder. A medal in high perfection, and covered with brown patina ; 
 purchased at Lefkimo, in Corfu, in 1818. 
 
 Reverse. REX ARMENI1S DATVS IMP. II. TR. POT. IIII. COS. II. (Rex Armeniis datus, 
 Imperator iterum, Tribunitia potestate quartum, Consul iterum.) On the exergum S. C. 
 The Emperor " in Sella Castrensi," or on a camp-seat, assisted by three military figures, is 
 in the act of crowning a figure at the foot of the suggestum. This represents Sohemus, who being 
 driven from his throne by the Parthians under Vologeses, A. D. 162, had escaped to Rome, 
 where residing for nearly four years, he was created a senator, and nominated to the consulship. 
 The figure of Verus is singularly well executed, and shews the position of the pendent flaps of 
 the lorica — termed " lambrequins" by the French — in sitting; and the type is valuable as 
 indicating a coronation which is not noticed in history. 
 
 The war here alluded to, originated in the desire of Vologeses to recover a golden throne, 
 which had been carried off by Hadrian : and a vast deal of blood was shed in the course of it. 
 It is asserted that Seleucia opened its gates to the Romans, who nevertheless caused the in- 
 bitants, to the number of 400,000 to be inhumanly massacred ; a statement satirized by Lucian 
 in his account of the 370,000 killed at the battle of Europa, by the Romans, who lost only 2 
 men, and had but 9 wounded. The account, however exaggerated, shews that an inhuman 
 butchery took place. A grievous calamity followed these Oriental conquests, for a plague was 
 imported by them into Rome, and the Provinces also. 
 
 CCLXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. L. VERVS AVG. ARM. PARTH. MAX. (Lucius Verus, Augustus, Armeniacus Par- 
 thieus Maximus.) An excellent laureated head of the Emperor but with a less favourable 
 expression than on the last medal ; for it bears signs of the intemperance which , as Spon says, 
 pimpled his face — while the curled beard justifies the epithet which terms him an "imperial 
 fop." This medal, struck A. D. 160, is in excellent condition, and covered with dark-green 
 patina ; it was purchased at Mr. Neaves's sale, in 1S30. 
 
 Reverse. TR. POT. VI. IMP. III. COS. II. (Tribunitia potestate sextum, Imperator tertium, 
 Consul iterum.) In the field S. C. A captive bound to the foot of a trophy, attired in thf 
 Phrygian bonnet, and the "laxse braccse;" broken armour is strewed on the ground. This 
 alludes to the defeat of the Parthians, and the submission of Armenia; and the Emperor has 
 assumed the honours arising from the success of his armies, though he " never saw a shot fired." 
 To the pompous titles of Armeniacus, Parthicus, and Maximus, he added Medicus also, 
 though it appears only on one medal; and Marcus Aurelius, who certainly had an equal 
 right to the compliment, was saluted by the same designation. This is one of the numerous 
 coins that have passed through my hands commemorative of a war, upon which history has 
 been rather concise; there is the Profectio, or departure of Verus; then Victory inscribing 
 Vic. Par. on a shield ; Mars Gradivus with the opima spolia ; Verus smiting his antagonist ; 
 and captives, trophies, and standards, under various devices, and in every metal and form. Yet 
 this gallant chieftain had actually no share iu these exploits — for while the officers were 
 doing his duty, he was revelling in the abominations of Antioch. Shade of Caesar ! what 
 commentary wouldst thou make upon this? 
 
I 
 
 ( 152 ) 
 
 CCLXXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. DIVVS VERVS. A fine head of Verus without laurel ; the hair and beard carefully dressed, 
 and the countenance singularly handsome and intelligent. This medal is coated with a grass- 
 green patina, and is in excellent preservation; it was presented tome by Mr. Craig, at La 
 Maddelina, in Sardinia, in 1824. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. On the exergum S. C. A noble car supporting the simulacrum of the 
 deceased Emperor. It is drawn by four elephants, each mounted by its driver ; and the 
 enormous animals are covered with net-work trappings — not only round their bodies, but also 
 over their legs. See No. CCL1V. This is another of those " descents into heaven" which 
 burlesqued the heathen mythology. The body of Verus, it seems, was conveyed to Rome, by 
 Marcus Aurelius, and interred in the Moles Hadriana, with extraordinary pomp ; and the 
 Senate, in spiteof the hatred it bore him, ranked him among the gods — a folly here expressed 
 under the senators' own hands. 
 
 CCLXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. DIVVS VERVS. The naked head of Verus, well represented, but with a very inferior aspect 
 to that just described. A medal in very high perfection, being varnished with a greenish- 
 brown patina on the obverse, and black on the reverse : it was procured at Pisa, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. On the lower verge S. C. An eagle cowering upon a celestial globe, on 
 which is marked a zodiac and seven stars. This symbol of deification is similar to that of 
 Marcus Aurelius, as mentioned at No. CCLVI. 
 
 LUCILLA. 
 
 Aunia Lucilla, the daughter of Marcus Aurelius and Faustina Junior, was born 
 A.D. 147, and, at the age of 17, was sent into Syria, to be married to Lucius 
 Verus. On this occasion, her father accompanied her as far as Brundusium, but 
 there took leave of her, in order that he might not seem by going all the way, to 
 assume to himself t he glory of finishing the Parthian war. After the death of Verus, 
 she was married, A. D. 170, to Claudius Pompeianus, the son of a private knight, 
 but a man of extraordinary merit and integrity. The parties were however too un- 
 equally matched, and the lady too unprincipled to be productive of happiness ; and 
 though she enjoyed the state of an Empress, the precedency of Crispina, the wife of 
 Commodus, so mortified her vanity, that she formed a conspiracy against her brother. 
 The plot having been discovered A. D. 183, her accomplices were all put to death, and 
 she was exiled to Capreae, whither, about the same time, her rival in empty pomp, 
 Crispina was also banished ; and both were shortly afterwards put to death. Pom- 
 peianus, who had too much probity even to be trusted with the dark designs of 
 his wife, retired into the country, and appears to have lived till 1 lie reign of 
 Se verus. 
 
 Lucilla was a woman of great beauty, but of dissolute habits and imperious dispo- 
 sition. It is true, that her father had thrown her away in the first instance, as a 
 measure of state-expediency : but her debaucheries, pride, and incestuous commerce 
 
( 153 ) 
 
 with her brother, prove that her depravity was innate. In fine, her character cannot 
 be better summed up, than in the words of old Tristan, the worthy Seigneur de 
 St. Amand : — "Lucille, femme de L. Verus, et fille aisnee de Marc Aureie el de 
 Faustine, estoit fort belle, rnais egalement lascive, et voluptueuse, digne fille d'une 
 telle mere, et digne compagne d'un mary si deborde, et perdu en debauches, et 
 tout ensemble d'estre la soeur d'un frere si detestable, deprave et insense, que fut 
 Commode." 
 
 The coins of this frail Empress are common in large and middle-brass, as well 
 as in silver; but the gold, the medallions, and the small -brass — together with those 
 struck in Greece and the Colonies — are somewhat rare. The most esteemed of 
 the whole is a medallion without a legend, but having a singular reverse: a fine female 
 figure holds the branch of a tree, from which an infant is dropping, like what is 
 related of the wak-wak tree, by the veracious authors of "The Arabian Tales;" 
 another woman personating Nundina, is about to bathe a child inthesea; and a third 
 boy is descending from an altar ; — three winged genii are near — one on a suggest um, 
 another over the altar, and the third upon a garden-wall. This has given rise to 
 many explanations; and Eckhel rallies the idea of his friend Winckelmann, that the 
 cupidsare falling - , while they could so easily escape breaking their heads by flying. 
 
 CCLXXX. 
 
 Obverse. LVCILLAE AVG. ANTOMNI AVG. F. [Lucilla Augusta, Antonini Augusti filia.) 
 
 The head of the Empress, with pretty features, and a pleasing expression of countenance ; the 
 hair is carefully dressed after the fashion of her mother's, and her shoulders are attired in neat 
 drapery. Lucilla here bears the title of daughter of Augustus, from the example of her 
 mother, as having also brought her husband the throne as a dower. This medal is in the 
 highest conservation, and covered with apple-green patina ; it was procured at Syracuse, in 1814. 
 
 Reverse. VESTA. In the field S. C. A stately female clothed in the suffibulum, and veiled, stands 
 before a cylindrical decorated altar bearing a flame ; she hohls the sacred palladium on her left 
 arm, and a simpulum in her right hand. This represents the princess, " sub culta Vcstce ; " 
 for it seems that, with all her depravity, she was an observer of the outward forms of religion 
 See No. XC. 
 
 CCLXXXI. 
 
 Obverse. LVCILLAE AVG. ANTONINI AVG. F. [Lucilla Augusta-, Antonini Augusti Jilia.) 
 
 The head of Lucilla, attired in the same manner, and bearing a similar expression with that just 
 described. A medal varnished with an olive-green patina, and in capital condition ; it was 
 purchased near Corinth, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. 1VNONI LVC1NAE. On the exergum S. C. A majestic female in rich robes is seated upon 
 a throne, with a swathed infant on her left arm, and with her extended right hand holding the 
 blossom of Hope. See No. XXXIX. This represents Juno, somewhat confounded in 
 the character of Diana, the goddess of child-biith — for though Homer describes her as a 
 termagant, she patronized nuptials and wedded life. In the "Aulularia" ofPlautus, as well as 
 in the Andria and Adelphi of Terence, women invoke Juno Lucina, in a manner which 
 would shock the decency of modern ears. In oider to ascertain exactly the number of children 
 born in Rome, a piece of money was carried at tveiy birth, to her temple: besides which, 
 the law of Servius Tullus enacted, that upon every death, a similar piece should be paid to tU* 
 
 X 
 
( 154 ) 
 
 temple of the goddess Libitina, and another to the temple of Juventas, as soon as any person 
 had passed the state of childhood ; by these different pieces of money, which were carefully 
 preserved, the Romans annually reckoned the number of citizens in general ; and in particular, 
 such as were able to bear arms. The head of the goddess is here exposed; but at weddiugs, 
 as Pronuba, she was always enveloped with a long veil called the flauimeum. 
 
 ccLxxxn. 
 
 Qbuerse. LVCILT.A AVGVSTA. A pleasing profile of Lucilla, with her hair bound by an anadema, 
 and her bosom robed. In excellent preservation, and thickly coated with black patina ; it was 
 presented to me at Jerbah, in the Little Syrtis, in 1822. This is the medal referred to at p. 
 1 13, as having been taken for a commemoration of the wife of iElius Csesar; because, from the 
 omissions of Capitolinus, the type was thought inapplicable to the present Empress. But we 
 have just shewn that Lucina had been invoked ; and the portrait cannot be mistaken. The 
 whole, therefore, of cap. 50. of Mediobaiba's " fmperatorum Romanorum JYumismata," 
 ought to be cancelled. 
 
 Reverse. FECVNDITAS. A robed female seated on the edge of a stool, with an infant in her arms, 
 and two others standing on the ground. The children of Lucilla have been the subject of much 
 inquiry; for history only mentions a daughter by Verus, of uncertain name, but betrothed to 
 the G. Pompeianus who was seduced into the conspiracy against Commodus, and executed. It 
 is also known that she had a son by the elder C. Pompeianus, called after his father, who 
 having served as consul under Caracalla, was murdered by robbers — or according to Spartian, 
 by the Emperor. But from this medal, as well as the medallion I have quoted, representing 
 the lustration of Nundina — "deama nono die nascent ium nuncupatum" — she may have bad 
 more who died in their infancy. 
 
 Fecundity held a high rank in the estimation of the Romans ; — and after Faustina Junior 
 had introduced the type, it became a favorite boast with the succeeding empresses. The 
 worthy archbishop of Taragona thus defines it : — " Feconda 6 detta, cou ragione, quella donna 
 che ogn' anno partorisce." 
 
 COMMODUS. 
 
 Lucius vel Marcus iElius Aurelius Commodus Antoninus, the son of Marcus 
 Aurelius and Faustina Junior, was born at Lanuvium, a town of Latium, A. D 161, 
 and declared Cresar at the early age of five years. He was named " Prince of the 
 Youth " A. D. 175 ; he accompanied his father into the East, and on their return in 
 the following year, he was saluted "Emperor," associated in the empire, and triumphed 
 with his father, agreeably to an ancient Roman custom for the children of those who 
 were thus honoured, to be carried in the triumphal car. These appointments had 
 been bestowed with a view of withdrawing the degenerate son from his propensity 
 for low and unworthy gratifications ; but this effort of parental fondness did not 
 produce the desired effect. In A. D. 177, he was married to Crispina, and decorated 
 with the titles of Augustus and Pater Patriae. He succeeded his father A. D. 180, 
 being the first Roman sovereign born during his father's rule, and the second who 
 succeeded a father in the empire. After a reign of folly, vanity, and cruelty, 
 blackened by the murders of his wife, his sister, his father's cousin-german, and 
 numbers of the most eminent persons in the state — be was poisoned and strangled 
 
( 155 ) 
 
 by Mama, one of his numerous concubines, and her accomplices, A. D. 192, at the 
 age of 31 years and 4 months. 
 
 Commodus was more noble by descent than any former emperor, and was 
 esteemed handsome, active, and strong ; but although his education was carefully 
 conducted, he soon displayed a very untoward disposition. While yet a boy he ordered 
 a servant, who had overheated a bath, to be thrown into the caldron, nor would he 
 be pacified till convinced by the scent of a sheepskin, cast in to deceive him, that 
 his commands had been executed : "JMois, mesme des sa premiere jeunesse, il se 
 fit cognoistre estre sans horineur, sans vergogne, sans humanite, lasche, crueL 
 et merveilleusement deprave" says old Tristan. During the first three years of 
 his reign, he followed the advice of the wise counsellors whom Marcus Aurelius had 
 placed about him, and though he revelled in all the licentiousness of unrestrained 
 power, his hands were unstained with blood, and he occasionally displayed some 
 generosity of sentiment. The conspiracy of Lucilla, however, was followed by the 
 dismissal of his father's friends, and the substitution of unprincipled companions for 
 them ; and he soon proved himself one of the most cruel, perfidious, avaricious, and 
 wicked despots, that ever disgraced a throne. As if to give countenance to the scandal 
 respecting his mother and the gladiator, he spent whole days and nights in the 
 public-houses among the meanest of the rabble; and besides his incestuous and 
 sacrilegious criminality with his sisters and the vestals, his impure and brutal 
 depravity confounded all social and natural distinctions. From such abominable 
 habits his conversation became corrupt, his manners low, and his aspect — though 
 manly— stamped with the air of a villain. So unfit was this wretch for power, that 
 Rome would not have existed in safety, had not such generals as Pertinax, Severus, 
 Pescennius Niger, Albinus, and Ulpius Marcellus, reduced the revolted provinces, 
 while he was turning his arms against wild-beasts and citizens in the amphitheatre. 
 In Julian's Satire, Silenus passes Commodus in silence, as unworthy of even a jest ; — 
 and Vopiscus, not disdaining a pun, declares that the name was improperly bestowed 
 upon one who was " semper incommodus." 
 
 It is singular respecting this monster, that of all the Roman emperors from 
 Tiberius to Constantine, he was the most favourable to the Christians, whence his 
 times were termed "the halcyon days of the church." This lenity is said to have 
 been owing to the mediation of Marcia, the favourite concubine of his most infamous 
 harem. She was a beautiful and crafty woman, and by her address had gained 
 such absolute power over the depraved Emperor, that he changed his name to 
 Amazonius, in honour of a picture which represented her as a female warrior : nay 
 
( 156 ) 
 
 more, he even went to the amphitheatre in the habit of an amazon ; and Lampridius 
 mentions the indignation of the Romans at so degrading a metamorphosis of their 
 Emperor. But constancy could hardly be expected in snch a wretch. By mere 
 accident Marcia discovered her name in a proscribed list,-* and for self-preservation, 
 joined Ltetus, Eclectus, and Narcissus, in effecting the destruction of the tyrant. 
 This woman appears to have had a high esteem for the Christians, and to have 
 espoused their interests on all occasions, though she never imitated the sanctity of 
 their lives. During the three months reign of Pertinax, Marcia was treated with 
 respect, but Didius Julian put her to death. 
 
 The Latin medals of Commodus — -from his bo)hood to his death — are found in 
 every form and metal ; but the gold and brass medallions, the quinarii, and the 
 small-brass are the rarest ; — and there ate abundance that were struck in Greece, 
 Egypt, and the Colonies. The various names of the Emperor form a singularity in 
 the mintage of this reign — for those struck when he was created Caesar, present the 
 appellatives Lvcius Aurelius Commodus ; those from A. D. 181 to 191, offer 
 Marcus Commodus Antoninus, or Marcus Aurelius Commodus Antoninus ; and 
 from the end of A. D. 191, till his death, he resumed Lucius, with JElius Aurelius 
 Commodus, rejecting the Antoninus. There is a consecration-coin of this Emperor in 
 the silver series, but not in large-brass, or among those bearing the senatorial authority, 
 although Sevei us caused him to be deified. The senate seized the first oppor- 
 tunity, after his assassination, of manifesting their abhorrence: they loaded his 
 memory with curses, ordered his statues to be broken into pieces, and his name to 
 be razed from all public inscriptions as an enemy to the gods and his country. 
 
 CCLXXXIII. 
 
 Obverse. I,. AVREL. COMMODO CAES. AVG. FN.. GERM. SARM. (Lucio Aurelio Com- 
 modo, Ccrsari, Aiigusti Jilio, Germarico, Sarmatico.) A remarkably handsome head of the 
 youthful Caesar, unlaurelled, with short hair, and thepraetexta fibulated over his right shoulder. 
 This splendid medal is smoothly varnished with a rich brown patina, and may be pronounced 
 in perfect condition ; it was found near Capua, in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. PRINC. 1VVENT. (Principi Juventulis.) In the field S. C. Commodus in magnificent 
 attire, but bare-headed, with a lance pointed downwards in his left hand, and a branch of laurel 
 in his right. He stands by the side of a trophy, which, together with the legend, the lance, 
 aud the laurel, testify the coin to have been struck to commemorate the Prince's title, and also the 
 close of the German war, A. D. 175. Various other trophies were struck on the same occasion, 
 as well as triumphs ; but this device is selected as being the most significant, in stamping 
 two events. 
 
 In the times of the Republic, the " Prince of the Roman Youth " was chosen by the 
 Censor out of the order of Knights — and was distinguished, as we learn from Tacitus, by a 
 triumphal robe. Princeps had then a very different meaning from its present acceptation, and 
 signified merely the frst, or leader; for he who received that title, was so styled from heading 
 
 * Herodian descales Marcia's discovery exactly as that of Domitia is represented at p. 73, of this Catalogue ; bat 
 neither Lio nor Capilolinus bfarit out, for they impute the conspiracy to disgust as well as terror. 
 
( 157 ) 
 
 the young nobility at the feasts and games. Under the emperors, the title was bestowed only upon 
 the presumptive heirs to the empire, or the most exalted members of the imperial family : and 
 it was the sovereign himself who nominated to that honour. There was a temple dedicated 
 to Juventas, where every one who took the toga virilis was obliged to deposit a coin. S«e 
 No. CCLXXXI. 
 
 The chief duty of the " Prince " was to command at the Ludus Trojae, in which the Roman 
 youths were exercised in counterfeit battles : these games were celebrated in the circus by 
 companies of boys in gay vestments, and armed with appropriate weapons. It was a very 
 favourite spectacle with the Romans, and Virgil gives a graphic and beautiful description of it, 
 JEn. v. 545, &c. The>e tournaments were well enough while they were confined to the 
 emulation of boys, and the gratification of parents ; but they paved the way to sad fooleries 
 in the middle ages — that golden period of novelists. Tear aside the romantic gauze which 
 has been thrown over them as the fruits of true heroism and public spirit, and it will be found 
 that females were never more profligate, nor men more ignorant and brutal, than during the 
 boasted aera of the. "gentle knights and courteous dames " of chivalry ; as may be gathered 
 from the pages of Joinville, S. Pelaye, Sanchez, and other writers of those impure times. Then 
 came the absurdities of romance ; and, thougli there is eating in the Morgante Maggiore, it is 
 well said of the knights-errant in general : — 
 
 " When through dreary desarts vast, 
 
 And regions desolate they pass'd, 
 
 Unless they graz'd, there's not one word 
 
 Of their provisions on record." 
 
 CCLXXXIV. 
 
 Obverse. L. AVREL. COMMODVS AVG. TR. P. V. (Lucius Aurelius Commodus Augustus, TrU 
 buniiia potestate quivtum.) A fine head of Commodus, with the laurel wreath ; the features are 
 expressive of a youth scarcely " out of his teens," though a beard has commenced, and he is 
 attired in a laminated loiica, with long shoulder-plates. This medal is in the highest per- 
 fection, and covered with olive-green patina ; it came into my possession at Tunis, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. ATVENTVS (sic) AVG. IMP. III!. COS. II. P. P. (Adventus Augusti, Imperatoris 
 quartum, Consults ilerum, Patris Patrice.) On the exergum S. C. The Emperor wearing 
 the pallium, and gracefully seated on a stately charger, holds up his right hand in the attitude 
 of a herald of peace. This device denotes the return of Commodus from Germany to Rome, 
 A. 1). 180 — an event in which no time was lost after the death of his father. Herodian 
 mentions the extraordinary joy with which he was received. 
 
 CCLXXXV. 
 
 Obverse. M. ANTON1NVS COMMODVS AVG. (Marcus Antoninus Commodus, Augustus.) A youth- 
 ful and unlaureated head of the Emperor, with the shoulders robed. A medal in excellent presei- 
 vation, and covered with brownish-red patina; it was purchased from Mr. M. Young, in 1826. 
 
 Reverse. VIRTVTI AVGVSTI TR. P. VII. IMP. IIII. COS. III. P. P. (Virtuti Augusti, 
 Tribunitia potestate seplimum, Imperatoris quartum, Consults tertium, Patris Patrice.) 
 On the exergum S. C. The Emperor, on a spirited horse, is darting a javelin at a lion. This is 
 a tribute to the courage which could triumph over the lordly beast. The skill of Commodus 
 in archery was wonderful, as well as in the general use of weapons. He ran an elephant through 
 with a spear; and Herodian mentions 100 lions being slain hy him in one day — a feat which 
 indicates that in hiin the organ of destructiveness was developed to its fullest extent. " Magnum 
 numerum hominum et belluarum publice scepe interfecit" saith Dio. 
 
 CCLXXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. M. COMMODVS ANTON. AVG. PIVS. BRIT. (Marcus Commodus Antoninus, 
 Augustus, Pius, Britannicus.) The naked head of Commodus, with curly beaid and hair, 
 and the laticlavium over his shoulders. The title of Phis now appears, which Lafnpridius 
 sarcastically thinks must have been given him by way of derision, upon his raising one of 
 bis mother's gallants to the consulship : and Britannicus, he says, was also mere flattery, 
 
( 158 ) 
 
 ih 
 
 for the Britons were disposed for another's sway. This medal is coated with a curious apple- 
 green patina, and, except a part of the reverse-legend which is rubbed, is in singular per- 
 fection ; it was purchased at Mr. Henderson's sale, in 1830. 
 Reverse. VIRT. AVG. TR. P. (The rest of this legend is illegible, but from other medals which J 
 have examined, it was probably struck tvith the titles of those minted in A. I). 181.) 
 On the exergum S. C. The Emperor on horseback galloping across the field, with a chlamys 
 floating behind him ; he is in the act of casting a dart at a panther, which is " showing fight." 
 This may commemorate his skill in striking a panther dead which had sprung upon a man. 
 Lampridius mentions his love of destruction and says — "quod feras Lanuvii in amphitheatre 
 occidisset." 
 
 CCLXXXYII. 
 
 Obverse. M. COMMODVS ANTON. AVG. PIVS BRIT. (Marcus Commodus Antoninus, Au- 
 gustus, Pius, Britannicus.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with the hair, mustachios, 
 and beard dressed, and his neck bare. This medal is in superior condition, though so slightly 
 patinated as to shew the yellow brass ; it was presented to me by the Right Honourable J. H. 
 Frere, at Malta, in 1821. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. Villi. IMP. VII. COS. IIII. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia 
 potest ate nonum, Imperator septimum, Consul quartum, Pater Patrice.) In the field S. C. ; 
 and on the exergum VICT. BRIT. (Victoria Britannica.) An elegant winged victory, 
 naked to the waist, with a long palm-branch in her right hand, is seated on a pile of 
 shields; and she holds a shield upon her knee, which being uniuscribed may denote that 
 the campaign was not yet finished. The execution of this device is excellent, being equal 
 to the finest period of Augustan art. It commemorates the advantages gained by Ulpius 
 Marcellus in Britain, for which Commodus was saluted Emperor the seventh time, A. D. 184. 
 The ancients have left but scanty accounts of this war, except that it proved very bloody, and 
 that Ulpius reaped sufficient glory to excite his sovereign's envy. See No. CCIX. 
 
 CCLXXXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. M. COMMODVS ANTON. AVG. PIVS BRIT. (Marcus Commodus Antoninus, Au- 
 gustus, Pius, Britannicus.) The laureated profile of Commodus, in full manhood, with his 
 neck bare. This medal is very thinly patinated, but in excellent condition; it was procured 
 at Bonorva, in Sardinia, in 1824. 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. X. IMP. VII. COS. IIII. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia po- 
 testate decimum, Imperator septimum, Consul quartum, Pater Patrice.) In the field 
 S. C. ; and on the exergum S ALVS. A colossal female, representing Hygieia, seated on a mag- 
 nificent throne, holding a patera towards a snake, which is rising from a casket up the side 
 of a pillar, with a small image of an aimed warrior upon it. The pillar is overshadowed by 
 that sacred tree, Ficus Ruminalis, an object of great veneration, of which Ovid says, — 
 " Arbor erat, remanent vestigia, quaeque vocatur 
 Romula, nunc ficus, rumina ficus erat." 
 The device appears to have been a vow for the Emperor's health ; and an accidental mark in 
 it is supposed to allude to the God of Gardens ; — but it does not strike me in that light, for to 
 the credit of the large-brass series, it is quite clear of any thing obscene. The left arm of 
 Hygieia rests upon a part of the throne, on which is a little figure of Hope ; and the seal is 
 supported by a winged sphynx, — that popular creation of ancient mythology, so well described 
 by Ausonius ; — 
 
 "Terruit Aoniam Volucris, Leo, Virgo, triformis 
 Sphinx : volucris penna, pedibus fera, fronte puella." 
 CCLXXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. M. COMMODVS. ANT. P. FELIX AVG. BRIT. (Marcus Commodus Antoninus, 
 Pius, Felix, Augustus, Britannicus.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with a beard, 
 and a bare neck. The title of Felix was assumed by Commodus, after giving up the person 
 
( 159 ) 
 
 and family of his friend Perennis, to the fury of the soldiers : he was the first to add this epithet 
 to Pius, and it was afterwards carefully preserved. This medal is in good preservation, 
 and covered with yellow and red patina ; it was purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 Reverse. FORTVNAE MANENTI. In the field S. C. ; and on the exergum COS. V. P. P. [Consul 
 quintum, Pater Patrice.) A sedent female with a cornucopiae on her arm, is holding a horse 
 by the bridle, and behind the seat there is a rudder, as being no longer necessary : a device 
 complimentary to the steady fortune of the Emperor, and probably struck by the Senate when 
 it found he had settled in Rome. See No. CXI. Fortuna Manens is contrasted with Fortuna 
 Mobilis, and is something like the NIKH AITTEPOS, or Victory without wings, of the 
 Greeks ; — but unless she is also the same with the Equeslris, to whom Fulvius Flaccus vowed a 
 temple, it is difficult to account for the horse. Though the goddess, under this character, is 
 omitted in the long enumeration of Alex, ab Alexandra, she had the higher honour of being- 
 recollected by the Lyric Poet, when inviting Maecenas to a frugal entertainment : — 
 " Fortuna saevolaeta negotio, et 
 Ludum insolentem ludere pertinax, 
 Transmutat incertos honores, 
 
 Nunc mihi, nunc alii benigna, 
 Laudo Manentem." 
 
 ccxc. 
 
 Obverse. M. COMMODVS ANT. P. FELIX AVG. BRIT. [Marcus Commodus Antoninus, 
 Pius, Felix, Augustus, Britannicus.) A very expressive head of Commodus, with the hair 
 and beard elaborately dressed, and the neck bare. A medal in excellent condition, and in- 
 crusted with brown patina ; it was procured of Mr. J. C. Ross, at Malta, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. IOVI EXSVPER. P. M. TR. P. XI. IMP. VIII. (Jovi exsuperanti, Pontifex Maxi- 
 mus, Tribunitia potestate undecimum, Imperator octavum.) In the field S. C. ; and on the 
 exergum COS. V. P. P. (Consul quintum, Pater Patrite.) A majestic Jupiter, naked to 
 the loins, is seated on a massive stool ; he holds a hasta pura in his left hand, and a branch 
 of laurel, the token of triumph, in his right. This is an acknowledgment of Jove, as the 
 supreme arbiter of all the Gods ; and Commodus assumed the agnomen Exsuperatorius, as if 
 he were the vanquisher of all mankind. 
 
 Although the pagan deities were so numerous, as to defy a recollection of all their names, 
 yet the gentile philosophers were of opinion that there existed but one omnipotent Being, who 
 was the supreme Governor of the world.* Thus Manilius, to account for the Altar being among 
 the constellations, represents Jove himself as sacrificing to a still greater power, for success 
 against the giants : and Cicero, Seneca, and Pliny, afford proofs that the Divi were merely 
 worshipped as ministers and dispensers of blessings, under the influence of a superior God. 
 These became tutelary to particular places, — for it would, no doubt, have been impious in a 
 Roman, during the Punic wars, to pray to the African Jupiter, instead of that in the Capitol, 
 or at Anxur. 
 
 CCXCI. 
 
 Obverse. M. COMMODVS ANT. P. FELIX AVG. BRIT. (Marcus Commodus Antoninus, Pius, 
 Felix, Augustus, Britannicus.) A remarkably fine laureated profile of the Emperor, with 
 the hair, mustachios, and beard, carefully dressed, and the neck bare ; the features are those 
 of maturity, but the expression less amiable than before. A medal in excellent conservation, 
 and covered with olive-green patina ; it was presented to me by Lieut. T. Graves, R. N. 
 in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. PIETATI SENATVS. In the field S. C. ; and on the exergum, COS. V. P. P. (Consul 
 quintum, Pater Putrice.) Two togated figures, the one with a sceptre, and the other with 
 a scroll, taking each other by the right hand. The senate, under dread of the murderous 
 
 • Plutarch mentions that, even in some parts of Egypt, the notion of a supreme Being prevailed ; so that the people of 
 Elephantis refused to contribute to the support of the " sacred animals," because they paid their adorations to no other 
 4eitf than Coeph, the Eternal Spirit. 
 
( 160 ) 
 
 disposition of the Emperor, probably struck this coin to pacify him. " Is timor nobis erat cum 
 cceteris communis are the words of Dio, a senator of that time ; and there was really ground 
 for the tyrants' being ruffled with the Conscript Fathers, — for the assassin who undertook to 
 deal the fatal stroke, in Lucilla's conspiracy, exclaimed while he displayed the dagger — " Hunc 
 tibi pugionem Senatus mittit ■"' 
 
 CCXCII. 
 
 Obverse. M. COMMODVS ANT. P. FELIX AVG. BRIT. {Marcus Commodus Antoninus, Pius, 
 Felix, Augustus, Britannicus.) The laurelled head of Commodus, with handsome but un- 
 prepossessing features. A medal in good condition, though rubbed on the legends. The obverse 
 is covered with a deep-brown, and the reverse with grass-green patina. It was purchased at 
 Lord Morton's sale, in 1830. 
 
 Reverie. P. M. TR. P. XL IMP. VII. (Pontifex Muximus, Tribunitia potestate undecimum, 
 Jmperator septimum.) In the field S. C. ; and on the exergum COS. V. P. P. [Consul 
 quintum, Pater Patrice.) A statue of Janus bifrons, with the lance of divinity, is naked 
 to the loins, and stands in the vestibule of a small distyle temple. This device appears 
 to recognize Commodus as Pacator Orbis, a title which he assumed in his arrogant letter to 
 the senate. 
 
 The 1st of January, as sacred to Janus, was celebrated with great solemnity; and the 
 crown of laurel which he had worn the preceding year, was on that day taken off his head, and 
 replaced by a new one : whence Ovid — 
 
 " La urea flamiuibus quae toto perstitit anno, 
 
 Tollitur, et frondes sunt in honore novo." 
 Janus has been thought to typify the sun, and that his power of looking either way, repre- 
 sents the East and West, or Heaven's gates : but others consider his seeing before and behind, 
 as emblematic of time. Ilis head formed the obverse of the Roman Ases for ages, and were 
 circulated in a damaged state even in Ovid's time ; the reverse was usually the prow cf a galley, 
 whence the Roman boys tossed up lor " Capita aut Navim !" with them. The reason why 
 Janus had generally some symbol of a ship near him, is one of the "Roman Questions" of 
 Plutarch ; — Bryant seized it as a relic of his Aikite worship. Statius mentions the curious 
 figuie of Janus when talking with both mouths at once; and in allusion to his double face, 
 Persius exclaims, — 
 
 " Janus, happiest of thy happy kind ! — 
 No waggish stork can peck at thee behind." 
 CCXC1II. 
 
 Obverse. M. COMMODVS ANT. P. FELIX. AVG. BRIT. [Marcus Commodus Antoninus, 
 Pius, Felix, Augustus, Britannicus.) The laureated head of the Emperor, with a bare 
 neck. A medal, in sound but secondary condition, varnished with a deep bottle-green patina ; 
 it was purchased from Mr. Till, in 1830. 
 
 Reverse. VICTORIAE FELICI. Victory flying gracefully across the field; she is crowned with 
 turrets, and holds two shields by a girdle or garland of flowers — on one of which is an S, 
 and on the other a C. [Senatus Consultu.) — over a substructure inscribed COS. V, P. P. 
 (Consul quintum, Pater Patrice.) Some advantages gained over the Moors, and the Dacians, 
 in the fifth consulate of Commodus, gave occasion to this device; for the act of flying denotes 
 rapidity of operation, and the two shields would signify a double success. 1 have before 
 me a medal with precisely the same obverse, and apparently minted with the same view; 
 but the reverse has been too much tooled to warrant its admission into the cabinet. It presents 
 two arches, each bearing a fine trophy, and an equestrian statue. I have searched in the 
 British Museum, and in various other collections for this device, without success ; nor have 
 I found it figured any where but in the " Thesaurus selectorum iSumismatum antiquorum" 
 of Oiselius,— where it appears, with QVOD VIAE MVN. SVNT. (Quod Vice Muuitte 
 sunt,) between the trophies. On the whole it recalls the line of Virgil : — 
 " Et duo rapta raanu diverso ex hoste trophsea;" 
 
( 161 ) 
 
 CCXCIV. 
 
 Obverse. M. COMMODVS ANT. P.FELIX AVG. BRIT. (Marcus Commodus Antoninus, Pius, 
 Felix, Augustus, Britannicus.) The profile ot Commodus, with a laurel crown, and his neck 
 bare. A medal in secondary condition, and unpatinated ; it was purchased from Mr. Young, 
 in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. XI. IMP. VIII. COS. V. P. P. (Pnnlifex Maximus, Tribunitia poteslate 
 undecimum, Impcrator octavum, Consul quintum, Pater Patrice.} On the exergum PROVID. 
 AVG. (Providentice Augusti.) In the area S. C. A ship under sail without oars — &"remigio 
 alarum,^ instead of the creeping - system of navigation mentioned by Properties : — 
 " Alter remus aquas, alter tibi radat arenas, 
 Tutus ens ; medio maxima turba mari est." 
 This was struck A. D. 18(5, and it testifies the care of Commodus, in the frumentariau supply. 
 He established a company of merchants, and a fleet, for conveying- corn from Africa to Rome, 
 to g-uard against any misfortune that might befall the ships which transported it from Egypt- 
 As this was a good act, his inflated vanity on the occasion shall pass uncensured. 
 
 ccxev. 
 
 Obverse. L. AEL. AVREL. COMM. AVG. P. FEL. (Lucius JElius Aurelins Commodus, Au- 
 gustus, Pius, Felix. J The laurelled head of Commodus, with curled hair and beard, and a 
 bare neck; — the features with a very indifferent expression. This medal is unpatinated, but 
 in good condition ; it was presented to me by Mr. W. Hamilton, on the occasion related at 
 No. CXLIV. 
 
 Reverse. SAL. GEN. HVM. COS. VI. P. P. (Salus Generis Humani, Consul sextum, Pater 
 Patrice.) On the exergum S. C. Hygieia, in full robes, is standing with her father's rod 
 and involute serpent in her left hand, and raising a kneeling citizen with her right. Tristan 
 thinks the Goddess of Health is here relieving the Emperor from a grievous complaint ; but it. 
 would be altogether hors de regie to represent him on his knees — nor are we aware of any ill- 
 ness that befell him in his sixth consulate. It more probably represents the termination, A. D. 
 191, of a dreadful plague which had ravaged Rome for two or three years ; and to escape which, 
 Commodus ran oft to Laurentum, where he spent in revels , the money which he had exacted 
 under pretence of going over to Africa. 
 
 CCXCVL 
 
 Obverse. M. COMMOD. ANT. P. FELIX AVG. BRIT. P. P. (Marcus Commodus Antoninus, 
 Pius, Felix, Augustus, Britannicus, Pater Patrice.) A laureated profile of ( ommodus, 
 with a bare neck, and the features good, but coarse. This medal is slightly varnished with 
 brownish patina, and is in excellent condition; it was presented to me by Sig. Rossoni, at 
 Benghazi, in 1821. 
 
 Reverse. COL. L. AN. COM. P. M. TR. P. XV. IMP. VIII. (Colonia Lucii Anlonini Corn- 
 modi, Pontificis Maximi, Tribunitia potestute deci mum- quintum, Tmperatoris octavum.) 
 In the field S. C. ; and on the exergum COS. VI. (Consulis sextum.) The Emperor, with a 
 sacerdotal veil as a priest, is steering a plough drawn by oxen. The ambition of Cominodus 
 -was to have every thing named after him — the months, the fleet, the senate— and now even 
 Rome itself was to change its name, and, with the consent of the Conscript Fathers, be called 
 Colonia Commodiana. The device represents the ceremony by which a city was founded, its 
 circuit being marked by driving a plough round it — whence urbis is supposed to be corrupted 
 from orbis. In yoking the cattle for this purpose, a bull was placed outside, and a cow inside, 
 indicating the duties of men to be abroad, and those of women at home. The diiver was called 
 Colonus, whence the word clown, which at first signified merely a tiller of ground. 
 
 Dio relates that the Emperor ordered a colossal statue of gold, for the capitol, with the oxen 
 and plough, as if he had actually founded a new colony : — "e gli fit battuta quest' insigne 
 medaglia ch' io non ho osservata in nessun museo numismatico," observes the learned 
 Alessandro Viscouti. 
 
 Y 
 
( Wf ) 
 
 CCXCVII. 
 
 Qilwerse. M COMMOD. ANT. P. FELIX AVG. BRIT. P.P. (Marcus Commodus Antoninus, 
 Pius, Felix, Augustus, Britannicus, Pater Patria.) A profile of the Emperor with a 
 laurel wreath, and a bare neck. This medal has been rubbed, and is without patina ; it was 
 purchased from Mr. Matthew Young, in 1828. 
 
 Reverse, HERCVLI COMMODIANO P. M. TR.' P. XVI. COS. VI. (Hercnli Commodiano, 
 Punt/Jici Maximi, Tribunitia potestate decimum-sextum, Consult sextum.) In the field 
 S. C. A virile figure, with only a robe round his loins, stands before a decorated altar which 
 is under a tree, whereon hangs the skin of a lion. As he holds a sacrificial tessera in his 
 right hand, and a cornucopias in the left, without the appearance of a club, the figure does not 
 seem to represent Hercules, though the fascia honours him with a new title. See No. CCCII. 
 This is the last medal inserted by Sambucus; and it is singular that he has mistaken the flame 
 on the altar, for an eagle. 
 
 CCXCVIII. 
 
 Obverse. L. AEL. AVREL. COMM. AVG. P. PEL. [Lucius Mlius Aurelius Commodus, Augustus, 
 Pius, Felix.) The laureated head of the Emperor, with a bare neck, and indifferent ex- 
 pression of features. This medal has been rubbed, but has a ground of black patina : it was 
 presented to me by my shipmate Lieut. Graves, R. N. in 1825. 
 Reverse. I. O. M. SPONSOR. SEC. AVG. (Jovi Optimo Maximo, Sponsori securitatis Augusti.) 
 
 In the field S. C. ; and on the exergum COS. VI. P. P. (Consults sextum, Putris Patria.) 
 Jupiter, naked to the loins, is standing with his right hand upon the shoulder of the togated 
 Emperor, who holds a globe and sceptre in token of authority. The deity grasps a fulmen 
 in his left hand, as if resolved to protect an abominable prince, who not only practised every 
 vice himself, but also exempted criminals from punishment, for money. About this time — 
 A. D 191, — the temple of Peace, with all its treasures, was destroyed by conflagration. That 
 magnificent structure had been raised by Vespasian, alter the conquest of Jerusalem, and 
 was enriched with all the spoils and ornaments of the temple of the Jews. 
 
 CCXCIX. 
 
 L. AEL. AVREL. COMM. AVG. P. FEL. (Lucius Mlius Aurelius Commodus, Au- 
 gustus, Pius, Felix.) The laurelled profile of Commodus, with a bare neck, and the beard 
 highly trimmed. This medal is of yellow brass, and in excellent preservation, though barely 
 patinated ; it was procured at Catania, in 1814. 
 
 PROVIDENTIAE AVG. (Providentiee Augusti.) On the exergum S. C. The Emperor 
 naked, in the character of Hercules, stands with his foot on the prow of a ship, and supports 
 a club in his left hand against a rock. On the opposite side is a stately and well-executed 
 female, figured in long robes, who — by the lion at her feet, the sistrum in her hand, and the 
 elephant's proboscis on her head — evidently personates Africa. She is in the act of presenting 
 a bunch of wheat-ears to Commodus, as a token of the foresight mentioned in No. CCXCIV. 
 
 ccc. 
 
 Obverse. L. AEL. AVREL. COMM. AVG. P. FEL. [Lucius Mlius Aurelius Commodus, Au- 
 gustus, Pius, Felix.) The head of Commodus, with a laurel wreath, and a bare neck, the 
 hair and beard attentively dressed, and the eye larger than on the preceding medals. It is 
 covered with a fine black patina, and is in capital condition; it was procured at Orbitello, in 
 Tuscany, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. SERAPIDI CONSERV. AVG. COS. VI. P. P. (Serapidi Conservatori Augusti, Con- 
 sulis sextum, Patris Patrice.) This medal was struck A. D. 191, to testify the Emperor's 
 regard for the Egyptian worship. It represents Serapis in short robes, crowned with a 
 modius, extending his right hand in a commanding attitude, and holding a sceptre in his left. 
 He was not only the Jupiter and Pluto of the Egyptians, but also typified the Universe ; and 
 the response given to the inquiries of Nicocreon, tyrant of Cyprus, declares his ubiquitous 
 
 Obverse. 
 
 Reverse. 
 
( Iftfr ) 
 
 attributes — that the earth was his foot, the sea his belly, and the sun his eye ; and as his head 
 was in heaven, it followed that the modi us must be filled with all the heavenly gifts for which 
 his followers prayed. Most authors declare Serapis to be identical with Osiris, yet some 
 have seen a distinction in their nature and relations. To arrive at a conclusion, we may repeat 
 what Martianus Capella, the African Latinist, says in his hymn to the sun : — 
 
 " Iseam Serapin Nilus, Memphis veneratur Osiriin." 
 
 CCCI. 
 
 Obverse. M. COMMODVS ANTONINVS AVG. P1VS. [Marcus Commodus Antoninus, Augustus, 
 Pius.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with a trimmed beard, and bare neck. A medal 
 in indifferent preservation, which was procured near Lucca, in J 823. 
 
 Reverse. TEMPORVM FELK 1TAS, inscribed on the exergum : and in the field S. C. Four boys in 
 easy attitudes represent the seasons of the year. Spring bears a basket of flowers upon his 
 head; Summer holds a sickle and some corn; Autumn displays a cya^hus for wine in one 
 hand, and places his other upon a hound ; Winter holds a leafless branch, and is warmly 
 clothed — the other three being naked This elegant device was first struck on a medallion, in 
 honour of Commodus and his brother Annius Verus ; but it was afterwards frequently used. 
 The year 191 was not a peculiarly happy one, but the populace might have approved of the 
 times, as their infamous master was not deficient in that ostentatious generosity which gratified 
 itself in congiaries, as is testified by several of his medals. Commodus had decreed that his 
 era should be styled the golden age ; and besides the medal before us, I have had others in large- 
 brass, expressive of the public felicity — as Ltctttia in a garland, Tempor. Folic, around two 
 cornucopise and a caduceus — and others. Lampridius says — " Ipse vero seculum aureum, Com- 
 modianum nomine, adsimulans, vilitatem proposuit, ex qua ma-jorem penuriam fecit." 
 
 CCCII. 
 
 Obverse. L. AEL. AVREL. COMM. AVG. P. FEL. (Lucius Minis Aurelius Commodus, Augustus, 
 Pius, Felix.) A well executed profile of the despot, with his head covered by the spoils of a 
 lion. This medal, in singular perfection, and varnished with black patina, was procured at 
 Dernah, in 1822. The former emperois were frequently represented in the dress and attributes 
 of Gods, on the reverse of their medals; but the obverse was invariably occupied by the official 
 portrait. Commodus, however, changed all this, and taking off the laurel from his brows, here 
 exhibits himself in the head-dress of Hercules. 
 
 Reverse. HERCVL. ROMANO AVG. S. C. (Hercu/i Romano Augusto, Scnatus Consultu.) This 
 is inscribed in a gailand of laurel, with a massy club down the centre, as a compliment to 
 Commodus the Roman Hercules. This " Peste execrable du genre humain" as Tristan 
 terms him, is said to have fought in the public amphitheatre upwards of 700 times, with such 
 success that he dignified himself with the title of Conqueror of 1000 Gladiators: " multa 
 cognomina sibi sumpsit, sed piaeseitim Herculis." He assembled a number of cripples and 
 city paupers, and causing them to be wrapped up in fantastical habits, like dragons and 
 monsters, he rushed upon them with his club, and laid them all dead at his feet. "Vincisab 
 (eterno/" shouted the abject senators to the ferocious monster. 
 
 " Commodus Herculeum nomen habere cupit, 
 Antoninorum non putat esse bonum." 
 Hercules was a favourite deity with the Romans, and bis name was ihe watch-word of 
 Pompey, at Pharsalia. He typified valour and fortitude, which are proved, by undergoing 
 fatigue and labour with the resolution which his history exemplified. In the fanciful Orphic 
 theory, he denoted the efficient cause in nature which distributed the universe into its different 
 parts ; and other mystifications refer his 12 labours to the progress of the sun through the signs 
 of the zodiac. In this light it is easy to accept the "starry-robed Hercules" of Nonnus. 
 
 CCC1II. 
 
 Obverse. L. AEL. AVREL. COMM. AVG. P. FEL. (Lucius Mlius Aurelius Commodus, Au- 
 gustus, Pius, Felix.) The head of Commodus attired with the lion's skin, as in the last. 
 
( 164 ) 
 
 A medal in good but secondary condition, and thinly coated with light-brown patina; it was 
 purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 Reverse. HERCV2.1 ROMANO AVG. {Herculi Romano Augusto.) On the exergum S. C. The 
 club of Hercules between a bow, and a quiver of arrows, in allusion to the strength, activity, 
 and skill of Commodus. The quiver of this reverse, engraved in the Rev. VV. Cooke's Medallic 
 History, is inscribed HONOR1 ; but 1 have seen no letters onany of those which I have examined. 
 
 CCC1V. 
 
 Obverse. L. A EL. AVREL. COMM. AVG. P. FEL. (Lucius JElius Aure/ius Commodus, Au- 
 gustus, Pius, Felix.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with the beard, hair, and mus- 
 taches, dressed with singular care, and a highly expressive countenance. This medal is 
 coated with olive-green patina, and is in the highest possible preservation ; it was found in a 
 ruin near Leptis Magna, in 1817, by an Arab, who immediately exchanged it with me, for a 
 penknife. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. XVII. IMP. VIII. COS. VII. P. P. (Ponti/ex Maximus, Tribunitia 
 potestate decimum-septimum, Imperator octavum, Consul septimum, Pater Patrice.) On 
 the exergum S. C. An armed warrior, with a long spear, gives his right hand to a stately 
 female in full robes, holding a military standard. Both these figures are admirably executed, 
 and between them is a star, an object common on the medals minted A. D. 192, just before the 
 
 ' Emperor's death. This may have been owing to a superstition derived from the Egyptians ; — 
 
 " Auspicum observationes stellam asserunt prosperitatis, ac laeti alicujus eventi signum esse." 
 
 This medal affoids an additional pioof that authors are wrong in supposing the tribunitian 
 number to refer to the year of the Emperor's actual reign — since that of Commodus was not 
 vet 13 years. The exact dates of the repetition of this power, for this reign, it has been diffi- 
 cult to assign — for even if this be reckoned from the time when he was associated in his father's 
 authority, theie will still be a year too much. 
 
 CCCV. 
 
 Obverse. L. A EC AVREL. COMM. AVG. P. FEL. (Lucius Minis Aurelius Commodus, Au- 
 gustus, Pius, Felix.) The laureated head of the Emperor, with features and hair as in the 
 last. A medal in very high condition, and covered with a dense-black patina ; it was pre- 
 sented to me by Count Portalis, in 1817. 
 
 Reverse'. P. M. TR. P. XVII. IMP. VIII. COS. VII. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia 
 potestate decimum-septimum, Imperator octavum, Consul septimum, Pater Patrice.) 
 On the exergum S. C. The Emperor in full vestments, is crowned by a winged Victory, 
 holding a palm-branch. Before him stand Osiris and Isis, with the modius and sistrum : 
 between them and the Emperor is a cylindrical altar with a festoon of flowers, over which the 
 parties join hands. r l his noble device testifies the regard of the Prince for the Egyptian dei- 
 ties — >" Sacra Isidis coluit, ut et caput raderet et Anubin portaret," says Lampridius. See 
 No. CCC. Macrobius tells us that Osiris was the Sun ; and as the Egyptians considered 
 that luminary as the demiurgus, or creator, he was held in the first consideration ; and, accord- 
 ing to Manetho, all red-haired men were immolated at his tomb. 
 
 Bellori considers this reverse as a sacrifice to Serapis, for the health of Commodus; but 
 it more probably relates to the establishment of the Commodo-Herculeo-Afriean fleet. The 
 same event gave occasion to the striking of a fine medallion, inscribed Votis Felicibus : two 
 ships are represented under sail, and three rowing boats, — a grand pharos stands on a rock, 
 ' before which are two priests, who have just precipitated a bull and a patera into the sea, as a 
 sacrifice to Neptune. The custom of thus propitiating the God of Waters, is as old as Homer. 
 
 CCC VI. 
 
 Obverse. L. AEL. AVREL. COMM. AVG. P. FEL. (Lucius JElius Aurelius Commodus, Augustus, 
 Pius, Felix.) The laurelled head of Commodus, with a bare neck, and maiked features. A 
 medal in fair condition, and covered with red patina ; it was purchased from Mr. Till, in 1S30. 
 
 Reverse. VOTA SOL. PRO SAL. P. R. COS. VII. P.P. (Vota soluta pro salute Populi Romani, 
 Consul septimum, Pater Patrice) On the exergum S. C. The Emperor " capite velato" in 
 
( 165 ) 
 
 sacerdotal robes, holds a patera over the flame of a tripod, and grasps an augural staff with his 
 left hand. Before him an ox for sacrifice is held with its head down by a popa, while the 
 cultrarius, with an uplifted hatchet, slays it : the action of the popa furnishes an argument 
 against the opinion that the victim was allowed to stand loose before the altar, that it might 
 not seem to be brought by force. By the side of the cultrarius is a Tibicen playing on the 
 double flute, a performance which has puzzled most critics, particularly Scaliger, Aldus 
 Manutius, Salmasius, and Madame Dacier. Without entering upon the question of dcxtra 
 and sinistra, pares and impares, or the ambo-dexterity of Terence's fair Andrian, 1 shall 
 merely say that the two flutes on the medal are of equal length ; and that a trip to Sardinia 
 would have afforded those critics an opportunity of seeing the tibiae still used, under the name 
 of launedda. 
 
 This medal was struck A. D. 192, to commemorate a " vota nuncupare" made during the 
 plague. Commodus was greatly addicted to the celebration of sacred rites— but it was rather 
 for the gratification of personal vanity, than from a sense of religious duty ; he shaved his head, 
 carried an Anubis, and slaughtered victims in the dress of a butcher. 
 
 CIUSPINA. 
 
 Bruttia Crispina was the daughter of Brultius Piresens, a senator of consular 
 dignity, but we are ignorant respecting the place and date of her birth. She 
 was married to Commodus, at the instance of Marcus Aurelius, A.D. 177, and a 
 congiarium (see No.CCLlI.) was given to the public on the occasion. The nuptials 
 were hurried on account of the approaching - war with the Scythians. Having - 
 become notorious for adultery, she was banished to Capraea, and there put to 
 death A. D. 183. 
 
 Crispina, a woman of surprising beauty, but of very licentious habits, dis- 
 honoured her dignity by the most scandalous libertinism. Yet her degrading - 
 propensities did not stifle her pride, — for Lucilla having - claimed that precedence 
 which Crispina considered as the sole right of the reigning empress, a bitter 
 rivalry sprung up between the two princesses, which wrought the destruction of 
 each. (See p. 152.) They met at the same place of exile, and there ended their 
 jealousies about rank and prerogative, by being barbarously executed nearly at 
 the same time ; Commodus " n' excusant pas en sa femme ce crime dont il 
 luy monstrovt contimiellcment Vcxample, avec beaucup plus de desordre, e.t 
 d? mfamie" 
 
 It is somewhat unfortunate for human nature, that while we are taught fo pay 
 the unqualified homage of our admiration to the Clelias, and Portias, and Cornelias, 
 of the republic, we rely upon very questionable data ; but that on descending to 
 times in which more authentic and luculent evidence is attainable, we are compelled 
 to form a different opinion of the daughters of the " Eternal City," from the monstrous 
 and barefaced vices of her Julias, and Messalinas, and Faustinas. In the first instance,. 
 
( 166 ) 
 
 imagination leads the judgment astray, as to the standard of Roman excellence ; 
 but an impartial consideration of the truth, cannot but exalt such ladies as withstood 
 the intoxication of unbridled power — and we the more readily admit the merits 
 of a Livia, an Antonia, a Plotina, a Marciana, and a Mamaea. 
 
 Medals of all metals and sizes of this Empress, except small-brass, are easily 
 procurable ; the silver, and large and second-brass are very common. From a 
 denarius bearing an altar under the fascia Dis Genitalibus, which seems to have 
 followed a gold coin of the same device, inscribed Dis Conjugalibus, it is con- 
 cluded that Crispina bore children ; but they must have died very young, for 
 neither history nor medals mention them. As the fact is therefore so uncertain, 
 there is but little faith to be placed in the Liberi Jlug. introduced by Mediobarba, 
 under the date of A. D. 18], with this remark : — " Nummus hie nosdocet Co rn mo- 
 il um filios habuisse, quorum tamen altum apud auctores silentium.' , 
 
 If this Catalogue was only to be seen by practised numismatists, it might be 
 deemed trite to add, that the large-brass of this lady must be selected only in 
 unexceptionable preservation ; and that, except a sedent Roma, her medals bear 
 obvious reverses, such as ihe attributes of Juno, Ceres, Venus, Diana, and various 
 moral virtues, including even Pudicitia ! 
 
 CCCVII. 
 
 Obverse. CRISPINA AVGVSTA. A profile of the Empress with handsome features, the hair neatly 
 plaited and turned round behind, the neck finely turned, and the bosom robed. The aspect is 
 that of a woman in about her twentieth year. This medal is in supeib condition, and densely 
 coated with brownish-green patina, tinged with red. It was found in the ruins of Cemenelium, 
 near Nice, by a faimer, fiom whom 1 procured it in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. LAETITIA. In the field S. C. A stately female, in the robes of a Roman matron, stauds 
 with a wreath of flowers in her right hand, and holds a rudder placed upon a globe with her 
 left. This is the emblem of gaiety : — the rudder and globe shew the power of cheerfulness; 
 the long robes, in which Lsetitiais clothed, imply that conviviality ought ever to be accom- 
 panied by decency j and the wreath represents the chaplet worn by the Romans at their festivals : 
 
 "Neu desint epulis rosae, 
 
 Neu vivax apium, neu breve lilium." 
 
 The custom was no doubt borrowed from the women of Greece, who wore garlands of flowers 
 at the marriage ceremony, as a type of loveliness and fertility. See the Iphigeniaof Euripides. 
 
 CCCVII I. 
 
 Obverse. CRISPINA AVGVSTA. A beautiful head of Crispina, with the expression and attire as in 
 the last. A medal in very superior preservation, which was procured at Susah, in Africa, in 
 1822. It is covered with a russet-green patina, with red spots. 
 
 Reverse. VENVS FELIX. In the field S. C. A sedent female, robed as a matron, supports a winged 
 cupid with a festoon ol flowers upon her right hand, and holds a sacred virga in her left: the 
 felix may have been in compliment to the Emperor's having assumed that agnomen. The stories 
 of Venus have been blended by recondite writers, with physiology, morality, and history but 
 it was said — " quasi venusta, est enim, venuslatis dea." See No. CXC. 
 
( 167 ) 
 
 CCCIX 
 
 Obverse. CRISPINA AVG. IMP. COMMODI AVG. (Crispina Augusta, Imperatoris Commodi 
 Augusti, [scilicet uxor.) A profile of the Empress, with a lovely expression of countenance, 
 and her hair somewhat differently dressed, being bound in an anadema. This medal is covered 
 with a brownish-red patina, and is in excellent preservation : it was presented to me by Mr. 
 T. Burgon, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. SALVS. On the exergum S. C. A robed female seated on a throne, is giving food to a 
 serpent which rises from a coffer ; this represents the daughter of the god of physic, who was 
 invoked with her father, as may be seen in the 3id act of Terence's Hecyra. The serpent 
 alludes to itisculapius, who was conveyed from Epidaurus to Rome in that form ; and it was 
 not only the symbol of health, but its positive medical vhtues were highly extolled Pliny 
 assures us that the fat of a snake, mixed with verdigris, is excellent in epiphoras or inflammation 
 of the eyes ; eating the sloughs or cast skins, clears the head of uninvited guests, and when 
 burnt to ashes are capital lor sore ears; chtwing the heait cures the tooth-ache; and in 
 many of the nunquam sana cases the reptile performs wonders. Deinocritu* recommended 
 a composition of snakes, by which a man might understand the language of birds : and even in 
 later days, Marco Polo says the gall of serpents is efficacious in hydrophobia ; whilst Johnston, the 
 Polish naturalist, tells us — "totumsi spectes, capite, et caudd truncatis, interaneis abjtctis, 
 degiubiti, came bene lota, el cum vino cocld, jure aromalibus condito, in lepra commen- 
 dantur : quidam cum Jloribus herbce paralysis, in oleo ad podagram decoquunt." The 
 serpent was also the emblem of prudence, and P. Valerian, speaking of the head of Medusa, 
 says — " cujus prudentia causa serpentium caput il/i confictum d poctis." 
 
 The principal temple of Salus at Rome, was one which was vowed to her by Junius 
 Bubulcus in the Samnite war; and is thus mentioned by Livy — " Mdem Sa/utis, quarn 
 Consul voverat, Censor locavcrat, Dictator dedicavit." In allusion to the type, Martial 
 says : — 
 
 " Rerum certa Salus, terrarum gloria Csesar; 
 Sospite quo magnos credimus esse Deos." 
 
 And again : — 
 
 "Mittimus, 6 rerum felix tutela, SALUsque 
 Sospite quo, gratum credimus esse Jovem." 
 
 PERTINAX. 
 
 Publius Helvius Pertinax, the son of Helvius Successus, a freedman, Mas born 
 A.D. 126, in Liguria. From the words of Capilolinus — " pater ejus tabernam 
 coaciilitiam exercuit " — it seems that for sometime he followed his father's humble 
 calling, of selling charcoal and timber — after which he kept a grammar-school at 
 Rome; but that profession not answering his expectations, and his inclination tend- 
 ing more to arms than letters, he betook himself tothecamp. He served in Parthia, 
 Syria, and Noricum, with a merit which, despite of his mean extraction, advanced 
 him to the highest commands — insomuch that, at the accession ofCommodus, A. D. 
 180, he was governor of Syria. He now became an object of jealousy to the 
 courtiers, and passed three years happily, in retirement from public life. During 
 this period he employed himself in embellishing his native village with elegant 
 buildings; but he would not permit his father's house and shop to be altered. 
 
( 168 ) 
 
 After the fall of Perennis, A. D. 183, Pertinax was sent into Britain, where with 
 great difficulty, and not without exposing himself to personal danger, he restored 
 the ancient discipline among the disaffected legions. At the death of Commodus 
 this "tennis-ball of fortune" was Praefect of Rome, as well as Consul for the 
 second time; and reluctantly consented to be proclaimed Emperor, by an apparently 
 free election, on new year's day, A. D. 193: yet he was assassinated by the Prae- 
 torian Guards, after a reign of only 87 days, to the deep regret of the Senate and 
 people. 
 
 The measures adopted by Pertinax were all directed to the public welfare, but 
 his reforms were on too economical a scale to be relished after the licentious prodi- 
 gality of his predecessor ; and his own frugal mode of living was condemned as the 
 meanest parsimony. He found the treasury drained ; to replenish which, and pay 
 the promised donative to the Cohorts, as well as a largess to the people, he made 
 a public sale of the silver statues of Commodus, the inmates of his abominable 
 harem, his stud, his plate, and all the articles of profuse luxury which were found 
 in the palace ; among which, particular mention is made of chariots, so contrived 
 as to shew the hours, and measure the road. He abolished the taxes on rivers, ports, 
 and highways ; recalled the state-exiles ; repressed the insolence of the army ; 
 administered justice with lenity and impartiality ; and governed with equity and 
 moderation. In personal character, according to Severus, he was mild without 
 weakness, grave without austerity, prudent without craft, brave without ferocity, 
 frugal without avarice, and great without arrogance . and such may be gathered 
 from cotemporary evidence — though Capitolinus, who wrote a century after Per- 
 tinax, charges him with insincerity and meanness. " He performed great things 
 during his short reign," says Herodian — who was personally acquainted with him — 
 " and would have restored the empire to its former lustre, had he lived longer." 
 
 A character so highly qualified for the important trust to which he was elevated, 
 was too good for the times. A mutiny was excited among the guards, and 300 of 
 them entered the palace with drawn swords. Pertinax disdained to conceal him- 
 self, declaring that "flight did not become an Emperor;" and he appeared before 
 the mutineers with so firm and intrepid an air, that they began to sheathe their 
 weapons when he expostulated with them. At this critical instant, a brute, named 
 Tausius, darted a javelin at the Emperor's breast, crying out "the soldiers send}ou 
 this" — and the feeling of respect having been thus dissolved, the rest rushed on and 
 dispatched their victim with many wounds. When the good old prince saw that his 
 fate was inevitable, like another Caesar, he wrapped himself in his toga and fell 
 
( 169 ) 
 
 without a struggle. The villains then cut off his head, and carried it on the point 
 of a spear to the camp, whither they returned with great precipitation, before the 
 people could assemble to avenge the murder. 
 
 All the medals of Pertinax are of great rarity, and are very expensive, even 
 where perfect condition is not an object. There are no Latin coins in honour of 
 Titiana, his profligate wife; nor of the younger Pertinax, his son. This was a 
 consequence of his prohibiting the lady from accepting the title of Augusta, which 
 the senate had given her, and which he probably thought she ill deserved ; — nor 
 would he consent that his son should be saluted Caesar till he merited the dis- 
 tinction. There were, however, coins struck to Titiana in Egypt, — and one of 
 Lesbos, in the Oxford collection, figured by Haym in his " Tesoro Britannico/' 
 represents her with large features and a placid aspect — her hair dressed somewhat 
 after the fashion of Faustina Junior. 
 
 cccx. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. P. HELV. PERTINAX AVG. {Imperator Casar, Publius Helvius Per- 
 tinax, Augustus.) A truly venerable head of Pertinax, with the laurel wreath, and a bare 
 neck. The features are bold, and the expression is raised by a flowing beard, to the majestic- 
 air which the Italians term " il sovr' umano : and we learn from history that he was of 
 stately height, "ventre prominulo," and a full habit. This medal is barely patinated, and 
 in excellent condition; it was presented to me by my friend Colonel Warrington, at Tripoli, 
 in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. DIS CVSTODIBVS. In the field S. C. A robed female, with a frontal diadem, stands in 
 the centre of the field. Her left arm bears a cornucopias, and she holds a rudder which is 
 placed upon a globe, by its tiller. This indicates that Fortune raised Pertinax to the throne ; 
 and as the Romans gave her so many names and attributes, they are here all comprehended 
 under the appellation of Deae Custodes. 
 
 With the exception of the Liberalities, which shew the congiaria which he paid up, and 
 the decennalian votes, most of the medals of Pertinax bear a grateful allusion to the gods and 
 the moral virtues ; and among these, none is more remarkable than a denarius struck in honour 
 of the Mind, and inscribed Menti Laudandce. "O mens bona!" exclaimed Propertius, 
 "if thou art a goddess, I dedicate myself to thy service." Ovid gives rather a disgraceful 
 picture of her when enslaved by Cupid : — 
 
 " Mens bona ducetur, manibus post terga revinctis : 
 Et Pudor; et castris quicquid Amoris obest." 
 
 CCCXI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. P. HELV. PERTINAX AVG. (Imperator Ccesar, Publius Helvius Per- 
 tinax, Augustus.) A singularly fine laureated profile of the Emperor, with a manly expression of 
 countenance. This medal was purchased from a friend in London, in 1825, and formerly belonged 
 to the cabinet of Mr. Neave ; it is in very high preservation, though but slightly patinated. 
 
 Reverse. PROVIDENTIAE DEORVM COS. II. (Providentice Deorum, Consul iterum.) In the 
 field S. C. A stolated female stands with her right hand open — the ancient attitude of prayer — 
 in adoration of a radiated globe in the air. This is a public acknowledgment of thanks by the 
 Senate to the Gods, for their especial protection of the worthy prince through the perilous times 
 of Commodus, and his ministers Perennis and Cleander. So imminent was this danger that, 
 when Laetus and Electvis waited on Pertinax in the night, after murdering Commodus, he 
 
 Z 
 
( 170 ) 
 
 expected that they came to put him to death by the tyrant's orders, instead of their offering him 
 the empire. The Romans had various emblems of Divine Providence, as the altar, the eagle, 
 the globe, and the fulmen, (see No. CCXV.) but it is singular that the potts have no where 
 described them. 
 
 CCCXI1. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. P. HELV. PERTINAX AVG. {Imperator Ca>sar, Publius Helvius Per- 
 
 tinax, Augustus.) A manly laurelled head of Pertinax, with curled hair, thick mustachios, 
 and a flowing beard. This medal is in excellent condition, and densely coated with a deep green 
 patina ; it was purchased at Mr. Henderson's sale, in 1830. 
 
 Reverse. AEQVIT. AVG. TR. P COS. II. {Mquitas Augusti* Tribunitia potestate, Consul 
 iterum. In the field S. C. A robed female, standing with balanced scales in her right 
 hand, as Equity, a quality which obviates the cruelty sometimes committed by Justice in 
 pushing the law to the extreme :— I. 
 
 Her left arm supports a cornucopias, to shew that plenty follows a just award ; but this expla- 
 nation does not contemplate a client's being ruined by his lawyer's fees. The legend shews 
 the several imperial honours which the Senate decreed to Pertinax ; still, though he was the only 
 Emperor who had been complimented with the title of Pater Patriae on the first day of his reign, 
 it does not appear upon any of his coins — whence it may be inferred that, after the example of 
 the best of his predecessors, he wished it to be deferred. 
 
 Besides being an emblem of justice, this balance has also been considered to allude to 
 the constellation Libra. Ruaeus, however, accuses Virgil, in common with other ancients, 
 of being ignorant of that sign, from some confusion which certainly exists as to the limits of 
 Scorpio; yet in the Georgics, I. i. v. 208, it is distinctly said — 
 
 CCCXIII. 
 
 Obrene. IMP. CAES. P. HELV. PERTINAX AVG. {Imperator C<esar Publius Helvius Per- 
 
 tinax, Augustus.) A venerable laureated head of the Emperor, with a large forehead, long 
 beaid, and curled hair. This medal is in beautiful preservation, and covered with browu 
 pat iiia ; it was procured from the Rev. Mr. Hall, at Leghorn, in 1823, in exchange for some 
 Athenian tetradrathms. 
 
 Reverse. LAETITIA TEMPORVM COS. II. [Lcetitia temporum, Consul iterum.) In the field 
 S. C. A stolated female standing with a garland of flowers in her right hand, and a hasta 
 pura in her left. There were several epithets of this virtue, as Deorum, iEterna, Publica, 
 and Fuudata, uuder which, no doubt, separate and especial rites were appointed, according as 
 the happiness was public or private. See No. CCCVI1. But this of Temporum testifies 
 the general exultation at the accession of Pertinax, when the wreaths of gaiety were actually 
 
 * A certain king of Naples struck a device with the legend JEquitas Begni, whence the name « Cavalli " and 
 CavalluccV' was absurdly given to the money, as if derived from Equus, a horse ; reminding one of the Horatian 
 " Saw " against selling a mare, " jEquam (Equam) memento rebus in arduis servare." 
 
 f Perhaps I should not omit, that one medallist assigns this Equity, not in a general sense, but to the particular act 
 of the seizure of some Barbarian deputies on the road to their country, for the purpose of compelling them to return the 
 gold which Commodus had paid as the price of their friendship ; and which, that writt r says, was justly wrested from them. 
 If this tribute, however, was rendered in consequence of stipulations, it is difficult to find where the equity lies. The act 
 was perpetrated by order of Laetus, who dismissed the deputies with a charge that they should acquaint their govern- 
 ment that, "Pertinax was now Emperor," to whose reputation they were no grangers. The Romans never forgot, nor 
 forgave, a defeat or humiliation. 
 
 Scis etenimjustum gemina suspendere lance 
 Ancipitis librae." 
 
 " Libra die somnique pares ubi fecerit horas. 
 
 Manilius, in describing the same sign, says— 
 
 " Hesperiam sua Libra tenet, qua condita Roma, 
 Et propiis frcenat pendentem nutibus orbem."f 
 
/ 
 
 ( 171 ) 
 
 scattered about the streets : " Tanta fuit Populi Romani lalitia, nt vuct urbis coronis 
 ttraverit." This was a joyous time which recalled the words of Horace:— 
 
 " lam Fides, et Pax , et Honor, Pudorque 
 Priscus, etneglecta redire Virtus 
 Audet ; apparetque beata pleno 
 Copia cornu. 
 
 CCCXIV. 
 
 DIVVS PERT. P1VS PATER. (Divus Pertinax, Pius, Pater.) The head of Pertinax, 
 with the full beard and curled hair of the former coins, but without a laurel wreath, and 
 having the shoulders robed. The title of Pater here applies to the divinity of the EmperoT, 
 for the reason given at No. CCLIX. A medal in excellent condition, and intrusted with a 
 reddish-brown patina; it was purchased from Mr. Young, in 1826. 
 
 CONSECRATIO. On the exergum S. C. A grand pyra adorned with statues, tapestry, and 
 festoons of flowers ; and surmounted by a quadrigated car. The body ol Pertinax was in- 
 terred with great pomp by Didius Julian. Severus afterwards honoured his memory with 
 a most magnificent funeral ceremony, pronouuced his panegyric himself, and caused him to be 
 ranked among the number of the Gods ; — appointing Pertinax, the son, chief priest to h\s 
 father. This medal is beautifully figured in M. Mionnet's well-known work. 
 
 DIDIUS JULIANUS. 
 
 Marcus Didius Severus Julianus, son of Petronius Didius Severus, and 
 grandson of Salvius Julianus, the celebrated civilian, was born at Milan, A. D. 133, 
 and was brought up by Domitia Lucilla, the mother of Marcus Aurelius. That 
 prince, who had a particular regard for him, created him successively Quaestor, 
 jEdile, and Praetor, and appointed him Governor of Belgic Gaul. In the reign of 
 Coramodus, he narrowly escaped being included in the pretended conspiracy of his 
 uncle Salvius Julianus ; but after a time was restored to favour, and became Governor 
 of Bithynia. He was elevated to the Consulship, as the colleague of Pertinax, A. D. 
 172, whom he succeeded in the Proconsulship of Africa; and was afterwards his 
 " Prcefectus Vigilum" When the murderers of Pertinax found that nobody 
 attempted to avenge him, their insolence increased, and they determined to set the 
 imperial authority to sale. In effect, they caused a soldier, remarkable for a loud 
 voice, to mount the ramparts of the camp, and proclaim that the empire was to be 
 sold to the highest bidder: and the throne, in consequence, fell to Julian "by pur- 
 chase." His bargain lessened his property, impaired his credit, and cost him his life; 
 for on the approach of Severus with the warlike legions of Pannonia, he was put to 
 death by order of the terrified Senate, A.D. 193, after a wretched reign of 66 days, 
 in the 61st year of his age. 
 
 The general impression, that Julian was a mere monied adventurer without 
 a single quality to entitle him to the exalted dignity be coveted, is contradicted 
 
( 172 ) 
 
 by the important appointments which lie held. Gibbon declares that he had 
 neither friend nor adherent — but this could hardly have been the case with one 
 who had borne high commands through life. The project of buying - the empire 
 is said to have been formed while he was giving a "jollification" to his companions ; 
 yet this is at variance with Spartian, who tells us that Didius was carried to the 
 camp against his will. Dio, an eye-witness of the events, says, that the new prince, 
 entering the palace, and despising the frugal supper which had been prepared for 
 his predecessor, ordered a magnificent feast to be got ready, so as to gratify at once 
 his ambition and appetite — yet other writers describe him as singularly penurious. He 
 is accused of treating the body of Pertinax with contempt, yet he gave it honourable 
 burial. If we admit, with Dio, that he was avaricious, greedy, and petulant, there 
 is also evidence that he was brave, affable, and learned ; and though he could not 
 defend the disgraceful venality of the soldiers, he was probably not very wide of the 
 truth when he assured the Conscript Fathers, that he was the fittest person they could 
 choose for an emperor. Indeed, when we consider his rank, education, and riches, 
 his pretensions were assuredly as legitimate as those of the African who op- 
 posed him ; he was not the author of the distresses or degradation of the country ; 
 and there really appears an exaggeration in the horror of the citizens, the hatred of 
 the populace, and the devouring grief of the supple Senators, at a sale which was 
 no novelty but in form. 
 
 The medals of Didius are rare in each of the metals, and none are known in 
 small-brass. The types are confined to the three about to be described ; for though 
 a Juno Regina appears in large-brass, similar to that of Manlia Scantilla, the 
 cautious Eckhel questions its authenticity. There is also a silver Fides Exercil. 
 which is doubted ; and another, commemorating the name of Commodus, which the 
 soldiers gave to Didius, is to be seen in the Index of Goltzius — but it is false. 
 
 cccxv. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. DID. SEVER. IVLIAN. AVG. (Imperator C<esar, Marcus Didius 
 Severus Julianus, Augustus.) A laureated head of Julian, with curled hair, full mustachios 
 and beard, and a bare neck. The expression is venerable and sensible, though the features 
 are not remarkable, 'this medal is in high perfection, and coated with a dark -green patina; 
 it was procured at Cagliari, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. CONCORD. MILIT. (Concordia Militum.) In the field S. C. A robed female standing 
 with a splendid military ensign in each hand ; this was struck A. D. 193, in token of the 
 influence which the army exercised in the election of the new Emperor, and whose concord 
 was purchased at about £200. a man. The standards are here surmounted by legionary 
 eagles, — but there is another medal with this device, in which they are omitted. 
 
 CCCXVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. DID. SEVER. IVLIAN. AVG. (Imperator Ccesar, Marcus Didius 
 Severus Julianus, Augustus.) A fine and characteristic head of the Emperor, with a laurel 
 
( 173 ) 
 
 crown, nicely trimmed beard, and bare neck. Both Spartian and Capitolinus say, that 
 Julian received the title of Pater Patrice, but it does not appear upon any of his coins. This 
 medal, covered with a brownish-red varnish, and in excellent condition, was purchased from 
 Mr. Young, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. RECTOR ORB1S; a legend expressed with beautiful simplicity. In the field S. C. Didius 
 in " vestimentis pretiosis," and bareheaded, holds a globe in his right hand, and a roll of 
 paper in his left, with a commanding air ; such as we may suppose he assumed when lie 
 addressed the Conscript Fathers with — " vobis Principe opus est, et ego, prce cceteris 
 omnibus, sum Principatu dignissimus." The " Rector Orbis," however, seems to have 
 changed domestic life for splendid misery, and the comforts of a stable home for the empty 
 pomp of a palace, wherein he existed, to use Bishop Hall's words, 
 " Like a scabb'd cuckoo in a cage of gold." 
 CCCXVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. DID. SEVER. IVMAN. AVG. [Imperator Ccesar, Marcus Didius 
 Severus Julianus, Augustus.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with features expressive 
 of advanced age. This medal is thickly incrusted with rich brown patina, and is in remark- 
 ably fine condition ; it was procured near Mazzara, in Sicily, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. COS. {Pont if ex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, Consul.) In the field 
 S. C. The figure of Fortune, robed as a Roman matron, and standing, holds a cornucopia? in 
 her left hand, and with the right supports a rudder upon a globe, in token of universal do- 
 minion. Such was the device by which was represented the fortunate elevation of an old man, 
 who in a few weeks was slain on his bed, after bitterly bewailing his fate, and beseeching 
 permission to resign his power. " Manente adhuc in Imperatoria aula Juliano, ac fortunam 
 suam miserante, suppliciterque rogante, ut sibi ejurare Imperium liceret, omnemque ejus 
 potestatem Severo transcribere." Dio accuses him of murdering some children, in order to 
 prognosticate, by magic, his future fate. His corpse was given by Severus to Manlia Scan- 
 tilla, for sepulture. 
 
 MANLIA SCANTILLA. 
 
 Manlia Scantilla was the wife of Didius Julianus ; but we are unacquainted with 
 her descent and connexions, as well as the dates of her birth, marriage, and death. 
 As with Titiana, she partook of her husband's elevation, A.D. 193, and after his 
 fall, was permitted to retreat again into private life. Historians have left but slight 
 notices of this lady, who, it appears, was very much deformed in her person. He- 
 rodian and Zosimus accuse her, of foolishly persuading her husband to Ihe fatal 
 step of prodigally scattering his wealth, to obtain the sovereign authority. But 
 Spartian assures us that, on the very day on which the Senate elected the family of 
 Julian into the Patrician order, and honoured Scantilla and her daughter with the 
 title of Augusta, these females entered the palace with a dread of impending 
 destruction : "Inde se ad palatium recepit, uxore ac filia illuc vocatis, trepidis et 
 invitis illuc transeuntibus, quasi jam inminens exitium praesagirent." 
 
 All the medals of this Empress are very rare ; nor are there any Greek or Colo- 
 nial ones known. The only symbol which I have yet met with, either on Sestertii or 
 
( 174 ) 
 
 Denarii, is that about to be described : for though there is mention of one having 
 Fortune, as in No. CCCXVII, it must be the result of some blunder in the mintage, 
 since it bears the husband's titles, — and there is moreover a medal of Didius, bearing 
 the ./uno Rer/ina of Scantiila, as a reverse. Spartian writes this lady's name Mallia, 
 but had he been a numismatist, he would probably have corrected the orthography. 
 
 CCCXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. MAM,. SCANT1LLA AVG. {Manila Scantiila Augusta.) A matronly head of Scantiila, 
 with a quiet expression of countenance, and good features. The hair hangs over the ears, and 
 is turned u|> at the back of the head in plaits, but without any ornament ; — and the bosom is 
 covered with drapery. This medal is in fine preservation, though a portion of its Saxon-green 
 patina has been rubbed from the reverse; it was procured near Nice, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. IVNO REGINA. In the field S. C. A robed female standing with the sacred patera, and 
 the lance of divinity ; at her feet is a peacock : — 
 
 " Habili Saturnia curru 
 
 Ingreditur liquidum Pavonibus aera pictis." 
 
 We have seen Julian as Rector Orbis, and here his wife appears as queen of heaven. Of all 
 the pagan deities there was not one whose worship was more solemn and more universal than 
 that of Juno; and the general name for the tutelary deities of women was Junones. She not 
 only protected weddings and biiths, but even presided over female dress and ornaments. 
 See Nos. CCLXV1I and CCLXXXF. As the Roman emperors were assimilated to Jupiter, 
 and ranked among the great gods, so were the empresses placed with the goddesses of superior 
 rank, and addressed as Juno. Hence Pi udentius : 
 
 "atque adytis, et flaniine, et aris, 
 
 Augustum coiuit, vitulo placavit, et agno : 
 Strata ad pulvinar jacuit, responsa poposcit, 
 Testantur tituli, produnt Consulta Senatus 
 Oaesarcum, Jovis ad speciem, statuentia templum ; 
 Adjectre sacrum, fieret quo Livia Juno." 
 
 D1DIA CLARA. 
 
 Didia Clara, the daughter of Didius Julianus and Manlia Scantiila, appears to 
 have been born about A. D. 153, and is represented as having assisted her mother's 
 endeavouring to persuade Julian to purchase the empire. She was esteemed the 
 most beautiful woman of her age, and was married to Cornelius Repentinus, who, 
 during her father's brief reign, was made Prefect of Rome. She was honoured as 
 Augusta at the same time with Scantiila, and a revenue proportionate to her new 
 dignity was settled upon her. This dream of power, however, which was purchased 
 at the expense of her father's life, lasted but a couple of months ; what became of 
 her husband is not known, but Severus permitted Clara to retire, with her mother, 
 after taking away her patrimony, and divesting her of the proud title of Augusta, an 
 act of mercy rather unusual with that relentless tyrant. 
 
( 175 ) 
 
 The medals of Didia Clara are extremely rare, and none have hitherto been 
 found in small-brass. The only device which 1 have seen is Hilaritas, — though 
 Gessner mentions a denarius with the reverse Pietas. In the Cabinet of Queen 
 Christina, as described by Havercamp, there was a large-brass imperial coin, struck 
 by the cities of Cyprus as a compliment to the personal charms of Clara ; — but 
 excepting - this unique specimen, there are no Greek, nor Colonial medals in honour 
 of her known. 
 
 CCCXIX. 
 
 Obverse. DIDIA CLARA AVG. (Didia Clara Augusta.) A profile of the Princess, with features 
 expressive of middle-age, — the bust is robed, and the hair dressed in the style of her mother's, 
 but with greater care. This medal is incrusted with a dark chocolate-coloured patina, and 
 is in excellent condition j it was procured from an Arab, at Jerbah, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. HILARITAS TEMPOR. (Hilaritas Temporum) In the field S. C. Au elegant female 
 in full robes, with a frontal diadem, stands gracefully in the centre of the field. She bears a 
 cornucopias, and with her right hand holds a long palm-branch, which rests on the ground. 
 As there are no children, (see No. CLXXXV.) this emblem of the " mentis alimonia" has 
 been considered as relating to the married state ; — Clara, however, as well as Faustina Junior 
 and Lucilla, of whom I have had medals with similar devices, were married women. The idea 
 may have arisen from the public feasts named Hilaria, given at the birth of children ; or 
 from the known qualities of the palm-tree, — " Ex utroque sexu duas palmas singulas. 
 singulis pinxit ripis." 
 
 PESCENNIUS NIGER. 
 
 Caius Pescennius Niger, surnamed Justus, the son of Annius Fuscus and Lam- 
 pridia, was born at Aquinum, about A.D. 136, — his family being of the Equestrian 
 Order. With a small estate, and few accomplishments, his outset in life did not 
 augur exaltation, — yet his merit proved sufficient to raise him from the degree of a 
 Centurion, to the highest military rank. He had procured the notice and esteem of 
 Marcus Aurelius ; and by his gallantry and address in discomfiting Maternus, he so 
 won the approbation of Severus, at that time Praefect of the province, that the latter 
 reported him as a person " necessary to the state." Under Commodus and Pertinax 
 he was Governor of Syria, and General of the Legions of Asia, — and was made 
 Consul at the request of the troops under his command. Being incited by a large and 
 powerful party in Rome, he revolted against Didius, and was acknowledged Emperor 
 by his army, and all the Eastern provinces, A. D. 193. He received offers of assist- 
 ance from the kings and governors in alliance with the empire ; but declined ail 
 foreign aid, under an assurance that he should meet with so general a support that 
 there would be no appeal to arms. This confidence proved his ruin. The senate, 
 dreading the vigorous policy of Severus, declared Niger a public enemy ; and after 
 
( 176 ) 
 
 losing three furiously contested battles, he was overtaken near Antioch, and 
 slain,* in the beginning of A. D. 195. His head was publicly displayed on the 
 point of a spear, to intimidate his adherents in Byzantium, and was then forwarded 
 to Rome. 
 
 Niger appears to have been of a brave and generous disposition, and, moreover, 
 wise and prudent. Abstemious and hardy, he was a sworn foe to luxury and effe- 
 minacy. He required nothing of his soldiers but what he practised himself; and once 
 in Egypt, when they clamorously demanded wine with their rations, "what need 
 have you of wine," said he, " that have the Nile to drink ?" He was so free from 
 personal vanity, that he desired an official panegyrist to wait for his death, before 
 he recited his praises ; recommending him in the mean time to eulogize Marius, 
 Hannibal, or some other renowned worthy. Spartian, and Victor the younger, 
 differ widely in their estimate of his character ; and Dio seems to think he was not 
 remarkable either for virtue or vice. Be this as it may, it is certain that he was 
 universally esteemed, and was therefore the " popular candidate " for the throne. 
 He was married to Pescennia Plautiana, or Plautilla, by whom he had several 
 children, — but history has not told us either their names or number. On the 
 whole, he seems to have been well characterized by the historian, as " a gallant 
 soldier, an excellent officer, an experienced general, an illustrious consul, but an 
 unfortunate emperor." 
 
 Severus was not personally present in any of the battles with Niger, nor is it 
 now known where he then was : but he wreaked his vengeance on all who had sided 
 w ith his opponent, — the Senators who had borne arms under him were put to death, 
 and multitudes of the lower ranks suffered the same fate. He had persuaded some 
 of his competitor's generals, by means of their children, whom he had in his power, 
 to betray the cause which they had embraced ; and after reaping the advantages of 
 their treachery, destroyed both them and their families. He first banished the wife 
 and children of Niger, and afterwards caused them and all connected with them to 
 be murdered, and their estates confiscated. Nevertheless he would not suffer a 
 pompous inscription on the base of a black marble statue of Niger, at Rome, to 
 be erased, saying — "Let all the world know what an enemy I have conquered." 
 
 There are no Latin medals of Pescennius Niger known, for it is reasonably 
 conjectured that all the denarii, from their inferior fabric and distorted inscriptions, 
 were minted at Antioch ; and the unique gold coin which, till the late lamentable 
 robbery, enriched the noble cabinet of the king of France, was strongly suspected 
 
 * This is the story as related by the cotemporary historians ; — but Spartian, a less trusty authority, says that, Niger 
 being dangerously wounded, was taken prisoner, and in that condition brought to Severus, in whose presence he expired. 
 
( 177 ) 
 
 of being a fabrication, from its bearing the title of Pater Patrice * Indeed, it could 
 hardly be expected that such legends as "Bonce Spei," "Victoria Justi Au- 
 gusti" " Iovi Prcesidi Orbis" "Boni Eventits" and "Invicto Imperatori 
 Tropceum," were struck by those who had declared Niger a public enemy. A few 
 Greek imperial brass medals are met with, but they are of extreme rarity ; and 
 Baudelot mentions one of Pescennia Plautiana. A singularity attaches to the denarii, 
 since about this time, A. D. 194, Severus and Niger often used the same types ; but 
 it is impossible to decide which of the two imitated the other. It was from the 
 great difficulty of procuring a genuine medal of this Emperor that Pope lashed 
 the " pale antiquaries," — 
 
 "To gain Pescennius one employs his schemes, 
 
 One grasps a Cecrops in ecstatic dreams. 
 
 Poor Vadius, long with learned spleen devour'd, 
 
 Can taste no pleasure since his shield was scour d : 
 
 And Curio, restless by the fair-one's side, 
 
 Sighs for an Otho, and neglects his bride." 
 
 Here, however, the poet goes somewhat out of his depth ; yet he must be acquitted 
 of the medallic ignorance of his imitator, Cawthorn, — who, in a nonsensical yarn, 
 called " The Antiquarians," has entirely forfeited his boasted claim to an intimate 
 acquaintance with the Fine Arts. 
 
 CCCXX. 
 
 Obverse. AYT. K. T. n£CK. NirPOC. IOYCTOC C5B. (Imperator, Casar, Cuius Pescen- 
 nius Niger, Justus, Augustus.) The laureated head of the acting Emperor, with mustachios, 
 full beard, bare neck, and features expressive of manly resolution. We learn from history 
 that he was of comely proportions and engaging countenance, with a voice so loud and 
 piercing that it might be heard a mile off: he was called Niger, it seems, on account of his 
 black hair, and sun-burnt face and neck. Though some former owner of this precious medal 
 has unsparingly applied the wire-brush so as to clear off the patina, it is in very high preser- 
 vation : it was purchased from Mr. Young, in 1825. 
 
 Were it not for the extreme rarity of this coin, not a doubt could be excited as to its 
 genuineness: but the discerning Eckhel thinks the word Justus throws suspicion upon the 
 legend. It is given as unique, among the choice large-brass selections of Sambucus, at the 
 end of his " Emblems." See Note to p. 138. 
 
 Reverse. KAICAP6IAC TSPMANIKHC. {Ccesarece Germanicce.) A bold figure of jEsculapius 
 with his robe drawn back so as to leave his right arm bare, in readiness for operation, holds the 
 mystic staff with the involute serpent. See CCCIX. He seems merely to be placed there 
 because he was worshipped, and probably had a temple, at Csesarea-Germanica, in Comma- 
 gene, where this coin was struck. Severus punished the cities which had declared for Niger, 
 with grievously heavy fines ; and as Antioch had been the temporary seat of empire, it was 
 deprived of its privileges. Numismatic writers quote a large-brass Greek imperial medal 
 of this reign, on which Antioch is styled Neocora, from having the light of ordering 
 solemn public games; but its authenticity is strongly doubted. Of all those who took part 
 with this unfortunate warrior, none distinguished themselves so much as the Byzantines, who 
 obstinately refused to submit till, after a three year's siege, they were reduced to the eating of 
 human flesh : it is only to know that Severus, that stranger to mercy, was the conqueror, and 
 the result may be anticipated, — all the fortifications and public edifices were destroyed, the 
 garrison massacred, and the inhabitants stripped and sold into slavery. 
 
 • The purchase of this coin by M. de Boze, is detailed in the Phil. Transactions for 1750, — and it is there figured 
 
 2 A 
 
( 178 ) 
 
 ALBINUS. 
 
 Decimus Clodius Septimius Albinus, the son of Cejonius Posthumius and 
 Aurelia Messalina, was born at Adrumetum, in Africa. His family was one of the 
 most illustrious of Rome, and he was named Albinus, because he was extremely 
 fair at his birth. He made great proficiency in the Greek and Latin languages, 
 and composed a treatise on agriculture, and some Milesian tales; but an ardent 
 predilection for arms interfered with his inclination for letters, and even in child- 
 hood he was frequently heard to repeat that verse of Virgil, — 
 
 " Arma aniens capio, nec sat rationis in armis." 
 
 He therefore entered into the military service very early, was soon made captain of a 
 troop of Illyrian horse, and was gradually advanced till he obtained the command of 
 the legions in Bithynia, A. D. 175. For his merit and fidelity in the performance of 
 these duties, Marcus Aurelius is said to have presented him with the fasces. Com- 
 modus entertained so high an opinion of the integrity of Albinus, that, if Capitolinus 
 is to be credited, he permitted him to assume the title and badges of Caesar, whenever 
 he thought fit ; but he cautiously abstained from that privilege. From the government 
 of Gaul he was removed to that of Britain, where he ruled when Julian was killed, 
 and became one of the three competitors for the Empire, A. D. 193. But the crafty 
 Severus deluded him by a promise of dividing the imperial authority, and at the same 
 time lulled his vigilance by sending him the ensigns of a Caesar, nominating him to 
 the Consulship, and striking medals with his effigies. No sooner, however, was Niger 
 disposed of, than Severus determined to crush his credulous colleague; but before he 
 had recourse to open force, he is said to have tried the perfidious means of assassination. 
 Hereupon Albinus proclaimed himself Augustus, A. D. 196 ; and assembling a large 
 army, passed over into Gaul, and obtained some partial successes. Severus hastened 
 to meet him, and the rivals decided their contest on the plains of Tinurtium, in the 
 beginning of A. D. 197, after one of the most obstinate and bloody battles on record. 
 The British legions, under Albinus, were opposed to those of Illyricum, and the 
 troops on each side fought with such bravery, that victory was long doubtful. 
 At length the Emperor prevailed, the routed army fled to Lugdunum, and Albi- 
 nus, seeing no means of escape, laid violent hands upon himself ; but while yet 
 alive he was overtaken by his pursuers, who cut off his head. Severus is said to 
 have viewed the mangled carcass, with savage delight, and to have insulted it with 
 the basest indignities. As in the instance of Niger, the wife* and children of 
 
 * The name of this lady is unknown, yet some antiquaries, led astray by the guess of Tristan, have called her 
 Peicennia Plantilla, who, we have seen, was the wife of Pescennius Niger. It is singular, however, that Albinut, 
 according to Capitolinus, had a son named Pescennius Prinaeus. 
 
( 179 ) 
 
 Albinus were at first pardoned ; but the fell despot, soon changing his mind, caused 
 them to be inhumanly massacred, and their bodies to be thrown into the Rhone. 
 And this was but a prelude to the atrocious acts which followed : all the relations 
 of the defunct Caesar, without distinction of age or sex, were barbarously slaugh- 
 tered, as well as the great men of Gaul and Spain who had displayed attachment 
 to him ; and the whole of their property was confiscated. 
 
 Historians are at variance respecting the character of this hapless Prince. He 
 is admitted to have been a brave and skilful officer, to whom the soldiers were 
 warmly attached, although he was so strict a disciplinarian that his severity bor- 
 dered on cruelty ; and he was beloved by the Senate, as well as applauded by 
 people of condition, for his justice, humanity, and respect for the ancient institu- 
 tions of the Republic. These facts go far to invalidate the testimony of Capitolinus — 
 for which 1 own to having no great respect — when he represents Albinus as proud, 
 unsocial, choleric, and brutal ; unjust to his domestics, and insupportable to his wife. 
 The enumeration of his defects, is compensated by many good qualities ; and he 
 not only never indulged in the unnatural vices which stained so many of the finest 
 characters of Rome, but punished such offenders severely. In general he drank very 
 little, but his voracity quite astonishes old Tristan : — " // estoit incroyablement 
 grand many eur. Car quelquefois il mangeoit cinq cens figues a des-jeuner, 
 tantost cent pesches, line, autre fois dix melons, ou vingt lim es de raisins, par 
 fois cent bec-afigues, une autre fois quarante huistres a Vescaille, et ainsi du 
 reste." These feats, except the fish and oysters, can hardly apply to his breakfasts 
 while in England. 
 
 Medals of this Prince are found in all metals, and of all sizes except small-brass — 
 but they are of considerable rarity and value. Such as bear the title of Augustus 
 are without the S. C, and are probably from the "officina" of Lugdunum, — since 
 those minted by consent of Severus were issued before Albinus had assumed that 
 title ; and, of course, there are none in brass with it. A denarius in the Vienna 
 Cabinet styles him Pater Patriae, as well as Augustus, which clearly proves that it 
 was not struck in Rome. 
 
 CCCXXI. 
 
 Obverse. D. CLOD. SEPT. ALBIN. CAES. (Decimus Clodius Septimius Albinus, Ceesar.) 
 
 The unlaurelled head of Albinus, with short hair, a "pug" nose, thin beard, and mean 
 features, but with a tolerably high forehead. This is a remarkable evidence of the faithfulness 
 of the likeness, for we are told that he was tall, had curled hair, a wide mouth, a voice so 
 small that it resembled that of an eunuch, and "/rows lata." This medal is in remarkably 
 fine condition, and covered with a pea-green patina ; it was purchased at Lord Morton's sale, 
 in 1830 
 
( 180 ) 
 
 Reverse. CONCORDIA. In the field S. C. A sedejit female, richly attired, holds a patera in her 
 right hand, and a cornucopiae in her left. This was probably struck A. D. 193, on the 
 Prince's being decorated with the ensigns and trappings of Caesar ; and the figure being 
 seated, shews that the harmony between him and the Emperor was considered as permanent. 
 The boon, however, was but to lull Albinus, and prevent him from becoming master of Rome, 
 while Severus was finishing the war in the East. 
 
 CCCXXII. 
 
 Obverse. D. CLOD. SEPT. ALBIN. CAES. [Decimus Clodius Septimius Albinus, Cccsar.) The 
 naked head of Albinus, with short curled hair, and rough beard ; the features less coarse than 
 usual on the coins of this Prince. A medal in good condition, and covered with Saxon-green 
 patina, which was purchased from Mr. Young, in 1826. 
 
 ftever&e. FEL1CITAS COS. II. {Felicitas, Consul iterum.) In the field S. C. A noble female, in 
 full robes, stands with a caduceus in her right hand, and a hasta-pura in her left, emblems of 
 peace and authority. This appears to have been struck A. D. 194, when the Emperor and 
 Caesar were jointly associated in the Consulship, and the latter was thereby lulled into 
 a fatal security. Felicity, or happiness, was deified by the ancients, though it was late 
 before the Romans admitted her into the number of their divinities, or perhaps Fear 
 and Necessity had never been consecrated. St. Austin is humorous upon this point : 
 " if the books and ceremonies of the heathens are true," says he, " and Felicity be a 
 goddess, why did they not adore her alone, since she was capable of bestowing all, and 
 making men quickly happy ?" It was actually above 600 years after the building of Rome, 
 that Lucullus, upoi/his return from the war with Mithridates and Tigranes, built a temple 
 to her. 
 
 CCCXXI1I. 
 
 Obverse. D. CLOD. SEPT. ALBIN. CAES. [Decimus Clodius Septimius Albinus, Casar.) 
 
 A naked head of Albinus, with short hair and beard, and an unprepossessing countenance. 
 This medal is in fine preservation, and covered with a russet-brown patina ; it was bought at 
 the Hon. R. E. Digby's sale, in 1825. 
 
 j'rrirsc. MINER. PAC1F. COS. II. [Minerva Paciferte, Consul iterum.) A masculo-feminine 
 figure of Minerva, holding an olive-branch to denote a love of peace, — but with a spear 
 and shield behind her to shew her ability to wage war when necessary. This goddess 
 was exceedingly popular with the Roman emperors, and the aegis, her attribute, was the 
 > constant badge of their shields and breast-plates. When, in addition to her usual emblems, 
 she is seen to hold a thunderbolt, as on a medal of Domitian, we must recollect that Jupiter, 
 Juno, and Minerva, were regarded as the Dii Magni, and Penates of the public; whence 
 Cicero, before his banishment, invoked these three deities in particular, and then the others 
 in the aggregate. Each had the fulmen assigned, but that of Jove was the strongest, — so 
 that when Pallas wished to throw a powerful one, she used her father's, — 
 
 " Ipsa Jovis rapidum jaculata £ nubibus ignem." 
 
 The learned Cudworth thinks these three Capitoline deities may be understood as being but 
 several names and notions of one supreme being, according to his various attributes and 
 manifestations. On medals they are sometimes represented by three figures, and at others 
 by the eagle, the owl, and the peacock. Publius Victor says, " Templum Jovis Opt. Max. 
 in quo erant tria delubra; medium Jovis, dextrum Minervce, Icevum Junonis ." and 
 Varro, who is a fanciful etymologist, tells us that the Capitoliuni was thus named, because the 
 temple erected by Tarquinius Priscus enshrined these three deities, — which may be some- 
 thing better than the derivation afforded by the skull of Tolus. See No. LXXVIII. 
 
 CCCXX1V. 
 
 Obverse. D. CLOD. SEPT. ALBIN. CAES. [Decimus Clodius Septimius Albinus Ccesar.) The 
 bare head of Albinus, with hair, beard, and expression as in the last, — and a robe over the 
 
( 18-1 ) 
 
 right shoulder. A medal in very superior preservation, though the legend has been injured 
 in the striking; it is covered with pea-green patina, and was procured at Pisa, in 1823. 
 Reverse. SAECVLO FRVGIFERO COS. II. (Sceculo frugifero, Consul iterum.) In the field S. ( '. 
 
 A bold figure of a man, naked, except on the loins, and with a crown of rays on his head. 
 He stands in a graceful attitude, with a caduceus and some ears of wheat in his right hand, 
 and a rake in his left. From mistaking the latter for a trident, Pedrusi and Tristan make the 
 device to be a pantheistic symbol of Mercury, Neptune, and Apollo; — but it appears rather to 
 be the Genius of Fertility, in intimation of the plenty resulting from the peace between the 
 Emperor and the Caesar; for the rake is certainly of a different form from any other medallic 
 trident, the caduceus is an emblem of abundance, and the head is radiated, because the fruits 
 of the earth require solar heat. Some writers think it alludes entirely to the Gaulish Mercury, 
 but this opinion is rather invalidated by the S. C. 
 
 CCCXXV. 
 
 Ob verse. D. CLOD. SEPT. ALBIN. CAES. (Decimus Clodius Scptimiiis Albums , Ccesar.) 
 
 A profile of Albinus, without laurel ; the hair and beard short and curled, the neck bare, 
 and the features without dignity. This medal is varnished with green and brown patina, and 
 in very high preservation; it was procured at Sassari, in Sardinia, in 1824. 
 Reverse. FORT. REDVCl COS. II. (Fortunes reduci, Consul iterum.) On the exergum S. C. 
 
 Fortune seated, and richly robed ; in her right hand she holds a rudder by its tiller, in her 
 left she bears a cornucopia?, and under her seat is a wheel. She here appears as the pro- 
 tectress of safe conduct, and intimates the wishes of the Senate, for the happy return of 
 Albinus to Rome, — wishes that must have been galling to Severus, though he permitted the 
 device to be struck. When Augustus had made the tour of Greece and Sicily, upon his 
 return to Italy, he allowed an altar to be raised to Fortuna redux, whence it afterward* 
 became a common custom among the emperors, to render an acknowledgment to this deity, 
 upon their safe return to the city from an expedition : thus Claudian — 
 " Aurea FortuNjE Reduci si templa priores 
 Ob reditum novere ducum, non dignius unquam, 
 Haec dea pro meritis amplas sibi posceret vEdes." 
 The variety of symbols of Fortune have already been alluded to. (See No. CCLXXXIX.) A 
 denarius of Marcus Aurelius is inscribed Fort. Duct, and who, demands Eckhel, "would 
 not prefer Dux to Redux ?" Faustina Junior had both gold and silver coins struck to Fortuna 
 Muliebris, a goddess said to have been worshipped in honour of the success of the mother of 
 Coriolanus. But she was no doubt as ancient as the Fortuna Virilis, to whom a temple had 
 been erected by Servius Tullus, seventy years before the date of the pathetic legend of Veturia 
 and her son. The shade of Virgil, describing the fickle goddess to Dante, says,— 
 " Quest' & colei ch' e tanto posta in croce, 
 Pur da color, che le dovrian dar lode, 
 Dandole biasmo a torto, e mala voce." 
 
 SEVERUS. 
 
 Lucius Septimius Severus,* the son of Marcus Septimius Geta and Fulvia Pia, 
 was born at Leptis Magna, in Africa, A. D. 146. He was admitted by Marcus 
 Aurelius into the senate, and was by him appointed governor of Sardinia. He 
 afterwards filled the most important posts in the state, and was elevated to the 
 
 * It is curious that of the three competitors for the throne, after the death of Pertinax, two were born in Africa ; 
 and also that two should have been surnamed from personal peculiarities, while the third was distinguished by a name 
 somewhat expressive of his cruel disposition. 
 
( 182 ) 
 
 Consulship, A. D. 171. Under Coramodus and Pertinax, he governed Pannonia 
 and Illy ria ; and on the death of the latter Emperor, was proclaimed by his legions, 
 A. D. 193, when he added the name of Pertinax to his own. After crushing his 
 rivals in succession, he remained sole master of the empire, A. D. 197. In the 
 following year he marched against the Parthians, and reduced Ctesiphon, after an 
 arduous siege ; he then invested Atra, the Arabian city, from which Trajan was 
 repulsed, see No. CXXX11 ; but after two furious attempts, he was shamefully dis- 
 comfited, and obliged to retreat with the loss of all his warlike engines, and an incredible 
 number of men. Although in the opening of his career he appeared to favour the 
 Christians, a decree which he published in Palestine, A. D. 202, gave rise to the 
 fifth general persecution. A revolt in Britain inducing him to repair thither in 
 person, he landed A. D. 208, with his sons, Caracalla and Geta ; and having, it is 
 said, built a wall from sea to sea across the island,* to repress the Caledonians, he 
 died at Eboracum, (York,) A. D. 211, in the 66th year of his age ; after a reign 
 of nearly 18 years. 
 
 This stern Emperor was possessed of a good understanding, but vindictive 
 feelings ; and it is not a little singular that so sanguinary a tyrant should die of a 
 broken heart, in consequence of the wickedness of his eldest son. Though he 
 ruled the state with inflexible rigour, he was incapable of regulating his own family ; 
 for in private life he was a dissembling hypocrite, a cornuto contento as a husband, 
 and a weak father. Spartian says, that the Senate applied to Severus what had been 
 said of Augustus, " that he ought never to have been born, or never to have died." 
 To this it may be answered that, had he not appeared, oceans of blood would have 
 been stayed, and Rome would have been spared a Caracalla, and a Heliogabalus. 
 Even his panegyrists are obliged to admit that he was a great rather than a good 
 prince, since he was utterly destitute of clemency, which is essential to that cha- 
 racter, — and which Seneca thought the most noble of all the regal virtues. So our 
 own poet 
 
 " Not the King's crown, nor the disputed sword, 
 The Marshal's truncheon, nor the Judge's robe, 
 Become them with one half so good a grace 
 As mercy does." 
 
 • No mention is made of this wall either by Dio, or Herodian, yet Spartian highly extols it. Nor are antiquaries 
 agreed upon its nature, or site, though from Bede and Buchanan, down to Stukely and Gordon, it has been warmly contested. 
 One party is confident that it was a rampart which extended between the firths of Clyde and Forth ; while the other is 
 equally positive that it was a mere adjunct, or reparation of Hadrian's wall. Severus was so exasperated against the 
 Caledonians, for transgress ; ng this boundary in his last days, that he ordered his generals to exterminate them, without 
 distinction of age or sex : — 
 
 " Let none escape your sword, none flee his doom : 
 No, not the child, yet quick'uin jj in the womb ;" 
 •aid he, adopting a verse from the Iliad, 
 
( 183 ) 
 
 Severus was esteemed eloquent, though, notwithstanding his family was of 
 equestrian rank, he always continued to speak Latin with a provincial accent. He 
 was also a "bit" of a mathematician, an auto-biographer,* and had some knowledge 
 of physic; but his favourite pursuit was judicial astrology, — a science which led to 
 his marriage with Julia Domna. He was plain and frugal ; quick of apprehension ; 
 firm, patient, intrepid, and vigilant; and equally violent in love and hatred. His 
 insatiable avarice was partly glutted by the confiscations and fines with which 
 he punished the adherents of Didius, Niger, and Albinus, as well as all his other 
 enemies. With respect to his vaunted military skill, he possessed, without doubt, 
 very respectable talents, but was rather a dexterous "martinet" than a mag- 
 nanimous general ; nor was he present in the battles against Niger, w hich gave him 
 the empire, — and it was Lretus who turned the fortunes of Albinus. Self-interest 
 was his idol, and cunning supplied the place of wisdom, — nor can a shadow of 
 true generosity be detected in any of the acts of his "glorious" reign, as Gibbon 
 calls it. His liberality was confined to "currying favour" with the rabble, 
 and to the strengthening of his own dynasty by prodigal donatives to the soldiers — 
 by which he gratified that rapacity in the army which thenceforward became 
 additionally prejudicial to the state ; while his wholesale system of banishment, by- 
 means of his exiles, carried arts and implements among the barbarians, and prepared 
 a dreadful scourge for Rome. So strong was the principle of revenge in his 
 disposition, that purely from aversion to Didius, he attempted to abolish the decrees 
 of Salvius Julian us, the celebrated civilian. See No. CLXXXVII. But the para- 
 mount passion of his heart was inhumanity , — not the mad brutality of a Caligula, 
 a Nero, or a Commodus, but the deliberate cruelty of a cold-blooded and calculating 
 despot. In the Apostate's Satire, Silenus exclaims—-" I dare not speak against him, 
 I am so terrified at his inexorable barbarity :" and Dr. Holliday, in his " Survey of 
 the Universe," says — 
 
 " Severus might amongst the best shine bright, 
 But that he was th' eclipse of his own light." 
 
 The gold medals, medallions, and small-brass of Severus are rare ; but all the 
 
 others are common, and those of trite reverses are low priced. Dr. Musgrave, in his 
 
 "Belgium Britannicum," reckons the coins of this Emperor at 80 ; but he perhaps 
 
 merely meant those having connexion with the Belgae — for I have seen more than 
 
 150 in silver; and Vaillant, in enumerating his Greek imperial series only, exceeds 
 
 that number by upwards of 200. One of his monetary legends is very remarkable, 
 
 * Aurelius Victor praises the style and fidelity of Severus's story of hit "Times '; but that honest old soldier, Dio, 
 questions the Emperor's regard for truth. 
 
( 184 ) 
 
 as confirming' what historians relate of his declaring that he was adopted by Com- 
 inodus: it is a medal of the year A.D. 195, with the imperial titles added to DIVI 
 Marci PI I Fitius. 
 
 CCCXXVK 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. L. SEPT. SEV. PERT. AVG. {Imperator, Ceesar, Lucius Septimius 
 Severus Pertinax, Augustus.) The laurelled head of Severus, with curled hair, and his neck 
 naked. The features, though not fine, have an air of majesty and command, — but the beard 
 is not long, as description would lead us to expect. He is said to have had a most harmonious 
 voice, — but it was often very discordantly used. This medal is covered with a thiu brown 
 patina, and is in tolerable preservation ; it was purchased from Mr. Till, in 1828. 
 
 Reverse, FIDEI LEG. TR. P. COS. (Fidei Legionum, Tribunitia potestate, Consul.) In the 
 field S. C. A robed female standing, holds an idol of Victoiy on her right hand, and a mili- 
 tary standard in her left. This was struck A.D. 193, to commemorate the fidelity of the 
 legions, against Julian, and Niger. The word Legion comes from legere to choose, or gather, 
 " quia milites in dclcctu legebantur" according to Varro. Each legend was divided into 
 10 cohorts, but the number of men differed at different times. Under Romulus it consisted of 
 3,000 foot, and 300 horse; in the days of Polybiusit was 4,200; Augustus raised it to 0,100 
 foot, and 726 horse; and in the time of Severus it was reduced to 5000 men: but under 
 the following emperors, it was restored to the number established by Augustus. See the next 
 medal. 
 
 CCCXXVIL 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. L. SEPT. SEV. PERT. AVG. (Imperator, Ceesar, Lucius Septimius 
 Severus Pertinax, Augustus.) The laureated profile of the Emperor, with mustachios, 
 trimmed beard, and a bare neck ; the forehead being remarkably high, and the features more 
 intelligent than on the last. This medal is varnished with a dark-red patina, spotted with 
 green, and is in fine condition ; I purchased it from a Roman soldier near Ostia, in 1823, 
 but it had formerly been in the Modena collection, as it is stamped with the little silver eagle 
 of that cabinet. 
 
 Reverse. LEG. XIIII. GEM. M. V. (Legio decima-quarta, Gemina, Martia, Victrix.) lu 
 the field S. C. ; and on the exergum TR. P. COS. [Tribunitia potestate, Consul.) 
 A legionary eagle between two military ensigns, on each staff of which appears the bust of a 
 horse. The bravery of the 14th legion is here acknowledged, and it is also commemorated 
 among the inscriptions of Gruter: various other legions arc honoured on the denarii. 
 These may represent the forces which most distinguished themselves, and, according to an 
 old custom, the standards were to be anointed. Pliny laments the extravagance of the 
 Romans in costly perfumed unctions, for their statues and eagles, on festivals : " Aquilse 
 quoque ac signa ilia pulverulenta, et custodiis horrida, inungebantur Festis diebus." The 
 gemina alludes to the levies made by the Romans on the provinces, and dependent states, 
 under the general name of auxiliaries, by which each legion was increased to about 12,500 
 men. The peace establishment of Hadrian and his successors was composed of no less than 
 30 of these formidable brigades, besides the 20,000 chosen soldiers who formed the City 
 Cohorts, and Praitorian guards, — constituting a standing army of nearly 400,000 men. 
 
 cccxxvm. 
 
 Obverse. L. SEPT. SEV. PERT. AVG. IMP. III. (Lucius Septimius Severus Pertinax, Au- 
 gustus, Imperator tertium.) A laureated profile of the Emperor, with a commanding aspect. 
 This medal is in very good condition, and covered with black patina: it was struck A. D. 194, 
 and was procured, by exchange, from an antiquary of Cagliari, in 1824. 
 
 Reverse. DIS AVSPICIB. TR. P. II. COS. IL P. P. (Dis Auspicibus, Tribunitia potestate 
 iterum, Consul iterum, Pater Patrice.) On the exergum S. C. Hercules with his club, 
 and the spoils of the Nemean lion, is standing, and looking to the left. Behind him is Bacchus, 
 
( 185 ) 
 
 with more of majesty than the Moderns, confounding him with Silenus, are apt to assign to him ; 
 he holds a cantharus in one hand, and a thyrsus, entwined with two snakes, symbolical of Asia, 
 in the other : but though the syrma or triumphal robe, the nebris or fawn's skin, and the cothurni, 
 or buskins, are considered to be his distinctive attributes, he is here represented naked. Between 
 the figures is a lynx, or Panther, illustrating the verse of Propertius — 
 
 " Lyncibus ad ccelum vecta Ariadne tuis." 
 This device indicates that Severus, when marching against Niger, especially addressed himself 
 to those deified heroes, as the noblest who had appeared on earth ; and Dio informs us that he 
 dedicated a sumptuous temple to them. 
 
 CCCXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. L. SEPT. SEV. PERT. AVG. IMP. HIT. (Lucius Septimius Severus Pertinax, Augustus, 
 Imperator quartum.) The laureated head of Severus, with the hair, beard, and mustachios 
 trimmed. This medal is in remarkably fine condition, and covered with a deep brown patina ; 
 it was procured at Naples, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. AFRICA. In the field S. C. (See No. CLXIV.) A robed female quoiffed with an elephant's 
 head, holds a wheat-sheaf as an emblem of fertility. At her feet is a lion, which marks her as 
 " teonum arida nutrix ;" and the figure recalls Claudian's description — 
 " Turn spicis et dente comas insignis eburno, 
 Et calido rubicunda die sic Africa fatur." 
 This device appears to have been struck in allusion to the Emperor's native land, to which, 
 however, though he conferred many benefits thereon, it seems he was so little attached in reality, 
 as to order an old acquaintance to be scourged merely for recognizing him ; and when his sister 
 came over, he was ashamed of her rusticity : — Quum soror sua legitima ad eum venisset vix 
 Latine loquens, ac de ea multum Imperator erubesceret :" yet he was honoured and regarded as 
 a God, by the Africans. 
 
 CCCXXX. 
 
 Obverse. L. SEPT. SEV. PERT. AVG. IMP. V. [Lucius Septimius Severus Pertinax, Augustus, 
 Imperator quintum.) The laurelled head of the Emperor characterised as above. This medal 
 has a coat of bright green patina, forming the " cerugo nobilis j" it was found among the ruins 
 of Leptis Magna, in 1810.* 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. III. COS. II. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate, tertium, 
 Consul iterum, Pater Patrice.) In the field S. C. The figure of Minerva, with the spear, the 
 parma or little round shield, and helmet, of the celebrated palladium, fabled to have been brought 
 from Troy, and never exposed to public view. She stands exactly as on the web woven in com- 
 petition with Arachne, according to the poet's description ; and was allegorical of Providentia, 
 or Prudence. See No. CCXXXVI1I. 
 
 CCCXXXI. 
 
 Obverse. L. SEPT. SEV. PERT. AVG. IMP. V. (Lucius Septimius Severus Pertinax, Augustus, . 
 
 Imperator quintum.) The laurelled head of Severus, with the hair, beard, and neck, as before. 
 A medal covered with thin brown patina, in excellent preservation, and stamped with the Eagle 
 of Este, or Modena ; it was purchased from Mr. Young, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. PART. ARAB. PART. ADIAB. (Parthicus Arabicus, Parthicus Adiabenicus.) In the 
 field S. C. and on the exergum COS. II. P. P. (Consul iterum, Pater Patrice.) Two cap- 
 tives in oriental garb, with their hands tied behind them, seated upon shields, and a magnificent 
 trophy between them. This alludes to the successes of Severus, A. D. 105, when he crossed tin. 
 Euphrates to chastise the Osrhoeni, Adiabeni, and Arabians. He obtained some success over 
 the Parthians, but apparently not in open warfare, since he would not assume the title of Par- 
 thicus, which oddly enough is here twice repeated, lest he should give umbrage to that still 
 powerful nation : — 
 
 " Tela fugacis equi, et braccati militis arcus." 
 
 * In the course of my excavations at Leptis Magna — some of the fruits of which are now to be seen at Virginia Water, 
 in Windsor Park — I found many Roman medals, but only this one of Severus, who was born there; 
 
 2b 
 
( 180 ) 
 
 CCCXXXII. 
 
 Obverse. L. SEPT. SEV. PERT. AVG. IMP. VIII. {Lucius Septimius Severus Pertinax, Augustus, 
 Impei ator octavum.) A very spirited and characteristic head of Severus, with the bust in 
 armour. This beautiful medal is in the highest condition, coated with red and green patina, and 
 is oue of the best specimens of art in this reign. It was purchased in London, in 1825, having 
 formerly been in the cabinet of Mr. Edgar. 
 
 Reverse. ADVENTV1 AVG. FELICISSIMO. (Adventui Augustifelicissimo.) On the exergum S. C. 
 
 The Emperor on his charger, raising his right hand ; — he is in his camp dress, but bare-headed. 
 An elegant military figure leads the horse by the bridle, and bears a standard. This device com- 
 memoiates the Eii'peror's return to Rome, not on the death of Julian, as hath been "imprinted" 
 — but in A. D. 19(3, when he had been saluted Emperor for the eighth time. The first public 
 entry of Severus was under every possible demonstration of joy ; yet he committed unheard of 
 cruelties. After commending the character of Commodus to the Senators, who had declared his 
 memory infamous, he executed a number of their body without trial, and the city was filled with 
 bloodshed. But an act of justice was performed, in the degradation of the Praetorians. He 
 ordered them to attend him, without arms, and then having upbraided them in the bitterest terms 
 for their insolence, venality, and treachery, he commanded them, after quitting their horses and 
 badges, to retire, ignomiuiously, 100 miles from Rome, and not to return under pain of death. 
 
 CCCXXXIII. 
 
 Obverse. L. SEPT. SEV. PERT. AVG. IMP. VIII. (Lucius Septimius Severus Pertinax, Augustus, 
 Imperator octavum.) A laurelled profile of the Emperor, with features less intelligent than in 
 the last, and the bust naked. A medal covered with a deep-brown patina, and in exceedingly 
 fine preservation ; it was obtained by exchange from a friend in London, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. MVNIFICENTIA AVG. (Munificentia Augusti.) On the exergum S. C. A large elephant, 
 harnessed, with net-work. This type was struck A. D. 197, to commemorate the spectacles 
 exhibited before the Emperor's second departure to reduce the Parthians. Notwithstanding his 
 habitual avarice, Severus squandered away large treasures on the soldiers, his known maxim 
 being to enrich the army that he might depress the other classes. But he also gave many con- 
 giaries and games to the people, most of which are duly recorded on medals ; and he was, more- 
 over, particularly careful of the supply of wine and oil for the city. 
 
 The extreme docility of the elephant seems to have been even better understood by the 
 ancients than by the moderns, for we are assured that when Galba was Praetor, he introduced at 
 the Floralia a new entertainment, said to have become common enough afterwards, viz. the in- 
 credible feat of elephants dancing, or walking upon ropes ; and both iElian and Columella assert 
 that they contrived to breed the animal at Rome — whereas, except in the well-known instance 
 mentioned by Mr. Carse, in the Philosophical Transactions, and which occurred in India, every 
 modern attempt of the kind has failed. Cuvier, in speaking of the differences which distinguish 
 the elephants of Africa from those of Asia, assures us that their history is given more exactly by 
 Aristotle, than by ButTon. Yet Manilius enumerated this docile creature among the savage and 
 noxious animals of the torrid zone : — 
 
 " Horrendos angues, habitataque membra veneno, 
 Et mortis partus, vivtutia crimina tense; 
 Et vaslos elephantes habet, saevosque leones, 
 In pcenas faccunda suas, parit horrida tellus." 
 
 CCCXXX1V. 
 
 Obverse. SEVERVS PIVS AVG. P. M. TR. P. XII. (Severus Pius, Augustus, Pontifex 
 Maximus, tribunilia potestate duodecitnum.) The laureated profile of Severus, with a thick 
 beard and bare neck. This medal has received rough treatment, but the injury is of no modern 
 date, as it is cased with black patina ; it was presented to me by Mr. A. Tulin, the British Vice- 
 Consul, at Tunis, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. 1NDVLGENTIA AVGG. (Indulgentia Augusterum.) On the exergum IN CARTH. 
 
 (In Carthngine.) In the field S. C. Cybele, or Astarte, as Apuleius describes her, gracefully 
 seated on the back of a lion, which is running in the same direction as a stream from a high hill : 
 
( 187 ) 
 
 she wears a corrona-turrita, and holds a fulmen in one hand and a long sceptre in the other. 
 This device was struck A. D. 203, and seems relative to a reparation of the great aqueduct which 
 conveyed water from the Zygantes to Carthage— vast remains of which are still seen between 
 Tunis and the Zaghwan mountains; but it is an indulgence upon which historians are silent. 
 The favor was probably accomplished by a stated remission of tribute, for had it required money 
 from the treasury, the legend would have been Munificentia instead of Indulgentia. Carthage 
 was greatly encourged under the emperors, and became opulent : Severus honoured it with the 
 privilege of Jus Ilalicum, whence it had the additional right of assuming the name of Felix. 
 
 cccxxxv. 
 
 Obverse. SEPT. SEVERVS PIVS AVG. {Septimius Severus Pius, Augustus.) The laurelled head 
 of the Emperor, under the usual characteristics, and with the bust in armour. A medal in 
 secondary, but sound condition ; procured at Zante, in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. SAECVLARIA — on the exergum SACRA, S. C. Septimius Severus and his two sons sacri- 
 ficing at an altar, before a large temple ; on the left of the field is a tibicen playing the double 
 flute, (see No. CCCVI.) and on the right is a musician with his lyre. From the veiled figures in 
 the centre joining hands over the altar, and being without the patera, this type has somewhat the 
 appearance of a marriage ; but the fascia declares its object. In the foreground is the recum- 
 bent Tiber, to shew that the ceremony took place on his banks. This was struck A. D. 204, on 
 the eighth celebration of the grand Secular Games, which, from the political disturbances, had 
 not taken place for 116 years : and by it the relations of Herodian and Zosimus are corroborated. 
 See Nos. XCIX. to CIV. 
 
 CCCXXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. L. SEPT. SEVERVS PIVS AVG. (Lucius Septimius Severus Pius, Augustus.) The 
 laureated profile of Severus, with smaller features than before, and the neck bare, A medal of 
 yellow brass, and in good preservation, though barely patinated; it was bought at the Hon. R. E. 
 Digby's sale, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. XVIII. COS. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia, potestate Decimum- 
 octavum, Consul terlium, Pater Patrice.) On the exergum S. C. The Emperor in his camp- 
 attire, armed with a lance, and accompanied by two soldiers bearing standards, stands between 
 his two sons. On the ground is a captive. This was struck A. D. 210, to commemorate an 
 advantage over the Picts — who, however, by ambuscades and desultory attacks, sorely hai rassed 
 their enemies. 
 
 CCCXXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. L. SEPT. SEVERVS PIVS AVG. (Lucius Septimius Severus Pius Augustus.) A fine 
 and expressive profile of Severus, with the laurel wreath, and a bare neck. This coin, in very 
 excellent, condition, though unpatinated, was purchased from Mr. Young, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. VICTORIAE BR ITTANN1CAE. On the exergum S. C. Two winged victories holding a 
 shield against a palm-tree, at the foot of which two captives are sitting. This was struck about 
 A. D. 210, on account of the same campaign as the last — but the success was dearly purchased, 
 for the Emperor lost 50,000 men, from fatigue, hardships, and the incessant attacks and stratagems 
 of their wily foes. By perseverance, however, he surmounted all difficulties, and compelled the 
 Caledonians to purchase a peace ; for this he was honoured with the title of Britannicus Maximus, 
 and his son with that of Britannicus. It should be observed that the orthography of Britain on 
 this legend, differs from that on the medal of Hadrian and Antoninus Pius, by the additional T. 
 
 CCCXXXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. D1VO SEPTIMIO SEVERO PIO. The unlaurelled head of the defunct Emperor, with placid 
 features, and the neck naked. This medal is of yellow brass without patina, and is in very high 
 preservation : it was found near the marshes of Astura, in 1822, and fell into my possession 
 shortly afterwards. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. On the exergum S. C. A magnificent rogus, with elaborate decorations, 
 surmounted by a quadrigated car, in compliment to the memory of the Emperor, whose ashes were 
 transported to Rome. It is said that when he found his end approaching, he cried out " Omnia 
 
( 188 ) 
 
 fui, et nihil expedit." Then ordering the porphyry vase in which his ashes were to be inclosed 
 to be brought — " little urn," said he, " thou shalt soon contain him whom the world could not."* 
 This pyre, having but five stories, cannot represent the septizonium of Severus, as some medallists 
 have supposed : that towering edifice was destroyed by Sixtus Vth, is said to have been little 
 short of the Moles Hadriana, in point of size and splendour. 
 
 JULIA DOMNA. 
 
 Julia Domna was the daughter of Bassianus, a Syrian priest of the Sun, but of 
 mean extraction. She was born at Emessa, and would probably have passed a life 
 of obscurity, had not her horoscope foretold that her husband would become a sovereign. 
 Severus heard of this, and taken more by the prophecy than by her personal charms, 
 which were very great, married her A. D. 173 ; the ceremony took place in the 
 temple of Venus, and the Empress Faustina was singularly condescending on the oc- 
 casion. Julia bore two sons, Caracalla and Geta, and two daughters, who were called 
 Septimia, but whether they had any other names is not recorded. After the death of 
 Severus, she made an attempt to maintain peace between her sons, but without success, 
 for Geta was murdered in her arms; and though she was wounded at the same time, she 
 dared not openly repine. After the fall of Caracalla she starved herself to death, A. D. 
 217, apparently more from the dread of Macrinus, than through regret for her son. 
 
 Julia was beautiful, graceful, and witty ; had great talents, and affected the com- 
 pany of mathematicians and philosophers ; but was cunning, and ambitious — and, 
 for the honour of letters, it is to be regretted that her virtue did not equal her capacity. 
 Without believing the odious scandal retailed by Spartian and Aurelius Victor, re- 
 specting Caracal la — but which is not mentioned by contemporary writers — it isreadilv 
 
 seen that she disgraced Severus — as far as so passive a husband could be dishonoured 
 
 and the whole court, by her profligacy. She lived, however, in apparent harmony 
 with Severus, accompanied him on his expeditions, and was with him when he died 
 in Britain ; and the only slight which she appears to have received, was the insult 
 given to her by Plautian, the Emperor's favourite. Brantome thinks her frailty may 
 be excused, because she happened to bear the contaminated name of Julia ; — and a 
 sarcasm which the wife of Argentocox, a British Prince, uttered in her presence, has 
 been duly noted. Tristan sums up her character with great severity — " Elle estoit 
 autant vicieuse, qu'aucune autre Imperatrice qui V eust devancee. Comme 
 e.stant superbe, arrogante, maligne, trompeuse, et artificieuse d la Syrienne ; 
 
 * And thus it hath been said of the Macedonian, "Magnus Alexander parvae non sufficit urnae." Shakspeare finely alludes 
 to this sentiment :— 
 
 »* Ill-weaved ambition, how much art thou shrunk ? 
 When that this body did contain a spirit, 
 A kingdom for it was too small a bound ; 
 But now, two paces of the vilest earth 
 Is room enough." 
 
( 189 ) 
 
 et de plus estoit quereleuse, et lubrique, lascive, el foil subjecle a ses phtisirs." 
 Still lier exaltation, esteem for learning, sorrows, and melancholy death, have united 
 in giving - celebrity to her name ; and she herself, her sister Maesa, and her nieces 
 Scemias and Mamaea, had no small share in the affairs of the empire, from the days 
 of Severus to those of Alexander. She was consecrated by Elagabalus, a fact which 
 is only known from the medals struck on the occasion. 
 
 The coins bearing" her image are rare, except in silver, and large and middle- 
 brass ; the tritest types being Pudicitia, Concordia, Felicitas, Fecunditas,* Cybele, 
 Juno, Vesta, Diana, Venus, and Ceres. Inscribed with Domna they are more prized 
 than when they have Pia, a name given to Julia at Rome, in honour of Fulvia Pia, 
 the mother of Sever us. f It has been disputed whether Domna is Syrian, or a Latin 
 corruption of Domina ; but it seems to be merely a family name. 
 
 CCCXXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. 1VLIA DOMNA AVG. (Julia Domna Augusta.} A profile of the Empress, with remarkably 
 handsome features, and a placid expression of countenance. The hair is curiously brought over 
 the ears, and turned up at the back of the head. The appearance indicates a female of about 30 
 years of age. This medal is varnished with brown patina, and is in excellent preservation ; it 
 was procured at Alexandria, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. VESTA. On the exergum S. C. The Empress, as Vesta, veiled and seated on a throne, with 
 the palladium on her right hand, and a sceptre in her left. The adoration of this goddess was 
 pretended to have been brought from Phrygia into Italy, by jEneas and his followers; and the 
 first oblations in all sacrifices were made to her. It does not appear that there were any statues 
 of Vesta, and Ovid expressly says " Effigiem nullam Vesta, nee ignis habent." 
 
 CCCXL. 
 
 Obverse. IVLIA PIA FELIX. AVG. (Julia Pia, Felix, Augusta.) The head of Julia, with her hair 
 dressed in a singular taste, and her bosom robed. A fine spread patinated medal, in good con- 
 dition, which was procured at Cagliari, in Sardinia, in 1824. 
 Reverse. VESTA MATER. On the exergum S. C. A circular temple, before which the vestal virgins, 
 arrayed in sufiibula,£ are sacrificing at an altar, whence a flame rises. This seems to have been 
 struck on Domna's rebuilding the temple which was burnt in the reign of Commodus, and replacing 
 the palladium therein. The name of Vesta is attributed to Terra, as typifying internal heat, and as 
 fire produces nothing, so she was held to be the emblem of virginity, and all the world knows 
 what awaited any of her priestesses who violated her rules. She was worshipped in a round fane 
 possibly in allusion to the rotundity of the earth, "nuf/us procurrit in illo angu^s,^ with her 
 fire ever burning in the centre. See the last medal, and No. XC. On her temple at Rome, now 
 a picturesque ruin, Horace gives those beautiful lines : — 
 
 " Vidimus flavum Tiberim, retortis 
 Littore Etrusco violenter undis, 
 Ire dejectum monumenta regis, 
 Templaque Vestee." 
 
 * A medal of Domna's, which somewhat confounds Fecunditas with Tellus, as a source of fertility, must be excepted from 
 this list. A half naked female is seated on the ground, with her left arm resting on an urn, from which issue fruit and flowers ; 
 her right hand is placed on a globe marked with stars, on the surface of which are four children, symbolical of the seasons. 
 These are supposed to represent the two sons and two daughters of Domna, "et voila" observes a French writer, le veritable 
 symbole de lafecondite." Addison describes this type, but he is mistaken in saying that the lady's head is crowned with turrets. 
 
 f Some curious ancient clay moulds, for forging Denarii of Domna, are figured in the Philosophical Transactions for 1750; 
 they were found at Ryton, in Shropshire. 
 
 J The surfibulum, according to the useful Dictionary of Pompeius Festus, is — " Vestimentum album prtetextuni qua- 
 drangulum oblongum, quod in capite Vestales Virgines sacrificantes habebant,idque fibula comprebeodehatur." 
 
( 190 ) 
 
 CCCXLI. 
 
 Obverse. IVLIA AVGVSTA. A charming profile of Julia, with her breast neatly clothed, and her hair 
 dressed as in No. CCCXXXIX. A medal of yellow brass, barely patinated, but in excellent 
 preservation; it was found in the Pontine Marshes, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. MATR1 CASTRORVM. On the exergum S. C. A veiled female standing before an altar, with 
 an acerra in one hand, and a patera in the other. Opposite the altar are three military standards. 
 The device, though less noble, is borrowed from Faustina Junior, see No. CCLXX. ; and thi* 
 title, so flattering to Julia's vanity, was bestowed about the fourth year of her husband's reign. 
 
 CCCXLII. 
 
 Obverse. IVLIA AVGVSTA. The profile of Donina, with a pleasing aspect, finely-turned neck, and her 
 bosom robed ; but with the hair unbecomingly dressed. A medal in high condition and varnished 
 with redtlish-brown patina, which was obtained by exchange from M. Carstenseu, the Danish 
 Consul-General at Tripoli, in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. MATER AVGG. (Mater Augustorum.) On the exergum S. C. Cybele, with a pine-branch 
 in her right hand, is seated on a throne placed upon a car, which is drawn by four noble lions. 
 This piece of servile adulation compares Domna with the mighty " Mater Deorum," in her being 
 the mother of Caracalla and Geta ; and it was probably struck when Geta was declared Augustus, 
 about A. D. 209. See No. CCLIX. The representations of Cybele, are usually accompanied 
 by the lion ; whence the great poet says — 
 
 " Hinc Mater cultrix Cybele, Corybantiaque sera 
 Idaiumque nemus ; hinc fida silentia sacris ; 
 Et juncti curium Dominse subiere Leones." 
 
 CCCXL1II. 
 
 Obverse. IVLIA PIA FELIX AVG. (Julia Pia, Felix, Augusta.) The head of the Empress, with a 
 countenance of great feminine beauty, and the bust richly robed. The hair is ungracefully braided 
 close round the head and over the ears, resembling the remarkable moveable head-dress which is 
 still seen on her bust in the Capitol at Rome.* This medal is coated with russet-green patina, 
 and is in very fine condition ; it was presented to me by Admiral Sir Sydney Smith, at Naples, 
 in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. MAT. AVGG. MAT. SEN. M. PATR, (Mater Augustorum, Mater Senatus, Mater 
 Patrice.) On the exergum S. C. Domna seated on a throne, with a sceptre in her left hand, and 
 a branch of laurel in her right : she is attired in rich robes, and wears the " wig," as on the 
 obverse. These comprehensive titles are highly adulatory : and the new one of Mater Senatus 
 alludes to the capacity of the Empress for state affairs. Severus placed great reliance on her 
 judgment. Under Caracalla she retained the dignity of Augusta, her name was joined to that of 
 the Emperor in the despatches which he addressed to the Senate; and she was intrusted with the 
 care of the most important records. 
 
 CARACALLA. 
 
 Bassianus, the son of Septimius Severus and Julia Domna, was born at Lugdunum, 
 A. D. 188. He was afterwards called Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, in consequence 
 of his father's dreaming that one under that appellation would succeed him ; but he is 
 better known as Caracalla, a nickname which he obtained from wearing 1 a peculiar 
 Gaulish garment. At the age of eight he was declared Caesar, and two years after- 
 wards was decorated with the title of Augustus. He married Plautilla, A. D. 202, 
 
 * For the probable introduction of periwigs into Italy, see No. LXIII. Lucian's false prophet, Alexander, when afflicted with 
 a complaint in the head, was discovered to wear a wig. 
 
( m ) 
 
 and treated her with inhuman barbarity. He attended his father on the British 
 expedition, and after trying to murder him, succeeded to the throne, A. D. 211, con- 
 jointly with his brother Geta, whom he, however, killed in. the following year. An 
 atrocious career of folly and barbarity ensued, till having rallied Macrinus, the Prae- 
 torian Prefect, for cowardice, and threatened his life, that officer caused the tyrant to be 
 assassinated in the spring of A. D. 217, in the 30th year of his age ; and this execra- 
 ble "Man of Blood" received the honours of deification, by command of the soldiers. 
 
 Caracal la exceeded his father in cruelty and perfidy, without inheriting one of his 
 virtues ; and he had the faculty of adding the keenest insults to torture. When told 
 that his fratricide might be expiated, in some degree, by consecrating his brother, he 
 answered — " sit Divus, dam non sit vivas. 3 ' He destroyed the whole of his brother's 
 friends and adherents, together with their families, nor would he suffer the bodies of 
 many of them to be buried. He revenged himself for the railleries of the Alexandrians 
 by a general massacre. He killed the celebrated lawyer, Papinian, because he would 
 not justify paricide — Fadilla, the only surviving daughter of Marcus Aurelius, for con- 
 doling with Dorana on the death of Geta — and Helvius Pertinax, because his father had 
 sat on the throne. Tristan thinks him the most cruel of tyrants — " Car Caligula, 
 Neron, Vitelle, Domilian, ny Commode ne se peuvent pas dire avoir tous en- 
 semble fait tailler en pieces vingt mille hommes, comma il fit en une seule fois." 
 Besides his cruelty, he was a most intolerable oppressor of his subjects, for no prince 
 ever employed more iniquitous means of raising money than Caracalla, or squandered 
 it away more prodigally. By an extravagant largess he emptied, in one day, the ex- 
 chequer, which his father had filled by innumerable murders, and unjust confiscations, 
 during the space of 18 years. He was not only ignorant, but a despiser of literature 
 and learned men ; yet Oppian dedicated his treatise " de Venatione" to him. What 
 with remorse and cowardice, he lived in constant dread of all mankind — not satisfied 
 with consulting augurs, emissaries, and spies, he longed for ears sufficiently quick to 
 hear all that was said of him — and after his death it was discovered that he had purchased 
 at an enormous cost, poison enough to give a quietus to all his " loving subjects." 
 
 Caracalla is said to have shewn symptoms of goodness in his tender years, and even 
 to have imbibed the principles of Christianity ; but he quickly proved himself a pro- 
 fessed enemy to the human race. Whoever was the author of the famous law, which 
 made all free subjects of the Provinces citizens of Rome, Caracalla is entitled to the 
 merit of its promulgation ; yet the motive may have been rather to extend the legacy 
 duties throughout the empire, than to give an act of grace. This, and the embellish- 
 ing of Rome with some magnificent edifices, are the only actions deserving of praise, 
 in the whole of his detestable career. 
 
( 192 ) 
 
 The medallions and gold medals of this Emperor are of considerable rarity, as are 
 also the small-brass; but the denarii, the large and middle. brass,* together with the 
 Greek, Colonial, and Egyptian, are common. As the coins of this reign are not readily 
 distinguished by the tyro from those of Elagabalus, it may be mentioned that the le- 
 gends of the latter commence with IMP. which is not the case with the large-brass 
 series of Caracalla, who however has sometimes the distinguishing titles of Britannicus 
 and Germanicus. There is also a star, or small radiated sun, on many of the coins of 
 Elagabalus, which I have never met with on those of Caracalla. 
 
 CCCXLIV. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVR. ANTONINVS CAES. {Marcus Aurelius Autoninus Ccesar.) A youthful and 
 unlaurelled head of Caracalla, with an apparently ingenuous countenance ; the bust is in armour, 
 over which the paludamentum is fibulated. This medal is in singularly high perfection, and 
 covered with chocolate-coloured patina ; it was struck about A. D. 196, and was found near Cape 
 Miseno, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. SPEI PERPETVAE. In the field S. C. The personification of Hope in light drapery, with 
 the lotus-blossom in her hand. This type is well delineated, but falls very short of the elegant 
 one described under No. XXXIX. Of this virtue, says Erasmus — " Plato dicere solet, Spes 
 esse vigilantium somnia : and Ovid — 
 
 " Ha?c Dea, cum fugerent sceleratus numina terras, 
 In Dis invisa sola remansit humo." 
 
 CCCXLV. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVREL. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Pius Augustus.) 
 
 The laurelled head of the Emperor, with a stern expression of countenance. A well-spread medal 
 of yellow brass without patina, and in very fine condition; it was purchased from Mr. Young, 
 in 1826. 
 
 Reverse. PONTIF. TR. P. XII. COS. III. (Pontifex, Tribunitia potestatc decimum-secundum, 
 Consul tertium. On the exergum S. C. Severus and Caracalla, in camp-dresses, accompanied 
 by three soldiers, two of whom bear standards, and one a spear and shield ; at their feet is a cap- 
 tive bound. This was struck A. D. 209, to commemorate an advantage over the Britons. 
 
 CCCXLVI. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVREL. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Pius, Augnstus.) 
 
 The laureated head of Caracalla, with short hair and beard, bare neck, and harsh forbidding 
 features. A remarkably fine medal, and covered with deep-brown patina; it was procured by 
 exchange from a numismatic friend in London, in 1828. 
 
 Reverse. PONTIF. TR. P. XIII. COS. HI. (Pontifex Tribunitia poteslate decimum-tertium, Consul 
 tertium.) On the exergum S. C. Two figures in sacerdotal attire, take each other by the hand, 
 in presence of a third person, who is robed and veiled ; an altar in the centre adds sanctity to the 
 ceremony. This was probably struck upon the reconciliation of Caracalla and Geta, after some 
 quarrel, A. D. 210 ; and the figure in the middle may be Severus. 
 
 CCCXLVII. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVREL. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Pius, Augustus.) 
 
 The head of the Emperor, with the laurel wreath, short hair and bare neck. This medal is in 
 very fine condition, and incrusted with reddish-brown patina ; it was procured at Pisa, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. VICT. BRIT. P. M. TR. P. XIIII. COS. III. (Victoria Britannica, Pontifex Maximus, 
 Tribunitia potestate decimum-quartum, Consul tertium.) On the exergum S. C. Victory with 
 
 » One of the dupondii, inscribed ARCVS AVGG., is interesting : it represents the triumphal arch of Septimus Severus, at 
 the foot of the Capitoline Hill, exactly as it appears now that the rubbish is removed, in which it was half hidden. 
 
( 193 ) 
 
 with her left foot standing on a helmet, is writing on a buckler placed against a magnificent 
 trophy. On the opposite side stands a female in long robes, whom Eckhel, from the cistifer on 
 her head, concludes to be Isis-Pharia, on account of the veneration in which Caracalla held that 
 goddess: this however is not quite satisfactory, for her hands seem to be tied down ; she may 
 therefore represent a nation driven to purchase peace, but is erect, because not wholly subdued. 
 At her feet is a captive bewailing his fate. This was struck A. D. 211. See No. CCIX. 
 
 CCCXLVIII. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVREL. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Pius, Augustus.) 
 
 The head of Caracalla, with a laurel wreath over short hair, a thin beard, and a better expression 
 of features than in the last. This medal is incrusted with red patina, apparently the effect of 
 fire, but is in very high conservation ; it was purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. VICTORIAE BRITTANICAE. On the exergum S. C. A winged Victory writing on a buckler, 
 a trophy, a female, and a captive, as in the last ; but here the head-dress of the deity or province, 
 is much more distinct, as well as the suffibulum. This device seems to represent some advantage 
 in Britain, but all that Caracalla did was to purchase a shameful peace, and desert the fortifica- 
 tions raised with such labour by his father. See the Victories Brittanicce of Severus. The 
 Romans seem to have become very desirous of securing a country, of which they found Horace 
 knew nothing when he devoted it to plague, pestilence, and famine. 
 
 " Hie bellum lacrymosum, hie miseram famem 
 Pestemque, a populo et principe Caesare, in 
 Persas atque Britannos 
 
 Vestra motus aget prece." 
 
 CCCXLIX. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVREL. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. BRIT. [Marcus Aurelius, Antoninus Pius, Au- 
 gustus, Britannicus.) The lain eated head of Caracalla, with an evil cast of countenance, and 
 his neck bare. The portraits of the Emperor, from about this date, are represented with an 
 older appearance than belongs to one who was killed in his 30th year. A medal covered with 
 Saxon-green patina, and in most excellent preservation, which was bought at Lord Morton's sale, 
 in 1830. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. XVI. IMP. II. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate decimum-sextum, 
 Imperator iterum.) In the field S. C. ; and on the exergum COS. 1 1 1 1 . P. P. (Consul quar- 
 tum, Pater Patrice.) The Emperor, in a triumphal car, slowly drawn by four horses, as if in 
 a consular procession, holds the reigns in one hand, and a sceptre, surmounted by an eagle, 
 " volucrem sceptro," in the other. Instead of a slave behind him, bawling in his ear " Rcspice 
 post te, hominem te esse memento,'' there is a graceful winged victory in the act of placing ;l 
 crown on his head. This was struck A. D. 213, and most probably records his expedition 
 against the Catti and Alemanni, now first mentioned, but which Tillemont and Vaillaut suppose 
 to have taken place a year later. 
 
 CCCL. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVREL. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. BRIT. (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Pius, An- 
 gustus, Britannicus.) The laurelled profile of Caracalla, with the pallium on the shoulder, and 
 a gloomy ferocious physiognomy. This medal is of yellow brass, without patina, and is in 
 singular perfection ; it was found in the Pontine Marshes, in 1/98, and passed into this collection 
 from the cabinet of the Abbale Balsamo, of Palermo, in 1814. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. XVI. IMP. II. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate decimum-sextum, 
 Imperator iterum.) On the exergum COS. 1 1 1 1- P. P. (Consul quartum, Pater Patrice,) 
 and under it S. C. A very magnificent circus, with obelisk, statues, ostia, meta?, and chariot- 
 races, in the style of Trajan's medal, described under No. CXXVII. This is of the mintage of 
 A. D. 213, and is usually mentioned as commemorating a structure which Caracalla raised outside 
 the city, a little beyond where the church of S. Sebastian now stands, on the Appian way. Hut 
 it seems more probable that it was struck on the making of some addition to the Circus Maxi- 
 
 2c 
 
( 194 ) 
 
 mus ; for had this Emperor erected so magnificent a pile as the one on the medal, Eutropius 
 would hardly have said — " Opus Romce egregium fecit Lavacra, quce Antoniniana appel- 
 lantur, nihil prceterca memorabile." My late friend, Mons. le Baron Cuvier, considered the 
 hippoligris which Caracalla killed in the circus, as having been a zebra. 
 
 CGCLI. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVREL. ANTON1NVS PIVS AVG. BRIT. (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Pius, Au- 
 gustus, Britannicus.) The laurelled head of Caracalla, with harsh sensual features, and a 
 thick throat. This medal, cased in grass-green patina, and in very superior perfection, was 
 procured at Susah, a town of Tunis, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. XVII. IMP. III. COS. fill. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potes- 
 tate decimum-septimum, Imperator tertium, Consul quartum, Pater Patrice.) On the 
 exergum S. C. The Emperor, between two Praetorian officers, on a camp-li ibunal, is haranguing 
 the aquiliferi of the cohorts. The foremost warrior holds a short implement in his hand, which 
 Visconti took for a palm-branch, but it is more likely to be a weapon. This reverse of Caracalla 
 is of considerable rarity, and represents an address to the soldiers on taking the field — the allo- 
 cution being so customary that Caesar, mentioning the suddenness of an attack, says he had not 
 even time to harangue his army. 
 
 CCCLII. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVREL. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. GERM. (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Pius, Au- 
 gustus, Germanicus.) The laureated profile of the Emperor, with curled hair and beard, pro- 
 tuberant throat, and harsh forbidding features. This medal, in high perfection and incrusted 
 with a deep olive-green patina, was procured at Corinth, in 1820. It seems that Caracalla as- 
 sumed the title of Germanicus A. D. 213, but the exact cause is unknown — " vel joco, vel serio, 
 ut erat stultus, et demens," says Spartian. Indeed he was obliged to purchase peace from the 
 Germans, at so dear a rate ; that he was reduced to coin false money : "instead of silver and 
 gold," quoth Dio, " he provided us with lead silvered over, and brass gilt." 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. XVII. IMP. III. COS. IIII. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia po- 
 testatc decimum-septimum, Imperator tertium, Consul quartum, Pater Patrice.) In the field 
 S. C. and on the exergum LIB. AVG. Villi. (Liberalitas Augusti nonum.) The Emperor, 
 seated on a curule chair upon a suggestum, between a military officer and the figure of Equity, 
 superintends the distribution of a congiary to the Roman people, symbolized by a togated figure 
 on the steps. This reverse was struck A. D. 214, and as largesses were seldom bestowed unless 
 the donors were in the city, we may infer that Caracalla was in Rome in some part of that year. 
 On this occasion he gave every man a cloak, or Gaulish habit, resembling the one from which 
 he was nicknamed — and it was the last donation he made. 
 
 The Liberalities form a valuable part of the mintage of this reign, and are thus estimated : — 
 the 4th and 8th are common ; the 5th a little more rare ; the 1st, 2nd, and 7th are rarer still ; 
 the 3d and 9th very rare ; and the 6th has never yet been found. 
 
 CCCLIII. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVREL. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. GERM.) Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Pius, Au- 
 gustus, Germanicus.) The laureated profile of the Emperor, with curled hair and beard, stern 
 countenance, and thick throat ; the bust is in armour, over which the pallium is buckled. This 
 medal, coated with a light-brown patina, and in singular preservation, was procured at Sassari, 
 in Sardinia, in 1824. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. XVIII. IMP. III. COS. IIII. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia po- 
 teslate decimnm-octavum, Imperator tertium, Consul quartum, Pater Patrice.) In the field 
 S. C. A bold figure of ./Esculapius with the mystic wand, which typifies the support of life, 
 and the bare arm and robe, as described in No. CCCXX. — besides which the fascice tibiales 
 are plainly seen on his legs, and the crepidce on his feet : — 
 
 " Med'cine is mine ; what herbs and simples grow 
 In fields and forests, all the powers I know : 
 And am the great physician call'd below." 
 
( 195 ) 
 
 By his side stands Telesphorus, the deity of convalescents, who is always represented very small, 
 and closely wrapped in a cloak, to denote the necessity of keeping patients warm, and treating 
 them as children. At the feet of jEsculapius is a globe, which not only signified the world and 
 its dominion, but also eternity — " apud Romanos perpetuitas est per sphceram indicata." saith 
 P. Valeriano. See No. CCCIX. But, notwithstanding this profession of uuiversal power, the 
 Romans slighted the power of medicine, and for a long course of years left the practice of it 
 wholly to persons of a servile condition, or freedmen ; and this important art was sunk still lower 
 in their opinion, by the palpable ignorance of the quacks who professed it. Nor was this all. 
 The priests of the college of Augurs arrogated to themselves the sole privilege of supplicating the 
 gods for the health of every individual, and of the whole state — as if any one could not ask it for 
 himself: hence Cicero's " Salutem Populi Sacerdotes augurantor. , ' Yet nothing was more 
 profitable. Pliny mentions several physicians who were pensioned at about £ 2000. per annum ; 
 and in the reign of Claudius, one Dr. Stertinus complaining of the smallness of his income, it was 
 doubled for him. 
 
 This medal was struck A. D. 215, on the Emperor's visiting Pergamos, and there sacrificing 
 to j£sculapius for the recovery of his health, but that god, says Herodian, was deaf to all his 
 prayers. For now he began to be afflicted with several strange diseases : and besides this he was 
 frequently scared with dreadful visions, fancying that he saw the ghosts of his father and brother 
 rushing upon him with angry gestures and drawn swords. 
 
 CCCLIV. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVREL. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. GERM. (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Pius, 
 Augustus Germanicus.) The laurelled head of Caracalla, with a countenance of meanness and 
 cruelty. This medal was struck A. D. 215, and was purchased at Lord Morton's sale in 1S30 ; 
 it is of yellow brass, thinly patinated, but in excellent condition. 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. XVIII. IMP. III. COS. IIII. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potes- 
 tate decimum-octavum, Imperator tertium, Consul quartum, Pater Patrice. A colossal figure 
 of Caracalla, with a radiated head, in a low car swiftly drawn by four spirited horses, of which he 
 holds the reins, in imitation of Apollo: " dicebat se in agitandis curribus solem imitari, edque 
 in re maxime gloriabatur," says Xiphiline. On account of that propensity, and his being en- 
 gaged in oriental campaigns, the Senate complimented him with the device before us, during his 
 absence. Apollo was distinguished above his compeers by having four horses assigned to his 
 chariot ; the team, however, appears to have been changed after Homer's days, as the deity then 
 only drove a pair, neither of which are among those whose names are recited by Ovid. The Cir- 
 censian games were dedicated to the sun; as appears in the poem " De laudibus Justini:'' — 
 " Solis honore novi grati Spectacula Circi, 
 
 Antiqui sanxere patres, qui quatuor esse 
 
 Solis equos quadam verum ratione putabant, 
 
 Tempora continui signantes quatuor anni." 
 
 CCCLV. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVREL. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. GERM. (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Pius, Au- 
 gustus, Germanicus.) A harsh profile of the Emperor, with a laurel crown over curly hair, a thin 
 beard, and thick throat ; the armour of the bust is covered with the pallium. This medal is in 
 very high preservation, and incrusted with a dense-green patina ; it was bought from a peasant 
 near Mazzara, in Sicily, in 1817. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. XVIII. IMP. III. COS. IIII. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia 
 potestale decimum-octavum, Imperator tertium, Consul quartum, Paler Patrice.) On the 
 exergum S. C. Diana in a biga drawn by two bulls galloping; her head is ornamented with a 
 crescent, and surrounded with the floating veil described under No. CCLXIL Erizzo thinks this 
 device is an astronomical allusion to the moon in the sign Taurus — but Caracalla having been 
 complimented as the sun, it is probable this reverse was struck to flatter his mother. The moon, 
 from the admirable beauty of her waxing, waning, and supposed influences, was worshipped as 
 Regent of the night and Queen of chastity : yet Lucian parodies the fine episode of Luna and 
 
( 196 ) 
 
 Endymion, by saying it was customary for her to fall in love with handsome young men while 
 they slept. Claudian mentions her car as being drawn by stags : — 
 " Dixit, et extemplo frondosa fertur ab Alpe 
 Trans pelagus, cervi currum subiere jugales." 
 
 CCCLVI. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVREL. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. GERM. (Marcus Aurclius Antoninus Pius, 
 Augustus Gcrmanicus.) The laurelled profile of Caracalla, with a gloomy expression of coun- 
 tenance, but on the whole more spirited than on the preceding coins. Part of the pallium and the 
 aegis appear on the bust. This medal, in exceedingly-fine, condition and varnished with a reddish- 
 bronze coloured patina, was procured at Frejus, in 1823, having been found near the amphitheatre. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. XVIII. IMP. III. COS. IIII. P P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potes- 
 tute decimuni-octavum, Imperator tertium, Consul quartum, Pater Patrice.) On the 
 exergum S. C. A gaunt lion crowned with rays, holding a fulmen in his mouth. A wild beast 
 with the symbols of power was not an inappropriate emblem of Caracalla, for he was designated 
 by an oracle as the "rabid animal of Italy." But as satire was neither safe nor customary on 
 Roman medals, the device was, no doubt, selected as a compliment to the Emperor, whose lordly 
 magnanimity vied with that of the king of the forests. It may also represent the lion which the 
 Emperor had constantly with him, at bed and board ; or that which he said came out of the woods 
 and fought for him in Parthia. But he had a " large mouth," and 
 " Talk'd as familiarly of roaring lions, 
 As maids of thirteen do of puppy-dogs." 
 
 CCCLVII. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVREL. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. GERM. {Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Pius, 
 Augustus Germanicus.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with curled hair and beard, a 
 thick throat, and shoulders covered with the pallium over armour. The ear of this portrait is 
 remarkably well placed, and the features are less repulsive than in some other coins of Caracalla. 
 This medal, which is in the highest possible perfection, and covered with bronze-green patina, 
 was procured at Corfu, in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. XVIII. IMP. III. COS. IIII. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus Tribunitia 
 potestate decimum-octavum, Imperator tertium, Consul quartum, Pater Patrice.) On the 
 exergum S. C. The Emperor in his paludamentum, standing with his right foot on a crocodile, the 
 emblem of Egypt, holds a lance with its point downwards, in his left hand, as a token of peace. He 
 is received by a female personating a Province, and hastening towards him with asistrum and some 
 ears of wheat ; she is represented in light and short drapery to denote her readiness to meet him. 
 This evidently alludes to Caracalla's arrival at Alexandria, whither he repaired for the purpose of 
 consulting Serapis respecting his malady. The Alexandrians received him with joyous pomp, 
 w ith which the " man of blood " outwardly seemed pleased ; but inwardly he meditated a terrible 
 revenge for some lampoons formerly thrown out against him. He had been exposed for murdering 
 his brother, and his mother was called Jocasta, for living with him afterwards; and what was 
 stiil worse, he was ridiculed for endeavouring to imitate Achilles and Alexander. As a retribution 
 for these offences, he ordered his soldiers to fall on the assembled multitude, in the midst of their 
 festivities, and to make an indiscriminate slaughter. His commands were executed with such 
 barbarity, that the whole city flowed with blood, thousands of strangers as well as inhabitants fell 
 in the carnage, and a general pillage succeeded this horrible and treacherous massacre. 
 
 CCCLVIII. 
 
 Obverse. M. AVREL. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. GERM. (Marcus Aurelius Antoninus Pius, Augus- 
 tus, Germanicus.) An ill-favoured profile of Caracalla, with the laurel crown over his head, and 
 a Vitellian throat. A medal of fine yellow brass, without patina, but in splendid condition ; it 
 was purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. XVIII. IMP. III. COS. IIII. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia 
 potestate decimum-octavum, Imperator tertium, Consul quartum, Pater Patrice.) On the 
 
( 197 ) 
 
 exergum S. C. The Emperor on horseback, extending his right hand, and holding a sceptre in 
 his left; he is preceded by an officer on foot, who carries a trophy, and is followed by two sol- 
 diers bearing military standards. This alludes to one of those progresses in which, during his 
 restless state of mind and body, he wandered about till his death, the laughing-stock of foreign 
 nations, and the disgrace of his own. Among other freaks, he declared war against Paithia, and 
 having, like a dastard, ravaged the tombs of the Arsacidae, he boasted that he had conquered the 
 Parthians, whom he had not even seen — a lie by which he wrung from the Senate the agnomen of 
 Parthicus,* and a decree for a triumph. 
 
 This is the last medal of Caracalla, contained in this collection — but some of the twentieth 
 tribunate are extant. 1 had a consecratio, with the funereal pyra, and Divo Antonino Magno as 
 a legend on the obverse, but it was not in sufficient preservation for the series. 
 
 PLAUTILLA. 
 
 Fulvia Plautilla, the daughter of Fulvius Plautianus, a Praetorian Praefect, was 
 married to Caracalla A. D. 202. The nuptials were celebrated with the utmost pomp 
 and magnificence, for they took place at a happy conjuncture, the Emperor having 
 just returned from the East, laden with spoils ; and the consequent spectacles, largesses, 
 and rejoicings, lasted many days. As the lady happened to be as haughty as she was 
 handsome, her happiness was of short duration ; she quickly became an object of 
 aversion to him who had never loved her, and was exiled to Lipari in the following 
 year.f After ling-ering in wretched affliction, wanting even the common necessaries 
 of life, she was murdered A. D. 212, by order of her inhuman husband, who despatched 
 assassins for that purpose the instant that he was released from restraint by his father's 
 death. 
 
 The unhappy wife of Caracalla is less known by her qualities, than by her exalta- 
 tion and fall. Her father was as great and powerful a favourite with Severus, as 
 Sejanus had been with Tiberius; and a vile insinuation is thrown out as the cause : 
 " ut vero alii affirmant magnis /lore cetatis per stuprnm conciliates. " Being a 
 native of Africa, as well as the Emperor, the meanness of his descent was overlooked, 
 and the highest honours heaped upon him. He was adorned with the consular dig- 
 nity, created senator without being removed from the command of the Praetorians, 
 and, to crown his ambition, his daughter was united to the heir of the empire. During 
 his elevation, the conduct of Plautian is represented as having been proud, arbitrary, cruel, 
 and treacherous; and so delighted was he with Plautilla's marriage — albeit it proved 
 in the end " un vrai menage d' enfer" — that he gave her a dower which Dio thought 
 
 * A pleasantry of the younger Pertinax, upon the appellatives of Caracalla, cost him his life. Finding that the cowardly 
 despot had taken the names of Britannicus, Germanicus, Parthicus, and Arabicus, he said the Emperor ought also to assume 
 that of Geticus — alluding to his having murdered his brother. Tyrants, bowerer, are perilous butts for wits to shoot at. 
 
 f This is Dio'g account. Herodian says Plautilla was banished to Sicily ; but as Lipari is on the coast of that island the 
 one might easily he named instead of the other. 
 
( 198 ) 
 
 sufficient for fifty queens, besides which, he appointed a hundred free citizens of birth 
 to attend her, who — notwithstanding many of them had become fathers of families — 
 were emasculated for that purpose. Indeed, so much were the lives and property of 
 the Romans at his disposal, that the senators and soldiers swore by his fortune. But 
 the arrogant mortal who figured as the main-spring of a mighty government, quickly 
 presented another example of the instability of the fickle goddess. Being tricked into 
 an apparent conspiracy by Caracalla, he was slain in the presence of Severus, and the 
 calamity was communicated to Plautilla in the most brutal manner: an officer abruptly 
 entered the chamber in which she and the Empress Julia were sitting — " See here," 
 exclaimed he, " a part of your father," at the same time throwing at her a handful of 
 Plautian's beard, which he had torn off his face. 
 
 The Latin medals of Plautilla are very rare in gold, and supremely so in large- 
 brass, common in silver, and moderately rare in second and small-brass. I possessed 
 an interesting aureus, which proved that the marriage of Caracalla occurred in his 
 fifth tribunate. This was similar to the one cited by the learned Eckhel, who remarks 
 upon another which bears Concordite ^tern^e — " Tarn parum concors fuit Ca- 
 racalla cum uxore, quam cum fratre Geta." There exist Greek-Imperial and 
 Colonial coins in her honour, which are also scarce. 
 
 CCCLIX. 
 
 Obverse. PLAVTILLA AVGVSTA. The head of Plautilla, with handsome features apparently when 
 about twenty years of age — her hair is closely but elaborately dressed in the wig style of Domna, 
 and her shoulders are neatly covered with drapery. This is a full spread second-brass medal, in 
 excellent condition and brownly patinated ; it was procured by exchange from the Rev. Mr. Hall, 
 of Leghorn, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. VENVS VICTRIX. In the field S. C. A female, naked to the loins, standing with her arm 
 on a shield, which has an animal as its device ; she holds a palm-branch in her left hand, and the 
 golden apple in her right. At her feet is Eros, a winged cupid, with his bow and arrow ; he 
 seems at once playful and powerful, and is represented as seeing, to denote judgment of choice. 
 Plutus and Ambition, however, had more to do with the marriage of poor Plautilla than Venus 
 and Cupid ; and if Love did at all intervene, it must really have been that " Chi poco dolcc molto 
 amaro appaga." 
 
 The most common reverse of this Princess is Pietas, bearing an infant on her left arm. This 
 is not an unusual type of piety as connected with charity ; but Pellerin, who is followed by others, 
 considers the figure as representing Lucina, and that consequently Plautilla became a mother. The 
 question has been much contested. Several of the moderns affirm that Plautius, the brother or 
 uncle who was banished and slain with her, must have been her son. Some think she had a 
 daughter — and Frcelich further maintains that she bore three children : although he oughttohave 
 recollected the early separation of the parents. But no authority from the ancient writers is pro- 
 duced for any of these assertions; and as Herodian assures us that Caracalla, from the first, 
 disliked his bride, and shared neither bed nor board with her, it seems clear that this ill-omened 
 marriage could not have been fruitful. Several plausible, yet equally vain conjectures, have been 
 derived from medallic evidence, and the legend Propago Imperi, which merely expresses a hope 
 for the continuance of the family of Severus, has been advanced in proof. Dr. Alexander Visconti 
 describes a Fecunditas of Plautilla, in his " Indicazione delle Medaglie Antiche del Signor 
 Pietro Vityli" printed at Rome, in 1805, but I have found no mention of it elsewhere. 
 
( 199 ) 
 GETA. 
 
 Lucius vel Publius Septimius Geta, the second son of Septimius Severus and Julia 
 Domna, was born at Mediolanuin A. D. 189, while his father was yet a private man. 
 At the age of nine years he was decorated with the title of Cfesar ; and about A. D. 
 209, on receiving that of Augustus, was invested with the Tribunitian Power: so that 
 there were now three Augusti in Rome at once, a circumstance which had never oc- 
 curred before. On the death of Severus, Geta shared the empire with his brother, 
 but after a reign of only 13 months, was assassinated in the arms of his mother, by 
 Caracalla, A. D. 212, at the age of 22 years and 9 months. While in Britain, the 
 murderer had attempted to destroy his victim by poison, but the servants of the latter 
 were too faithful to be corrupted, and he feared the army to whom Geta was dear : 
 " primum paravit insidias veneno, quibus non procedentibus, nihil tale expectante 
 Geta, in ejus irrumpit cubiculum, et supra Matris pectus obtruncat, quod ea illi ali- 
 quando joco prcedixisse ferebatur in hanc sententiam : JUaledicta Parricida ! fra- 
 trem timm occidisti." This atrocity was followed by a massacre of all the friends 
 and adherents of the deceased, neither age, sex, nor quality, escaping the merciless 
 mandate : about 20,000 fell, and it was death but to utter the name of Geta.* 
 
 The two brothers had manifested an insuperable aversion towards each other from 
 childhood ; and, after succeeding to the empire, their implacable animosity rent the 
 city and state into factions. To avoid the disorders which might arise from this state 
 of semi-warfare, it was proposed to divide the empire ; and Geta, who was inclined 
 for quiet, promised that if Asia and Egypt were allotted to him, he would surrender to 
 Caracalla the undisturbed possession of the rest of the world. The proposal was about 
 to be accepted, when Julia Domna, throwing herself at their feet, begged, with many 
 tears, that they would divide her also between them ; this action broke off the treaty, 
 and the mother, by endeavouring to keep her children together, lost them both — for 
 the dying prediction of the heart-broken Severus, that the weaker of his sons would 
 fall a sacrifice to the stronger, who, in his turn, would be ruined by his own vices, 
 was very soon fulfilled. 
 
 Geta had been inclined to harshness in his tender years — adolescens asperis mo- 
 ribus, non tamen impiis ; but by degrees he became affable and moderate, affected 
 the society of men of learning, and grew exceedingly popular with the soldiers and 
 people. While yet a boy, he was so moved with compassion at the calamitous fate of 
 some of the partisans of Niger and Albinus, who were ordered for execution, that he 
 
 * Among the victims of this outrage was Fadilla, the only remaining daughter of the great Marcus A urelius : she wai 
 barbarously executed for exhibiting signs of sorrow on the occasion. 
 
( 200 ) 
 
 dissuaded the relentless Severus from his purpose, and obtained a remission of their 
 sentence. Spartian, however, tells us that he was addicted to gluttony and wine:* 
 and Julian, in his Satire, says, that when the brothers would have entered the assembly 
 of the gods, Minos forbade them ; but better discerning one from the other, admitted 
 Geta as the least wicked. From these intimations it seems that he was " no better 
 than he should be;" and the public probably lost little by his death. 
 
 Notwithstanding Caracalla's attempt to destroy every trace of his brother's memory, 
 there exist great numbers of his medals, of all sizes and metals, and those of silver and 
 second-brass are very common. The prasnomen of Lucius appears on those minted 
 previously to A. D. 205, but, except on some of the Greek Imperial coinage, it is after- 
 wards discontinued. In Mezza-barba's Occo, p. 304, there is a denarius inscribed 
 Divo Gelce Fio ; but never having heard of any other medallic evidence ofGeta's 
 consecration, I cannot but place it among the numerous errors which disgrace that 
 work. 
 
 CCCLX. 
 
 Obverse. P. SEPTIMIVS GETA CAES. (Publius Septimius Geta, Ccesar.) The youthful and 
 unlaurelled head of Geta, with close hair, and good features ; the bust shews the laticlavium 
 buckled over armour. This medal, thinly patinated, but in excellent preservation, was purchased 
 from Mr. M. Young, in 1829. 
 
 Reverse. PRINC. IVVENT. {Principi Juventutis.) On the right side of the field S. C. ; and on the 
 exergum COS. which shews the date to be A. D. 205. Three youths on horseback, the foremost 
 of whom represents the Prince — a device which alludes to his rank, and known attachment to 
 the martial exercises. Geta prided himself greatly upon his horsemanship, and a silver coin was 
 struck to his honour, under the style and title of Castor. See No. CCLXXXIII. 
 
 CCCLXI. 
 
 Obverse. P. SEPTIMIVS GETA PIVS AVG. BRIT. {Publius Septimius Geta, Pius, Augustus, 
 Britannicus.) The laureated head of Geta, with his hair and beard neatly trimmed, good features, 
 and bare neck. This rare medal, in the most perfect condition and richly covered with intense 
 green patina, was purchased at Mr. Willett's sale, in 1834. It is, as far as I can collect, unpub- 
 lished; not being mentioned by Occo, Erizzo, Oiselius, Vaillant, Pedrusi, Visconti, Eckhel, 
 Havercamp, nor Mionnet.f 
 
 Reverse. ADVENTVS AVGVSTI. On the exergum S. C. Geta, in a camp-dress and bare-headed, is 
 mounted upon a charger, with a pointed spear in his left hand, and extending his right. Before the 
 horse marches a galeated warrior bearing a vexillum. Though the legend of a medal has been 
 aptly styled its soul, it is often deficient in affording entire satisfaction ; and here is nothing to 
 assist exact chronology. The device probably records the return of the Prince from Britain, as 
 corroborated by other types of " Adventus," shewing an equestrian figure of Geta, but without 
 the foot-soldier. 
 
 CCCLXII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. P. SEPT. GETA PIVS AVG. (Imperator Casar Publius Septimius 
 Geta, Pius, Augustus.) A remarkably fine and expressive profile of Geta, with short hair, 
 
 * Geta is said to have had his dishes served up in alphabetical order, as anser, aprugnn, acarnc, aper, and anas together ; 
 bacchce, banchus, boletus, and brabyla; fixrla, fasianut, and ficus; pavus, peidix, perna, piscis, porcellus, and pitllus ; 
 and so on. 
 
 f Mons. Mionnet sometimes omits from his list of "revert rates" medals which are acknowledged as such by the highest 
 authoiities, as in the instance of Hadrian's Hestilutori Nic<jmedi<c—f<o. CLXX1V. of this Catalogue. 
 
( 201 ) 
 
 thin beard, and bare neck ; but certainly with an older aspect than suits a man of 21. This 
 medal, densely coated with dark-greeu patina, and in splendid condition, was procured at 
 Corinth, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. PONTIF. TR. P. II. COS. II. (Pontifex, Tribunitia potest ate iterum, Consul iterum.) 
 
 On the exergum S. C. Three figures at a tripod altar, the centre one of whom is a tibicen 
 with his double flute : the others are in sacerdotal vestments, and the right-hand one holds a 
 staff" and a patera. At the foot of the altar lies a bound victim. This shews a sacrifice cele- 
 brated on some particular occasion in A. D. 210; and I cannot but think Havercamp had a 
 less perfect specimen under his eye, when he described a similar device as Domna exhorting 
 her sons to mutual concord. 
 
 CCCLXIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. P. SEPT. GETA PIVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Pub/ius Septimius 
 Geta, Pius, Augustus.) The laurelled profile of Geta, with a sensible expression of coun- 
 tenance, and short hair and beard ; the neck is naked, but some drapery appears over the left 
 shoulder. This medal, though thinly patinated, is in good preservation ; it was presented to 
 me by Mr. Stephenson, the Surgeon of H. M. ship Adventure, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. PONTIF. TR. P. II. COS. II. (Pontifex, Tribunitia potestate iterum, Consul iterum.) 
 
 On the exergum S. C. Caracalla and Geta in camp-dresses, with lances reversed, and hands 
 joined ; — the former is crowned by Hercules, and the latter by Bacchus — the JJii Auspices 
 of Severus, as mentioned in No. CCCXXVIII. This was struck A. D. 210, and probably 
 records the temporary reconciliation affected between those princes, through the intercession 
 of their father. 
 
 CCCLXIV. 
 
 Obverse. P. SEPTIMIVS GETA PIVS AVG. BRIT. (Publius Septimius Geta, Pius, Augustus, 
 Britannicus.) The head of Geta, with a thin beard, bare shoulders, and a laurel crown. He 
 appears to have assumed the agnomen Pius when he became Augustus, and had the title 
 of Britannicus in common with his father and brother : but there is no medallic evidence 
 to confirm Spartian and Capitolinus in their assertion, that he bore the honoured name of 
 Antoninus. This medal, struck A. D. 211, is in very good condition, and covered with a 
 dark-brown patina; it was purchased at Lord Morton's sale in 1830. 
 
 Reverse. VICT. BRIT. TR. P. III. COS. II. (Victorice Britannicce, Tribunitia potestate ter- 
 tium, Consul iterum.) On the exergum S. C. A winged Victory seated upon armour, and 
 writing on a buckler: this device, similar to that of Commodus, No. CCLXXXVll, relates 
 to a success gained in Britain, the year in which Severus died. 
 
 CCCLXV. 
 
 Obverse. P. SEPTIMIVS GETA PIVS AVG. BRIT. {Publius Septimius Geta, Pius, Augustus, 
 Britannicus.) The laureated head of Geta, with intelligent features, thin beard, and bare 
 neck. This medal is varnished with a greenish-brown patina, and is in the highest preserva- 
 tion ; it was presented to me at Tripoli, by Mr. Anderson, the American Consul-General, in 
 1821. 
 
 Reverse. CONCORDIAE AVGG. (Concordia Augustorum.) On the exergum S. C. Caracalla 
 and Geta standing in the centre of the field, are crowned by robed females behind them — 
 the one near the elder brother, carries a palm-branch. The princes are in camp habili- 
 ments, with the paludamentum over their shoulders ; each holds a lance, and they are taking 
 each other by the right-hand, an ancient token of love and friendship : " Dextra Jidei 
 consecrata fuit, Auris memorise, Frons genio, Digiti Minervce, Genua misericordice.'''' 
 This device was struck A. D. 211, on an attempt to soften the antipathy between the brothers. 
 Dio tells as that, when their dissensions became public, the Senate ordered a sacrifice to the 
 Immortal Gods, and particularly to Concord. 
 
 2d 
 
( 202 ) 
 
 MACRINUS. 
 
 Marcus Opelius* Macrinus was born at Caesarea, in Mauretania, of obscure 
 parents, A. D. 164. The story of his having' been a slave and a gladiator, may be 
 passed by as unworthy of notice ; but it seems that he was originally bred to the 
 law, and improved his fortunes by becoming the steward of Plautian, the powerful 
 minister of Severus. On the fall of that favourite, he was banished to Africa, but 
 after his recall, rose gradually to the office of Praetorian Praefect : though if Capito- 
 linus, who is evidently prejudiced against him, may be credited, his exaltation was 
 more owing to the venal charms of Nonia Celsa, his wife, than to his own merit. 
 Having heard Caracalla express a sarcasm by which he thought his life in danger, he 
 procured the assassination of that tyrant, but with such precaution, that he remained 
 for a time unsuspected, and the soldiers elected him Emperor A. D. 117: whence 
 he is called in Julian's Satire, " cautus homicida." An attempt to regulate the 
 abuses in the army, rendered him unpopular in the camp, and induced Julia Moesa, 
 who resided at Emesa with her daughters and youthful grandsons, to tamper with 
 the authorities in favour of Bassianus. When Macrinus first heard of the revolt, he 
 despised it as a mere faction of women, boys, and effeminate ministers: but having, 
 in consequence of desertions, been driven from the field in which his cause was 
 contested, he lost both the battle and the throne. Being overtaken, he was slain, 
 and his head was exposed on a spear, by the side of that of his son Diadumenian, 
 A. D. 218. He reigned — " annum unum, menses duos, tribus diebus, si usque 
 ad pug nee tempus numeres, exceptis:" and was then in the 54th year of his age. 
 
 As first Advocate of the treasury, and Commander of the guards, we are told that 
 Macrinus displayed such integrity, that his decisions were always right when he 
 heard causes himself, and Caracalla was not present ; and though he was not greatly 
 skilled in the laws, yet he made up for that defect by his moderation and impartiality. 
 In person he was not at all indebted to the Graces, and has been stigmatized as 
 haughty, vulgar, cowardly, and luxurious. But it must be confessed that the ac- 
 counts respecting him are very contradictory. Capitolinus, who probably gleaned 
 from the writers employed by Elagabalus to blacken his memory, says he was 
 so cruel that his servants called him, instead of Macrinus, Macellinus, because 
 his house was like a shamble filled with murdered corpses ;f and that he was named 
 Mezentius, because, like him, he tied living to dead bodies. The worthy Tristan 
 indignantly exclaims, " Les accouploit avec des corps morts, les y laissant 
 
 * He is called Opilius by the historians, — but 1 have followed the surer testimony of medallic orthography. 
 
 In a similar manner the ferocious aud bloody governor of Acre, of our times, was called Djezzar Pasha, or the 
 
 riutchering Pusha. 
 
( 203 ) 
 
 mourir enragez : ou bien en faisoit enfermer vifs dans des boeufs ouverls, et 
 vivants, et les y laissoit mourir de faim : il en faisoit anssi seder dans un mur, 
 ou ils mouroient miserablement ; et toutefois ce Busire, et Phalaris estoit mo/, 
 et effemine aimant son plaisir." Now Dio, who was a contemporary, and seems 
 alike free from personal hatred and regard, asserts, that he was a person of a mild 
 and humane temper, which gained him the affections of the people, and caused 
 the meanness of his birth and first employments to be forgotten. He was accused 
 of neglecting public business for pleasure, and of loitering at Antioch instead of 
 hastening to Rome, where his interests called him. But Herodian tells us his object 
 in remaining there was to let his beard grow before his return, in order that he 
 might resemble iMarcus Aurelius, whose measured pace and low voice he had 
 already imitated, as a stroke of policy. Among other regulations, he punished false 
 accusers with death, a rigour which stifled the venom of those reptiles ; and even 
 Capitolinus acknowledges that he had planned a reform of the Roman jurispru- 
 dence, and the abolition of those Imperial Rescripts which had arbitrarily obtained 
 the authority of the law. Such are the conflicting opinions respecting a man who, 
 elevated by accident and overthrown by chance, would have died unlamented, had 
 he not been succeeded by Elagabalus. 
 
 We may infer that Macrinus was superstitious, from his having recourse to 
 oracular divination. Desirous of ascertaining his future destiny, he tried the Sortes 
 HomericcB, and chanced to hit upon an ominous passage in the eighth Iliad : — 
 
 " Great perils, father ! wait th' unequal fight; 
 These younger champions will oppress thy might. 
 Thy veins no more with ancient vigour glow : 
 Weak is thy servant, and thy coursers slow."* 
 
 Though during his reign there was a copious Latin mintage of gold, silver, and 
 brass, of all sizes, except small-brass,f the medals of Macrinus are not easily pro- 
 cured, — those of silver and middle-brass being the least rare. Greece, Egypt, and 
 the Colonies, also struck coins of every module in his honour, none of which can 
 be said to be common. The Triumviri JWonetales, who so long superintended 
 the mint, appear, from an examination of Gruter's inscriptions, to have been 
 discontinued about this time. See No. XI. It should be added, that though 
 Nonia Celsa was declared Augusta, no medals of her are known to exist ; nor is her 
 fate, after the murder of her husband and son, recorded in history. 
 
 * The translation of the last line hardly expresses the faintness of the Charioteer, and the exhausted state of the 
 horses, which rendered the Sortes so additionally ominous, in the original. 
 
 t The genuineness of the small-brass coinage of Macrinus is doubted, because the specimens hitherto produced, are 
 merely moulded from the silver types. 
 
( 204 ) 
 
 CCCLXVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. OPEL. SEV. MACRINVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Opeiius 
 Severus Macrinus, Augustus.) The laurelled head of Macrinus, with close hair, beard, and 
 mustachios, short neck, turned-up nose, and ordinary features : the bust is in armour. Besides 
 the proud agnomen of Augustus, he assumed those of Pius, Felix, and Antoninus, as is seen 
 on marbles, but they do not appear on coins. This medal, of unpatinated yellow brass, and in 
 excellent condition, was presented to me, in 1822, by Mr. Stephenson, Surgeon of H. M. Ship 
 Adventure. 
 
 Reverse. PONTIF. MAX. TR. P. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitiapotestate, Pater Patrice.) 
 
 On the exergum S. C. A female, splendidly attired, and seated upon a throne, is feeding a 
 huge serpent which rises from a decorated cippus. This represents Salus, whose wand, or 
 hasta salutis, was planted in the public market in times of distress. See No. CCCIX. 
 Lucian, with his habitual pleasantry, describes the fraudulent use which the false prophet, 
 Alexander, made of one of the snakes tamed at Pella, where those reptiles were allowed to 
 suck milk from women's breasts ! 
 
 CCCLXVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. OPEL. SEV. MACRINVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Opeiius 
 Severus Macrinus, Augustus. J The laureated head of the Emperor, with similar charac- 
 teristics, but a more wrinkled forehead, and a more animated expression. This medal, as well 
 as all the others in large-brass, bear the prsenomen Severus, which Macrinus had assumed 
 for the sake of popularity ; it is of pale-yellow brass without patina, in capital preservation, 
 and was found near Astura in 1823, while the survey was carried on in the vicinity. 
 
 Reverse. PONTIF. MAX. TR. P. COS. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitiapotestate, Consul, 
 Pater Patrice.) In the field S. C. A robed female, wearing a diadem, rests her right foot 
 upon a helmet, and holds a military standard in each hand, one of which is the manipulus. 
 This was struck A. D. 217, to testify the fidelity of the troops ; and Faith, who is here im- 
 personated by the female, was honoured for preserving the public peace, by keeping the army 
 true to its allegiance. A large donation was, however, necessary to secure this devotion ; for 
 Caracalla, vile as he was, had been idolized by the soldiers, because to enrich them, he bad 
 oppressed and impoverished all the other orders. 
 
 CCCLXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. OPEL. SEV. MACRINVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Opeiius 
 Severus Macrinus, Augustus.) The laurelled profile of Macrinus with close hair, and a fuller 
 beard than in the last; the shoulders are cased in armour. This medal has a thin coating of 
 yellowish-brown patina and is in high perfection ; it was purchased on the 27th day of 
 Mr. Traltle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. VICTORIA PARTHICA. On the exergum S. C. A winged Victory seated upon a pile of 
 bucklers and armour, with her left foot on a suppedaneum, is writing upon a shield. While 
 the army was changing its masters, Artabanes, highly exasperated at the perfidy of Caracalla, 
 invaded the Roman territory to avenge himself, and retaliate the injuries he had received. 
 Macrinus, partly from irresolution and partly from motives of equity, was anxious to treat; 
 but the Parthian rejected the overture, defeated the Romans in two or three encounters, and 
 compelled the Emperor to purchase peace at the price of more than a million and a half sterling, 
 besides the spoils and prisoners seized by Caracalla. Macrinus, rejoicing in having got out 
 of the scrape, couched his report according to his feelings, and the Conscript Fathers decreed 
 him a triumph, celebrated sacrifices, and struck medals for his Parthian Victory. They 
 offered him, moreover, the title of Parthicus ; here however his modesty interfered, and he 
 declined the honour. A medal of the first magnitude was coined, having a pompous quadriga, 
 with the Emperor crowned by Victory, on the reverse ; but as he never entered Rome after 
 being raised to the Purple, this was a triumph devised by anticipation. 
 
( 205 ) 
 
 CCCLXIX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. OPEL. SEV. MACRINVS AVG. {Imperator Ccesar Marcus Opelius 
 Severus Macrinus, Augustus.) The laurelled head of Macrinus, with the usual peculiarities, 
 and the lorica strapped over his shoulders. This medal is in very fine condition, and densely 
 coated with a rich dark -red patina; it was procured at Patras, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. VICT. PART. P. M. TR. P. II. COS. II. {Victoria Parthica, Pond/ex Maximus, 
 Tribunitia potestate iterum, Consul iterum.) On the exergum S. C. A winged Victory 
 seated as upon the last medal; this having been struck upon the same occasion A. D. 2lh. 
 When we consider the vigour of Artabanes, who, though cooled by the resistance he met with, 
 was yet a most formidable foe, the treaty of Macrinus may, perhaps, be allowed to rank as 
 equivalent to an advantage. 
 
 CCCLXX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. OPEL. SEV. MACRINVS AVG. {Imperator Ccesar Marcus Opelius 
 Severus Macrinus, Augustus.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with close hair, short 
 thin beard, and features more intelligent and animated than usual on his likeness. This 
 medal, thickly incrusted with a rich olive-green patina, and in splendid preservation, came 
 into my possession in Egypt, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. 10VI CONSERVATORI. In the field S. C. A grand figure of Jupiter majestically stand- 
 ing, with a fulmen in his right hand, and in his left the lance of divinity : — " Nam et ah 
 origine rerum pro Diis immortalibus hast as coluere, ob cujus religionis memoriam adhuc 
 Deorum simulacris hastes adduntur." Except a light mantle gracefully reaching from one 
 shoulder to the other, the figure is naked, and finely expressed. Beneath the mantle on the 
 god's right arm, and consequently under protection, stands a small togated figure representing 
 the Emperor. This medal was probably struck after the sanguinary Parthian battles. The 
 title of Conservator, or Preserver, was introduced by Domitian, when he was saved from the 
 fury of the Vitellian party, see No. CV. ; and the lance without iron, indicates a mild yet effi- 
 cacious providence. This device became common, but the small figure is varied, as it some- 
 times holds a palladium, sometimes a Victory, and at others grasps a thunderbolt : on one 
 which I had of Commodus Caesar, the Deity stands on a wavy line of the exergum. 
 
 CCCLXXI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. OPEL. SEV. MACRINVS AVG. {Imperator Ccesar Marcus Opelius 
 Severus Macrinus, Augustus.) The laurelled profile of Macrinus, with the usual expression, 
 but the beard longer than in the last, — a paludamentum appears over the armour of ihe bust. 
 A medal in the highest conservation, and covered with dark-green patina, which was purchased 
 at Mr. M. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. SECVRITAS TEMPORVM. In the field S. C. A female figure in full robes, resting on a 
 column, in a singularly easy and graceful attitude, and holding the hasta pura in her right 
 hand ; a device probably minted A. D. 218, when Macrinus, being at peace with the Parthians, 
 acknowledged by the Senate, and, having no competitor, had reason to consider himself firmly 
 established. This is the usual emblem of Security; but the arm of the figure is sometime*; 
 raised above the head; and at others she is reposing in a chair, resting her head against her 
 hand in easy confidence. The trite legends, Securitas Augusti, Imperii, Orbis, Perpeluu 
 Populi Romani, and Publico, express the security which the reigning emperor enjoyed, and 
 at the same time bestowed upon the world. In that beautiful passage of the second Georgic, 
 where Virgil extols the happy fortune of him who contentedly cultivates his own ground, he 
 makes use of Quies in the same sense: — 
 
 "At secura Quies, et nescia fallere vita." 
 
 CCCLXXII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. OPEL. SEV. MACRINVS AVG. {Imperator Ccesar Marcus Opelius 
 Severus Macrinus, Augustus.) The laurelled head of Macrinus, with short hair and beard, 
 animated features, and well-proportioned throat; — the bust is in armour, with ornaments on 
 
( 206 ) 
 
 the neck. This medal, coated with chocolate-coloured patina with green spots, is in excellent 
 preservation ; it was procured at Sassari, in Sardinia, inT824. 
 Rererse. ANNONA AVG. [Annona Augusti.) On the exergum S. C. A sedent female, with ears 
 of wheat in one hand, and a cornucopias, rilled with fruits aud flowers, in the other : at her feet is 
 a modius with corn issuing out of it. The Annona, was such a quantity of corn as was sufficient 
 to supply the city for a year, the providing of which was among the first duties of the emperors, 
 either from care for the people, or from dread of them. See No. LXXXV1. The Annona 
 Militarix,v/ns the provision laid up in the magazines for the subsistence of the army during a 
 campaign. By the code de Naviculariis — the mariners appointed to carry corn from Egypt, 
 were capitally punished if they did not keep the proper course ; and if they did not sail in the 
 proper season, the skipper was banished. 
 
 It seems that Macrinus was sufficiently liberal ; and though congiaria were not usually 
 given unless the donor was in the city, we have medallic proof that this restriction was waived, 
 that he might ingratiate himself with the people. But the indulgence of Severus, and the 
 prodigality of Caracalla to the army, shackled the means of their successors, and, indeed, de- 
 bilitated the whole empire till the days of Diocletian. With a treasury at low water, and 
 guards at least quadrupled since Caesar's time, Macrinus was obliged, on proclaiming his son 
 Augustus, to promise the old donative of 5000 denarii a man, of which he gave them each 1000 
 in hand. While the soldiers — who had already pocketed the Emperor's first gift of 750 
 denarii — enjoyed these substantial pickings, the people of Rome were promised a congiary of 
 150 denarii each. Such was the state of the Empire, A. D. 218. 
 
 DIADUMENIANUS. 
 
 Marcus Opelius Diadumenianus, the son of M. O. Macrinus and Nonia Celsa, 
 was born A. D. 208. At the age of nine he was proclaimed Caesar, in the camp at 
 Edessa, and the Senate willingly confirmed the soldiers' choice, by gracing him with 
 the title of Leader of the Youth. That he might be still further ingratiated with the 
 army, Macrinus gave him the revered name of Antoninus ; and in order to gain a 
 pretence for giving a large donative to allay the discontents of the army, he also 
 declared him Augustus. His father, when obliged to quit Antioch, sent Diadu- 
 metiian to be placed under the care of the king of Parthia ; but the young Prince 
 being apprehended by the enemy, Elagabalus caused him to be publickly executed 
 as a common malefactor, A. D. 218, at the tender age of eleven years, — and his 
 head was exposed on a pike. 
 
 Diadumenian was a boy of exquisite symmetry and engaging aspect,* — "puer 
 omnium speciocissimus, staturd longiusculd, crine Jlavo, nigris oculis, naso 
 deducto." He has been charged with cruelty of disposition, but the proof brought 
 forward is a very absurd one; it seems that upon his father's pardoning Arabianus, 
 and other conspirators, the child wrote letters upon the impolicy of clemency. These 
 letters, as given by Capitolinus, are conceived in such set terms, as to carry internal 
 
 * Haym, in his " Tesoro liritannico," has figured a silver medal, struck in compliment to this boy's beauty ; it assimi- 
 lates him to Endymion, by the reverse being- inscribed Diana Lvcifera ; but 1 have found no mention of this medal 
 elsewhere. 
 
( 207 ) 
 
 evidence of imposture; and it is singular that this prejudiced historian should 
 also aver that the young prince shewed great mildness and sweetness in his 
 temper ! The Latin historians, not keeping the fear of medals and marbles before 
 them, always call him Diadumenus, and assert that the name was thus given, because 
 he was born with a strong membrane round his head, resembling the diadem which 
 was worn by the Roman Kings, and which therefore became hateful, in the eyes 
 of the Public, till it was afterwards resumed by several emperors of the Lower 
 Ages. This, however, is both fanciful and improbable, for Nonia Celsa's father 
 being a Diadumenus, affords a better clue to the appellative. Eutropius terms JVIa- 
 crinusand his son "facti Imperatores and Capitolinus repeats the jeer uttered 
 on the assumed names, — 
 
 " Sic Macrinus est Severus, quomodo Diadumenus Antoninus." 
 Although no faith is to be placed in the story of the membranous fillet round 
 Diadumenian's head, " which could not be broken," it appears that he was actually 
 born with the omentous fold familiarly termed caul; and he has been cited as an 
 instance of its presaging good fortune, by his rise to sovereign dignity: though after 
 all he merely gained a fall, — " Cui hoc solum adtulit Imperium, ut inter ficeretur 
 a milite." As the "luck' J of these membranes was held to be transferable by pur- 
 chase, they were bought with as much avidity by the Roman lawyers to ensure 
 preferment, as they have since been by modern voyagers to escape drowning. The 
 superstition still remains. I was once shewn one carefully put up in a tin case, by a 
 gentleman in the West Indies, who assured me that he never embarked, even in a 
 boat, without it; — and the other morning, accidentally tearing up the wrapper of a 
 parcel which proved to be the Times newspaper, for April 15th, 1830, the follow- 
 ing advertisement struck my eye. 
 
 "To Captains and others. To be disposed of, a child's caul. To prevent 
 Irouble, lowest price £20. For cards of address apply to Miss Thornton's library, 
 Doctor's Commous."* 
 
 Though the devices are few, there are Latin medals of Diadumenian of every 
 size and metal, except the small-brass ; but they are all of great rarity, — the middle 
 brass being the most common. One Colonial coin is remarkable, as having the 
 name Diadumenus ; and some of the Greek ones give the title of Augustus, which 
 is not found in those of the Roman mintage. Notwithstanding the admissions 
 of many authors, it is disputable whether this prince was ever Consul, for the 
 
 * While recording this superstition in England, I must add that I believe it exists on this point pretty generally over 
 Europe. Nor is it the worst. Even so late as 1817, two works were published at Paris, Les I'recurseurs de V Antichrist, 
 and Les Superstitions et Prestiges des Philosophes, in which the existence of magic is formally maintained, and the zeal 
 of the learned and virtuous men applauded, who of erst burnt sorcerers alive ! 
 
( 208 ) 
 
 numismatic evidence hitherto adduced, is certainly undeserving of credit; and 
 Mediobarba, who classes him COS. and COS. II. does not mention his authority. 
 
 CCCLXXIII. 
 
 Obverse. M. OPEL. DIADVMENIANVS CAES. [Marcus Opelius Diadumenianus, Ctesar.) An 
 interesting boyish head of Diadumenian, with short hair ; the neck is gracefully turned, and 
 the shoulders in armour, under the pallium. This medal is thickly incrusted in a deep-green 
 patina with red spots, and is in admirable condition ; it was purchased from Mr. Till, of 
 London, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. PRINC. IVVENTVTIS. (Principi Juventutis.) On the exergum S. C. A youthful 
 warrior with a paludamentum over camp attire, and bareheaded, holds a sceptre in his right 
 hand, and a lance pointed downwards in his left. Two legionary standards, surmounted by 
 eagles, are planted in the ground by his side. See No. CCLXXXIII. 
 
 CCCLXXIV. 
 
 Obverse. M. OPEL. ANTONINVS DIADVMENIANVS CAES. (Marcus Opelius Antoninus 
 Diadumenianus, Ccesar.) The profile of the Caesar, with curled hair, and handsome inte- 
 resting features; the bust in armour, with the pallium buckled on the left shoulder. This 
 medal is varnished with a bright-brown patina, and is in surprising preservation ; it was pro- 
 cured at Cagliari, in 1824, in exchange for several Carthaginian coins. 
 
 Reverse. PRINC. IVVENTVTIS. [Principi Juventutis.) On the exergum S. C. A graceful 
 youth attired as on the last medal, holds a military standard with his right hand, and a sceptre 
 with his left. Behind him are two other standards, united at the top by an ornament, — but 
 there are no eagles. These probably may especially represent the ensigns placed by Macrinus 
 in the camp, and named Antoninian, from the name now assumed by Diadumenian : " Signa 
 in castris, et vexilla fieri Antoniniana jussit," saith Lampridius. 
 
 CCCLXXV. 
 
 Obverse. M. OPEL. ANTONINVS DIADVMENIANVS CAES. (Marcus Opelius Antoninus 
 Diadumenianus , Ccesar.) The naked head of Diadumenian, with a handsome chin, full 
 lips, and expressive, though very boyish features ; the bust exhibits the pallium over armour. 
 This medal, densely cased in dark-green patina, j,is in the highest possible preservation, and 
 was procured at Jerbah, on the North-coast of Africa, in 1822. 
 
 Reverse. SPES PVBLICA. In the field S. C. A fine figure of Hope with flowing drapery, and the 
 blossom, as described under No. XXXIX. This was struck A. D. 217, and is significant of 
 the happiness likely to follow the elevation of the young Caesar : but this expectation was 
 blighted, and thus another proof wa3 afforded that " Hope is a cur-tail dog in some affairs. " 
 
 ELAGABALUS. 
 
 Varius Avitus Bassianus, the son of Varius Marcellus and Julia Soaemias, the 
 daughter of Maesa and niece of Domna, was born at Emesa, about A. D. 205, 
 comely in person, and of a prepossessing address. In his childhood he was created 
 high-priest of the sun ; and by a surprising revolution, compassed by the well- 
 conducted intrigues and profuse largesses of his grandmother — who palmed him off 
 as being in fact a bastard of Caracalla's — was proclaimed Emperor by the legions in 
 Syria, A. D. 218. The event being duly announced to the venerable " Patres," that 
 august and servile body confirmed the choice of the Legions, added the usual honours, 
 
( 209 ) 
 
 arid expressed their hope that he might prove "like Caracalla !" He entered upon 
 Ins first consulship, A. D. 219, calling it, however, his second, hecause he had struck 
 Macrinus's name out of the Fasti, and soon afterwards inserted his own, though he 
 had not acted as Consul suffectus in 218. He speedily displayed in all their 
 glaring- colours, his inhumanity, lust, gluttony, and folly ; and after a reign so 
 infamous that even Lampridius apologizes for writing it, he was put to death by 
 the Praetorians, together with his mother, A. D. 222, at the age of eighteen years. 
 The soldiers were incensed at his plotting the death of his cousin Alexander ; and 
 having found him and Soremias in the filthy sink where they had sought to hide 
 themselves, their heads were struck off, their bodies dragged through the streets, 
 and the mangled trunk of the Emperor was thrown into a common sewer, with a 
 weight tied to it, that it might never receive the riles of burial. 
 
 It has been remarked that this monster had more names than the Hydra heads ; 
 and the remark is not far from the truth. He was first known as Varius Avitus, 
 from his family connexions, though the former has been applied to him as "a sou 
 whom various fathers shared he was presented to the soldiers as Bassianus ; and 
 immediately afterwards, the majesty of the name of Antoninus was profaned by his 
 assuming it. He was called Felix, though his ideas of happiness were those of a 
 mere brute ; and among other titles, he ridiculously took that of Pater Patrice, 
 before he was arrived at the age of manhood. Some writers designate him 
 Heliogabalus, as priest of the sun, but others more properly call him Elagabalus 
 from El Gabal, a Phoenician god ; the last are confirmed by the decisive proof of 
 medals. He was termed Lupus from some cause now unknown ; Assyrius from 
 the oriental garments which he wore ; and after his self-degradation he was, by 
 his own desire, named Bassiana, as priestess of Cybele. In soubriquets he was 
 equally polyonymous. From disgracing the Purple he became Pseud- A?itoninus, 
 and various authors have distinguished him as the Roman Sardanapalus ; though 
 it is surely too fair a name for an abandoned pathic. His many appellations did not 
 end with his authority, for when his corpse was dragged from the Cloaca where he 
 died it was titled Impurus, while drawn about by hooks it was Tractitius, and from 
 its ultimate fate Tiberinus. 
 
 It is indeed most painful to wade through the memoirs of this flagitious wretch 
 whose criminal excesses would hardly gain belief, but for the unshaken testimony 
 of history : yet in historical questions such repugnance must not be allowed to shield, 
 vice — a few traits will therefore be selected, to answer the "ends of justice" — and 
 the rest are omitted " euphemice gratid." 
 
( 210 ) 
 
 Elagabalus certainly fought with great personal bravery under Gannys, in the 
 decisive battle against Macrinus ; but this is the only bright trait which can be traced 
 in his career, and it was quickly eclipsed by the murder of the same Gannys — his 
 friend, preceptor, and benefactor — with his own hand. He surpassed all his prede- 
 cessors in every kind of vice, folly, and excess. He placed his grandmother as a 
 colleague between the consuls, and instituted a senate of women to settle fashions 
 and fashionable ceremonies. He made consuls of the sons of slaves, and assigned to 
 great persons the basest employments. He was drawn publicly by naked women. 
 He commanded the business of the day to be despatched by night, and that of the 
 night by day. He sacrificed children of high birth to magical superstition. He 
 suffered no other god to be worshipped at Rome, but the Syrian block of stone called 
 El Gabal ; and to shew his scorn of the acknowledged deities, he profaned their 
 temples, sacred fire, ancilia, and palladium ; married a vestal virgin; and fed his 
 dogs with the livers of geese, in contempt of the saving of the capitol. He converted 
 the palace into an infamous brothel, wherein he wallowed with the vilest rabble of 
 Rome — the very foeculco generis humani. He pompously celebrated a marriage 
 between his god and the Astarte of Carthage,^ taking care to charge his dominions 
 with a heavy exaction for the fantastical nuptials. He put senators to death that he 
 might seize their widows with impunity; and notwithstanding his early years and 
 brief career, besides having a train of concubines, married no fewer than six wives, all 
 of whom he made Augustas in their turns, and then divorced them. No offspring 
 followed these irregularities, and satiety and disgust closely attended all his criminal 
 pleasures. His assuming female attire, and further degradations, we leave to Lam- 
 pridius, and shall only remark, that there was good ground for taking out a statute 
 of lunacy against him : yet his insanity seems to have been only of that spurious kind 
 which is generated by an unbridled indulgence of the passions. 
 
 The luxury and profusion of Roman gastrology were attested by their piscinae, 
 and vivaria, their aviaries, their lepories, their lobsteries, and their snaileries; 
 and their banquets had been on a scale of indulgence so tremendous as to place them 
 beyond the competition of pretenders in these degenerate days. But it was 
 reserved for Elagabalus <o beat all bis predecessors "out of sight" in costly extrava- 
 gance. Nothing appeared at his table but what was brought from distant countries 
 at a vast expence: mullets' livers, tongues of nightingales, camels' heels, combs torn 
 from living cocks, and parrots' heads, were among his common dishes ; and high 
 
 * This fact is curiously authenticated by a Greek-Imperial medal, struck at Emesa, in honour of Sulpitius Antoninus, 
 one of the gang called the " Thirty Tyrants." The reverse represents the black conic stone El Gabal ia a temple, on 
 which appears a crescent, the form in which Astarte, or Venus Ccelcstis, was adored at Carthage. 
 
( 211 ) 
 
 honours awaited him whose racked genius invented a new sauce. When he was near 
 the sea he would eat no fish ; but when any where inland nothing but the roes of the 
 rarest sea-fish could please him. His baths were filled with essences, and his beds and 
 couches were of massy silver, furnished with cloth of gold. Though his clothes 
 were richly bedecked with jewels and costly stones, they were never twice put on ; 
 nor would he keep a ring which he had once used, lie squandered away eunuchs, 
 horses, gold, silver, and all kinds of property so profusely, that nothing but the whole 
 wealth of the Roman empire could have supplied his wasteful prodigality.* Indeed, 
 from the drainage which Caracalla had made in the treasury, it is clear that the 
 empire must have been grievously oppressed to raise money for him. 
 
 He was trickish as well as mischievous in his profusion. Instead of a regular 
 distribution of money or grain at his largesses, he made a scramble lor valuables, 
 which were cast among droves of cattle and other animals, whereby battles were 
 produced, and loss of life resulted. Sometimes he would torment his hungry parasites 
 with Barmecide feasts in wax, ivory, or painted wood ; and at others would 
 force them to eat and drink to a beastly excess. He smothered men under heaps of 
 roses and violets, thrown over them in such prodigious quantities that the poor 
 wretches were unable to extricate themselves. He would divide his presents into 
 lots, some consisting of rich and others of worthless prizes— as 10 camels or 10 flies ; 
 10 ostriches or 10 eggs ; 10 bears or 10 crickets ; 10 pounds weight of gold or 10 
 of lead. He likewise gave dead dogs, frogs, scorpions, and serpents, as presents, in 
 vessels supposed to contain choice viands. He made separate parties of decrepit, 
 bald, deaf, and blind men, negroes, cripples, and FalstafT-built men. At these 
 times, when the meal was half over, he would cause bears, lions, and leopards, 
 which had been deprived of their teeth and claws, to be suddenly let loose among 
 them. In one of his pranks he ordered 10,000 pounds weight of spiders to be col- 
 lected, that he might estimate the grandeur of the city ; and at another time he 
 formally exhibited to the public 10,000 mice, 1000 rats, 1000 weasels, and as many 
 pole-cats. In a word, it is difficult to say which is most deserving of contempt — his 
 folly or his extravagance ; but his monstrous lasciviousness and unnatural depravity 
 raise nothing but a feeling of abhorrence. The senate branded hi^ame with eternal 
 infamy, and the decree has been ratified by historians of all ages : Dio says "Homo 
 turpissimus, et nequissimus, ac contaminatissimus Egnatius condemns him 
 as the most impure prince of history : Julian repulses him from the sacred meeting 
 
 * The revenue of Rome, about this time, may be roughly estimated at 13 or 14 millions sterling. 
 
 \ The worthy old soldier merely quoted Cicero's "Homo turpissimus, sceleratissimus, contaminatissimus." 
 
( 212 ) 
 
 of the Caesars: Eutropius sums up his character — li probris se omnibus conta- 
 minavit ; impudicissime, et obsccenissime vixit : and old Tristan indignantly 
 exclaims — " Un abominable prodige d'iniquitd, d'impurete, vilenie, gourmandise, 
 prodigalite, dlmpiete, et cruaute. Car un demon infernal conversant parmy 
 les hommes sous la figure d' hermaphrodite, ne pouvoit /aire parade de plus 
 d'inf'amie, ordure et abominations sur la terre, qu'il en fit voir entous ses 
 deportemens." 
 
 Latin medals of Elagabalus are found of every metal and size; but except 
 silver and middle-brass, they are all of some degree of rarity. There are also 
 numerous Greek-Imperial, Colonial, and Egyptian coins, obtainable at reasonable 
 prices. Among the peculiarities of the mintage of this reign, is the celebrated 
 denarius in the cabinet of the king of Spain, with Antoninus V. on its legend. 
 This, if a genuine coin, must signify that Elagabalus was the fifth emperor who took 
 the name of Antoninus, thereby ejecting Diadumenian as an impostor: and, ac- 
 cording to Eckhel, it affords the only example of a person's distinguishing himself 
 by a number, from his predecessors of the same name, on an ancient medal. Bernard 
 de la Bastie considered the V as a superabundant letter, accidentally made, and 
 Mazzoleno thought that it might mean Uranius ; but neither of these opinions are 
 admissible. 
 
 At p. 192, the difficulty which young numismatists experience in distinguishing 
 the coins of Elagabalus, from those of Caracalla is mentioned ; and as EckheFs 
 diacritical rules for determining the question are very satisfactory, they may without 
 impropriety be inserted here. 
 
 I. When the head is much bearded, or of a more advanced age, it cannot belong- to Elagabalus, who 
 died at the age of 18. The beard begins to be long, and the lineaments of the face in the TR. P. X. of 
 Caracalla to become fixed. Elagabalus has not a beard till the last year of his reign, and that a small one. 
 
 II. The appellations PART. MAX. or BRIT, or GERM, can only belong to Caiacalla, as history 
 teaches us. 
 
 III. History, in like manner, easily supplies a distinction for many others of these medals. Thus when 
 you read " Victoria Parthica," or " Ludi Sceculares" or " Arcus Augg." &c, it is the money of 
 Caracalla : and by similar analogy may the medals of Elagabalus be ascertained. 
 
 IV. A bare head, or the name of Ccesar alone, without mention of Augustus, belongs solely to Caracalla ; 
 for Elagabalus was at once Caesar and Augustus. By the same rule, the coins inscribed Princeps 
 Juventutis are to be assigned to Caracalla. 
 
 V. Give all those coins to Caracalla on which you read PONTIF. without MAX. for at that time 
 there were two Augusti, and by a rule which held till the time of Balbinus and Pupienus, he only was 
 Pontifex Maximus who was highest in dignity. Yet there are coins of Caracalla, stamped during the 
 life of Severus, in which he is called P. MAX., but I have shewn under Caiacalla V. C. 955, that these 
 words are not to be read Pontifex Maximus, but Parthicus Maximus. 
 
 VI. If the Consulship and Tribunate are joined on a medal, all doubt is removed; for Caracalla in 
 TR. P. V. was COS. I. while Elagabalus in TR. P. V. was COS. IV. Those coins which exceed the 
 fifth tribunate are of Caracalla, for in his fifth Elagabalus was killed. 
 
( 213 ) 
 
 VII. Coins, on the reverse of which a star appears, belong to Elagabal us; that device never being found 
 on those of Caracalla, or those who held supreme authority with him — Severus, Domna, Plautilla, Geta. 
 It is frequent on the coins of Elagabalus, but is not seen before his third consulship, " quin et ejus 
 gyn&cei.'" It is agreed, that Sol Elagabalus, a surname of the Emperor, is thus indicated. 
 
 VIII. When the face is very puerile, doubtless it is that of Caracalla, for he was called Augustus, by 
 his father, before he was fourteen years of age. Where the coins are disposed in chronological order, the 
 progress of age in each Augustus, plainly appears. 
 
 IX. When AVGG. occurs on the inscription of the reverse, it belongs to Caracalla, for by it two 
 Augustiare denoted. Caracalla reigned partly with Severus, partly with his brother Geta. Elagabalus 
 had no Augustus or partner in the empire. 
 
 X. The discrimination between them is greatly assisted by the legend around the head. Although the 
 names of M. Aurelius Antoninus were common to both, yet they are distinguished either by the head 
 itself, or by the addition of other titles. I have hitherto observed only one inscription common to both 
 emperors, namely — ANTONINVS P1VS FEL. AVG. and this is rare in Caracalla, whose beard then 
 sufficiently distinguished him. Wherefore you will find whose coin it is without difficulty, by comparing 
 its inscription with the catalogue of the coins of Elagabalus, for V. C. 971, which I have given. I confess 
 that Vaillant thinks otherwise, for in his " Numis. Praest." Vol. I. p. 130, he says; — " The coins of' 
 Elagabalus may be distinguished from those which belong to Caracalla, as they for the most part 
 have a star in the area, but the inscription round the head is the same for each." This Vaillant might 
 assert, who did not value the legends of the obverse at a rotten nut, for which erroneous judgment we 
 have often seen, in this work, that he pays dearly.* 
 
 CCCLXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. AVR. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Aure- 
 lius Antoninus, Pius, Augustus.) The laureated head of Elagabalus, with short hair, smooth 
 chin, and handsome features — the shoulders covered with the chlamys over armour. This 
 medal, in good preservation and thinly varnished with greenish-brown patina, was purchased 
 on the 27th day of Mr. M. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. FIDES EXERCITVS. On the exergum S. C. A sedent robed female holds a military 
 standard in each hand — a device struck A. D. 218, on Elagabalus being saluted Emperor bv 
 the legions in Syria, as recording the faith of an army bought by Mzesa'sgold. The province 
 of Fides, who was at once the impersonation of frankness and candour, was to take care that 
 oaths were punctually observed. 
 
 CCCLXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. AVR. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Aure- 
 lius Antoninus, Pius, Augustus.) The laurelled piofile of the Emperor, with short hair and 
 good features. A medal covered with dark-brown patina, and in splendid condition ; it was 
 purchased at Rome, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. SALVS ANTON1NI AVG. (Salus Antonini Augusti.) In the field S. C. A standing 
 figure of Hygeia, in full robes, supporting a patella on her let t hand, from which a serpent, 
 held in her right one, is feeding. This device, dedicated to the salvation of the Emperor, was 
 minted at the same time and on the same occasion as the last. There was also a denarius 
 struck with the legend Nobilitas, under pretence of his being the son of Caracalla; but, says 
 Eckhel, " Istud si verum, miserum sane cevum, quo adulterium non infamiam, sed nobi- 
 litatem intulit." 
 
 CCCLXXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. AVR. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Aurelius 
 Antoninus, Pius, Augustus.) A fine laureated head of Elagabalus, with characteristics as 
 above. This medal is finely coated with olive-coloured patina, and is in singularly fine pre- 
 servation ; it was procured at Algesiras, in 1824. 
 
 * Several numismatists have asserted that they found the star on the coins of Caracalla — hut they must have been 
 deceived. Another rule might have been added to Eckhel's — the countenance of Caracalla in manhood is so coarse and 
 ill-favoured, that it can never be mistaken for that of Elairabalus, who was the handsomer though not the better of the two. 
 
( 214 ) 
 
 Reverse. VICTORIA ANTON I M A VG. [Victoria Antcmini Augusti.) In the fiekl S. C. 
 
 Victoria gradiens — with short robes and a palm-branch " pretiumvicloribvs" — holds forth 
 a laurel crown. This was struck A. i). 218, and commemorates the only spirited act in the. 
 life of Elagabalus, his bravery against Macrinus. The popular name of Antoninus was made 
 the most of, as an ad captandum lure. After his death the delighted Senate immediately 
 caused the venerated appellation to be razed out of all the public registers and inscriptions of 
 the reign : but the medals were beyond their power, and the debasement to which they con- 
 tributed, survives to their eternal shame * 
 
 CCCLXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. AVR. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Aure- 
 /ius Antoninus, Pius, Augustus.) A handsome laurelled head of the Emperor, with short 
 hair and smooth chin, — the shoulders covered as before. This medal, in very superior 
 condition, and covered with Saxon-green patina, was presented to me by my friend Col. 
 Ilanmer Warrington, at Tripoli, in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. ADVENTVS AVGVST1. On the exergum S. C. An equestrian figure of Elagabalus, 
 with his right hand elevated, a sceptre in his left, and the chlainys floating behind his 
 shoulders. Msesa, well aware of what Macrinus had lost by not proceeding to Home imme- 
 diately after his election, urged her grandson, who was wallowing in brutal debauchery at 
 Nicomedia, to repair thither. She prevailed ; and he entered Home A. O. 219, where he was 
 received with great demonstrations of joy : largesses being distributed to the populace, and 
 public shews exhibited. 
 
 CCCLXXX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. AVR. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Aure- 
 lius Antoninus, Pius, Augustus.) The laureated head of Elagabalus, with the same 
 characteristics as before described. A medal coated in dark-green patina, and in excellent 
 condition, purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. III. COS. III. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate tertium, 
 Consul tertium, Pater Patrice.) On the exergum S. C. The Emperor in a quadriga, with a 
 laurel branch in one hand, and a sceptre in the other. This device has been called a triumph — 
 but as the miserable Prince never fought except against Macrinus, it more probably represents 
 The consular procession for A. D. 220. In the field, over the horses' heads, is a star, which 
 has been described as Phosphorus, though the greater number of medallists think it represents a 
 radiated sun, in allusion to the sacerdotal duties of Elagabalus. Dio has omitted the Pater 
 Patrice in his enumeration of the titles of this Emperor, whence the evidence contained in a 
 fragment of the " Arvalian Brothers" has been doubted — but the medal before us affords an 
 irrefragable corroboration. 
 
 CCCLXXX1. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. AVR. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. [Imperator Ccesar Marcus Aure- 
 lius Antoninus Pius, Augustus.) The laurelled profile of Elagabalus, with a coarser aspect 
 than before, the chin smooth, and the bust in armour under a pallium. This medal is in high 
 preservation, and covered with brownish-red patina : it was presented to me in 1825, by Mr. H. 
 Beechy, who procured it at Cyrene. 
 
 Reverse. 1NVICTVS SACERDOS AVG. (Invictus Sacerdos Augustus.) In the field S. C. and 
 a star. The Emperor stands by a flaming altar, with a victim at its base, holding a patera in 
 his right hand, and part of a palm-branch — trimmed so as to resemble a torch — in his left.f 
 
 * I was greatly struck with a modern instance of the inutility of attempting to destroy the mechanical evidences of 
 persons and things, when I visited France, after the restoration of the Bourbons. The name of Napoleon, and his eagles, 
 and initials, had been carefully defaced, and his pictures prohibited, — but almost the only current coins, gold, silver, and 
 copper, were stamped with his effigies and titles. 
 
 f Pedrusi calls this a lauiel-branch, as an allusion to the love of Apollo or the Sun, for Daphne — but it is decidedly a 
 palm branch, with the leaves closely cut. 
 
( 215 ) 
 
 He is attired in the oriental silk dress with " long hanging sleeves," at which the Romans 
 were so scandalized, and which Herodian describes as being between the sacred stola of the 
 Phoenicians and the military laena of the Medes. This was stamped A. D. 221, by the obsequious 
 and supple senate to the " Rerum Dominus," — a mere foreign boy, whom they permitted to set 
 at nought the morals and institutions of Rome, and disgrace the world by his profligacy, cruelty, 
 and atrocious infamy in "peecatum illud horribile, inter C/iristianos non nominandum. 
 
 CCCLXXXII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. AVR. ANTONINVS PIVS AVG. (Imperator Caesar Marcus Aure- 
 lius Antoninus, Pius, Augustus.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with the shoulders 
 attired as before, and a young beard on the chin. This medal is of yellow brass without patina, 
 and in capital preservation ; it has the little silver eagle of the Modena Cabinet stamped upon 
 it, and was purchased at Ostia, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. SACERDOS DEI SOL1S ELAGAB. (Sacerdos Dei Soils Elagabali*) In the field S. C. 
 
 and a star. The Emperor in his oriental garb, richly bedecked with jewels, stands by a 
 decorated altar, on which is a flame ; he holds a patera in his right hand, and a trimmed 
 palm-branch in his left. This commemorates the fact of the Romans permitting a wretched 
 Syrian boy to bring them a new god to the displacement of their own deities, and of all that they 
 held in sacred reverence ! An aureus and a medallion of this reign, shew us that this important 
 deity consisted of a mere conical block of stone ; which in the device is seen riding in a triumphal 
 quadriga. Elagabalus himself officiated as high-priest, wishing, though he lived in brutal infamy, 
 to appear pious. His superstition, however, was unattended with many privations ; it is true 
 that he abstained from pork ; but whole hecatombs of oxen, and flocks of sheep, were laid on 
 altars smoking with spices, and washed with streams of the rarest and most generous wines, 
 while dances were performed to exquisite music, by women brought out of Phoenicia for the 
 purpose. Indeed, feasting at sacrifices was so general and voluptuous, that " Saliares Epulce," 
 and" Pontijicum Ccena, 1 ' had become common proverbs for profuse cheer ; but it was reserved 
 for Elagabalus to carry gourmandise to its fullest extent.f See XXV. 
 
 As there is nothing more conspicuous or agreeable to the human senses, than the splendid 
 structure, regular motion, and sensible influences of the sun, that luminary was probably the 
 earliest object of divine honours with the worshippers of second causes. The early descendants 
 of Noah, perhaps, gave the example; Diodorus Siculus mentions its prevalence in Egypt; 
 and Philo Biblius, out of Sanchoniathon, tells us that the Phoenicians adopted it from the 
 remotest ages. In the exhortation of Moses to obedience, he warns the children of Israel 
 against being allured to ethnic adoration, when lifting their eyes towards the heavenly bodies. 
 Ezekiel, in his vision, saw five-and-twenty men "with their backs turned toward the temple 
 of the Lord, and their faces toward the east ; and they worshipped the sun." Job exclaimed — 
 " If 1 beheld the sun when it shined, or the moon walking in brightness, and my heart hath 
 been secretly enticed, or my mouth hath kissed my hand : this also were an iniquity to be 
 punished by the judge; for I should have denied the God that is above." The emperor 
 Julian, in his " Oration to the Sun," says, that the grand luminary had been worshipped at 
 Edesa from all eternity ; and Aurelian, returning thanks for the honours conferred upon him 
 by Valerian, closed his speech by an appeal to the undoubted God. — " Deus Certus Sol." 
 Such was the veneration in which the ancients, losing sight of the First Cause of all blessings, 
 held the glorious orb of day ; but the extraordinary madness of diverting this admiration towards 
 a mis-shapen stone, proves that superstition — whether lashed with the cord, trembling under 
 obi, or crushed by the wheels of Jagernat, is, under all its varied forms, essentially the same 
 degradation of the best faculties of man. See CCCCI1I. 
 
 * Vopiscus mentions that the yod Elagabal existed at Emesa, in the time of Aurelian. 
 
 f The custom was to offer up a part of the victim to the Gods, and to distribute the remainder among those who 
 assisted in the ceremony. The forbidding of musicians to feed with the priests, by the severe Appius Claudius, led those 
 lovers of good eating to desert Rome, to the infinite grief of the Senators and Magistrates. A well applied feast, however, 
 incited them to jollity, and when far gone in drunkenness, they were tossed into carts, and awoke in the Forum. 
 
( 216 ) 
 
 The medal which has given rise to these remarks, was one of the last minted by Eiagabalus, 
 for the vengeance of heaven shortly afterwards overtook him. As a violent end had been pre- 
 dicted to the effeminate monster, he built a lofty tower, decorated with gold and pearls, whence 
 he might precipitate himself, in case of need. He also prepared cords of crimson silk for 
 strangling, and golden daggers for stabbing himself; and expensive poisons in caskets of 
 emeralds and jacin'ths, that he might choose a death according to his humour — declaring that 
 his should be more glorious than that of any one before him j whereas, on the contrary, none 
 was ever more ignominious than his. 
 
 CORNELIA PAULA. 
 
 Julia Cornelia Paula, the daughter of Julius Paulus, a Praetorian praefect, was 
 married to Eiagabalus A. D. 219, on which occasion the Senate waited upon her in 
 a body, to offer their homage and present her with the title of Augusta. Though 
 this lady was beautiful in person and blameless in character, she was repudiated 
 within a few months, stripped of Iter honours, and dismissed into private life. As 
 a plausible pretext for his inconstancy, her infamous husband imputed to her a per- 
 sonal blemish which made her unfit for the wife of so great a prince ; — well knowing 
 that her modesty would not permit her to disprove his assertion. The time of her 
 death is unknown, but she probably enjoyed greater happiness in retirement than 
 she had experienced as an empress. 
 
 From the appellation Cornelia, which is only given on the Greek-Imperial medals, 
 it is conjectured that this Princess was descended from the illustrious family of that 
 name : that of Julia was assumed by most of the Augustas, as Antoninus was by the 
 Augusti. The Emperor selected her, as he said, to make himself a father betimes, 
 whence some imagine that she had been previously married, and as the mother of 
 children, had proved her fertility. Her nuptials were most splendidly celebrated, 
 a magnificent congiary was given, and an elephant and 51 tigers were killed in the 
 amphitheatre. All ranks in the city partook of the Emperor's prodigal bounty, 
 and favours were heaped upon the senators, the knights, and the principal ladies. 
 
 The Roman medals of Cornelia Paula are rare in all metals, those of silver being 
 the commonest ; and there are none known in small-brass. The Colonies, Greece, and 
 Egypt, commemorated her on their coins ; and Vaillant produces a noble medallion 
 struck by the Perinthians, to testify their gratitude for the metro-political privileges 
 which they acquired as Neocorce, after the disgrace of Byzantium. 
 
 CCCLXXXIII. 
 
 Obverse. IVLIA PAVLA AVG. (Julia Paula Augusta.) A pleasing profile of the Empress, with 
 the hair closely dressed and turned up at the hinder part of her head, on which is a frontal 
 diadem ; the features are handsome and intelligent, the neck finely turned, and the bust 
 enveloped in drapery. This fine medal is covered with green and red patina, and is in the 
 highest preservation ; it was purchased at El Marsa, near Tunis, in 1822. 
 
( 217 ) 
 
 Reverse. CONCORDIA. On the exergum S. C. In the field the star of Elagabalus. A sedent 
 female richly attired, with a double cornucopiae on her left arm, holds forth the sacred patera — 
 a device emblematic of the union and fruitfulness expected from the imperial marriage. 
 
 CCCLXXX1V. 
 
 Obverse. IVLIA PAVLA AVG. [Julia Paula Augusta.) The head of Cornelia Paula, with fea- 
 tures indicating beauty, sense, and an age of about twenty years. This medal, in very fine 
 condition and coated with a brownish-green patina, was purchased on the 27th day of Mr. 
 Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. CONCORDIA. On the exergum S. C. In the field a star. A sedent female with attributes 
 similar to those on the last medal ; from which this differs in the form of the throne which 
 has a high and ornamented back. 
 
 AQUILIA SEVERA. 
 
 Julia Aquilia Severa, the daughter of Quiutus AquiliusSabinus "uir consularis," 
 was a vestal virgin, till in A. D. 220 she was, to the indignation of all Rome, sacri- 
 legiously married to Elagabalus. This fickle wretch seemed only to exalt women to 
 the throne for the pleasure of hurling them down from it again ; Aquilia was soon 
 repudiated to make room for others, and the downfall wrought the ruin of her 
 father : but after three or four more wives had been equally the victims of his caprice, 
 Aquilia was recalled into the despot's favour, and lived with him till his death, in 
 A.D. 222. What became of her afterwards is not known ; probably the gratifi- 
 cation of her ambition, by consenting to cast off the suffibulum and veil, exposed 
 her to insult and detestation, — but the being married to so impure a husband, 
 was almost a sufficient penalty for the breach of her vows. 
 
 This Princess is represented as one of the most beautiful women in Rome, and 
 the vestal's habit added to the power of her personal attractions. No sooner was 
 Cornelia Paula divorced, than Elagabalus affecting excessive love for Aquilia, drew 
 her from the temple, and justified this odious cohabitation to the Senate, by assuring 
 the sage Patres, that nothing could be more commendable than a marriage between 
 the priest of a God and the priestess of a Goddess, as from them might spring a divine 
 race, worthy of the immortals ; — thus audaciously sporting with a crime, for which, 
 says Herodian, he deserved the worst of deaths. 
 
 The Latin medals of this frail Vestal are all very rare, except the dupondii, or 
 second-brass, which are by no means common ; and in small-brass none are known. 
 There also exist Greek-Imperial, Colonial, and Egyptian coins in honour of her, all 
 of which, if in good condition, bear high prices. 
 
 2f 
 
( 218 ) 
 
 CCCLXXXV. 
 
 Obverse. IVLIA AQVILIA SEVERA AVG. (Julia Aquilia Severa Augusta.) A profile of the 
 Empress, with her head ornamented and dressed after the fashion of Cornelia Paula : the face 
 is small and pretty, the neck well turned, and the shoulders covered by robes. This medal, 
 in excellent preservation, and slightly varnished with brown patina, was purchased from an 
 antiquist at Pisa, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. CONCORDIA. In the field S. C. and a star. A stately female figure in full robes, with 
 a double cornucopias on her left arm, is standing by a blazing altar, over which she holds a patera. 
 Notwithstanding the grief affected by the Senate, at the daring jest of the Imperial maniac, 
 who overstepped all the barriers of decency, we have here their own signature to an acknow- 
 ledgment of this faithless priestess as an Augusta; and also to their pious wishes for the 
 mutual love and fertility of the guilty pair, as expressed by Concord and her cornucopise. 
 
 CCCLXXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. IVLIA AQVILIA SEVERA AVG. [Julia Aquilia Severa Augusta.) The head of the 
 Empress, with the same characteristics as in the last, but rather fuller cheeks. A medal in 
 tolerable condition, and thinly coated with Saxon-green patina, procured at Patras, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. AEQV1TAS PVBLICA. On the exergum S. C. Three females standing in full robes, 
 with the attributes of Fortune. This is an uncommon device for medals in honour of females ; 
 and is, I believe, only known upon this, and one of Cornelia Paula — so that it may betaken for 
 an allusion to the high fortune to which Elagabalus elevated those ladies. But in this sense 
 the device has little relation to the legend. 
 
 ANNIA FAUSTINA. 
 
 Annia Faustina, the daughter of Claudius Severus and Vibia Amelia Sabina, 
 daughter of Marcus Aurelius and Faustina Junior, has been scarcely noticed by his- 
 torians. It seems that she was a woman of extraordinary beauty, and endued witli 
 a greater share of principle and prudence than was shewn by her predecessors of 
 the same name. She was happily married to the worthy senator, Pomponius Bassus, 
 and was living in domestic tranquillity, when the lascivious Elagabalus was attracted 
 by her charms, A. D. 221. To murder the husband, obtain the widow, honour her 
 as an empress, and degrade her by divorce, was the work of a few weeks — and she 
 is never mentioned after her fall. 
 
 The learned Patin, who is followed by other numismatists, considered this 
 princess as the first wife of the Emperor ; but the splendid nuptials of Cornelia 
 Paula seem to give her the priority, as well as the declaration of Elagabalus, that he 
 married her in order that he might be a father betimes. Honest old Tristan gives a 
 cogent reason why he never became one. 
 
 Unlike her cotemporaries, this lady did not assume the name of Julia, thinking, 
 no doubt, that she was sufficiently ennobled as the grand-daughter of Marcus 
 Aurelius, as well as by her belonging to the Annian family. Her Latin medals are 
 excessively rare, being only known in gold, silver, and large-brass ; and of the latter 
 
( 219 ) 
 
 there is but one reverse. There are Greek-Imperial, Colonial, and Egyptian coins 
 with her effigies, but they are also very valuable. Owing to this scarcity, the Falsarii 
 have palmed off some ingenious forgeries, among which may be placed the famous 
 Aureus described by Khell. 
 
 CCCLXXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. ANNIA FAVSTINA AVGVSTA. The head of the Empress, with her hair dressed after 
 a fashion between that of Domna and Aquilia, and having the frontal diadem. Her features 
 are lively and pretty, without being intelligent, her neck is finely turned, and her bosom neatly 
 robed. This rare medal is in the highest preservation, though but thinly patinated. It 
 formerly belonged to the collection of Mr. Henderson, where I first became acquainted with it. 
 After his decease it was purchased at the sale of his collection in 1830, for £22. ; a price 
 certainly below its value. On this occasion, Mr. Young was instructed not to bid against the 
 officers of the British Museum — which does not possess one — should a reasonable sum be 
 offered by them ; a courtesy which in general would be observed towards that Institution. 
 Shackled, however, as they are, by short-sighted enactments, they are seldom authorized to bid 
 even a fair price where there is competition ; and it may be readily conceived how mortified 
 the talented numismatists, who have the charge of the public medals, and are naturally zealous 
 for the literary and scientific pre-eminence of their country, feel on such occasions. In a 
 similar manner the rare and beautiful gold Albinus which belonged to the late Mr. Trattle, was 
 lost to our national cabinet, and purchased by a foreigner. It is essential that the Trustees 
 should arm their officers with greater power in cases of moment. 
 
 Reverse. CONCORDIA. On the exergum S. C. and in the field a star. The Emperor and Empress, 
 in imperial robes, take each other by the right hand, a marriage ceremony symbolical of sincere 
 affection, which was probably derived from the Persians. See CCCLXV. Yet this love must 
 have been sorely constrained on the part of the female, who was just torn from a murdered 
 husband : " Postea uxorem duxit, nec ei, ut mariti mortem lugeret, permisit." 
 
 This medal is beautifully figured by Mionnet, but there are two important points in which 
 that plate differs from the specimen before us. Though the fashion of the Empress is the 
 same, she is there older, and with a different expression of feature ; while on the reverse, the 
 figure of the Emperor is too large. It is curious, but probably correct, that on this medal 
 Elagabalus is made smaller and younger than Faustina. The drawing of one in Queen 
 Christina's collection, is liable to similar objections ; besides which the artist, perhaps mis- 
 taking some peculiar blemish, has introduced an altar under the star. 
 
 JULIA SOJSMIAS. 
 
 Julia So8emias$ was the eldest daughter of Julius Avitus, a man of consular 
 dignity, and Julia Msesa. She was living at the court of Caracalla A. D. 204, 
 but afterwards resided at Emesa. She married Varius Marcellus, the brother of 
 Gessius Marcianus, her sister's husband, by whom she had Elagabalus — though 
 Maesa scrupled not to prostitute her daughter's honour, by reporting this child to be 
 
 * This lady may have been named after the king Sohemus of whom Josephus speaks, see CCLXXVI ; Dio and 
 Herodian call her Socemis; Capitolinus and Lampridius Semiamira; and the Greek marble quoted by Eckhel, which 
 informs us that she had more children than one, terms her Bassiana ; in this choice of names I have preferred that of th* 
 medals. 
 
( 220 ) 
 
 {lie son of Caracal la by an adulterous intercourse — and Soaemias seems to have readily 
 assumed the merit of the crime. After Varius was gathered to his fathers, she agreed to 
 unite herself to Gannys, her son's principal favourite and prime minister, who was 
 to have been declared Caesar A.D. 218; but before the marriage could take place, 
 that brave and meritorious man was murdered by Elagabalus himself. When the 
 Praetorians put the tyrant to death, she was found hanging upon his neck — her 
 head was struck off, together with her son's, and their mutilated bodies were 
 dragged through the streets, A.D. 222. 
 
 Soaemias was a haughty and profligate woman, and is said to have stimulated her 
 son to the wickedness which he afterwards practised, by encouraging all his vicious 
 propensities. In the battle against Macrinus, she shewed great courage and address, 
 by leaping from the chariot, with her mother, to animate the desponding soldiers. 
 When Elagabalus came to Rome, he gave Soaemias and Maesa places in the Senate — 
 thereby a couple of Syrian women were raised to a dignity which Agrippina never 
 could obtain, nor Livia even ask. Nor was Soaemias content with intruding into the 
 councils of men ; she had also a senate of females, convened regularly in a palace 
 on Mons Quirinalis, where all petticoat-interests were gravely discussed, and the 
 rank, precedence, equipage, apparel, and formalities of the fair sex settled. After 
 she death of this lady and her son, the insulted Fathers immediately assembled to 
 vindicate what little character they still retained; and in their first decree excluded 
 women from the senate for ever, and loaded with curses such as should in future 
 attempt to intrude themselves into it. 
 
 There are Latin medals of tin's Princess in all metals and sizes, except bronze 
 medallions and small-brass ; they are all of rarity and high price, except the denarii 
 and middle-brass. Greece, Egypt, and the Colonies stamped coins in honour of her, 
 and on all her name is spelt in the same manner. 
 
 CCCLXXXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IVLIA SOAEMIAS AVG. {Julia Soeemias Augusta.) The head of Soaemias, apparently 
 in middle-age, with the hair drtssed like that of Cornelia Paula, and the bosom closely robed. 
 This medal, in excellent preservation, and thinly varnished with apple-green patina, was pur- 
 chased at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. VENVS CAELESTIS. In the field S. C. and a star. Venus Caelestis, Astarte, or Urania, 
 standing in full robes, with the prize-apple in her right hand, and the lance marking divinity 
 in her left. As the aureus cited by Mediobarba cannot be trusted, this seems to be the medal 
 on the reverse of which she first appears ; nor was this emblem repeated, except on the small- 
 brass coins of Magnia Urbica, — a princess who lived nearly 60 years after Soaemias, and 
 is only known from her medals. Cicero — who derives venustas from Venus, rather than Venus 
 from venustas — expressly tells us that there were two goddesses of that name : and Patin says — 
 " Duplex Venus, alia Ccelestis, quce conjugalem amicitiam fovebat, et liberos donabat; 
 altera Popularis, quce scortatorum Dea." The device before us, however, must be 
 
( 221 ) 
 
 confined to the Syrian Astarte — the Astoreth of the Philistines,* the tutelary deity of Avitus's 
 family. As the fair voluptuary was alternately a goddess, a planet, or a passion, I should 
 certainly have understood her as the beautiful evening and morning star, but that Lucian, 
 Vossius, and others, have so expressly declared her to be the moon. Had the Chaldees used 
 telescopes, the horns would have suited the one as well as the other. Milton has placed her 
 among the fallen angels : — 
 
 " With these in troop 
 
 Came Astoreth, whom the Phoenicians call'd 
 
 Astarte, queen of Heaven, with crescent horns ; 
 
 To whose bright image nightly by (he Moon 
 
 Sidonian virgins paid their vows and songs." 
 CCCLXXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. IVLIA SOAEMIAS AVG. {Julia Socemias Augusta.) The head of the Princess, with 
 her hair elaborately but closely dressed, and a frontal diadem ; the features are more pleasing 
 than on the last, the neck is fine, and the bosom gracefully attired. This medal, densely 
 coated with a rich olive-green patina, and in perfect preseivation, was presented to me at 
 Genoa, by my excellent friend the late Baron de Zach, in 1S20. 
 
 Reverse. VENVS CAELESTIS.f On the exergum S. C. A beautiful figure of Venus-Urania, mag- 
 nificently attired, and seated on a throne; in her left hand she holds the hasta pura, and in 
 her right an apple, which a naked boy before her is catching at. Some medallists insist that 
 she holds a globe, in allusion to the " round light" said to have darted down, at certain times, 
 from the summit of Libanus into the river Adonis : but had it struck me as otherwise than 
 the trite symbol of Venus, the playful attitude of the boy would have confirmed me in the 
 opinion that it was not a " globe of light." See No. CXC. 
 
 Pedrusi thinks that the child may represent Elagabalus, and that the taking of the apple 
 from Venus is a reference to his personal beauty ; — but he adds, with due caution — " Vag/iu 
 tuttavia il pensiero per semplice conghiettura.'''' 
 
 cccxc. 
 
 Obverse. IVLIA SOAEMIAS AVGVSTA. The profile of Soaemias, with her hair closely dressed, 
 but differently from the above, without the diadem, and the features less pleasing. This medal, 
 in extraordinary preservation and covered with a verdigris-green patina, was procured at 
 Ben Ghazi, in 1821. 
 
 Reverse. MATER DEVM. On the exergum S. C. The Mother of the Gods, seated between lions, 
 veiled and attired, as described under No. CCL1X. This goddess was a meet companion for the 
 lithophite deity of the Emperor — for Cybele was no other than a stone, brought in solemn pomp 
 from Pessinus, in Phrygia, to Rome, in order to drive the Carthaginians out of Italy, in the 
 second Punic war: and the device was probably stamped when, by an extravagant act, Elagabalus 
 attempted to make himself her priestess. 
 
 JULIA MJESA. 
 
 Julia Msesa, the wife of Julius Avitus, was sister to Julia Doinna, mother to 
 Sotemias and MamEea, and grandmother to V. A. Bassianus and Alexianus. She 
 was named Mtesa, from being priestess of the sun at Emesa : car Mese en Syro- 
 Phenicien signifioit le soleil." After residing upwards of twenty years in the 
 imperial palace with Domna, she was commanded by Macrinus to retire into Syria, 
 
 « It was for plundering the temple of this goddess, at Ascalon, that the Scythians were supposed to have received 
 the memorable and miserable infliction, mentioned by Herodotus in Clio. 
 
 t Occo mentions medals of Soaemias with the legend COELESTIS, — but I have never yet met with any on which the 
 word is so spelt. 
 
( 222 ) 
 
 A. D. 217 ; but was permitted to carry with her the immense wealth which she had 
 acquired — and was accompanied by her daughters, who were widows, and their two 
 sons. In the following year she had the address to corrupt the Emperor's army, 
 and ruin his fortunes, with the very riches which he had allowed her to retain. 
 After weathering the distracted reign of Elagabalus, she died in a full old age 
 A. D. 225, and was consecrated by the Senate. 
 
 Maesa, who was a woman of virtue, merit, and sound judgment, became an adept 
 in the management of political intrigues, during her residence at court under Severus 
 and Caracalla. She not only originated and conducted the conspiracy against 
 Macrinus with consummate skill, but also by her personal courage, in the battle 
 which ensued, secured the empire to her grandson. On her arrival in Rome, 
 Elagabalus took her with him to the Senate, and placing her next to the Consuls, 
 ordered her name to be inserted among those of the Senators, and appointed that 
 she should vote as the rest, and be consulted on all matters of importance. Being a 
 judicious woman she appeared there but seldom — she Mas not, however, actuated 
 by the same prudence when, attired as an amazon, she visited the camp, and 
 reviewed the Praetorian cohorts. The monstrous follies of Elagabalus were deeply 
 bewailed by her, and she endeavoured to restrain his extravagance, but so fruitless 
 was the attempt, that he was on the point of elevating the infamous Hierocles — a 
 slave and camel-driver — to the rank of Caesar. To prevent this disgrace and avert 
 the indignation of the soldiers, Maesa employed her whole power, and with difficulty 
 succeeded in persuading him to adopt Alexianus, under the pretence that while he 
 was occupied with divine offices, his cousin-german could attend to earthly affairs. 
 By this politic stroke she saved her family from the storm which threatened to sweep 
 it off ; and she died in happy ignorance of the fatal one which was soon to follow. 
 
 Latin medals, and many Greek-Imperial and Colonial coins, were struck in honour 
 of Maesa, in the three metals, and of various sizes ; and all except that which has the 
 consecration as its device, are common, unless in gold. 
 
 CCCXC1. 
 
 Obverse. 1VLIA MAESA AVGVSTA. The profile of Maesa, when well stricken in years ; with good 
 features, and an intelligent expression of countenance ; the hair is combed smoothly down the 
 side of her face, over the ears, closely plaited behind, and ornamented with a small tiara on 
 the crown of her head. This medal, covered with reddish-brown patina, and in superior con- 
 dition, was procured from Mr. J. C. Ross, at Malta, in 1821. 
 
 Reverse. PVDIC1TIA. On the exergum S. C. A female, magnificently robed, in cathedra sedens, 
 holds a sceptre in her left hand, and with her right, draws a veil before her face. This God- 
 dess was the symbol of fidelity to the marriage-bed, as well as of modesty and self-command 
 
 * See what has been said on this subject in the sketch of Julia Soaemias. 
 
( 223 ) 
 
 to intimate which she points her finger to her face. It is singular enough that this deity was 
 worshipped at Rome, in separate temples, as patroness of patrician and pltbian modesty, 
 the latter being a sort of "dissenting chapel" opened in consequence of an affront received 
 by Virginia, as related by Livy, 1. 10, c. 2-i. Juvenal believed that Pudicitia did once dwell 
 upon earth, but that the corruption of morals had long ago driven her and Justice back to 
 heaven ; and Propertius quaintly asks — 
 
 "Templa Pudiciti/E quid opus statuisse puellis, 
 Si cuivis nupta; quidlibet esse licet ?" 
 
 CCCXCII. 
 
 Obverse. IVLIA MAESA AVGVSTA. The head of Ma;sa, with sensible, aged features, and her 
 hair similarly smoothed over her ears, as in the last. A medal in remarkably fine preservation, 
 and covered with olive-green patina; it was procured from a ruin on the site of Sipontum, 
 near Manfredonia, in 1819. 
 
 Reverse, PIETAS AVG. (Pietas Augustce.) In the field S. C. A veiled female standing before a 
 cylindrical altar, which is decorated with festoons of flowers, and has a flame on it : her right 
 hand is open, as in the act of adoration, and her left bears the acerra, or small casket, which 
 held the incense at sacrifices. It was for refusing to perform the ceremony of taking the 
 perfume out of this box, and casting it into the fire upon the altar, as an offering to the pagan 
 deities, that the Heathens frequently persecuted the Christians with such relentless severity. 
 
 Piety was always considered as the foundation of Virtue ; and it was well said by Eusebius — 
 " Sunt omnes Virtutes veluti partes Pietatis." But a rational, sober, and affectionate 
 devotion to the Author of all Good, is to be carefully discriminated from the morbid and 
 arrogant exclusiveness of many who, in all persuasions, have neglected the most sacred duties 
 of religion, by a puritanical seclusion from those proper enjoyments of life, in which the 
 social condition of our being is best exemplified. 
 
 CCCXCIII. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA MAESA AVGVSTA. A profile of Maesa, with her head veiled, and her bosom robed. 
 
 This medal, covered with a dark brown patina and in superior condition, was purchased from 
 a peasant, near Nice, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. On the exergum S. C. A grand rogus of four stories, profusely orna- 
 mented with statues, festoons, and hangings, and surmounted by a car of triumph. This 
 device commemorates the tribute of respect, which was publickly paid to the talents and 
 judiciousness of Maesa — who certainly was an extraordinary woman. Though rogus is often 
 used as synonymous with pyra, the distinction between them is clearly pointed out by Servius — 
 " Pyra est lignorum congeries : Rogus, cum. jam ardere cceperit: Bustum verdjam 
 exustum vocatur.'''' See No. CCLI1I. 
 
 ALEXANDER. 
 
 Bassianus Alexianus, the son of Genesius Marcianus and Julia Mamrea, was born 
 at Area Csesaria, in Phoenicia, A.D. 205. Though his father died when he was 
 very young - , yet that loss was abundantly compensated by the care which his mother 
 took of him in his infancy : and he was soon considered a youth of admirable parts. 
 Following the fortunes of his family, he became the delight of the public ; and 
 was adopted by Elagabalus by the persuasion of his politic grandmother, A.D. 221, 
 under the name of Alexander. But what was the most absurd, the emperor on 
 
( 224 ) 
 
 this occasion commanded the Senate to issue a decree, pronouncing Alexander 
 to be his real offspring — whence the versifier of Herodian says ; — 
 
 "No more than four years 'twixt their ages run, 
 Yet th' one must father be ; and t'other son." 
 
 The first act of the father was an attempt to sap the moral principles of his son; 
 and on the failure of that design, he tried to cut him off by poison or the dagger — 
 but all his machinations were foiled by the circumspection of Maesa and Mamasa. 
 The enraged emperor then ordered the Senate to annul the adoption, an order which 
 they thought proper to decline obeying — this refusal being the only instance, in the 
 Imperial History, in which the Pat res ventured to disobey a mandate of importance: 
 but they were confident in the support of the army. Some further attempts against the 
 life of the prince excited a tumult in the camp, and Elagabalus perishing in his effort 
 to suppress it, Alexander was saluted Emperor A. D.222. The delighted Senate im- 
 mediately honoured him with the titles of Augustus, Pater Patriae, and all other marks 
 of distinction peculiar to the imperial dignity — offering him at the same time, the 
 name of Antoninus, and surname of Magnus — but he modestly declined the first be- 
 cause it had been polluted by the "filthy beast" who preceded him, and the second, 
 because, from having performed no exploits, he had no more right to it than a mule 
 had to that of Cicero : he took, however, the names of Marcus Aurelius Severus.* 
 After a meritorious and useful reign of 13 years, he was murdered in his tent, at 
 Sicila, on the Rhine, A. D. 235, a victim to the treachery of Maximin, one of his 
 generals, at the age of 29 years, 3 months, and 7 days : and at the same time his 
 mother, and all the friends and persons of distinction who were with him, were 
 massacred. His death was universally regretted: a speedy vengeance overtook his 
 murderers ; and the Senate not only decreed him divine honours, with altars, priests, 
 and sacrifices, but also an annual festival, which was celebrated on the 1st of October, 
 the day of his nativity. 
 
 The character of this Prince is variously represented ; for while some writers 
 n him with all the qualities of a perfect sovereign, others barely allow him those 
 virtues which he must have possessed, or Rome could not have enjoyed the 
 " breathing time" which it did, from the horrors of the preceding reigns. There is, 
 however, sufficient evidence to shew, that with considerable mental acquirements, he 
 combined a humane and generous disposition ; that he was temperate, chaste, and pru- 
 dent; that he was affable in his demeanor, inexorably impartial in the administration 
 
 Lnmpridius says that Alexander was named Severus by the soldiers, from being a disciplinarian — as well might 
 it be asserted that A hnaclis noted ball-room derives its name from the beautiful double-star Almuach, which decorates 
 the foot of Andromeda, and might therefore be thought to typify dancing' : it is clear that he assumed it himself, ou account 
 of his connection with the family of the emperor Severus. 
 
( 225 ) 
 
 of justice, and rigidly economical of the public purse. He purged the city from the 
 superstition and profligacy which his predecessor had introduced, by sending home 
 the foreign gods, dismissing- the infamous partizaus of Elagabalus, and appointing 
 men of integrity and ability to places of trust. Besides restoring the Senate to its 
 ancient dignity, he, with the consent of that body, chose a standing - Council of 
 State, consisting of sixteen of the wisest Senators; moreover, he never issued any 
 enactment without the approval of at least twenty of the most learned in the law, 
 nor discussed any military business but in the presence of the ablest officers. He 
 founded schools for the dissemination of learning - among all classes of his subjects ; 
 allotted pensions to the most distinguished men in the arts and sciences ; secured to the 
 soldiers a decent and comfortable retreat in old .age ; and established a bank where 
 the poor could obtain money at a moderate interest. And he was the first Emperor 
 who positively favoured the Christians, whose moral precepts he seems to have been 
 acquainted with ; for he caused to be inscribed over the palace gate, that golden 
 rule of the Gospel : " Do as you would be done by."* 
 
 In attending to the hackneyed " Audi alteram partem," there is little to counter- 
 balance such material benefits as Alexander bestowed. One of the principal 
 blemishes imputed to him was, the implicit obedience he paid to his mother — "etiam 
 contra animum suum but a woman who had at so great a risk preserved his life, 
 and had instilled such wise and virtuous principles into his mind, certainly deserved 
 the utmost deference and affection. He is accused of banishing his first wife, on 
 account of IVlamEea's dislike to her ; but Dexippus contradicts this, by ascribing it 
 to the treason of her father .j* His vanity in imitating Alexander the Great is 
 arraigned, and he is charged with being suspicious and inquisitive: but it is difficult 
 now to estimate how far this might have resulted from policy and caution, for he 
 who frequently exclaimed, " Imperium in virtute esse, non in decore," could 
 not have been dangerously vain. Both he and his mother are accused of avarice: 
 but that frugality which contributed so largely to the relief of the public, could 
 hardly be considered as a vice. His being unable to suppress a mutiny among the 
 Prfetorians, which terminated in the shameful massacre of his friend, the excellent 
 Ulpian, as well as his advising Dio to spend his consulship in retirement in order to 
 avoid the insolent soldiery, have been branded as acts of timid imbecility: but it may 
 be imagined that so youthful a sovereign had no easy task in curbing the turbulent and 
 depraved empire to which he had succeeded. His mind, however, acquired vigour with 
 
 * "Quod tibi fieri non vis, alteri ne feceris." 
 
 \ There is some little confusion as to the question whether Alexander had three wives. Of Sulpicia Memmia, said to 
 have been the second, the name only is mentioned ; but eve« of her no coins appear to have been struck ; that cited by 
 Goltzius being a gross forgery. Nor does history relate whether Alexander left any children. — See Orbiana. 
 
 2g 
 
( 226 ) 
 
 the ripening of his age ; and the question respecting his personal courage is settled by 
 his conduct at Antioch. The punishment of some soldiers for their debaucheries with 
 the abandoned wretches of Daphne, was followed by the mutiny of a whole legion. 
 The Emperor intrepidly exposed himself to their rage, and in dignified and 
 spirited language commanded obedience. Their clamours, and menaces with 
 brandished swords, became more violent and furious. "Your bravery," said he, 
 " would be more nobly exerted against the enemy ; me you may destroy, but you 
 cannot intimidate ; and the just vengeance of the Republic will punish your 
 crime?" Yet the men became still more insolentand outrageous ; when Alexander 
 in a loud voice exclaimed — " Citizens! lay down your arms, and begone !" This 
 decisive sentence, which at once deprived them of their military honours, acted like 
 a charm. The sedition was instantly allayed ; the soldiers acknowledged their 
 guilt, and supplicated pardon ; nor were they restored to their rank till the ring- 
 leaders were punished. This legion atoned for their misconduct by fidelity and 
 bravery : gratefully serving the Emperor while living, and avenging him when 
 dead. 
 
 The prejudice of Herodian against Mamsea and her son, would have been 
 easily discernible, even if Capitolinus had not warned us of it. Herodian's colours 
 are hoisted by Zonaras and Cedrenus; but he is abandoned in this particular by 
 Aurelius Victor, Eutropius, and Syncellus. In this dilemma it is the more to be 
 regretted that Dio — a friend, counsellor, and colleague of Alexander — should have 
 closed his useful history so soon in this reign. It has been suggested that the hatred 
 which Herodian bore towards Mamsea, was on account of her being a Christian ; 
 and a similar reason may be assigned for the contemptible appearance of Alexander 
 in Julian's "Caesars," where he is placed below the company, bewailing his 
 assassination. Assuming these motives as postulates, it will not be difficult to 
 guess why " the luminous" Gibbon followed in their wake. 
 
 There are Latin medals of this Prince of all sizes, and in each of the metals ; of 
 which the large and middle brass are generally common. Alexander occupied 
 himself closely in reforming the affairs of the mint, which accounts for the legend, 
 " JHoneta restitnta," on some of his coins ; he being the only Emperor who styled 
 himself, on medals, a restorer of money. He also used that beautiful amalgam 
 called electrum, as we learn from Lampridius, — " Alexandra habitu nummos 
 plurimos figuravii ; et quidem electreos aliquantos, sed plurimos tamen aureos." 
 About this time the sestertii diminish in magnitude ; public events are given in less 
 detail on the reverses, — and the Deities and moral Virtues appear more frequently ; 
 
( 227 ) 
 
 the coins are, however, mostly trite and common, and are retained only according to 
 their perfection, or individual interest. These virtues, as may have been noticed in 
 the preceding part of this catalogue, are inscribed sometimes in the Nominative, and 
 at others in the Dative Case : in the latter instances it is inferred that the merit is 
 ascribed to the deity represented, and in the former to the prince in whose honour 
 the device is struck. Among the numerous coins of the Colonies, Greece, and 
 Egypt, in his honour, the noble medallion stamped by the Perinthians deserves 
 especial notice. In an orb, encircled by the twelve signs of the zodiac, is seated 
 Jupiter, with his eagle and mystical wand ; above them are the sun and moon in 
 opposition, pursuing their courses; and below, are a man and a woman, as the 
 representatives of the human race. Vaillant has, rather hastily, called the last figures 
 rivers ; but they are without urns or reeds, and have no similitude to such imper- 
 sonations but in their recumbency ; besides which, only one river, the Eridanus, 
 has its representative in the heavens. 
 
 CCCXCIV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. AVR. SEV. ALEXANDER AVG. {Imperator Ccesar Marcus 
 Aurclius Severus Alexander, Augustus.) The laurelled head of Alexander, with comely 
 features, and his bust covered with the pallium over a cuirass. This medal, though without 
 patina, and partlv rubbed by a file, is in excellent condition ; it was found near Oxoi, in 
 Ithaca, in 1820.* 
 
 Reverse. LIBERA LIT AS AVGVSTI. On the exergum S. C. The Emperor seated on a curule chair, 
 upon a suggestum, is inspecting a donative ; before him stands a female with a cornucopiae 
 and frumentarian tessera; and behind him a Praetorian officer. It was struck A. D. 222, to 
 commemorate the first congiary of Alexander, given, as usual, on taking the empire. This, 
 with four other liberalities seen on his medals, disproves Herodian's charge of covetousness 
 against Alexander : of these the first and second are the least rare in cabinets, the third and 
 fourth are rarer, and the fifth the rarest.f This good Emperor not only practised a custom 
 which had long prevailed, but also at a vast charge, replenished the public granaries, and made 
 weekly distributions of oil and corn among the indigent citizens. To some he gave lands, 
 slaves, cattle, and implements of industry, as more beneficial and less degrading than gifts 
 in money. He also made an extraordinary reduction in the market-price of meat : " ut quum 
 fuisset octominutalis libra, ad duos, unumque, utriusque carnis libra redigeretury 
 
 cccxcv. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. AVR. SEV. ALEXANDER AVG. {Imperator Ccesar Marcus 
 Aurelius Severus Alexander, Augustus.) A youthful laureated head of the Emperor, with 
 pleasing features, and the bust covered with a sagum. This medal is of pale yellow brass, 
 scarcely patinated, and in very fine preservation. 
 
 Reverse. MARTI PAC1FERO. In the field S. C. The common representations of Mars areas Victor, 
 Ultor, or Propugnator; but here, instead of a fighter or avenger, he stands in an easy, composed 
 
 * My series of Alexander's reign was headed with a medal purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale ; it has the bare head of the 
 Prince as Caesar, with Pietas and the pontifical instruments as the reverse. I had some misgivings about its purity, yet 
 it might have retained its station, but that, of the hundreds of Alexander's which have passed through my hands, 1 never 
 yet met with one bearing that device ; neither Eckhel, Pedrusi, Havercamp, Visconti, nor Mionnet, describe it ; nor is 
 there one in the British Museum, or the Bodleian collection. 
 
 f Medals record only five of these acts — but Lampridius expressly says—" Conyiarium populoTER. dedit, donativum 
 militibus ter, camera populo addidit." 
 
( 228 ) 
 
 attitude, as a " peace-maker," — for though he is in armour and galeated, his spear is pointed 
 downwards, and he holds an olive-branch in his right hand. See No. CCCXXIIT. In the 
 early part of Alexander's reign, the Romans were at peace with all the world, and the olive- 
 branch is probably placed in the hands of a warrior, to denote that the best way to preserve 
 peace, is to be always ready for war. Ovid seems to allude to Mars Pacifer in the Fasti, 
 where he asks why the matrons kept the festival of so manly a deity ? 
 
 " Sic ego. Sic posita dixit mihi casside Mavors ; 
 
 Sed tamen in dextra inissilis hasta fuit. : 
 ' Nunc primum sludiis pacts, Deus utilis armis, 
 
 ' Advocor ; et gressus in nova castra fero. 
 ' Nec piget incepti ; juvat hac quoque parte morari ; 
 ' Hoc solam ne se posse Minerva putet.' " 
 The incident by which I procured this medal is curious. In the summer of 1819, a 
 labourer at work near Casal Zurika, in the island of Malta, struck his spade into an amphora 
 which proved to be full of large-brass Roman medals. Further search being made several other 
 jars were discovered, laden in a similar manner. I was, unfortunately, absent on a cruize at the 
 time, or most probably should have obtained them. As it was, the finder offered them to three 
 individuals in succession, for 100 dollars, which for 14 or 15,000 medals in the highest pre- 
 servation, was surely no great risk for any one, however " dunder-headed." His proffers being 
 refused, the peasant deeming his prize almost worthless, sold it for four dollars the cantar of 
 1751bs. English, to a brass-founder in Valetta, who was actually melting them down, when a 
 friend accidentally saw him, and thus rescued 12 or 13 hundred coins — all that were left — from 
 destruction. Some of them were dispersed, but the greater part fell into the hands of Mr. St. 
 John, the present Consul-General at Algiers, and myself. They comprised a series of about 
 40 years, from the time of Alexander to that of Gallienus ; and had generally the device of 
 Deities or Virtues, and therefore not rare ; but their singularly high preservation rendered them 
 very valuable, and the numerous duplicates were exchanged to great advantage. It is curious 
 that this hoard, probably hidden in troublous times, remained so many ages undiscovered — 
 for the amphorae were but a few inches below the surface of the ground. What was lost in 
 the copper-smith's furnace, can unfortunately never be ascertained. 
 
 Much astonishment has been expressed at the number of ancient coins which have been 
 found. D'Hancarville suggests Charon's fare as a leading cause, observing that from Phidon 
 of Argos to Constantine, there are thirty-six generations ; and from Magna Graecia to the 
 Euphrates, and from Cyrene to the Euxine, the inhabitants amounted to about 30,000,000, 
 making a total who died in that time and region, of no fewer than ten thousand millions of people 
 who were all buried with money. This, however, is not all. As coins are found in prodigious 
 numbers wherever the Roman arms extended, it is not unlikely that some were hidden for future 
 resources, as there were no banks ; others were scattered among the missilia, and a large portion 
 may have been deposited as records for fame. They abound in every part of Europe and Asia, 
 and even in the remote regions of Africa. Busbequius mentions the quantity of medals, 
 especially of the later emperois, which he met within his travels; in the neighbourhood of Ancyra 
 he found them used as weights,* under the name of giaur manguri, or infidel's money ; and 
 he arrived too late to redeem a valuable quantity, just melted down by the brazier into pots and 
 kettles. In the same century, 60,0(J0 Roman coins were found at Modena, supposed to have 
 been a military treasure, hidden after the battle of Bedriacum, when Olho was defeated. In 1700, 
 30,000 were found in earthen vessels near Brest, in Bretagne ; in 1764, in digging a foun- 
 dation at Lisbon, 300 gold coins of Titus were discovered; and in 17(55, at Biindisi, 100 
 rotoli, each 30 English ounces, of denarii were dug up, embracing the period from Severus to 
 Philip. In 1775 neatly a hundred weight of silver coins were found at Morton Banks, near 
 Bingley, in Yorkshire, in a copper chest; and in ihe following year a great number of Greek 
 medals were found at Terranova, in Sicily, by the falling of a cliff. In 1800, a vase containing 
 
 * 1 saw the same thing at Dernah, near Cyrcne, where I purchased some fine bronze medallions of Carthage, in the 
 shops of the bazaar. 
 
( 229 ) 
 
 about 2000 Roman coins was discovered near Beauvais, in France, consisting chiefly of the 
 emperors from Galba to Getaj they were dispersed principally in the neighbourhood, where 
 they were long concealed from the fear of their being claimed by the lord of the manor. In the 
 same year a peasant of Stiria found in an urn 298 fine gold coins, from Nero to Marcus Aurelius, 
 of which 274 were secured for the imperial cabinet. Even now we hear of numerous coins being 
 dug up at Colchester, Sandy, Shefford, Kempston, and many other parts of England. A curious- 
 circumstance occurred at Hexham, in 1831. In digging a grave rather deeper than usual the 
 sexton struck a sort of large kettle, when out flew a shower of stycas, of which nearly 20,000 
 were collected: and of those chronologically arranged in the cabinet of my friend George 
 Musgrave, Esq. it is to be hoped that an account will ere long be printed. 
 
 CCCXCVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. AVR. SEV. ALEXANDER AVG. [Imperator Ccesar Marcus 
 Aurelius Severus Alexander, Augustus.) An expressive profile of Alexander, with the 
 laurel crown. This medal, struck A. 1). 223, is in high preservation and covered with chocolate- 
 coloured patina, and was procured, by exchange, from Admiral Sir C. V. Penrose, in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. PONTIF. MAX. TR. P. II. COS. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunilia potestate 
 iterum, Consul, Pater Patrice.) On the exergum S. C. The Flavian Amphitheatre, 
 between the Meta Sudans and the Domus Aurea, as described under No. LXXXV1II ; but 
 with the addition of two figures, one a togated civilian, and the other apparently military, stand- 
 ing by the meta. Though History affords no positive clue for the application of this device to 
 Alexander, we may infer, that it either marks his transferring the tax upon harlots, from the 
 treasury to the use of the theatres ; or, that it commemorates his undertaking an extensive 
 repair of that vast edifice — for we are informed of the spirit with which he improved the city : 
 " Opera veterum Principum instauravit, ipse nova multa const itttit." 
 
 CCCXCVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. AVR. SEV. ALEXANDER AVG. [Imperator Ccesar Marcus 
 Aurelius Severus Alexander, Augustus.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with a mild 
 expression, and a pallium fibulated upon his right shoulder. This medal was procured at 
 Frejus, in 1823, having been formerly in the cabinet of M. Cary, of Marseilles, who died in 
 1754. Some of his medals were dispersed, and the French government purchased the remain- 
 der fof about £700. sterling; but such was the state of the treasury, that the minister could 
 only pay the sum by instalments. Barthelemy ascribed his taste for medals to the attentions of 
 M. Cary. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. V. COS. II. P. P. [Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate quintnm, 
 Consul iterum, Pater Patrice ) In the field S. C. An elegant structure adorned with 
 statues and surrounded by a portico, probably representing the celebrated thermae which bore the 
 Emperor's name. This coin was struck A. D. 220, and either commemorates the erection of the 
 baths, or the lighting them up by night, at Alexander's expense : " addidit et oleum luminibus 
 thermarum, quum ante non antea Auroram paterent, et ante solis occasum c/anderenturS' 
 The temples of idleness, called Thermce, were imitations of the Greek Gymnasia, and con- 
 sisted of vast buildings replete with splendid and fascinating luxuries, calculated to relax the 
 mind, and afford voluptuous exercise for the body. But it may be questioned whether the 
 health of the citizens was not substantially better, when they only bathed in the Tiber, than 
 when hot baths became necessary to the veryycci civitatis. 
 
 " Furnos et balnea laudat 
 
 Ut fortunatam plene piaestantia vitam " 
 The hardy warriors of the republic lost but little time at their toilet, despised the "matutino 
 amomo" and made no difference between winter and summer rings ; but even before the age of 
 Caesar, a " pretty gentleman " was unable to get under weigh, until he had been shaved, scraped, 
 shampooed, perfumed, and what not; as the father of the " Carmina Morum," says: — 
 "Scabor, suppelor, desquamcr, pumicor, ornor, 
 
 Expilor, pingor." 
 
( 230 ) 
 
 There is no doubt that the enervating effects of the warm baths engendered both vice and effemi- 
 nacy; but though it is too clear that there were bagnios where the sexes bathed indiscriminately, 
 the promiscuous intercourse was not general, and such could only have been frequented by the 
 dregs of the females. Varro tells us : — "ubi bina essent conjuncta eedificia lavandi causa. ; 
 unum ubi viri, alterumubi mulieres lavarentur ;" and Lampridius, speaking of Alexander 
 says, — " Balnea mixta Romce exhiberi, prohibuit." 
 
 CCCXCVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. AVR. SEV. ALEXANDER AVG. {Imperator Ccesar Marcus 
 Aurelius Severus Alexander, Augustus.) A laureated head of the Emperor, with his hair 
 cut very close, features mild and expressive, and a short beard. This medal, which is one of 
 ihe Maltese hoard, mentioned at CCCXCV, is in the highest possible condition, for from having 
 been, as it were, hermetically sealed, the metal is barely discoloured. 
 
 Reverse. AEQVITAS AVGVSTI. In the field S. C. A female, habited in the robes of a Roman 
 matron, stands with a cornucopiae on her left arm, and holds a balance in her right hand. 
 Tli is device differs but little from the modern representations of the same Virtues;* the scales, 
 indeed, that natural emblem of Equity, are used by Persi us to express the decision of right 
 and wrong, — and the cornucopiae signifies the good that results from examining into the real 
 merits of cases. This is a very trite reverse, but the attributes are sometimes varied, by a 
 pointless lance, or sceptre, instead of the horn of plenty. Oiselius thought he perceived, on a 
 coin of Vitellius, that, instead of a hasta pura, the goddess held a measuring rod, with marked 
 subdivisions. See the next medal, and No. CCCX11. 
 
 CCCXCIX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. SEV. ALEXANDER AVG. (Imperator Severus Alexander, Augustus.) The 
 laurelled profile of Alexander, with close hair, and a pleasing expression of features ; the neck 
 is bare, with part of a pallium appearing on the left shoulder. This medal, in high 
 preservation and slightly varnished with brown patina, was one of those found at Malta. See 
 No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. IVSTITIA AVGVSTI. On the exergum S. C. A stately robed female, seated on a throne, 
 holds a sceptre in her left hand and a patera in her right, and looks steadfastly before her, 
 as in No. CLXXXVII. This personification differs from that of our modem painters and 
 sculptors, who represent her with scales, brandishing a sword, and, notwithstanding the 
 '* aureus est oculus JustiticE" of Athenaeus, hoodwinked. The devices of this medal and the 
 last are palpably different; and in discriminating between Justice and Equity, as virtues, it 
 will be recollected that the first is based on the law of society, and the latter results from 
 conscientious rectitude. See No. CCCX1I. There is but little mention of this Deity among 
 the poets ; and we may gather from Ovid, that when men became wicked and litigious, 
 they had but a spurious justice. Petronius Arbiter, among other effects of the strife between 
 Caesar and Pompey, describes Peace as hiding her head in a helmet, Fidelity as dejected, Jus- 
 tice with dishevelled hair, and Concord as sorrowing in a rent cloak : — 
 
 '* Mitis Turba Deum terras exosa furentes 
 
 Deserit ; atque Hominum damnatum deserit agmen# 
 Pax prima, ante alios, niveos pulsata lacertos 
 Abscondit galea victum caput : atque relicto 
 Orbe fugax Ditis petit implacabile regnum. 
 Huic comes it submissa Fides ; et crine soluto 
 Justitia; ac mcerens lacera Concordia palla." 
 
 From the apparent age of the head, and the style of the legend around it, this medal was 
 • probably struck A. D. 229, for that was a year memorable for a dreadful instance of the 
 
 * A good painting of Equity, in a public office at Corfu, has, as a companion, Temperantia, a virtue typified by a woman 
 looting a bar of red-hot iron in water. Neither Temperantia, nor Voluptas, the goddess of feasts, seem to have been 
 honoured on medals, since none have been found with their legends ; nor does Sapicntia appear till the time of Constantine. 
 
( 231 ) 
 
 Emperor's scrupulous impartiality in the administration of justice. He caused Vetronius 
 Turinus, one of his chief favourites, to be publicly executed for abusing the confidence 
 reposed in him, by the corrupt practice called "Juntos vendere," a traffic in lucrative posts, 
 wherein the fraudulent seller pretends to possess court favour. On this occasion the criminal 
 was tied to a stake, and suffocated by the kindling of a pile of green wood and wet stubble, 
 whilst the crier proclaimed aloud — " Let him that dealt in smoke perish by smoke !" 
 
 cccc. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. SEV. ALEXANDER. AVG. (Imperator Severus Alexander, Augustus.) The 
 laureated head of the Emperor, with very short hair, close beard, and features denoting 
 maturity ; the bust is bare, save that the strap of an aegis appears on the left shoulder. A 
 medal in high preservation and thinly tinged with brown patina j it was one of those men- 
 tioned under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. VIII. COS. III. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate 
 octavum, Consul tcrtium, Pater Patrice.) On the exergum S. C. Alexander, in a grand 
 quadriga, holding the " Sceptrum eburneum" as described under No. CCXXXIX ; whence 
 some medallists — who think that high badge of authority only proper to conquerors — conclude 
 the device to represent a triumph. But as it was struck A. D. 229, it only commenioratts 
 the procession tor the third consulship of Alexander, whose colleague was the celebrated 
 historian, Dio Cassius. Lampridius says — " Consu/atum ter iniit tantum : ac primonundino 
 sibi alios semper suffecit." It should be noticed, that Pedrusi, Havercamp, Cooke, and 
 others, who have figured this medal, place the reins of the horses in the Emperor's right 
 hand, — whereas they are fastened to the front of the car, and the open hand is elevated above 
 them, as a known indication of sovereign command. 
 
 CCCCI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. SEV. ALEXANDER AVG. [Imperator Severus Alexander, Augustus.) The 
 laurelled profile of the Emperor, under the usual characteristics. A medal in high preservation 
 and coated with Saxon-green patina, which was presented to me by Signor Rossoni, at 
 Ben-Ghazi, in 1821. 
 
 Reverse. PROFECTIO AVGVSTI. On the exergum S. C. An equestrian figure of the Emperoi, 
 preceded by a winged Victory holding out a garland of laurel. This was probably struck 
 A. D. 231, to celebrate the departure of Alexander against the Persians. On another of these 
 occasions public sacrifices were offered, and the Senate and all the people attended him many 
 miles, to take a solemn leave of him : " post hcec cum ingenti amore apud Populum, et 
 Senatum viveret, et sperantibus Victoriam cunctis.' , Alexander was esteemed a good 
 officer, and his army was numerous and well disciplined. A select company had their shields 
 glittering with gold and silver, in imitation of the Argyraspides of Alexander the Great j 
 and there was also a plalanx, consisting of six incorporated legions. He was remarkable for 
 the care and attention which he bestowed upon his troops, frequently declaring, that " the soldier 
 does not fear his commanders unless he be fed and clothed, and has money in his purse : " whence 
 Cassiodorus probably derived his " Disciplinam non potest servare jejunus excrcilus.'" 
 An aphorism as shrewd as that of Caesar — " with money we procure soldiers, and with soldiers 
 we collect money." 
 
 CCCC1I. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. SEV. ALEXANDER AVG. (Imperator Severus Alexander, Augustus.) The 
 laureated head of the Emperor, with intelligent features, and the neck bare. This meda!, 
 which was one of the Maltese hoard, is covered with a bottle-green patina, and in the highest 
 perfection. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. VICTORIA AVGVSTI. In the field S, C. A winged Victory, inscribing VOT. X. (Vota 
 decennalia,) on a buckler, which is placed on a palm-tree ; she is naked to the waist, and 
 has her left foot upon a helmet. Among these medals I found three types of Victory, — one 
 standing with a palm-branch and laurel crown, a second rapidly advancing, and the one 
 
( 232 ) 
 
 before us, which is the best. As they were all minted about A. D. 231, they may relate 
 
 to some operations of the Emperor's commanders, or even to an advantage gained by himself 
 over Artaxerxes, the restorer of Persia. In this instance, Victory has a double duty to 
 perform, in registering with the Decennalian vow, a success over the enemy, indicated by the 
 helmet upon which she treads. 
 
 CCCCIII. 
 
 Reverse. IMP. ALEXANDER. PIVS AVG. (Imperator Alexander, Phis, Augustus.) The 
 laureated profile of Alexander, with handsome and expressive features, the neck bare, 
 and part of an aegis over the left shoulder. The title of Pius was now given him, for the 
 affection he displayed towards his mother; and he assumed also that of Felix, on some 
 medallions. This was one of the Maltese hoard ; it is slightly covered with reddish-brown 
 patina, and is in tine condition. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. Tli. P. X. COS. III. P. P. [Pontifex Muximus, Tribunitia potestale decimum, 
 Consul tertium, Pater Patrice.) In the field S. C. Apollo standing in an easy attitude, 
 his right hand pointing upwards, and his left holding a whip, indicative of his power to 
 promote rapidity, in allusion to his horses. With the exception of a mantle on the shoulder, 
 the figure is naked, and the head is radiated — the " bis sena signa cursu vario regit," in 
 Seneca's (Edipus. Under No. IX. a reason is given for the twelve rays ; in addition towhich 
 Martianus Capella accounts for them, by observing, that the sun is every day above the horizon 
 for so many hours. Virgil compares king Latinus to the grand luminary: — 
 
 "cui tempora circum 
 
 Aurati bis sex radii fulgentia cingunt, 
 Solis avi specimen." 
 
 As this medal was evidently struck A. D. 231, it possibly commemorates an advantage 
 gained in the East, because Apollo was the ordinary type of oriental successes. But con- 
 siderable perplexity is occasioned by the coins which record Alexander's victories ; and though 
 Lampridius has carefully collected a " heap" of valuable facts, he sets all chronology at 
 defiance. Herodian describes the campaign against Artaxerxes, A. D. 232, as a most 
 inglorious one to the Roman arms : while Lampridius says, that the mighty host of the 
 " Great King" was totally defeated, and that Alexander approved himself a valiant soldier 
 and expert commander. In this dilemma I prefer Lampridius to Herodian, because he 
 transcribes the original speech which the Emperor delivered to the Senate, from the journals 
 of the " House," — and he is moreover corroborated by Eutropius, Victor, and others. It 
 is also quite clear that several medals were struck to commemorate a victory gained in the 
 East; and historians testify that Alexander returned to Rome, gave a donative, exhibited the 
 Circensian sports, and triumphed with great splendour: " Post hoc, Romam venit, triumphoque 
 pulcherrimo ado, ad Senalum verba liability It is true that Domitian was applauded for his 
 imaginary virtues and victories, by the Senate; but history has been careful to inform us 
 that the Fathers were then constrained. Even if Alexander had been conquered, we may 
 infer, from his integrity and prudence, that he would have spurned undeserved honours. 
 
 CCCCIV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. ALEXANDER PIVS AVG. [Imperator Alexander, Pius, Augustus.) A laureated 
 profile of Alexander, with a handsome and intelligent expression of countenance ; the bust is 
 covered with a sagum over a cuirass. This medal is equally remarkable for beauty of fabric 
 and preservation; it is slightly tinged with a brownish-green patina, and was one of those 
 found at Malta. See CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. IOVIS PROPVGNATOR. (Jovis Propugnatoris.) In the field S. C. A bold figure of Jupiter 
 brandishing a thunderbolt — the type of supreme authority — 
 
 " Coelo tonantem credidimus Jovem 
 Regnare." 
 
( 233 ) 
 
 Jupiter — whose nod made Olympus shake, while his follies provoked the ridicule of Lucian's 
 Momus — was styled Propugnator when the Emperor was engaged in a foreign war : and 
 under that title sacrifices were offered to him on an altar in the palace. The representation on 
 this medal is singularly excellent for that period of art; the figure is naked, except a floating 
 pallium behind the left shoulder — and the whole expression is that of majesty and power. 
 Jovis is not common on legends with this device. From the titles of the obverse, it was pro- 
 bably struck A. D. 234, on Alexander's taking the field to stay the incursions of the Germans — 
 a measure which he was warned against by a female druid, who exclaimed — " Vade ! Nec 
 Victoriam speres, nec militi tuo credas." 
 
 This appears to have been one of the last large-brass medals struck in the present reign ; 
 for though the Senate deified Alexander the instant they heard of his foul murder, there are 
 no medals which record the honour, except one of the restored consecrations which Gallienus 
 minted, in the adulterated silver now called pot in, or billon. 
 
 ORBIANA. 
 
 Sallustia Barbia Orbiana is generally understood to have been the third wife of 
 Alexander ; but this is a point on which historians differ, for the lady mentioned by 
 Dio, who was not permitted to assume the title of Augusta, is by many identified with 
 Sulpicia Memmia, who, according to Lampridius, was the second wife. We know 
 nothing respecting the family, or time of birth of Orbiana, nor does history even 
 mention her name, from which uncertainty, the antiquaries for a long time classed 
 her as the spouse of Decius. In doubtful cases, medals afford the best evidence, and 
 Seguin tells us that Francesco Gotifreda, a nobleman of Rome, first restored her to 
 her true husband, by producing a quinarius with the heads of Alexander and Orbiana 
 together. Since that discovery Vaillant has published an Egyptian coin, which by its 
 device, and the letters L£,& shews that the marriage took place in the 5th year of 
 the Emperor's reign, or A. D. 226. Thus was a name restored to its proper place, 
 which, but for numismatic inquiry, had been lost for ever. 
 
 If it may be inferred that Orbiana is the lady of whom Lampridius speaks in 
 " Vita Alexandri," cap. 41, she was a woman of good sense and discretion, who by 
 exemplary plainness of dress, led the Roman ladies to economy in their apparel. 
 What became of her after her husband's death, as well as the time of her own 
 demise, are alike unknown ; nor is there any proof of her having borne issue to 
 Alexander — though a medallion in the French Cabinet, inscribed Fecunditas 
 Temporum, on which she is represented with children, seems to imply that she had. 
 
 * This L preceding a Greek numeral, has amused and perplexed the learned and the pseudo-learned for many 
 generations ; and the question is still open to further discussion. Hardouin thought it was a gamma reversed ; Casauboti 
 considered it as a mere separation between the legend and the date ; Petau decided it to mean something of annual 
 occurrence ; Scaliger and Reinesius pronounced that it meant nothing but the lustrum ; and Salvini clearly shewed that 
 it was an imperfeet E, but without explaining why the imperfection should be stamped on so many bushels of Egyptian 
 coins, of various ages, sizes, and sovereigns. The best opinion seems to be, that it is the initial of Lycabas, an archaic 
 poetical term for year, adopted when the Greek lambda was so formed; and that to avoid confusion with the numeral a, 
 the antiquated letter was retained. 
 
 2 H 
 
( 234 ) 
 
 There are Latin, Greek, and Egyptian medals in honour of this Princess, but I 
 have never met with a Colonial one. They are all rare, the dupondii being the least 
 so, and there are none known in small-brass. Mionnet has figured the silver coin 
 inscribed Propago Imperi, which formerly belonged to M. Gosselin ; and Eckhel 
 has described another with Minerva Victrix; but those are the only uncommon 
 legends. 
 
 ccccv. 
 
 Obverse SALL. BARBIA ORBIANA AVG. [Sallustia Barbia Orbiana, Augusta.) The profile of 
 the Empress, with small, but pretty features, an animated air, and the appearance of about 20 
 years of age. The head-dress resembles that of Soaemias, the neck is delicately turned, and the 
 bust is neatly robed. This medal, in excellent preservation and covered with a dense-green 
 patina, was purchased at Zante, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. CONCORDIA AVGVSTORVM. On the exergum S. C. The Emperor and Empress in 
 imperial attire, take each other by the right hand — the symbol of union. Concord is inscribed 
 upon all the Latin large-brass Orbianas which I have seen or heard of, and expresses the mutual 
 harmony which subsisted between Alexander and his wife. See No. CCCLXXXVII. 
 
 CCCCVI. 
 
 Obverse. SALL. BARBIA ORBIANA AVG. (Sallustia Barbia Orbiana, Augusta.) The head of 
 the Empress with her hair closely dressed, and charming features, the neck is finely shaped, 
 and the bosom robed. This beautiful medal is in the best possible condition, and varnished 
 with olive-green patina; it was one of the Maltese hoard described under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. CONCORDIA AVGVSTORVM. On the exergum S. C. A stately female, magnificently 
 attired and seated on a throne, with a patera in her right hand, and a double cornucopiae in 
 her left. The cornucopias is the well-known emblem of plenty — but it is difficult to say why 
 two of them so often occur upon medals : Jobert holds that they denote extraordinary abun- 
 dance, or unbounded happiness; but Addison thinks they relate to the double tradition 
 respecting the horns of Amalthcea and Acheldus. 
 
 JULIA MAMiEA. 
 
 Julia Mamaea, the younger daughter of Avitus and Maesa, was born at Apamea, 
 and married to Genesius Marcianus, by whom she had Alexander, and a daughter 
 named Theoclia. She became a widow while her son was yet very young ; but 
 she made up to Alexander the loss of his father, by the extraordinary care which she 
 took of his infancy, and the precaution with which she afterwards prevented his 
 morals from being poisoned by Elagabalus, from whom she, with no little difficulty, 
 saved his life. She married a second husband whose name has not come down to 
 U s — but from a rescript, by which Caracalla decreed that she should not lose her 
 precedency, we learn that he was of inferior dignity to herself. He must have died 
 before A. D. 218, for no mention is made of him when the family of Maesa were 
 ordered, by Macrinus, to retire to Emesa. In the commotion of the Praetorians 
 against Elagabalus A. D. 222, the two imperial sisters repaired to the camp, to 
 
( 235 ) 
 
 advocate the cause of their respective sons, when Soaemias was slain with the despot, 
 and Mamaea became an Augusta. It was her misfortune, however, to undergo a fate 
 similar to that of her sister, being murdered also with her son in another military 
 sedition, which happened A. D. 235. But a different destiny awaited her memory — 
 instead of the contumely which poured forth on Soaemias, the Senate publickly 
 expressed their regret for the fate of Mamaea, exalted her to a place among the Gods, 
 and appointed altars, priests, and sacrifices, for the celebration of her worship. 
 
 On considering the times in which Mamaea lived, and the domestic examples 
 by which she was surrounded, it is impossible to refuse homage to her prudence and 
 integrity, in spite of all that Herodian ungallantly musters up against her. " Mulier 
 sancta, sed avara" are words designed no doubt to convey a censure ; but a 
 glance at the state in which Elagabalus left the public coffers, and the rapacity of the 
 army, aggravated by the pernicious maxims of Severus, will at once shew that the 
 strictest frugality was requisite. She is also accused of arrogance, but this imputation 
 may have arisen from the incurice by which she avoided the impure society that 
 debased the court. She merited the honours decreed to her, were it only on account 
 of her maternal virtues, exemplified in the careful education of her son, and her 
 solicitude in placing none but persons of integrity about him. Though it is uncertain 
 whether she was baptized, Mamaea had the great advantage of being instructed in 
 the Christian religion by Origen, — and Eusebius highly commends her piety. 
 
 Excepting those of silver, and large and middle brass, the medals of Mamaea are 
 rare — as well Latin, as Greek-Imperial, Colonial, and Egyptian. The types are 
 generally trite, but not without interest, when in good condition. That which has 
 excited the greatest attention among antiquaries, is inscribed IVLIA MAMMIAS : 
 some ascribed it to Memmia, the wife of Alexander, while others thought it indi- 
 cated a new empress, not heard of before, and a third class questioned its authen- 
 ticity. At length Father Chamraillardt, in his " Selecta Rei N ummarice" shewed 
 it to be one of the earliest coins struck to Mamsa, whose name being Syrian, would 
 have had the termination AS, like that of her sister Soaemias, had it not been 
 modified by the Romans.* This assertion is supported by the features of the por- 
 trait, while the reverse, Juno Conservatrwo, expresses the safety of Alexander 
 from the snares of Elagabalus. A second-brass medal is also of historical interest, as 
 it proves that Mamaea, as well as Faustina Junior and Julia Pia, bore the title of 
 " Mater Castrorum." 
 
 * I have inserted this solution, because it has been sanctioned by the Numismatic Elders : but l>efore the good Father 
 can require us implicitly to admit it, he must prove that all Syriac and barbarous female names were terminated by the 
 Greeks in A S. and none in A. 
 
( 236 ) 
 
 CCCCVII. 
 
 Obverse. 1VLIA MAMAEA AVGVSTA. The head of Mamaea, with her hair closely dressed, and 
 bound in an anadema. The features, though sedate, are handsome, and expressive of an age of 
 about thirty years j the neck is full, and the bosom neatly robed. This medal, in singularly 
 high perfection, is coated with red and green patina, and was presented to me by an Arab, at 
 Leptis Magna, in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. FECVND1TAS AVGVSTAE. In the field S. C. Mamaea, habited as a Roman matron, 
 holds a cornucopiae with her left hand, and a sacred patera in her right, — before her stands 
 the naked figure of a child. This device differs from the one described under No. CCLXXIII, 
 but is of similar import, in vaunting a quality highly prized among the Romans. 
 
 CCCCVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IVLIA MAMAEA AVGVSTA. The head of the excellent Princess, with her hair in an 
 anadema, as before, — her features are handsome and intelligent, and her bosom robed. This 
 medal is in extraordinary preservation, though unpatinated ; it was from one of the amphorae 
 described under No. CCCXCV. 
 Reverse. VENVS VICTRIX.* In the field S. C. Venus, elegantly attired, stands with a lance in her 
 left hand, and supports a helmet on her right, with a shield at her feet. These attributes 
 sometimes allude to the power of love, as also does the rudder ; but here they may intimate the 
 triumph of Mamaea over Soaemias, the legend being from the word given by Julius Caesar, at 
 Pharsalia, — as we have it in Propertius — 
 
 " Vexit et ipsa sui Caesaris arma Venus. 
 Arma resurgentis portans victricia Trojee." 
 And as the emperors, and greatest generals, ascribed their successes to the same Goddess, 
 Prudentius exclaims — 
 
 " Sua Romas 
 
 Praemia diminuit qui quicquid fortiter actum est 
 Adscribit Veneri, palmam victoribus aufert." 
 This medal disproves the assertions of those who, following Fulgentius, insist that Venus Victrix 
 is always represented naked. Mamaea was frequently honoured " sub eultu Veneris ," for I have 
 had her coins inscribed Venus Felix, with the figure holding an infant, both erect and sedent, 
 and Venus Genetrix with the apple, which, from the judgment of Paris, became the symbol of 
 Love — and all of them represent the goddess stolated. For other types of Venus consult the Index. 
 
 CCCCIX. 
 
 Obverse. IVLIA MAMAEA AVGVSTA. The profile of Mamaea, with her hair closely dressed, as on 
 the preceding coins, and with similar features ; but the neck is longer, and the bosom 
 differently robed. This medal is in the most perfect possible preservation, having been so 
 hermetically shut up in the Maltese hoard, as to be barely discoloured. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. FEL1C1TAS PVBLICA. On the exergnm S. C. A female in magnificient attire, and 
 wtaring a rich diadem, is seated with a caduceus, significant of celestial benefits, in one 
 hand, and a cornucopiae, the type of terrestrial benefits, in the other. These emblems signify 
 the happiness conferred by peace and plenty, which are the consequences of wise counsel. 
 And so greatly did the public security seem to be owing to the advice which Mamaea gave her 
 son in his administration, that the Senate struck other coins in her honour, — with " Felicitus 
 temporum" — " Saculi Felicitus" — and " Felicitus Peipeiua" — the last of which has a 
 group of figures, supposed by Patin, to represent Maesa, Memmia, and Theoclia, around 
 Mamaea, whose form, he observes, is so accurately copied, that one drop of water is not more 
 like another. See CCCXXU. 
 
 * Hardouin, describing a coin of Galena Valeria with this inscription, says — with less paradox than usual— 
 that the Remans 1 efoie an engagement, supplicated Loth Mars and Venus. If they defeated their enemies with great 
 slaughter, they thanked 31am Victor ; but if they slew but few, or made an advantageous peace, then they ascribed 
 the vittory to Vtuvs Victrix. This opinion is countenanced by Pliny's description of the myrtle used in the ovation 
 of Posthumius Tubertus, after a bloodless advantage over the Sabines. 
 
( 237 ) 
 
 MAXIMINUS. 
 
 Caius Julius Verus Maxi minus, the son of Micca and Abala, was born in 
 Thrace, A.D. 173 — his father being an obscure Goth, and his mother an equally 
 obscure Alan ; so that he sprung from two of the least civilized nations then 
 existing. He was brought up as a herdsman ; but being of a gigantic stature, and 
 well proportioned, he caught the eye of Severus, by his vigour and activity, in the 
 rejoicings with which the birth-day of Geta was celebrated. Being appointed to 
 the Imperial guards, he distinguished himself by attention and fidelity, though his 
 character was savage and ferocious. Under Caracalla, he rose to the rank of cen- 
 turion ; but refused to serve Macrinus, the assassin of his benefactor's son — nor did 
 he mingle in the depraved court of Elagabalus, though he was invited to become 
 a Military Tribune. Alexander treated him with singular kindness, created him a 
 Senator, and honoured him with the command of a newly-raised legion, in which 
 station he acquitted himself so ably, that the Emperor employed him in reforming 
 the army, and thereby afforded him a fatal opportunity for corrupting the soldiers. 
 The ambition of the Barbarian was stimulated by this elevation ; and his sense of 
 gratitude and duty gave way to selfishness: Alexander was treacherously murdered, 
 A.D. 235,* and Maximinus immediately assumed the Purple: but after a san- 
 guinary reign of three years and a few days, he was himself assassinated before 
 Aquileia, A. D. 238,f together with his son Maximus — their heads being exhibited 
 on spears, and their bodies thrown into the river. 
 
 Maximinus possessed valour and resolution, but was execrably deceitful, 
 avaricious, and cruel. On his metamorphosis from subject to sovereign, he arrogantly 
 assumed the names of Caius, Julius, and Verus ; and, as if to hide the meanness of 
 his birth, the proud J epithets, Invictus, Fortissimus, and Nobilissimus. The Senate 
 greeted him with the titles of Gennanicus, Dacicus, and Sarmaticus; while his para- 
 sites complimented his fierce courage and prodigious strength with the appellatives 
 of Hercules, Achilles, AntEeus, Ajax, and Milo ; but the great mass of his subjects — 
 from his encouraging informers, feigning plots, condemning without proof, and 
 punishing without reason all who were accused — were more wont to call him Busiris, 
 
 * The temper of Maximinus was ungovernable, especially when crossed. It is, therefore, not unlikely that his 
 treason originated in vindictiveness — though he managed so well as scarcely to appear I he base instrument of his master's 
 murder. Mamaea, it is said, once intended to have married her daughter Theoclia to Maximus, the son of the Thracian ; 
 but Alexander, disliking the moroseness of the Maximins dissuaded her from it ; and, what was a still greater exasperation, 
 bestowed her upon Messala, a Roman of illustrious birth. 
 
 f It was at the siege of this place by Maximinus, that the women of Aquileia afforded a memorable instance of their 
 courage and devotion ; for the cordage belonging to the machines of war being worn out, they all cut off their tresses 
 to supply the defect. 
 
 J One might add barbarous, for such an epithet as Nobilissimus would hardly hare been admitted in a better age. 
 
( 238 ) 
 
 Gyges, and Phalaris. He had the address, by donatives and rewards, to attach the sol- 
 diers to his person ; yet his barbarity to others was such, that those whom he disliked— 
 and they comprehended nearly all the virtuous, noble, and wealthy — were crucified, or 
 thrown to wild beasts, or sewed up in the hides of newly-slain cattle, without distinction 
 of age, sex, or quality. He became an object of universal dread and detestation. 
 Balbinus trembled when he heard his name mentioned ; the elder Gordian strangled 
 himself in fear of him ; and Pupienus, being ordered against him, said he was 
 not going to encounter a man, but a Cyclops. In short, Rome was filled with con- 
 sternation, and no messenger was ever received with greater transport, than the 
 one who brought tidings of the death of a monster so odious. 
 
 Wonderful and incredible instances are related of the matchless strength and 
 appetite of this gigantic savage. His height exceeded eight feet, and his joints 
 were so large that his wife's bracelet served him for a thumb-ring.* He was known 
 to draw loaded waggons, to tear up trees by the roots, and to crumble pebbles 
 between his fingers.-j* When he first attracted the notice of Severus, he floored 
 sixteen of the stoutest followers of the camp ; and on the next day, after racing 
 against a horse, overthrew seven of the strongest soldiers, as so many children. 
 He usually devoured from forty to sixty pounds of flesh, and drank six gallons of 
 wine, daily, without inconvenience — whence some wit proposed inscribing on his 
 tomb, — 
 
 " Hie jacet amphora vini." 
 
 It is remarkable, that Maximinus, while in the plenitude of his power, and insolently 
 confident in the invincibility of his strength, was addressed by a buffoon in the 
 amphitheatre, with a striking allusion to his situation. The words would probably 
 have cost the wag his life, had the Emperor understood Greek well enough to 
 have comprehended their meaning. Capitolinus gives us the following Latin version 
 of them : — 
 
 " Et qui ab uno non potest occidi 
 A multis occiditur. 
 Elephas grandis est, et occiditur : 
 Leo fortis est, et occiditur : 
 Tigris fortis est, et occiditur : 
 Cave multos, si singulos non times." 
 
 There are Latin medals of this Emperor, in each of the metals and sizes; of 
 which the denarii, and large and middle-brass are the most common, they being 
 
 * This extraordinary fact deserves express quotation from Capitolinus. "Erat pra:terea (ut refert Cordus) magnitu- 
 de taota, ut octo pedes digito videretur egressus, pollice ita vasto, ut uxoris dextrocherio uteretur pro annulo." 
 
 f The late Prince of Butera, in Sicily, had prodigious muscular powers. He once destroyed a poor rope-maker'* 
 stock, by snapping his cords, and calling them rotten — paying, however, the damage, for he was as kind as he was humorous. 
 I once saw him bend a dollar with his thumb and finger. 
 
( 239 ) 
 
 little prized where the types are trite, unless in high preservation. The Roman 
 coins give the name simply Maximinus, the Colonial ones prefix Julius, and the 
 Greek-Imperial bear Caius Julius Verus Maximinus. 
 
 CCCCX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. MAXIMINVS PIVS AVG. (Imperator Maximinus, Pius, Augustus.) The 
 laurelled head of the Emperor, with large features and a surly physiognomy — " aspectu quoque 
 horrendus" as Herodian observes. This medal, thinly varnished with green and red patina, 
 was obtained from among those found at Malta. See CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. LIBERALITAS AVG. [Liberalitas Augusti.) On the exergum S. C The Emperor 
 seated on a curule chair, elevated upon a suggestum, between two warriors and a figure of 
 Liberality, who bears a cornucopiae and a tessera. A citizen on the steps appears rather in the 
 attitude of salutation, than that of receiving the donative, and may therefore be uttering the 
 exclamation used on such occasions — "Z)e nostris annis augeat tibi Jupiter annos /" The 
 suggestum differs from that of any other medal in the cabinet, as it is supported by several 
 military statues, which, perhaps, are intended to shew that Maximinus was indebted to the 
 army for his elevation. This appears to have been minted A. D. 235. 
 
 CCCCX I. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. MAXIMINVS PIVS AVG. [Imperator Maximinus, Pius, Augustus.) The 
 laureated profile of Maximinus, with large features and wrinkled forehead. This medal, in 
 good preservation, and coated with olive-green patina, was presented to me by Mr. H. Salt, 
 our late Consul-General in Egypt. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. II. COS. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate iterum, Consul, 
 Pater Patrice.) On the exergum S. C. The Emperor in a triumphal quadriga, in the act of 
 being crowned by a winged Victory ; he holds a branch of laurel in one hand, and a sceptre, 
 surmounted by an eagle, in the other — a badge of command, which was continued till the 
 Emperor Phocas substituted the Holy Cross in its place. This device, struck A. D. 236, most 
 probably represents a consular procession, as on No. CCCC ; and the addition of the Victory 
 may be complimentary to the sovereign's being actually engaged in a distant war, at the time of 
 his assuming the Purple. 
 
 The art of driving was highly prized among the young nobles of Rome ; for, according to 
 Juvenal, skill in this accomplishment was a certain passport to the favour of the fair-sex : 
 and he asserts, that a vain charioteer gained as much in a few hours, as a school-master 
 received for a year's laborious drudgery. Still it is somewhat difficult to guess how the ancients 
 contrived to stand in those two-wheeled vehicles, when under a four-horse power; nor does an 
 examination of the car which is preserved in the Vatican, solve the perplexity. The jugales, 
 or two centre horses, must have been fastened to the pole ; and the funales, or outer ones, to 
 a bolt on the axle-tree, between the wheel and the body of the car. 
 
 CCCCXII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. MAXIMINVS PIVS AVG. [Imperator Maximinus, Pius, Augustus.) The laurelled 
 head of the Emperor, with very close-cut hair and beard, wrinkled forehead, large chin, stern 
 features, and his shoulders covered with a sagum. This medal, in singularly high condition, 
 and unpatinated, was from the hoard discovered at Malta. See CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. II. COS. P. P. [Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate iterum, Consul, 
 Pater Patrice.) In the field S. C. A paludated warrior with a lance in his left hand, and his 
 right raised, standing by three military standards. This device was struck A. D. 236, and 
 seems merely a complimentary expression of the fidelity of the army, resembling the Fides 
 Militum, which was also stamped in honour of him : but the Rev. W. Cooke thinks it may 
 intimate a particular event, and mentions, that the Emperor, when struggling in a marsh in 
 Germany, would have been killed, had he not been rescued by his own troops. The figure, 
 however, is certainly not that of the over-grown Thracian, it being both young and graceful, 
 similar to that which represents his son Maximus, as first of the Roman youth. 
 
( 240 ) 
 
 CCCCX1II. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. MAXIMINVS PIVS AVG. [Imperator Maximinus, Pius, Augustus.) The laureated 
 head of the Emperor, with large features, sharp eye, and lengthy chin ; the hair and beard 
 very close, the neck short and thick, and the shoulders covered with drapery over a cuirass. 
 This medal, in high condition and scarcely patinated, was taken from the amphorae described 
 under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. VICTORIA GERMANICA. On the exergum S. C. Maximinus in a camp-dress, standing 
 with his right hand elevated in token of command, and a spear in his left, the point of which 
 is towards a captive at his feet, whose hands are bound behind him. On the right, a winged 
 Victory is placing a laurel crown on the Emperor's head. This was stamped A. D. 236, to 
 record his success in Germany, which he invaded shortly after he was raised to the empire. 
 He fought there several battles, always engaging in person at the head of his troops — and was 
 not a little vain of the advantages he gained ; for in addition to the accounts transmitted to 
 the Senate, he ordered his exploits to be represented in painting, and hung up in the squares 
 and public places of Rome. For these victories the Fathers decreed both to him and his son, 
 the title of Germanicus ; and besides the medal under discussion, I have had three other dis- 
 tinct types of a similar tenor, which corroborates what Capitolinus says of the exclamation — 
 " Virtute inter omnes milites clarus." 
 
 CCCCXIV. 
 
 Obverse. MAXIMINVS PIVS AVG. GERM. (Maximinus, Pius, Augustus, Germanicus.) The 
 laureated profile of Maximinus, with short hair and beard, stern features, and a prodigious chin ; 
 the neck is thick, and the shoulders covered with a sagum. This medal is in sound but 
 secondary condition, having been touched with a file, when found, perhaps to ascertain its metal ; 
 it was procured at Naples in 1823, where it formerly belonged to the well-known philologist, 
 Professor A. S. Mazzochi. 
 
 Reverse. VICTORIA AVGVSTORVM. On the exergum S. C. The Emperor, in camp-attire, takes 
 a togated figure — probably typifying the Senate — by the hand, and they support an idol of 
 Victory between them. Each is attended by a galeated warrior : and in the centre are two 
 captives in bonds, seated on the ground in attitudes of subjection and woe. This was struck 
 about A. D. 237, to commemorate an advantage over the enemy; and the obverse shews that 
 Maximinus had now assumed the agnomen Germanicus. Augustorum relates to the Emperor 
 and his son — but as Maximus never was honoured with the title of Augustus, it merely implies 
 that be shared it with his father. 
 
 PAULINA. 
 
 Paulina being unnoticed in history, is assigned, by the inference of medals only, 
 to Maximinus : — but the appointment is strengthened to conviction by the fashion 
 and fabric of the coinage, as well as by the striking resemblance between the head 
 thereon, and that of Maximus, the emperor's son. Yet, although her name is not 
 recorded, we learn from Ammianus Marcellinus and Zonaras, that she was of mild 
 and humane disposition, and exerted herself in checking the barbarity of her 
 husband, and moderating his violence. 
 
 Camerarius has mistaken Calpurnia, of the illustrious family of the Pisos, for 
 the wife of the Thracian. That lady, so celebrated for her beauty and virtue, as 
 well as the devotion of her widowhood, was united to the unfortunate Titus 
 
( 241 ) 
 
 Quartinus, a favourite of Alexander's, who, hoisting the standard of revolt against 
 Maximums, Wi *s murdered by the friend by whom he had been instigated, while 
 tranquilly sleeping in his tent.* 
 
 The medals of Paulina are restricted to the silver, and large-brass of the Latin 
 mint, and are consequently rare; the devices hitherto found being only types of 
 consecration. A gold coin, bearing her head, has been foisted into cabinets, 
 although the best authorities have pronounced it to be a modern fabrication. 
 
 ccccxv. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA PAVLINA. A rniddle-aged head of Paulina, with the veil of divinity over hair 
 dressed like that of Mamaea, and her bosom closely robed, The features are handsome and 
 intelligent, with a resemblance to those of Maximinus and Maximus, especially the latter. 
 This medal, in the highest preservation and barely discoloured, was found among its cotem- 
 poraries'm the Malta hoard, — an additional fact for discountenancing the notion of its being 
 struck in honour of Hadrian's sister, even if such an idea was not at variance with all 
 the peculiarities of its workmanship. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. In the field S. C. The Empress is " wending her way " to the spheres, 
 on the back of a flying eagle ; she is veiled, and holds the sacred sceptre in one hand, and 
 
 extends the other in the ancient attitude of prnycr. Those who only think Paulina " Vltigo 
 
 creditur" the wife of Maximinus, object to her consecration, on the ground that the Senate 
 would not have thus honoured the spouse of a man so greatly detested. But as she probably 
 died before her husband's fall, the ever-complying Fathers would have met the imperial 
 wishes, even had the lady's character been less estimable than it really was. 
 
 CCCCXVI. 
 
 Obverse. DIVA PAVLINA. A veiled head of the Empress, with characteristics as above. This 
 medal is in good but secondary preservation, and covered with an apple-green patina ; it was 
 , purchased from Mr. M. Young, of London, in 1825. 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. On the exergum S. C. Paulina, with a floating veil — " a foggia 
 d'lride'" — in a two-wheeled biga, diawn by prancing horses ; she holds a long torch in one 
 hand, and the reins in the other. This compliments the memory of the Empress, by 
 assimilating her to Luna Lucifera, one of the class styled "Dii Setecli." 
 
 iMAXIMUS. 
 
 Caius Julius Verus Maximus, the son of Maximinus and "perhaps" Paulina, was 
 born about A. D. 218, and declared Cresar when his father was advanced to the 
 empire, A. D. 235. Maximinus, after making him his partner in authority, advised 
 him to reside at Rome, in order to over-awe the citizens ; for refusing which he 
 would have killed him, when he heard that the Senate had proclaimed the Gordians, 
 had not the Prince withdrawn himself. In the tumult before Aquileia, his good 
 qualities might have saved his life, but that the infuriated soldiers resolved to spare 
 
 * A denarius has been placed in collections, as struck by Quartinus, having- on the obverse a radiated head inscribed 
 J)ivo Tito, and on the reverse an altar, with Consecratio. It is, however, in honour of the Emperor Titus ; being one of 
 those 9tamped by Gallienus, in commemoration of the princes who had received the dignity of an apotheosis. 
 
 2 i 
 
( 242 ) 
 
 none of the race, exclaiming "Ex pessimo genere ne catidum habendum." 
 He was therefore slain with his father, A. D. 238, their heads being sent to Rome, 
 and their bodies cast into the river. 
 
 Maxiinus was a youth of extraordinary beauty and symmetry, and in stature 
 almost equal to his father. He was brave and liberal, but though not cruel, so 
 haughty, that he suffered the soldiers not only to salute his hand, but kiss his knees 
 and feet — a degree of adulation which his father never could endure. He was mag- 
 nificent in his apparel, and neglected nothing that could possibly set off his person ; 
 in his fondness for parade he wore a golden coat of mail ; his gilt shield and helmet 
 Mere richly adorned with gems; and, according to Capitolintis, no woman was ever 
 more fastidious in her dress. This foppery might have Avorn off with age ; but it 
 probably influenced Alexander's refusal of his sister to such a consummate dandy, 
 and thus thwarted a marriage which might have secured the safety of both families. 
 Yet it is recorded that Maxim us was a mighty favourite with the ladies of Rome, 
 and, at the time of his death, wag betrothed to Junia Fadilla,* a great grand- 
 daughter of the revered Antoninus Pius. 
 
 There are Latin, Greek-Imperial, and Colonial, but, I believe, no Egyptian medals 
 in honour of Maximus. Of the Roman mintage, the only genuine aureus yet found 
 is a Pietas, with the instruments of sacrifice ; and Khell describes a silver quinarius. 
 The denarii and large and middle-brass are more common than the other coins, 
 but are yet of some rarity — and there are none known in small-brass. 
 
 CCCCXVII. 
 
 Obverse. C. IVL. VERVS MAXIMVS CAES. {Caius Julius Verus Maximusf Ceesar.) The 
 head of Maximus without a laurel wreath, his hair cut very close, chin smooth, and shoulders 
 robed. The features bear a strong resemblance to those of Paulina, and are singularly 
 handsome; almost justifying the vain father in his boast that he had given the Romans their 
 most comely emperor. Even in death this beauty continued, and drew from iElius Sabinus 
 this eloquent sentence — " Tantam pulchritudinem oris fuisse in filio, ut etiam caput ejus 
 mortui jam nigrum, jam sordens, jam maceratum dcjluenle tabo, velut umbra pule licrrima 
 videretur." 
 
 This medal is in such high conservation, that it maybe styled perfect; it was one of the 
 Malta hoard described under No. CCCXCV. where it had been for ages so closely sealed that 
 the metal is barely discoloured. My late friend, Taylor Coombe, albeit no admirer of this period 
 of art, was particularly pleased with its fabric and condition. 
 Reverse. PIETAS AVG. (Pietas Augusti.) On the exergum S. C. The pra^fericulum, the lituus, 
 the simpulum, and other sacrificial instruments, as described under No. CCXXXVII. This 
 device appears to have been stamped A. D. 235, on the young Ca;sar's being appointed to the 
 usual sacerdotal office, which preceded the imperial dignity; for the Senate, incapable of 
 resisting, found it necessary to add their approbation to the dicta of the army. 
 
 * The learned Heyne has edited a coin of Fadilla, from the Bentinck Museum, but owns that he never saw it ; it is 
 almost needless to add that it must be false. 
 
 f Capitolinus calls this prince Maximums Junior ; but the evidence of the medals »s indisputable ; however, it seems 
 from the epithet, that he was sometimes called by his father's name, unless it can be shewn that Muximinus is a false 
 reading for Maxiinus, 
 
( 243 ) 
 CCCCXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. MAXIM VS CAES. GERM. (Maximus Ccesar, Germanicus.) The unlaureated head of the 
 Caesar, with handsome features, and the characteristics as on the last. This medal is also one 
 of the Malta hoard, and so perfect that it seems fresh from the mint; yet it was probably 
 struck A. D. 237. 
 
 Reverse. PR1NCIPI IVVENTVTIS. In the field S. C. A graceful figure of Maximus, in camp 
 attire, with the pallium on his shoulders, in his left hand, a lance, perhaps his gilt one, held 
 transversely with the point downwards, and a truncheon in his right : behind him two military 
 standards are planted in the ground. See No. CCLXXXI11. 
 
 CCCCXIX. 
 
 Obverse. MAXIMVS CAES. GERM. [Maximus Ccesar, Germanicus.) The naked head of 
 Maximus, with close hair, smooth chin, handsome features, and intelligent aspect; the shoulders 
 being covered with a pallium over armour. This medal has the little silver eagle of the Modena 
 Cabinet stamped on it, and was exchanged by Mr. M. Young, in 1826, for one of (hose found 
 at Malta; it is in beautiful preservation, and densely coated with olive-green patina. 
 
 Reverse. PR1NCIPI IVVENTVTIS. In the field S. C. A fine figure of the Caesar, as Prince of the 
 Roman Youth, with emblems similar to those described above. But one of the standards is 
 here surmounted by a human hand, and is therefore the Manipulus, the descendant of the wisps 
 of hay borneby the party of Romulus, at the attack on the palace of Atnulius. The manipulus 
 became one of the most celebrated of the Roman ensigns, and the mark of a select battalion : 
 like the horse's tail in the Ottoman armies It is thus mentioned by Ovid : — 
 
 " Pertica suspenses portabat longa Maniplos : 
 Unde Maniplaris nomina miles habet." 
 
 GORDIANUS AFRICANUS, SENIOR. 
 Marcus Antonius* Gordianus — son of Metius Marcellus, of the Gracchi family, 
 and Ulpia Gordiana, a descendant of Trajan — was born A. D. 158, and inherited 
 enormous wealth. Though he seems to have keptaloof from public distinctions, he 
 became exceedingly popular on account of his merit, affability, and liberal spirit; 
 for during his JEdileship he gave monthly games, and magnificent festivals both to 
 Rome and the Provinces — a step, which it is surprising so prudent a man should risk 
 in those turbulent times. It was not till A. D. 214, that he became Consul, perhaps 
 from motives of personal safety ; and he again assumed the Fasces, in 229, with Dio 
 Cassius. In the year following he went to Africa, as Alexander's lieutenant, whence 
 some writers suppose he derived the surname of Africanus, while others think it was 
 rather because he was descended from the Scipios. He remained in his pro-con- 
 sulship till the insupportable exactions of Maximinus roused the province to 
 insurrection, and the Emperor's odious procurator was slain. Gordian was then at 
 Thydrus, where the people came unexpectedly and saluted him with the title of 
 Augustus, an honour which he attempted to decline under the plea of his being an 
 
 * Capitolinus seems uncertain whether the Gordiani were Antonii, or Antonini ; but both marbles and Greek-Imperial 
 coins decide in favour of the former. 
 
( 244 ) 
 
 octogenarian — but drawn swords and menaces of instant death prevailed. He had 
 no sooner been constrained to accept the ensigns, than, to the delight of the public, 
 he appointed his son as his associate in the empire, and entered Carthage, arrayed in 
 purple. This exaltation caused tumults of joy at Rome; the Senate, without hesi- 
 tation, confirmed the election, many obnoxious functionaries were executed, and the 
 Maximins declared enemies to the state. The triumph was unhappily short-lived. 
 Capelianus, the governor of Numidia, w ho had been at variance with the Pro-Consul, 
 declared for Maxi minus, amd advanced towards Carthage with a well-appointed 
 army of veterans. The younger Gordian was despatched against him, at the head of a 
 numerous, but ill-disciplined body of troops, and after a bloody engagement was over- 
 thrown, and slain on the field. The death of his son, together with the loss of the 
 battle and the rapid approach of the enemy, reduced the father to such despair, that 
 he strangled himself with his girdle, A. D. 238, after a reign of scarcely five weeks. 
 The two bodies were embarked for sepulture in Rome, but were lost at sea. 
 
 This catastrophe occasioned universal regret and consternation. The Senate, 
 to oppose the savage Thracian, raised Balbinus and Pupienus to the Purple. Rome 
 was filled with faction and tumult, and the people demanded a prince of the Gordian 
 family. Thus, though the Africani unfortunately perished, the flame kindled by 
 them, shortly afterwards consumed Maximinus and all his adherents. 
 
 The elder Gordian, of a comely stature and majestic aspect, was thought to 
 resemble Augustus in person and gesture: " Erat lonyitudine Rom ana, caniiie 
 decora, et pompali vultit, ruber magis, qudm Candidas, facie bene lata; 
 oculis, ore,fronte verendus."& He was liberal, just, humane, and magnanimous, 
 of irreproachable habits, and great kindness of disposition — whence he was more 
 beloved in Africa, than any of his predecessors. He was well versed in all branches 
 of literature, and excelled in eloquence. He wrote several poems in his youth, which 
 were greatly esteemed, particularly one entitled " i/lntotiiniades," describing, in 30 
 books, the acts of Antoninus Pius, and Marcus Aurelius. He married Fabia Ores- 
 tilla, a descendant of those illustrious emperors, by whom he had the son who shared 
 his short-lived elevation, and a daughter named JVlaecia Faustina, married to Junius 
 Balbus, a man of consular rank.j* 
 
 The Latin medals of Gordianus Senex are of great rarity, as well as high price, 
 and are confined to silver and large-brass ; for the gold Roma? JEternce of Father 
 Knell is pronounced to be a modern fabrication. There is, indeed, one of small-brass 
 
 * This quotation is inserted for its descriptive quality 5 but with no respect for the style of its Latinity. 
 
 f A silver coin was lately produced in London, purporting to have been struck in honour of Ma>cia Faustina ; but it 
 was palpably a gross forgery. No coin of her is known, and, in all probability, she died before her father came to the 
 empire. 
 
( 245 ) 
 
 cited in Ennery's catalogue, but its claim is questionable ; for, with respect to the 
 Assaria, it may here be observed, that though, in accordance with the practice of most 
 medallists, I have mentioned small-brass, there are none, properly so called, from the 
 time of Pertinax, till the end of the reign of Gallienus, except a few of Trajanus 
 Decius : and all those may be reckoned mere forgeries from the silver, where the S. C. 
 is wanting. There are numerous false coins of this Emperor to be guarded against. 
 No Colonial ones have yet, I believe, been found, and only a few Egyptian. It 
 was doubted whether there existed any which were struck in Greece, till a second- 
 brass of Samos was published in Ennery's Catalogue ; since which, Dr. A. Visconti 
 has described an unique large-brass one of the same island, in his "Indicazione 
 delle Medaglie Aniiche;" and Havercamp describes a small-brass struck by the 
 " Metropolites, 5 ' which he purchased at the sale of Mons. de Wilde's cabinet. 
 
 As the coins of both the Africani have similar legends and types, they can only 
 be assigned to the father or the son, by the character of the portrait. The countenance 
 of the elder is long, thin, and aged ; — that of the younger is fuller, and has a bolder 
 forehead — a difference easily discernible on large-brass. Vaillant thinks that all 
 those on which the Tribunitian power is inscribed, belong to the father alone ; and 
 I have met with nothing which impugns that opinion, though it can be merely 
 received as a conjecture. 
 
 ccccxx. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. ANT. GORDIANVS AFR. AVG. {Imperator Ccesar Marcus Antonim 
 Gordianus, Africanus, Augustus.) The laureated head of the elder Gordian, with expressive 
 and aged features, more like Julius Caesar than Augustus, whom he has been said to have 
 resembled. This medal, covered with dark-brown patina, and in very high preservation, was 
 procured at Sassari, in Sardinia, in 1824. 
 
 Reverse. P. 31. TR. P. COS. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitid polestale, Consul, Pater 
 Patrice ) In the field S. C. The Emperor, in senatorial garments, holding an olive-branch 
 in his right, hand, and a truncheon in his left. The term consul is singular, though Gordian had 
 twice served that high office, while a subject, and with universal applause — " In Consulatibus 
 clarior fuit sui temporis Consulibus." 
 
 CCCCXXI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. ANT. GORDIANVS AFR. AVG. [Imperator Casar Marcus 
 Antonius Gordianus, Africanus, Augustus.) The laureated head of the Emperor with short 
 hair, smooth chin, and aged features. This medal, in excellent condition, and slightly tinged 
 with apple-green patina, was found in one of the amphorae at Malta. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. SECV RITAS AVGG. [Securitas Augustorum.) On the exergum S. C. A female 
 
 elegantly attired, is seated with a sceptre in her right hand, and her left foot upon a low stool 
 
 but she has not a eomucopiae as on the one desciibed by Visconti. This device was struck 
 A. D. 238, by the Senate, who weie happy under the idea, that the election of two such popu- 
 lar nobles as the Gordiani, had secured the empire from the tyranny of the dreaded Maximums. 
 But, as Shakspeare has said, " Security gives way to Conspiracy," and the hope of a stable 
 government from that election quickly vanished. 
 
 Among other types of security, a curious one on a coin of Helena, mother of Con- 
 stantine the Great, deserves mention. It represents a female, habited as a Roman matron, who 
 
( 246 ) 
 
 stands without the support of the column which is usually introduced, where the figure is not 
 sedent, to imply stability — as Pierio Valeiiano says — " Invenire est in nummis, aliquot 
 columnam ad Securilatem additam." This woman holds a branch of laurel in her hand, inverted ; 
 because the laurel-tree is said to be a charm, and preservative against lightning, and poison. 
 Hence the proverb " Laureum gesto baculum," used by those who had escaped securely from 
 danger or difficulty. See No. CCCLXXI ; and the Securitas of Hostilianus. 
 
 CCCCXXII. 
 
 Obcerse. IMP. CAES. M. ANT. GORDIANVS AFR. AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus 
 Antonius Gordianus, Africanus, Augustus.) The laurelled profile of Gordianus Senex, with 
 his usual characteristics. A medal in sound but secondary condition, varnished with light- 
 brown patina, which was purchased at Mr. M. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. VICTORIA AVGG. (Victoria Augustorum.) In the field S. C. A marching winged 
 Victory, with a laurel crown. This device must be intended as a happy presage, rather than 
 the record of a victory obtained ; and was probably struck by the Senate as a token of their 
 confidence in the success of one so worthy of the laurel. Alexander, in writing to the Fathers, 
 had characterized Gordian, with thestrictest truth, as: — " Virum nobilem, et magnanimum, 
 disertum, justum, continentem, bonum. ,, And he discharged the office of Pro-Consul in 
 Africa, with such equity and benevolence, that he was extolled as a Cato, a Scipio, and a 
 Laelius. 
 
 GORDIANUS AFRICANUS, JUNIOR. 
 
 Marcus Antonius Gordianus Africanus, Junior, the son of Gordianus Africanus 
 Senior, and Fabia Orestilla, was born A. D. 192. He was Quaestor under Elagabalus ; 
 Piaetor and Consul under Alexander ; and was sent into Africa A. D. 230, as his 
 father's lieutenant, with whom he was saluted joint-emperor A. D. 238. He enjoyed 
 the imperial honours scarcely more than five weeks, for he was defeated and killed in 
 the battle fought with Capelianus, Intendant of Mauretania, being then in the 46th 
 year of his age. His remains, with those of his father, were lost at sea, but their 
 memory was consecrated by the Senate. 
 
 The younger Gordian was tall, and remarkably handsome, courageous, and 
 liberal ; and as generally beloved as his father. He was esteemed a man of integrity ; 
 and his love of learning and extensive knowledge may be inferred, from the legacy 
 of 60,000 volumes left to him, by his tutor, Serenus Sammonicus. He possessed a 
 brilliant genius, was a proficient in polite literature, an author both in prose and verse, 
 and thoroughly acquainted with the Roman law. But he was a " bit" of a sensualist — 
 being an epicurean in his tastes, "curious" in his wines, finical in his dress, and 
 passing much of his time in the voluptuous amenity of baths, groves, and gardens. 
 He kept twenty-two concubines, by each of whom he had children, whence he 
 was nick-named the Priamus, and a name still more satirical, of his age. His 
 intimacy with Elagabalus would have injured his reputation, but that it was counter- 
 balanced by the regard and friendship of Alexander. iElius Cardus asserts that 
 
( 247 ) 
 
 Gordianus was never married, and consequently liad no lawful issue ; but Dexippus 
 declares he had a wife, and that his son afterwards became emperor. See 
 Gordianus Pius. 
 
 The Latin medals of Gordianus Juvenis are of great rarity, and high price ; they 
 arelimited to silver and large-brass, with only one exception mentioned by Havercamp, 
 in these words : — " On a cru jusqu'ici, qn'il Tie se trouvoit des Medailles des 
 Gordiens que de la premie're grandeur; j'ai pourtant vu dans le Cabinet de 
 Frederic Comte de Thorns, ime medaille du second module de Gordien le fiis, 
 laquelle d'ailleurs est surement antique.'''' I am not aware of any Greek or 
 Colonial coins in honour of this Prince, but there are a few Egyptian. This scarcity 
 has attracted the attention of the Falsarii, and the third Gordian has been palmed 
 off as an Africanus, by the alteration of P1VS into A. F. R, and stumping in a beard 
 — but an experienced eye will detect the imposture, at a glance. 
 
 CCCCXXIIl. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. ANT. GORDIANVS AFR. AVG. [Imperator Ccesar Marcus 
 Antonius Gordianus, Africanus, Augustus.) The laurelled head of Gordianus Juvenis, with 
 short hair and beard — the forehead being more bald, and the face fuller than on the coins of 
 the father. A paludamenlum is buckled over armour on the left shoulder. This fine and 
 valuable medal in the highest preservation, though but slightly patinated with deep-green 
 aerugo, was one of the hoard found at Malta. See No. CCCXCV. 
 Reverse. VIRTVS AVGG. [Virtus Auguslorum.) In the field S. C. A military figure, galeated, 
 stands with a spear in one hand, and rests his other on a shield upon the ground. This com- 
 pliment to the moral courage of the Prince, is a personification of Valour or Fortitude, alluding 
 to exertion in the public cause, which was the supposed fountain of good conduct : " Virtuti 
 omnia parent." But this Virtue is more commonly found under a female form, whence some 
 have considered the figure to represent Bellona, a goddess created to share the fatigues of 
 Mars, but. whether as wife, sister, or companion, is not told.* The galeated Amazon is dis- 
 tinguished from Minerva by holding a parazonium ; and from Roma, by not bearing an idol of 
 Victory ; and excepting the right breast, and the left foot, which rests on a helmet, her limbs 
 are covered with drapery : — 
 
 — — — — Stansvultus, et ore 
 
 Incessuque viro propior, laetique pudoris, 
 
 Celsa humeris, nivese fulgebat slamine pallae. 
 
 CCCCXXIV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. ANT. GORDIANVS AFR. AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus 
 Antonius Gordianus, Africanus, Augustus.) The laureated head of the younger Gordian, 
 with handsome middle-aged features, and characteristics as before. This medal, in high con- 
 dition, and thinly encrusted with an apple-green patina, was taken from one of the amphora; 
 found at Malta. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. PROCIDENTIA AVGG. (Providentia Augustorum.) In the field S. C. A female figure 
 in the robes of a Roman matron, and adorned with a diadem, leans gracefully against a column, 
 
 * Fenelon draws a portrait of Mars and Bellona: — " Bellor.c et Mars avec les Furies infernales vetues de robes 
 toutes degoutantes de sang, repaissoient leurs yrux cruels de ce spectacle, et renouvelloient sans cesse la lage dans les 
 cocurs. Ces Divinites enncniies des hommcs, repoussoient loin des deux partis la pitie gencreuse, la valour modeiee. la 
 douce humanite : ce n'etoit plus dans ces anias confus d'hommes acharnes les uns sur les auties, que massacre, vengeance, 
 desespoir et fureur brutale. La sage et invincible Pallas elle-meme Tayant vu, frtmit, et recula d'horreur." 
 
( 248 ) 
 
 the emblem of stability, on which she supports a cornucopiae, and with her right hand holds a 
 sceptre over a globe, as a symbol of universal command. This is not the divine Providentia 
 described under No. CCCXI, but Prudentia * or Fore-thought, a quality which stands 
 in the front of Cicero's catalogue of virtues, though Petronius merely terms it the sister of 
 Poverty: and it is remarkable that none of the Latin poets mention Providentia, though they 
 supposed her to preside over the universe, and were inclined to allow her a special influence 
 even " in the fall of a sparrow j " as if confounded with their notions of Fate. On the coins 
 of Constantine, and others of that age, the common reverse — a tower inscribed Providentia 
 Augusti — indicates a corn magazine built for the public. 
 
 ccccxxv. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. ANT. GORDIANVS AFR. AVG. {Imperator Ccesar Marcus 
 Antonius Gordianus, Africanus, Augustus.) The laurelled profile of the younger Gordian, 
 with short hair and beard, full face, bald forehead, and intelligent aspect; the bust is bold, 
 and covered with a saguni. This rare medal, thinly varnished with brown patina, and in the 
 highest possible preservation, was one of the hoard described under No. CCCXC V. 
 Reverse. ROMAE AETERNAE. On the txergum S. C. Roma Nicephora seated on a throne, with 
 her left foot on a suppedaneuin, holding a hasta pura in her left hand, and supporting a small 
 winged victory on her right. By the side of the throne is a buckler. This device alludes to 
 the eternity promised to Rome, by all the oracles of antiquity, and echoed by all the Latin 
 poets — the Prince of wLom represents Jupiter as comforting Venus with the prospect of the 
 Eternal City's greatness: — 
 
 "His ego nec metas, rerum nec tempora pono ; 
 
 Imperium sine fine dedi. Quin aspera Juno, 
 
 Quae mare nunc terrasque metu ccelumque fatigat, 
 
 Consilia in melius referet ; inecumque fovebit 
 
 Romanos, rerum dominos, gentemque togatam." 
 
 CCCCXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. ANT. GORDIANVS AFR. AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Antonius 
 Gordianus, Africanus, Augustus.) The laureated head of Gordianus juvenis, with short hair 
 and beard, and other characteristics as on the above. This valuable medal is in the very best 
 condition, and thinly coated with a chocolate-coloured patina ; it was found at Malta, as 
 described under No. CCCXCV. 
 Reverse. ROMAE AETERNAE. On the exergum S. C. A galeated female, seated as Rome " the 
 Victorious," wilh attributes as on the last, except that the left foot does not rest on a sup- 
 
 pedaneum. The Eternity of the Empire, like that of all other earthly things, has passed : 
 
 "There is the moral of all human tales ; 
 'Tis but the same rehearsal of the past : 
 First freedom, and then glory — when that fails, 
 Wealth, vice, corruption — barbarism at last." 
 CCCCXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. ANT. GORDIANVS AFR. AVG. (Imperator Casar Marcus 
 Antonius Gordianus Africanus, Augustus.) The head of the younger Gordian, with the 
 laurel wreath, and characteristics as above. A medal tinged with light-brown patina, and 
 in excellent condition, which was purchased from Mr. Young, in 18'26. 
 
 Reverse. VICTORIA AVGG. (Victoria Augustorum.) In the field S. C. Victoria gradient, 
 with a palm-branch "lentce, Victoris prcemia, Palmce^'m her left hand, and a garland of laurel 
 in her light; — the lower folds of her drapery are gathered back by the wind, as if from the 
 rapidity of her advance, as with Ovid's Daphne : — 
 
 " Obviaque adversas vibrabant flamina vestes." 
 
 * Prudentia is not represented upon medals till the time of Gallienus, when Aureolus,one of the " Tyrants," atruck 
 the aureus quoted by Count Mezza-barba from Oiselius — but no other coin of the kind is known. 
 
( 249 ) 
 
 This device is equally premature with that which was given to Gordianus Senior, for if the 
 father did not merit it, still less did the son, who lost the battle. Count Mezza-barba describes 
 a denarius of these Princes, with — " Duo Milites hastati, et paludati, circumstantes Signa 
 Militaria," inscribed GLORIAE EXERCITVS. There can be but little doubt that this is 
 a modern fabrication j — nor does Gloria appear upon medals till the reign of Magnentius, 
 upwards of 100 years after the time of the Gordians. 
 
 Raimondo Cougia, of Oliena, in Sardinia, made the fate of this Prince, the subject of his 
 best poem : but he has failed miserably in describing the field in which the fatal battle was 
 lost, although all the war-deities of the Pantheon are drawn out in succession — like the shades 
 in Banquo's line — to grace it. What a contrast to the immortal stanza which occupied the 
 genius of Tasso for ten entire months ! After the usual parade of broken armour, weapons, 
 and ghastly corses, follow these inimitable lines : — 
 
 " Giace il cavallo al suo signore appresso : 
 Giace il compagno appo il compagno estinto ; 
 Giace il nemico appo il nemico ; e spesso 
 Sul morto il vivo, il vincitor sul vinto. 
 Non v' e silenzio, e non v' e grido espresso ; 
 Ma odi un non so che roco, e indistinlo. 
 Fremiti di furor, mormon d'ira; 
 Gemiti di chi langue, e di chi spira." 
 
 BALBINUS. 
 
 Decimus Caelius Balbinus, was born A. D. 178, of an illustrious family, his 
 pedigree being derived from Cornelius Balbus Theophanes, a celebrated historian, 
 and the friend of Pompey the Great. He had been twice Consul, and had 
 governed with credit in Bithynia, Galatia, Pontus, and other provinces, when news 
 of the disastrous fate of the Africani, and the approach of the odious Maximinus, 
 filled Rome with consternation. In this exigence, the Senate having gone too far 
 to recede, or hope for mercy, unanimously elected Balbinus and Pupienus Co- 
 Emperors, and they were proclaimed A. D. 238. Though the new Augusti were 
 men of unblemished reputation, the populace were tumultuous for a prince of the 
 Gordian family to be added to the imperial dignity, as a return of gratitude to those 
 who had sacrificed their lives for the public ; nor did their clamour cease, till young 
 Gordian was brought forth, and saluted Caesar. 
 
 The two Emperors, though invested with equal power, voluntarily divided their 
 functions : Balbinus taking the direction of the civil and Pupienus assuming the 
 charge of the military affairs, for which each was best qualified. Preparations were 
 immediately made for taking the field against Maximinus, who, upon hearing of the 
 election, quickened his march into Italy, breathing nothing but vengeance and de- 
 struction. Scarcely had the army left Rome, when a tumult between the guards and t he 
 populace ravaged the city, in which the temples were prophaned, private houses 
 pillaged and burnt, much blood shed, and Balbinus himself dangerously wounded in 
 
( 250 ) 
 
 tht: bead : but young Gordiau being produced in his purple robes, at once assuaged the 
 fury of both parties. Pupienus, in the mean time, had advanced as far as Ravenna, 
 where he received the head of his dreaded enemy, which he forthwith dispatched to 
 Rome, with the usual formalities. No sooner were the laurelled spears and letters 
 perceived, than the greatest joy prevailed ; the people testified their transports by all 
 sorts of rejoicings, and Balbinus, who used to tremble at the very name of Maximi- 
 nus, offered the unusual sacrifice of a whole hecatomb to the gods, for so happy a 
 delivery from the savage Thracian. Peace being thus unexpectedly established, the 
 two Emperors governed with such prudence and moderation, that a golden age 
 succeeded the iron one, and the Senate and People loudly boasted the superior 
 wisdom of their choice, over that usually made by the Army. This taunt, together 
 with the bitter invectives daily uttered against Maximums, whom the soldiers had 
 raised to the Empire, deeply irritated the licentious Prastorians, who scowled with 
 an evil eye upon sovereigns in whose election they had no share, and considered the 
 general acclamations as so many sarcasms on their own conduct. They therefore 
 seized an opportunity, during the absence of the guards and domestics at the Capi- 
 toline games, of rushing into the palace, and securing the two Emperors. On dragging 
 their prisoners forth, they ignominiously stripped them, tore their purple robes to 
 shreds, and then hurried them towards the camp ; but hearing that the German fol- 
 lowers of Pupienus were advancing to rescue the princes, they instantly killed them 
 both, and left their mangled bodies in the street. This inhuman deed would have 
 been attended with dreadful consequences, if the murderers had not appeased the 
 incensed populace, by declaring it was done with no other view than to secure the 
 empire to young Gordian. 
 
 So calamitous a termination of a happy reign, was the more to be lamented, 
 inasmuch as it proved that with all their great qualities, the two Princes were not 
 free from petty jealousy — the one priding himself on birth and fortune, and the other 
 on talent and resolution — sed discordios tacitce, et qu<B inteUigerentur potius, 
 quam vidcrentur." When Pupienus heard of the arrival of the Praetorians, he pro- 
 posed calling in his faithful German soldiers, but was opposed by Balbinus, who fatally 
 suspected the whole to be a scheme of his colleague to overpower him, and obtain 
 the supreme power. This unhappy delusion prevented their uniting in any vigorous 
 measure of defence, and occasioned a warm dispute, during which the mutineers 
 gained time to break into the palace, and accomplish the destruction of two sovereigns, 
 who deserved a better fate. 
 
 Balbinus was murdered in the 60th year of his age, after a reign of about three 
 months, and he was deeply regretted. Possessed of immense wealth he had lived 
 
( 251 ) 
 
 with corresponding splendour and his portly person afforded evidence that he was 
 addicted to pleasure : " Epicuri de grege porcum." But at the same time he was 
 universally beloved on account of his integrity, humanity, and affability. He was 
 esteemed an excellent orator, a good poet, a ready improvisatore, an upright magis- 
 trate, an able politician, and a pious man. And his clemency was the more valuable 
 when he had attained the sovereign power, because it moderated the rigour of 
 his colleague. 
 
 The medals of this Emperor, whether Latin, Greek, or Egyptian, are all rare 
 and of a high price — the denarii and sestertii being the most common : nor are any 
 Colonial nor small-brass known. Though the arts were now on the decline, the 
 moneyers still possessed the power of executing accurate likenesses, for a comparison 
 of the heads of Balbinus and Pupienus, throughout all the metals and sizes, affords 
 internal evidence of the fidelity of their resemblance. 
 
 CCCCXXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. D. CAEL. BALBINVS AVG. {Imperator Ceesar Decimus Callus 
 Balbinus, Aiigustus.) The laureated head of Balbinus, with close hair and beard, very full 
 face, intelligent features, and a large throat; the bust is broad and in armour. This medal is 
 in secondary condition, and somewhat rubbed; it is tinged with a brownish-red patina; 
 and was purchased at Genoa, in 1818. 
 
 Reverse. FIDES PVBLIC. (Fides Publico..) In the field S. C. Two right hands joined, the sym- 
 bol of faith and loyalty, as Virgil's " accipe daque fidem" expresses; and the caduceus, 
 held by them is a type of the peace and prosperity arising from such confidence. See Nos. CX1I, 
 CCCLV. Besides this device, denarii of Balbinus were inscribed with Amor mutuus, Caritas 
 mutua, Concordia Augg. Fides mutua, Patres Senattts, and Pietas Mutua, all denoting 
 the happy agreement between the two Emperors, by the well-known emblem of the Joined 
 right hands. Statiussays: — 
 
 " Jam paiiter coeant animorum in pignora Dextrce" 
 CCCCXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. D. CAEL. BALBINVS AVG. (Imperator Caesar Decimus Ceelius 
 Balbinus, Augustus.) The laurelled profile of the Emperor, with a face still more full than 
 on the above, and a " regular-built " double-chin : but the countenance is interesting from its 
 expressive eye, and handsome nose and forehead. This fine medal is in the best preservation, 
 the metal being barely discoloured ; it was one of the hoard found at Malta. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. CONCORDIA AVGG. (Concordia Augustorum.) On the exergum S. C. A sedent 
 robed female, with a double cornucopias and a patera, as on No. CCCCVI. ; a device 
 also struck in token of the mutual love which subsisted between the two Emperors. This 
 harmony was well maintained in respect to every thing that tended to the welfare of the state, 
 and the benefit of the public ; for their jealousies of each other were so carefully concealed as 
 to be only suspected. 
 
 CCCCXXX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. D. CAEL. BALBINVS AVG. (Imperator Ceesar Decimus Ccelius 
 Balbinus, Augustus.) A laureated profile of Balbinus, with characteristics as before-men- 
 tioned. This rare medal, which I purchased in 1817, from an Arab at Beni-Welid, an inland 
 town of Tripoli, is in capital condition, and covered with an olive-green patina. 
 
 Reverse. LIBERAL1TAS AVGVSTORVM. On the exergum S. C. Three togated figures on 
 curule chairs upon a suggestum, inspecting a donation to the citizens ; they are assisted 
 
( 252 ) 
 
 by a military officer, and before them is a statue of Liberality with a f rumen tarian tablet, 
 and a cornucopias. This represents the congiary which was given when the army 
 marched against Maximinus, an act to conciliate the people, known only by the medals of 
 this reign. The sitters are Balbinus, Pupienus, and young Gordian, who, from the centre one 
 being the smallest, was probably placed in the seat of honour, in order to court popularity ; 
 and on a coin of Pupienus, the youth appears with a radiated head, though only a Caesar. 
 
 CCCCXXXI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. D. CAEL. BALBINVS AVG. {Imperator Ccesar Decimus CceUus 
 Balbinus, Augustus.) The laureated head of Balbinus, with a full yet expressive face, short 
 hair and beard, thick neck, and the bust covered with a sagum over a cuirass. This medal, 
 in excellent condition, and varnished with brown patina, was purchased on the 28th day of 
 Mr. M. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. VICTORIA AVGG. (Victoria Augustorum.) In the field S. C. A standing figure of 
 Victory, with a diadem and long robes, holding a laurel-wreath in her right hand, and in the 
 left a palm-branch — whence the " Palmaris Dea" of Apuleius. This was struck on the fall 
 of Maximinus ; for though Balbinus had not quitted Rome, the Senate eulogized him on the 
 success of his colleague's army — a compliment, however, which did not prevent him from 
 feeling somewhat ruffled, at the profuse honours which the Fathers, in the fulness of their joy, 
 conferred upon Pupienus: — 
 
 " Invidia Siculi non invenire tyranni 
 Majus tormentum." 
 
 CCCCXXXII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. D. CAEL. BALBINVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Decimus Ccelius 
 Balbinus, Augustus.) The laurelled profile of the Emperor, with full cheeks, double chin, 
 broad throat, and expression as above. This fine medal, cased in black patina and in 
 remarkable preseivation, was procured at Orbitello, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. P. M.TR. P. COS. II. P. P. (Pontifex Muximus, Tribunitia potestate, Consul iterum, 
 Paler Patrice.) In the field S. C. The Emperor, attired as a Senator, displays an olive- 
 branch with his right hand, and grasps a truncheon in his left — a device probably struck when 
 the death of Maximinus promised a stable peace. It had been usual when there were two 
 emperors, that the elder alone should be styled Pontifex Maximus, but Balbinus and Pupienus 
 wisely bioke through this custom, and each assumed that title. 
 
 The extraordinary merit of these Augusti acquired them the honourable epithet of Palres 
 Senatus — a title which had been procured by Vipsanius for Claudius, but that emperor declined 
 it. Afterwards the Senate, dreading the vengeance of Commodus, on the failure of Lucilla's 
 conspiracy, styled him Pater Senatus, through fear — and a large-brass medal attests the 
 tact. But it was not a popular designatiou till it was assumed by Balbinus and Pupienus, 
 men of whom the historian says — " Omnesque omnia bona dicerent, Icxtareturque Populus, 
 et g/oriaretur Patritiis, Imperioque dignis Principibus." 
 
 PUPIENUS. 
 
 Marcus Clodius Pupienus Maximus*, the son of Maximus, a mechanic, and 
 Prima, a woman of low birth, was born A. D. 164. But though his parentage was 
 
 * Capitolinus is absolutely "taken aback" by this Prince's being called Pupienus by the Latin, and Maximus by the 
 Greek historians ; and after considerable hesitation, arrives at the conclusion to which a reference to the Gieek medals 
 would immediately have brought him : " nisi forte idem est Pupienus, qui et Maximus ; quod ideo testatum posui, ne 
 quis me hoc nescisse crederet, quod revera magnum stuporem, ac miraculum creat." Had Pupienus been the name used 
 by our English historians, the memory would have been spared the perpltxity arising from Maximus's having to encounter 
 Maximinus and Maximus. 
 
( 253 ) 
 
 mean, his personal merit was extraordinary ; for, entering the army, without a friend 
 to assist him, he successively became a Centurion, Tribune, Praefect of a legion, 
 Senator, Governor of a province, and Praetor of Rome. He rose to the Consulship 
 A. D. 227, and on the fall of the Gordians, was elevated to the Purple, with 
 Balbinus, A. D. 238. He was immediately charged with the conduct of the war 
 against Maximums, and appears to have taken every precaution which experience 
 could suggest. Care was taken to remove all the provisions into the adjacent walled 
 towns, and the country was laid waste along the expected line of his march, that the 
 tyrant and his forces might be distressed by famine. The consequence was the 
 assassination of Maximinus, and his son, before Aquileia, — and so great was the 
 joy of the Romans at this happy result, that while Pupienus still remained in that 
 city, the Senate sent a deputation to him, consisting of twenty of their body, who had 
 all been Consuls, Praetors, or Quaestors, — and among other high honours, decreed 
 him an equestrian statue of pure gold. Soon after his return to Rome, he shared 
 the deplorable fate of his colleague, and was barbarously murdered by the Praetorians 
 in the 74th year of his age ; after a reign of little more than three months.^ 
 
 Pupienus was of so grave an aspect and deportment, that he was called Tristis : 
 but though feared for his strictness, he was easily entreated. As a man, he was 
 virtuous and temperate ; as a soldier, prudent, and brave ; as a statesman he was 
 diligent, firm, and "straight-forward ;" and as a sovereign, just, moderate, and wise. 
 His disposition to severity, never amounting to inhumanity, was tempered by the 
 affability of Balbinus ; and the excellent qualities of the two Emperors fully justified 
 the choice of the Senate. Their mutual confidence and agreement were of vital 
 service to the Commonwealth ; and their vigorous efforts to induce integrity into 
 the different branches of the administration, promised to secure an equitable govern- 
 ment to the Roman world. Pupienus, however, had his misgivings: " What reward, 1 ' 
 demanded he, "may we expect for delivering Rome from such a monster?" To 
 which Balbinus replied — " The love of the Senate, of the people, and of all man- 
 kind." " Alas !" rejoined his more deeply-thinking colleague, " Alas ! I dread the 
 hatred of the soldiers, and the fatal effects of their resentment." 
 
 The medals of this Emperor, though of similar types with those of Balbinus, are 
 thought to be rather more rare. Besides the Lai in mintage, there are Greek-Imperial 
 and Egyptian coins — but no Colonial ones, nor small-brass.-f 
 
 * This duration is not given without due inquiry. Historians usually assign these good Emperors a reign of fourteen 
 or fifteen months ; but it is impossible to read the able and erudite descant of Eckhel — " l)e artnis et trib. potestute 
 Maximini, ut et de terminis imperii Gordianoium, BalLini, ct Pupieni," — without adopting his conclusions. 
 
 + A coin has been fabricated, and even admitted into cabinets, which purports to have been struck in honour of Quintia 
 Crispilla, the wife of Pupienus. That described by Menestrier represents a handsome female head with the hair gracefully 
 
( 254 ) 
 
 CCCCXXXIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. CLOD. PVPIENVS AVG. (Imperator Caesar Marcus Clodius Pu- 
 pienus, Augustus.) A laurelled head of the Emperor, with aged but good features, a long 
 beard carefully trimmed, and a bold forehead ; the whole expression bearing out the descrip- 
 tion — " Domi, forisque semper severus, itd ut et Tristis cognomen acceperit, vultu 
 gravissimus, et verecundus, staturd procerd, &c." This medal in the highest preserva- 
 tion, and only stained over a part of its surface by a green patina, was one of the hoard found 
 at Malta. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. CONCORDIA AVGG. [Concordia Augustorum.) On the exergum S. C. A sedent 
 female, magnificently attired, with a double cornucopiae and a patera, as on No. CCCCXXIX, 
 and struck with the same object, that of testifying the unanimity of the two Emperors : 
 " Ambo una, et quidem bene imperartint." 
 
 CCCCXXXIV. 
 
 Obverse, IMP. CAES. M. CLOD. PVPIENVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Clodius Pu- 
 pienus, Augustus.) The laureated head of Pupienus, with the same character as before, and the 
 bust covered with a sagum over armour. This medal, cased with dark-brown patina and in 
 very fine condition, was purchased at Mr. Trattle's sale, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. LIBERALITAS AVGVSTORVM. On the exergum S. C. The two Emperors, and the 
 Caesar, seated on curule chairs, upon a suggestum, superintending a donative. On the right 
 side stands a Praetorian, and on the left the figure of Liberality, with a cornucopiae, and the 
 tessera, or ticket, on which was stamped the amount of money, or corn, that constituted the 
 donation. On the steps is a citizen holding up the folds of his robe. This liberality, un- 
 noticed by historians, is probably that described under No. CCCCXXX. 
 
 CCCCXXXV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. CLOD. PVPIENVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Clodius Pu- 
 pienus, Augtistus.) A laurelled profile of Pupienus, with a grave aspect ; in other respects 
 as above. This medal, in high condition and slightly patinated, was one of those found at 
 Malta, as described under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. PROVIDENTIA DEORVM. In the field S. C. A stolated female stands with a cornucopiae 
 in her left hand, and holds, in her right, a sceptre over a globe. This device was struck by 
 the Senate, as a record that they were directed by the Gods, in their election of Balbinus and 
 Pupienus ; and as an evidence of their gratitude : — " Egressi d Senatu primum Capitolium 
 ascenderunt, ac rem divinam fecerunt.' 1 '' See No. CCCCXXIV. 
 
 CCCCXXXVL 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. CLOD. PVPIENVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Clodius Pu- 
 pienus, Augustus.) The head of Pupienus, with a laurel-wreath over very short hair, and 
 his beard dressed with singular care in small curls. The counteuance is expressive of 
 seriousness — " gravitate, ac severitate venerabilis. ,, This fine medal is in surprising pre- 
 servation, and curiously patinated — the obverse being green and the reverse reddish-brown ; 
 it was purchased at Mr. Henderson's sale, in 1830. 
 
 Reverse. VICTORIA AVGG. (Victoria Augustorum.) In the field S. C. Victoria alata stands with 
 a palm-branch in her left hand, and holds out a laurel crown with her right. This was struck 
 on the delivery of Rome, from the horrible threats of Maxi minus. The express who brought 
 the joyful tidings of the monster's death, arrived in only four days from Aquilea, having 
 
 dressed, but in the style of a better age, and it is inscribed QV1NT. CRISPILLA CLAVD. PVP. MAX. On the rererse 
 is a temple ot four columns, with VEIN. CAL. (Veneri Calvce ) across the pediment, and under it the letters Q. V. P. R. 
 S. E. (Quod vofum pro Rcpuhliea solutum est.) In front of the temple sits a female with a bald head, in commemoration 
 of the women of Aquileia, who cut off their hair for the use of the soldiers, when that place was besieged by Maximinus. 
 
( 255 ) 
 
 travelled with unparalleled rapidity. The most extravagant exultation prevailed among all ranks 
 of people: and when Pupienus returned, Balbinus, Gordian, the Senate, and the whole city, 
 went out to meet and conduct him in triumph to the palace. 
 
 CCCCXXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. CLOD. PVPIENVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Clodius Pu- 
 pienus, Augustus.) A laureated profile of the Emperor, with the character as before. This 
 medal is in the highest possible preservation, the metal being barely discoloured, having been, 
 as it were, hermetically sealed in one of the amphora? described under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. PAX PVBLICA. On the exergum S. C. As Maximinus, against whom Pupienus marched 
 with his army, was declared by the Senate a public enemy to the Roman State, the peace 
 that ensued upon his death, might very properly be styled a public one. The device is a 
 female richly attired, and seated upon a throne, with a sceptre in one hand, and an olive- 
 branch in the other — corresponding to the description of Silius Italicus — 
 
 i 
 
 t* Pignora Pacis 
 
 Proetendens dextra ramuni canentis olivse." 
 
 Pax often bears a cornucopiae to shew that plenty is ensured by peace; and sometimes her 
 vest is gathered up like an apron, as if also full of fruits, to which Tibullus alludes. On a 
 Colonial second-brass coin of Agrippina Junior, she is represented with a fillet of wheat-ears, 
 and the inscription E1PHNH, implying that Peace secures Agriculture. 
 
 CCCCXXXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. CLOD. PVPIENVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Clodius 
 Pupienus, Augustus.) The laurelled head of Pupienus, with grave features, close hair, 
 and a long beard as before ; but with the forehead more wrinkled. This medal is in the finest 
 condition, and barely discoloured, being one of those found at 3Ialta. See CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. P.M. TR. P. COS. II. P. P. (Pontifex Maxhnus, Tribunitia potestate, Consul iterum, 
 Pater Patrice.) In the field S. C. The Emperor having laid aside his sword, is here habited 
 in a toga, and stands with a truncheon in his left hand, and a branch of olive in his right. 
 This device was struck on the re-establishment of order, after the death of Maximinus. A. D. 
 238. See No. CCCCXXXI. 
 
 The toga was a robe without sleeves, worn by the Romans, in times of peace — " cedant 
 anna togce." It was brought over the left shoulder, in order to leave the right arm at liberty, as 
 the Moors in Barbary use their baracans; while the other part was just passed over the right 
 shoulder, and was easily drawn back, upon occasion, to cover the head — which was usually 
 kept bare in the city, and only guarded against intense sun, rain, or cold. In the early ages 
 of Rome, common people were only permitted to wear the tunic, and not the toga; but the 
 latter was afterwards the usual dress of all ranks, whence the " gentemque togatam " of Virgil. 
 This oblong wrapper was called domestica, forensis, militaris, or triumphalis, according to 
 the occasion on which is was worn ; Punica, Melibcca, Spartana, Sarrana, Sidonia, Phoenicia, 
 or Assyria, from the place where it was manufactured ; and aperta, picta, vitrea, aurata, 
 pexa,pura, virilis, pul/a, pratexta, purpurea, or palmata, from its texture and colour. Those 
 who aspired to magistracy appeared in the Comitia, in a toga newly blanched for the occasion ; 
 from the extreme whiteness of which, they were termed " Candidati." The Jus Toga was 
 ihe same with the privilege of citizenship, or, as it was also explained, the right of fire and 
 water throughout the Roman Empire. 
 
 CCCCXXX1X. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. CLOD. PVPIENVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Marcus Clodius 
 Pupienus, Augustus.) A laurelled profile of the Emperor, with the appearance of age and 
 gravity, as before, the beard elaborately trimmed and the shoulders covered with a saguni. 
 This medal, in excellent condition and coated with yellowish-brown patina, was purchased at 
 Catania, in Sicily, in 1S14. 
 
( 256 ) 
 
 Reverse. VOTIS DECENNAMBVS. S. C. (Votis Decennalibus, Senatus Consultu.) This is 
 an inscription, a term restricted, by medallists, to those epigraphs which fill the field to 
 the exclusion of figures. It is surrounded by a civic garland, and testifies a promise to 
 perform the decennial games, when the Emperor should have reigned ten years. See 
 No. CCXLVI. This vow must have been made as a token of regard, for at the age of 
 74 — when no fair usurer would have allowed an "expectation" of more than seven years — 
 there could be but a chance of Pupienus's wearing the august leaves on his brow to that period. 
 And that the Senate understood how to compliment a good Emperor, is proved by a medallion 
 of Antoninus Pius, inscribed—" S. P. Q. R. A. N. F. F. OPTIMO PRINCIPI PIO." 
 [Senatus Populus Que Romanus, Annum novum, faustum felicem, Optimo Principi Pio.) 
 
 GORDIANUS PIUS.* 
 
 Marcus Antonius Gordianus, surnamed Pius, was born A.D. 222, being, according 
 to Dexippus, the son of Gordianus Africanus Juvenis ; but other accounts insist that 
 his parents were Junius Balbus, and Maecia Faustina, the daughter of Gordianus 
 Senex : at all events he was the grandson of the latter. The election of Balbinus 
 and Pupienus, after the death of the Gordians, A. D. 238, was met by considerable 
 opposition from the populace ; which was only appeased by arraying the youthful 
 Gordian in purple, and proclaiming him Caesar. When the soldiers had murdered 
 the two Emperors, in the same year they proclaimed the Prince as the sole sovereign ; 
 to which the Senate consented with a good grace, as it appeared to conciliate jarring- 
 interests, and they had in reality no power of resistance. Being only 16 years old, 
 when thus exalted to a dignity which equally required years and experience, he fell 
 into the hands of licentious courtiers, who abused his confidence for a time ; but he 
 was happily rescued from this misfortune, by the councils of the sage Misitheus, 
 whose daughter he married A. D. 241. In the following year he took the field 
 against Sapor, king of Persia, who had over-run the Roman dominions in the East; 
 and after gaining many laurels, he perished A. D. 244, by the insidious intrigues of 
 Philip, whom he had appointed Praefect of the Praetorian bands. 
 
 The murder of Gordian took place on the borders of Persia, near a town called 
 Zantha ; but it is uncertain — from the conflicting statements of the younger Victor, 
 Eutropius, and Festus — whether his body was conveyed to Rome, or buried on the 
 spot. We are told, however, that the nine soldiers who imbrued their hands in the 
 blood of this worthy Prince, were either killed, or dispatched themselves, with 
 the very swords which they had employed against him. After the delusion of the 
 army had subsided, they erected a stately tomb to his memory, on which — we must 
 
 * It is usual to style this Prince, Gordianus III., but I prefer the agnomen, as more consonant with the Roman practice ; 
 and because the cider Gordians reigned jointly. It is also common to call him Antoninus, which is clearly an error. 
 
( 257 ) 
 
 suppose after the death of Philip — was engraven the following inscription, in the 
 Greek, Latin, Persian, Hebrew, and Egyptian tongues : — 
 
 DIVO* GORDIANO VICTORI PERSARVM. VICTORI GOTHORVM. 
 VICTORI SARMATARVM. DEPVLSORI ROMANARVM SEDITIONVM. 
 VICTORI GERMANORVM. SED NON VICTORI PHILIPPORVM.f 
 
 Gordian was a youth of comely person and an agreeable disposition, addicted to 
 study, and possessed of every quality that could form an excellent monarch, and 
 render him an object of love and veneration to his subjects. After his marriage with 
 Tranquillina, and the dismissal of those who took advantage of his inexperience, his 
 conduct excited universal esteem; and the Senate, the People, and the Army, united 
 in hailing him as their son and favorite. "Wretched is the Prince," said he, "from 
 whom Truth is concealed ; who, ignorant of what passes abroad, is compelled to 
 act upon the insinuations of others." But he unfortunately lived in a corrupted 
 age, when the soldiery had gained so great an ascendency, that there was no security 
 for either good or bad sovereigns ; and his unsuspecting temper was fatally imposed 
 upon. The choice of his father-in-law for Praetorian Praefect was as judicious, as, after 
 the sudden death of that able counsellor, the appointment of the unprincipled Philip 
 to the post, was unfortunate. Misitheus, who was at once brave and sagacious, had 
 carefully watched over the safety of the expedition, and maintained regular magazines 
 of provisions and necessaries ; but the art of Philip was exerted to foment discontent 
 among the soldiers, by impeding the supplies, and imputing the want of them to the 
 incapacity of Gordian for his weighty charge : " Frumentarice naves ejus opera, 
 intercepts sunt, exercitusque esurice cum laboraret, ad loca difficiliora tra- 
 ductus, ad quce, per Euphratem, commeatus advehi non posset," saith that 
 energetic antiquary, Pomponius Lastus Infortunatus. The traitor was successful, 
 A suborned party insisted upon the admission of Philip as joint-emperor ; and the 
 virtuous Prince, unwilling to shed Roman blood by bringing the matter to open 
 issue, in an evil moment yielded his assent. But the ambition of the crafty Aral) 
 was not yet glutted : no sooner did he find himself armed with power, and supported 
 by a faction, than he ungratefully determined to supplant his too-indulgent benefactor, 
 
 * Gordianus was not only deified by the Senate, but his family were for ever exempted by an extraordinary privilege 
 from undertaking, except by their own choice, guardianships, embassies, or any other public office whatever. 
 There was a time when some of the members of our own Parliament, instead of ruining themselves and debasing their con- 
 stituents, in order to secure their election, would have enjoyed such an immunity — as may be inferred from the fine 
 they were liable to, in cases of non-compliance with the duties imposed. 
 
 f " Five languages," saith Sir Thomas Browne, " secured not the epitaph of Gordianus ; the man of God lives longer 
 without a tomb, than any by one." Licinius, who pretended to derive his pedigree from Philip, erased the inscription, 
 but the monument was still to be seen, A.D. 363. The pun supposed to exist in the Philipporum, is probably a mere 
 « ben trovato." 
 
 2l 
 
( 258 ) 
 
 and, by overbearing and insulting acts, produced the rupture which terminated in 
 the deplorable murder of one, to whom long life only was wanting, to place his 
 name beside those of the best emperors with whom Rome was ever blest.& 
 
 There are Latin medals of Gordianus Pius, in the three metals, and of all the 
 sizes, except small-brass ; and also Colonial, Greek, and Egyptian. The most com- 
 mon are the silver, and large and middle-brass, which are so numerous as to be 
 valued only in proportion to the rarity of their reverses — the trite types being only 
 admitted into good cabinets, when in that state of perfection which is technically 
 termed "flower/' An extraordinary number of these are personifications of moral 
 Virtues, who, in truth, are generally of more respectable character than the higher 
 Deities.f A larger and heavier silver coin began now to be used, with a 
 reverse generally inscribed JEquitas, or Moneta. See No. CCCCXCIII. 
 
 CCCCXL. 
 
 Obverse. M. ANT. GORDIANVS CAES. [Marcus Antonius Gordianus, Ccesar.) The naked head 
 of Gordian, with short hair, and an engaging expression of features, answering to the "juvenis 
 /actus, pu/cher, umabilis,' 1 '' of the historian. Yet the countenance is so boyish, that a con- 
 troversy has arisen, whether it may not represent a fourth Gordian; but I am persuaded that 
 the Augg. on the reverse can only apply to the Caesar who was admitted to govern with Bal- 
 binus and Pupienus. This medal, in perfect condition, and tinted with an apple-green patina, 
 was one of those found at Malta, as described under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. PIETAS AVGG. (Pietas Augustorum.) On the exergum S. C. The prafericulum, 
 lituus, and other implements used — "in re divind." As it was customary to place the pon- 
 tifical instruments upon the coins of a prince, when he was declared Caesar, the opinion of 
 Mr. Neave, that they denote Gordian's appointment to the dignity of Pontifex — on which his- 
 tory is silent — is untenable. The accounts of the age of this Prince, at the time he was 
 elevated to the rank of Csesar, vary from that of eleven to sixteen years; but Junius Cordus 
 seems positive in stating that he was killed in his 22nd year. See No. CCXXXVII. 
 
 CCCCXLI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. M. ANT. GORDIANVS AVG. [Imperator Ccesar Marcus Antonius 
 Gordianus, Augustus.) The laureated head of Gordian as Emperor, with a somewhat older 
 cast of countenance than on the former medal, though probably struck A. D. 238. It is 
 in beautiful preservation, and tinged with reddish-green patina, having been one of the 
 Maltese hoard. See No . CCCXC V. 
 
 Reverse. ABVNDANTIA AVG. (Abundantia Augusti.) In the field S. C. A standing female, 
 habited in the stola and wearing a diadem, is emptying the Amalthaean horn, from which a 
 shower of money descends. Abundantia was a profuse giver of all things, at all times ; 
 
 * Capitolinus relates some entreaties made by Gordian, in the crisis of his fate, which, however human, are not heroic ; 
 but as they are not in unison with his acknowledged courage, and are unnoticed by other writers, they are entitled to no 
 credit, and therefore cannot scathe the young Emperor's character. 
 
 f A dementia is enumerated in the JE class of Occo's Gordian ; but of the dozens of Virtues of his reign, which have 
 passed through my hands, I have never met with one. Clemency, an appropriate reverse for Nerva, Vespasian, Hadrian, 
 Antoninus Pius, and even Albinus — was wretchedly misapplied as a device tor Tiberius, and Vitellius. She is generally 
 represented as a stolated female, with a hasta pura and a patera, or an olive-branch. Statius mentions her humble altar, 
 and unassuming rites at Athens; at Rome, however, it is probable that she Was not greatly respected in the earlier ages. 
 Another large-brass of Gordian has been mentioned to me, inscribed Patieniia, but I never saw or read of one, in corro- 
 boration — nor indeed do 1 know of any medal bearing a representation of that Virtue, except the denarius of Hadrian, 
 which has a sedent matron. 
 
( 259 ) 
 
 but Copia seems to have been applied to provisions, and Annona was restricted to the manage- 
 ment of the supply for the current year. See No. LXXXVI. About the time of Decius, the 
 moneyers introduced Ubertas to denote fruitfulness and plenty, under the device of a matron 
 with a purse and a full horn: the name is derived "da libera, cioe mammella" says the 
 Archbishop of Tarragona. The Abundantia of Trajan, sits on a throne composed of two cor- 
 nucopia? placed saltier-wise ; but the one here described best illustrates Horace : — 
 
 "Aurea frnges 
 
 Italia? pleno diffudit copia cornu." 
 CCCCXLII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. GORDIANVS PIVS FEL. AVG. (Imperator Gordianus, Pius, Felix, Augustus.) 
 
 The laureated head of the Emperor, with characteristics as on the last ; but the aspect is 
 rather of a graver cast. This medal is coated with a fine green patina, spotted with red on 
 the obverse, and is in surprising preservation ; it was one of the Maltese hoard. See CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. IOVI STATORI. In the field S. C. A bold and naked figure of Jupiter, standing with a 
 fulmen in his left hand, and a lance in his right. Stator was a title given to this Deity, by 
 Romulus, in memory of the happy moment when the Romans, recovering from a panic, 
 stopped, and again made head against the Sabines. Cicero invokes him thus : — " Jupiter 
 Stator! Quern vero majores nostri statorem imperii nuncuparunt.''' This was probably 
 struck on Gordian's advancing upon Thrace, after having received a check from the Alani, 
 A. D. 242 ; though some of the numismatic elders think it may relate to the earthquakes, 
 which happened in the beginning of his reign, on the globe's becoming " fixed and immoveable 
 again /" 
 
 CCCCXLIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. GORDIANVS PIVS FEL. AVG. (Imperator Gordianus, Pius, Felix, Augustus.) 
 
 The laurelled head of Gordian, with a serious though pleasing expression of countenance ; the 
 shoulders are covered with a pallium over armour. This rare medal is in sound but secondary 
 condition, and partially covered with a poplar-green patina ; it was purchased from Sig. 
 Benucci, the artist, at Malta, in 1818. 
 
 Reverse. LIBERAL1TAS AVGVSTI till. (Liberalitas Augusti Quarta.) On the exergum 
 S. C. The Emperor seated on a curule chair, upon a suggestum, is assisted by a Senator and 
 a Prsetorian, in the distribution of a congiary to the people ; — before him stands Liberality 
 with her usual attributes, and, on the steps, a citizen. There are four donations recorded upon 
 the medals of Gordian, but as they are not mentioned in history, it is difficult to determine 
 their dates. Eckhel thinks one of them must commemorate that at which he presided as an 
 associate of Balbinus and Pupienus. This seems likely enough ; and as we are to infer that a 
 largess was given to the populace, during the shews exhibited on his accession, it may be 
 noted as the second. The third, perhaps, was distributed upon the suppression of the 
 dangerous sedition of Sabinianus, in Africa, A. D. 240; and the fourth, or the one under 
 consideration, we see, by the titles, must have taken place after the second year of his reign. 
 Mionnet even mentions a fifth, but as he does not give the legend of the obverse, I can say 
 nothing more about it. 
 
 CCCCXLIV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. GORDIANVS PIVS FEL. AVG. {Imperator Gordianus, Pius, Felix, Augustus.) 
 
 The laurelled profile of the Emperor, with characteristics as before-mentioned. This medal 
 has been slightly injured on the obverse, in ancient times, since the bruises are covered with 
 the olive-green patina which varnishes the rest of the field; but the reverse is in splendid 
 preservation; it was procured near Pisa, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. III. COS. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate tertium, 
 Consul, Pater Patrice.) On the exergum S. C. The Emperor upon a light prancing horse, 
 with his right hand elevated, and a sceptre in his left, — he is bare-headed, and the pallium 
 floats gracefully behind him. As this is a device typifying the return of peace, and was 
 stamped A. D. 240, it may allude to the quelling of the insurrection in Africa, an event which 
 was followed by an act of Gordian's clemency, in his granting a pardon to the rebels. 
 
( 260 ) 
 
 CCCCXLV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. GORDIANVS PIVS FEL. AVG. (Imperator Gordianus, Pius, Felix, Augustus.) 
 
 The laurelled profile of Gordian, with a more animated expression than usual ; the hair is closely 
 cut, the chin smooth, and the shoulders covered with a sagum. This medal is in the highest 
 preservation, and its metal scarcely discoloured; it was one of the treasure mentioned under 
 No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. P. M. TR. P. III. COS. P. P. [Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate tertium. 
 Consul, Pater Patrice). On the exerguin S. C. The Emperor, in consular vestments, is 
 seated on a handsome cuiule chair, with a truncheon in his left hand, and a globe supported 
 on his right. This is one of a great number of medals, struck A. D. 240, to testify the 
 popularity of Gordian: — " (Jmnes Milites eum Filium appellasse, ab omni Senatu Filium 
 dictum, otnnem Populum delicias suas Gordianum dixisse." Yet not a few of his adherents 
 prognosticated the shortness of his reign, from the unfortunate presage under which he took 
 possession of his dignity ; for on that very day there was so total an eclipse of the sun, that 
 people could not find their way, even at noon, without lighted torches.* 
 
 The " Orbis Terrarum " was proper enough in the hands of a Roman Emperor, as 
 significant of his command of the universe; but it is now strangely misapplied, as an 
 attribute of sovereigns, whose dominions are not larger than what was once a diminutive Roman 
 province. In the days of Petronius, it might well be said : — 
 " Orbem jam totum victor Romanus habebat, 
 Qua mare, qua tellus, qua sidus currit utrumque." 
 
 CCCCXLVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. GORDIANVS PIVS FEL. AVG. [Imperator Gordianus, Pius, Felix, Augustus.) 
 
 The laurelled profile of the Emperor, with intelligent features, short hair, and slight mus- 
 tachios, — indicating, on the whole, an age of about 20 years. This medal is in the highest 
 conservation, and barely discoloured on the obverse, having been found in one of the amphora? at 
 Malta. See No. CCCXCV. 
 Reverse. MARTEM PROPVGNATOREM. In the field S. C. The Emperor, galeated and armed 
 with a spear and shield, in the character of Mars Gradiens. This medal is singular from its having 
 the legend in the accusative case, as has been noticed by Rubenius. It was probably struck A. D. 
 241, when Gordian commenced his preparations against the powerful King of Persia, on which 
 occasion he threw open the temple of Janus, a custom which had long been omitted, and 
 perhaps was never afterwards resumed. Mars was the reputed founder of Rome, as well as 
 the patron and protector of the Roman armies ; and was so early an object of worship on the 
 Seven Hills, that he was adored under the form of a Spear, before the art of statuary was 
 known. The Equina, or games celebrated with horse and carriage races, were instituted in 
 his honour; whence Ovid — 
 
 " Jamque duae restant noctes de mense secundo, 
 MARsque citos junctis curribus urget equos. 
 Ex vero positum permansit Equiria nomen ; 
 Quae Deus in Campo prospicit ipse suo." 
 But Juvenal sneers at this God's popular designation of Ultor ; in which he was so highly 
 honoured, that the Romans deposited their treasures in his temple, till it was robbed, and even 
 his own helmet carried off — 
 
 " Great Mars the Avenger slumber'd, to his cost, 
 And, with his helmet, all his credit lost !" 
 
 * This phenomenon presents a chronological difficulty, which may perhaps be the subject of a future investigation. It 
 appears from Struyk's Catalogue, that a total eclipse of the sun occurred on the 12th of April, A. D. 237 ; and another in 
 which digits of the solar disc were obscured, on the 1st of April, 238. But the middle of the latter being at 20 h. 20 m. 
 proves, as well as the slight loss of light, that the first is the one meant by historians : — yet in reckoning the year of 
 (iordian's inauguration, the reader must recollect that some chronologists date the Christian aera from the commencement, 
 and others from the termination of the year of our Saviour. 
 
( 261 ) 
 
 CCCCXLVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. GORDIANVS PIVS FEL. AVG. {lmperator Gordianus, Pius, Felix, Augustus.) 
 
 The laurelled profile of Gordian, with an intelligent and pleasing aspect, and a pallium tabulated 
 over his right shoulder. This medal is in the highest possible preservation, and thinly tinted 
 with brown patina; it was one of those found at Malta. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. AETERNITATI AVG. {Mternitati August?). In the field S. C. A noble figure of 
 Apollo, standing with an air of command, his right, hand elevated, and supporting a globe ou 
 his left ; he wears an acuminate crown, but, except the chlamys over his shoulder, is naked. 
 The device of the Sun, is a compliment which was paid to those Emperors who achieved 
 conquests in the East, and the present one recognizes the repeated victories over Sapor, which 
 are also recorded by various other medals. The ingenuous youth ascribed his success to the 
 wisdom of his adviser, — "it is therefore," he wrote, addressing the Fathers, "incumbent upon you 
 to appoint public processions, to recommend us to the Gods, and to return thanks to Misitheus." 
 The delighted Senate thereupon decreed the Prince a triumph, in which he was to be drawn 
 by two elephants ; and they ordered to Misitheus, a triumphal horse-chariot, and the title of 
 "Guardian of the Commonwealth." These honours, however, did not take place ; the wily Philip 
 assumed the Purple : and Pedrusi, alluding to the legend of this coin, says — " Onde presto 
 termind V Eternita al diletto Monarca dal Senato augurata.'''' 
 
 Gordianus was honoured with a consecration, but, perhaps from political causes, no medals 
 record the fact, except a suspected one in the Vienna-Collection.* It is probable that he 
 left no children; for the fanciful story, which Victor relates, of the birth of the valiant 
 Claudius Gothicus, is not entitled to credit. 
 
 TRANQUILLINA. 
 
 Furia-f Sabinia Tranquillina, the daughter of Misitheus, the Praetorian Preefect, 
 was married to Gordianus Pius, A.D. 241, being then, from medallic inference, 
 under 20 years of age. She was immediately honoured with the title of Augusta ; 
 but. the felicity of her wedded life was of short continuance, for her husband took 
 the field against the Persians, A. D. 242, and she never afterwards saw him. Of 
 her subsequent fate, or whether she bore issue or not, history does not inform us. 
 
 The Emperor chose Misitheus — though of a name somewhat ominous J — for 
 his father-in-law, and counsellor, purely on account of his judgment, learning, 
 integrity, and irreproachable character; and he proved himself so worthy and 
 capable of the important trust, that the Senate decreed him — " Quadriya equorum, 
 et triumphalis currus, et titulus hujusmodi: JWisithco eminenti viro, Parenti 
 Principum, Prcetorii Prcefecto, et totius Urbis, Tutori Reipublicce S. P.Q.R. 
 
 * The medals of Gordian should not be quitted without observing, that a dupondius inscribed Trajcclu.s, is said to 
 attest that his army passed the Hellespont, over a bridge of boats,— though no writer records such a feat, from the time of 
 Xerxes: but the device more probably represents the passing of the Euphrates. It will not be forgotten that, the 
 relebrated Plotinus enlisted himself in this army, to gain an opportunity of conferring with the Persian and Indian 
 philosophers. 
 
 fThe name of Furia appears only on the Greek medals of this Princess, and some marbles; and the Sabinia of the 
 Latin mint, is spelt CABEINA, by the Greeks — whence some authors write Furia Sabina Tranquillina 
 J Could this name "God-Hater" have originated in any supposed favor towards Christianity? 
 
( 262 ) 
 
 vicem reddidit" We are assured that Tranquillina inherited all her father's good 
 qualities, uniting the greatest beauty with the strictest virtue, and that she did honour 
 to the high rank to which she was exalted. Indeed her noble conduct and affa- 
 bility gained the affection of the ladies of Roine so strongly, that they erected a 
 statue in honour of her, with a laudatory and appropriate inscription. The failure 
 of a long reign to sovereigns so deserving, was a misfortune deeply to be deplored 
 by Rome, and the whole world : 
 
 " But long before had Freedom's face been veiPd, 
 And anarchy assumed her attributes ; 
 Till every lawless soldier who assail'd 
 Trod on the trembling Senate's slavish mutes, 
 Or rais'd the venal voice of baser prostitutes." 
 
 The Latin medals of Tranquillina are of supreme rarity, and consequent high 
 price ; those of the Greek mint, though very scarce, are less difficult to procure ; 
 and the most common are the small potin of Egypt. For some years, I retained 
 n Concordia, with two figures taking each other's right hand ; butasitwas, on 
 repeated scrutiny, suspected to be a Carteron, J was obliged to discard it for a large 
 brass one struck at Singara/* 
 
 CCCCXLVIII. 
 
 Obverse. AYTOK. K. M. ANT. TOPAIANOC CAB. TPANKYAA5INA C£B. (/». 
 
 perator Ccesar Marcus Antonius Gordianus. Sabinia Tranquillina Augusta). The 
 profiles of Gordian and Tranquillina adversa, the former with the characteristics already 
 described, and the latter with handsome features, a well-turned neck, and the hair curiously 
 plaited towards a frontal diadem, so as to give the head an elegant helmetted air. This fine 
 medal is in perfect preservation, and covered with an apple-green patina; it was a present 
 from my friend, Mr. T. Burgon, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. AYP. CSU. KOA. CINTAPA. (Aurelia, Septimia, Colonia Singara.) A veiled 
 female, seated on a rock, as a personification of Singara, an important town of Mesopotamia, 
 which obtained the Iso-politan franchise ; and from whence Zingari, the widely-extended appel- 
 lation for Gypsies, may have taken its rise. She holds an ear of wheat i n her right hand, as em- 
 blematic of plenty ; and over her head is the sign Sagittarius, significant of skill in archery. 
 At her feet, a swimmer typifies the river Mygdonius, on the banks of which Singara was 
 built ; and she is crowned with turrets : — 
 
 " Felix prole virum, qualis Berecynthia mater 
 Invehitur curm Phrygias turrita per urbes, 
 Lseta deum partu." 
 
 PHILIP SENIOR. 
 
 Marcus Julius Philippus, the son of a predatory chieftain, was born at Bostra, 
 in Arabia, about A. D. 204 ; and being brought up in the Roman armies, added 
 
 * The ingenious Mr. Doubleday, whose skill in making casts of seals, medals, and gems, is so well known, having lately 
 told me his intention of visiting Paris, 1 begged him to request M. Mionnet's permission to take an impression from the 
 large-brass Tranquillina, in the French Cabinet— which was liberally granted. On this medal, the bust of the Empress 
 is plaeed upon a crescent, which is at once typical of chastity and majesty, from its allusion to Diana — "Donee totum 
 impleat orbemP 
 
( 263 ) 
 
 experience and valour to the wariness which he may have inherited. Upon the 
 death of Misitheus, whom he was strongly suspected of poisoning, he was made 
 captain of the Praetorians, and general of Gordian's army, in which capacity he 
 had the address to gain so much upon the passions of the soldiers, as to accomplish 
 the destruction of his amiable benefactor, and cause himself to be proclaimed Emperor, 
 and his son, Caesar, A. D. 244. On the news of Gordian's death, it is said that 
 one Marcius was raised to the Purple, who died, or was slain shortly after his 
 election ; and in his room Severus Hostilianus was pitched upon, who expired 
 under venesection : for both of whom Goltzius conjures up coins. It is more 
 probable, however, that the Senate without hesitation confirmed the choice of the 
 army, since Philip patched up a hasty and rather dishonourable peace with the 
 Persians, and returned to Rome.-* The better to establish his throne, he gave to his 
 brother, Priscus, the command of the troops in Syria, and made Severian, his son-in- 
 law, governor of Moesia and Macedonia ; employments which proved above the capa- 
 city of those officers. A revolt under lotapian was speedily quieted ; but the legions of 
 Pannonia having saluted Marinus as Emperor, Philip ordered Decius, a general of 
 courage and experience — much against the will of the latter — to that government; who 
 was no sooner arrived at the camp, than the soldiers compelled him to accept the 
 sovereignty. Philip was thunderstruck at the tidings; and well knowing that this 
 revolt was more dangerous than that which the Usurper had been sent to suppress, 
 marched against him with all expedition. The sagacious rebel, having timely 
 notice of his master's approach, met him in battle-array, and a bloody engagement 
 ensued, in which "abundance of men were destroyed." The Arabian being 
 defeated, fled to Verona, and lost the empire by means of treason as he had 
 himself obtained it. His head was severed through the teeth, from his body, 
 A.D. 249, a mutilation to which the ancients had a singular abhorrence; and 
 though no medals confirm the fact, we are assured by Eutropius, that both he and 
 his son, who was also murdered, received the honours of consecration. 
 
 Philip has been detractingly styled "a robber by birth," and depicted as cruel, 
 proud, and pompous ; — " fort insolent^ allier, arrogant, audacieux, per- 
 fide, et ingrat," says old Tristan. But these invectives are not borne out 
 
 * From the death of the younger Gordian, there is an hiatus of nine or ten years, in the Augustan Writers, in parts of 
 which the statements of Zonaras and Zosimus are at variance with other testimonies. Sir Walter Raleigh was not the first 
 who deplored the difficulty of substantiating historical facts ; for Vopiscus, one of the best of those " Scriptores," w ho 
 compiled a life of Probus, only fourteen years after the death of that Prince, says — "Probum — scriptorum inopia jam 
 pene nescimus.' 1 '' Bryant doubted whether Troy ever existed, and Scaliger proves that it was taken when the moon was 
 at full. In like manner the rural antiquaries of the town I am now writing in, believed that the redoubtable Offa was 
 buried in a chapel near Bedford bridge — while Panvinio, in his account of the seven principal churches of Rome, published 
 in 1570, distinctly asserts that the corpses of Cedoaldo and Offa, kings of England, are interred in St. Peter's. Otfa deserves 
 mention in a medallic catalogue, because his coins, from A, D. 758 to 796, are the best executed of all the Anglo-Saxon series. 
 
( 264 ) 
 
 by general inference ; nor even by such accounts of him as, from the loss of 
 Trebellius Pollio's works, we are obliged to receive from writers who are evidently his 
 enemies. It seems that he was energetic, bold, and unprincipled, little troubled with 
 scruples as to the means by which he gained power ; but withal so politic, that 
 he won the affections of the Senate and People, by a popular demeanour and mild 
 administration. He had the honour of reviving the Scantinian law, against that 
 detestable impurity which equally dishonoured Rome and humanity ; and he exer- 
 cised the principles of good government so far, that St. Jerome, Nicephorus,Cedrenus, 
 the Syncellus, and many others, wished to claim him as a Christian. But those claims 
 are as difficult to establish as that of our own King Lucius, of contested memory ; for 
 although those writers affirm that Philip was a convert from paganism, and mention 
 the penance he underwent at Antioch, to wash away his villainous treason, there is 
 no sufficient authority for supposing that he did more than befriend the " new sect," 
 either on his wife's account, or, as has been insinuated, to attach it to his party. On 
 the contrary, — the silence of all the heathen authors upon this subject, his deification 
 of Gordian, his celebrating the Secular Games, his medallion inscribed " Ex 
 Oraculo ApoU'inis," and his being consecrated, though not positive proofs, are 
 certainly strong arguments against the supposition of his having been a Christian.* 
 
 There are Latin medals of Philip, in each of the metals and magnitudes, except 
 the small-brass ; and there are also numerous coins of the Colonies, Greece, and 
 Egypt. A peculiarity in the mintage of this reign, is observable on those denarii 
 which record the Secular Games, in their being marked arithmetically from I to VI, 
 as if to shew the order in which the animals were exhibited : and others bear Greek 
 initial letters, apparently signifying numbers. The Greek Imperial Medallion, said 
 to have been struck by the Apameans in honour of Philip, must not be forgotten ; for, 
 however slight its claims to genuineness may be, Jacob Bryant has quoted it as an 
 authentic traditional evidence of the Mosaic Deluge. An ark is seen on the waters, 
 with a dove perched on it, and a man and a woman inside it, the latter veiled ; the 
 letters N.Q£ under the man. On the left of the field, the same persons are repre- 
 sented as having just landed, with hands uplifted in thanksgiving, and over them is 
 a dove on the wing, with a branch in its bill. 
 
 CCCCXL1X. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. M. IVL. PIIILIPPVS AVG. (Imperator Marcus Julius Philippus, Augustus.) 
 
 The laureated head of Philip, with a short beard, and hair cut so closely as to merit the epithet 
 " veriice raso ; the features are manly and intelligent, the neck short, and the shoulders 
 robed. This medal, the metal of which is hardly discoloured, was found in one of the amphorae 
 described under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 * Tiilemont admits Philip's claim, but clogs it with such difficulties, as to remind us of Gibbon's sarcastic remark 
 that he " never dismisses a virtuous emperor without pronouncing his damnation," 
 
( 265 ) 
 
 Reverse FIDES EXER.CITVS. On the exergum S. C. Four standards planted in a row, the inner 
 being the legionary eagle and a manipulus, and the outer ones common ensigns. This symbol 
 of the adherence and allegiance of the army, was usually struck on the soldiers' taking their 
 Sacramentum, or military oath, to a new emperor, and thereby insuring the public tranquillity. 
 Nothing was more sacred in theory than this fidelity, as having religion itself for its 
 foundation, and forming a security against deceit and falsehood : — " Take away," says Cicero, 
 " the reverence that is due to the Gods, and Faith is at an end.'' Attilius Calatiuus con- 
 secrated a temple to her in the Capitol, perhaps that alluded to by Juvenal — 
 
 " Colitur Pax, atque Fides, Victoria, Virtus." 
 
 The standards were worshipped by the soldiers, as the " Numina legionum," in order to 
 secure the smiles of Fortune, — good luck being, according to the Satirist, better for a warrior, 
 than a letter of introduction to Mars, even from the Deity's mistress, or mother. See No. 
 CCCXXVII. Du Choul, who wrote in 1581, mentions a curious medal of this description, 
 which was given him by his friend M. Grolier — " Amateur singulier de Pant ignite." It 
 bears, on both sides, two right hands joined in concord, the obverse being inscribed Fides 
 Excrcituum, and the reverse Fides Provinciarum. 
 
 CCCCL. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. M. IVL. PHILIPPVS AVG. (Imperator Marcus Julius Philippus, Augustus.) 
 
 The laurelled profile of Philip, with close hair and beard, serious expression of countenance, 
 and broad throat. This medal, in excellent condition, and slightly tinged with brown patina, 
 was one of the Maltese hoard. See CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. NOBIL1TAS AVGG. {Nobilitas Augustorum.) In the field S. C. A female, habited as 
 a Roman matron, stands with a sacred virga in her right hand, and a globe on her left. 
 Philip's foul treachery to Gordian, and his giving up Mesopotamia and Armenia, to purchase 
 a peace from Sapor, had rendered him unpopular in the " Eternal City." But his obliging 
 behaviour, and repeated liberalities, of which three are recorded on medals, soon gained its 
 affections, — especially as those provinces were soon afterwards restored, to commemorate 
 which, the denarius inscribed " Pax fundata cum Persis" was probably struck. Among 
 other modes of courting popularity, the Emperor, by this device, proclaimed the nobility of his 
 origin, — and, indeed, his father's having been a robber, was no mark of a mean extiaction, m 
 Arabia. Commodus was the first who assumed this type upon medals, — for a noble descent 
 was a distinction on which the Romans of family greatly piqued themselves ; ostentatiously 
 exhibiting the images of their ancestors at games, triumphs, and funerals, — and none were 
 prouder, on those occasions, than the Novi Homines. Juvenal lashes such vanity with a 
 heavy thong, in his Vlllth Satire, and perhaps suggested to Pope his well known phrase of the 
 " Noblest work of God :" — 
 
 " Fond man ! though all the heroes of your line 
 Bedeck your halls, and round your galleries shine, 
 In proud display; yet, take this truth from me, 
 Virtue alone is true Nobility. 
 
 CCCCLI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. M. IVL. PHILIPPVS AVG. (Imperator Marcus Julius Philippus, Augustus.) 
 
 The laurelled head of Philip, with short hair and beard, and an intelligent aspect. This 
 medal, slightly spotted with pea-green patina, and in high perfection, was found at Malta. 
 See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. TRANQVILLITAS AVGG. (Tranquillitas Augustorum.) In the field S. C. A stolated 
 female, standing with a sceptre in her left hand, and a monster on her right, which some 
 medallists have termed a Capricorn, and others — regardless of its legs — a dolphin ; but 
 Alexander Visconti describes the lady as holding a " cavallo marino nella sinistra, denotante 
 la tranquillitd nell 'onrfe del mare," — which is about the last emblem a sailor would have 
 
 2m 
 
( 266 ) 
 
 suggested.* This type, however, was complimentary to the army, whose faith and valour had 
 preserved the public quiet, being, as Eckhel has said, the military standard called the Dragon, 
 which was appropriated to the cohort as the Eagle was to the legion ; and this legend, as well as 
 «« tfpiitia fimdata," "Pax a>terna," " Fcl'tcitas temporum," and "Fortuna Redux," 
 which are found in abundance, was meant as a vain boast of the happiness of the reign. 
 One would think Shakspeare had seen this and the preceding medal side by side, when he 
 made Gadshill class Nobility and Tranquillity together, as good burgo-masters. 
 
 Tranquillitas was supposed to rule the mind in the steadiest manner; for though morally 
 distinguishable from Peace and Concord, she was considered as the happy effect of both, and 
 as implying a slill more absolute preservation of order and prosperity. St. Augustine was 
 surprised at finding her temple outside the Porta Collina, whiie Agerona, Stimula, Murcia, and 
 Strenua, were admitted into the city. But Vivez, the Valencian, in his Commentary on that 
 Saint's woik, dedicated to our Henry Vlllth, supposes Tranquillitas to have been a companion 
 of Orcus Quietalis, who presides over the repose of the dead, from her temple being placed 
 among the tombs, 
 
 CCCCLII. 
 
 Obverse, IMP. M. IVL. PHiLIPPVS AVG. (Imperator Marcus Julius Phi/ippus, Augustus.) 
 
 The laureated head of the Emperor, with short hair and beard, good features, small mouth, 
 aquiline nose, and full throat; but the expression is so serious as to be hardly consistent with 
 the " horse-laugh," in which he is said to have indulged. This fine medal, in the most perfect 
 condition and barely discoloured, formed one of the Maltese hoard. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. ADVENTVS AVGG. (Adventus Augustorum.) On the exergum S. C. An equestrian 
 figure of the Emperor, in camp-attire, but bare-headed, with a sceptre in his left hand, and 
 his right elevated. This has usually been considered a commemoration of Philip's return 
 from Persia, after founding Philippopolis, A. D. 244 ;— but, from the AVGG., I cannot but 
 date it three years later, and assign it to his successful return from the expedition against the 
 Caipi.f when his son was associated with him as an Augustus. 
 
 From the extraordinary disproportion between the steed and its rider, the Emperor is 
 probably mounted on the Asturco, or ambling nag, as a more appropriate emblem of returning 
 peace, than the Equus beilator, or charger. The last formed a good device for the medals 
 inscribed with the "Profectio" or departure, because it was the symbol of war, even to its 
 very shoes — -"Bellum calces Equi."— -or as Virgil says- — 
 
 " Bello armantur Equi, bellum hsec armeuta minantur." 
 CCCCLIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. M. IVL. PHILIPPVS AVG. (Jmperator Marcus Julius PhUippus, Augustus.) 
 
 A manly and characteristic head of Philip, with the laurel wreath, and his shoulders covered 
 by a sagum. This medal, in the highest condition, and partially tinged with Saxon-green 
 patina, was one of those found at Malta, See No, CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. MILLIA1UVM SAECVLVM. In the field S. C. A cippus inscribed COS. III. (Consul 
 tertium.) This was struck A. D. 248, the year in which Philip celebrated the Secular Games, 
 in honour of the completion of the 1000th anniversary of Rome ; for which purpose he had 
 retained the Fasces, with his son for a colleague, from the preceding year. This was the ninth 
 und last performance of the famous ,( Ludi Circenses," as they were subsequently merged into 
 the Christian Jubilees ; and the rejoicings of Honorius, more than 150 years afterwards, for 
 the timely victory over Alaric, are to be regarded as Ludi Triumphales. Zosimus grieves 
 over the degeneracy of the times, and ascribes the decline of the empire, to the neglect of such 
 
 * Jobert had previously described the medal of Antoninus Piug, where Tranquillity is represented holding a rudder, 
 and M ine ears ot' wheat, as signifying that, in fine weather, abundance of grain may be brought by sea to Rome,— a 
 supposition somewhat more admissible than ViscontiV, who probably had Neptune's car, as described by Virgil, in view. 
 
 t What could have induced Father Hardouin to suppose that these Tran9-Danubians were located in Africa? Though 
 history fails, at this particular period, the medallic evidence is satisfactory, as he might have seen in Spanheim, " l)t 
 I'- 1 tettaviia ct w.sa Sumumatum Antiquarum." 
 
( 267 ) 
 
 pious solemnities. Those, in commemoration of which this medal was struck, were carried 
 to an unprecedented degree of magnificence, and lasted — with scrupulous regard to triplicity — 
 three days and nights without intermission, a brilliant glare from innumerable torches, 
 supplying the absence of the sun. Among other shews, all the wild and strange animals 
 which Gordian had collected, for his Persian triumph, were exhibited, baited, and slain ; and 
 the populace, under a plenary direption, were permitted to " bag" whatever they could secure. 
 Orosius says, that Philip turned the extraordinary festival to the interests of Christianity ; but 
 he has not pointed out in what manner. See No. CCCXXXVI. 
 
 The exact zero-point for this 1000th year of Rome, is rather puzzling to determine, and 
 it is therefore customary to follow in the wake ofVario; for Chronologists too often adopt 
 what suits their scheme, and boldly erase what it is difficult to arrange — after the manner of 
 Paul Pezron, with the Chronicle of Manetho. In one point, however, the medal is important, 
 since it confirms, beyond contradiction, the correctness of the vulgar calculation, against 
 Sir Isaac Newton's Essay, which cuts off 125 years from the age of the Eternal City. 
 
 CCCCLIV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. M. IVL. PHILIPPVS AVG. [Imperator Marcus Julius Philippus, Augustus.) 
 
 The laurelled head of the Emperor, with peculiarities as before-mentioned. This medal, in 
 fine perfection and incrusted with a dense-brown patina, was purchased at Mr. Henderson's 
 sale, in 1 830 ; being superior in execution to those of a similar type, which were found at Malta. 
 
 Reverse. SAECVLARES AVGG. (Sceculares Augustorum.) On the exerguin S. C. A noble lion, 
 which, from its attitude, must represent one of the " Leones mansuelV mentioned by Caps- 
 tolinus. It seems that there were provided no fewer than 32 elephants, 10 tigers, 10 elks, bO 
 lions, 30 leopards, 10 hyaenas, 1 hippopotamus, 1 rhinoceros, 40 wild horses, 20 wild asses, 
 and 10 camelopards, with a vast quantity of deer, goats, antelopes, and other beasts. And 
 still further to increase the public hilarity, 2000 gladiators were matched in mortal affray : — 
 
 " and now 
 
 The arena swims around him — he is gone, 
 
 Ere ceased the inhuman shout which hail'd the wretch who w»n." 
 " He heard it, but he heeded not — his eyes 
 Were with his heart, and that was far away ; 
 He reck'd not of the life he lost, nor prize, 
 But where his rude hut by the Danube lay ; 
 There were his young barbarians all at play, 
 There was their Dacian mother — he, their sire, 
 Butcher' d to make a Roman holiday — 
 All this rush'd with his blood — shall I expire 
 And unavenged ? Arise ! ye Goths, and glut your ire ! " 
 CCCCLV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. M. IVL. PHILIPPVS AVG. (Imperator Marcus Julius Philippus, Augustus.) 
 
 The laurelled head of Philip, with the aquiline nose, and serious expression before-mentioned. 
 This fine medal, in perfect preservation and slightly spotted with grass-green patina, was one 
 of the Maltese hoard mentioned under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. SAECVLARES AVGG. [Sceculares Augustorum.) On the exerguin S. C. A huge 
 she-wolf in the act of suckling Romulus and Remus. The founding of Rome could not In 
 celebrated without noticing its founders ; and here we have a device in their honour, ratlin 
 different from that desciibed under No. CCXIII. Some writers tell us, that these 
 rejoicings ended in the conflagration of Pompey's theatre, together with the Centum Columna- 
 and other noble edifices; — while others say it was burnt in the preceding year — perhaps while 
 they were rehearsing the midnight spectacles.* Be this as it may, the loss of a theatre was 
 
 * F.ckhel is surprised at the damage done to ancient Rome by fire, and asserts that they manage better in the present 
 city, insomuch that a modern Erostratus would be baffled in trying to burn St. Peter's : " Sane si quis Iwdie existent 
 Hcrostratus, qui cuperet magnificentissimam Roma D. Petri basilicam jlammis abolere, modum, quo facinus patrarc 
 posset, non reperiret.'" 
 
( 268 ) 
 
 a heavy calamity to the. luxurious Romans; and the illustrious factions of White, Grey, 
 Green, and Ked — thus enumerated by Sidonius Apollinaris: — 
 
 " micant colores, 
 
 Albus cum veneto, virens rubensque " — 
 
 must, for a while, have compounded their weighty contests. See No. LXXXVIII. 
 
 CCCCLVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. M. IV L. PHILIPPVS AVG. [Imperator Marcus Julius Philippus, Augustus.) 
 
 An excellent profile of the Emperor, with the laurel crown over short hair, and an intelligent 
 but seiious aspect. This medal, of unpatinated brass, and in the highest condition, was found 
 bv one of the Arabs whom 1 employed in the excavations at Leptis Magna, near Tripoli, 
 in 1816. 
 
 Reverse. SAECULARES AVGG. [Saculares Augustorum.) On the exergum S. C. A stag, 
 apparently of the red-deer kind, standing with his head erect. Pedrusi, who has figured this 
 medal, thinks it symbolises longevity ; but it, more probably, merely represents one of the 
 animals provided on this occasion for a counterfeit chase, such as that for which Probus trans- 
 planted whole trees in full verdure, till the circus resembled a forest. Smollett sneers with 
 supreme contempt at those Roman attempts at artificial Nimrodism; and, ridiculing their 
 nauinachia, exclaims — " How would it sound in the ears of a British sailor, an advertisement, 
 that a mock engagement between two squadrons of men-of-war would be exhibited on such a 
 day in the Serpentine river?" Poor Smollett! Within 50 years of his writing that letter, 
 all London was thrown into ecstacies by a miniature sea-fight, on that very piece of water, at 
 the national expence. 
 
 CCCCLVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. M. IVL. PHILIPPVS AVG. {Imperator Marcus Julius Philippus, Augustus.) 
 
 A fine profile of the Emperor, laurelled, and with the saguin over his shoulders. This medal, 
 in very excellent preservation and slightly stained with grass-green patina, was found at 
 Malta, as mentioned under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. SAECVLARES AVGG. (Sceculares Augustorum.) On the exergum S. C. The Damis, 
 an antelope of the species now known by the name of Gazelle, a corruption of the Arab Ghazal — 
 the "Capra Afiicana" of the Italians ; and probably representing another of the animals presented 
 for the sport of the populace. Oiselius, describing this medal, says — " videre est animal quod- 
 datn ignotis cornibus, quod Strepsicerola esse existimat A. Rubenius ;" but according to the 
 "old " scholiast, that seasonable friend of all puzzled antiquaries, the name of Strepsiceros is 
 applicable to those varieties of the genus, which have turbinated horns. 
 
 CCCCLVI1I. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. M. IVL. PHILIPPVS AVG. Imperator Marcus Julius Philippus, Augustus.) 
 
 The laurelled head of Philip, attired as before, but with the nose rather more aquiline, and the 
 features firmer. This remarkably fine medal is in the highest possible preservation, and only 
 slightly discoloured with spots of grass-green patina; it was one of the hoard discovered at 
 Casal Zurika. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. AETERNITAS AVGG. (JEternitas Augustorum ) On the exergum S. C. A caparisoned 
 elephant, with a naked rider, who holds a goad in each hand, and sits on the animal's back, a 
 less usual berth than the neck, or shoulders. This was one of the collection of beasts, which 
 Gordian had prepared for his triumph, but which became an organ of his destroyer's popularity 
 and fame ; for there can be no doubt that the medal was struck on the occasion of the secular 
 games, though the legend merely augurs the length of Philip's reign, of which the longevity 
 of the elephant was deemed typical ; and has no relation to the Emperor's asserted deification. 
 See Nos. VIII. and CCCXXXIV. I once heard it remarked upon this medal, that the 
 cube of 10, a complete number, multiplied by itself, answers to the date of the city, and 
 might therefore be properly typified by Eternity ; and also, that the celebration of so rare 
 a solemity, would perpetuate the memory of the two Augusti. 
 
( 269 ) 
 
 CCCCLIX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. M. IVL. PHILIPPVS AVG. {Imperator Marcus Julius Philippus, Augustus.) 
 
 The laureated profile of Philip, with an expressive but very sedate expression of features, and 
 the pallium upon his shoulders buckled over armour. This medal, in the finest condition 
 and cased with greenish-black patina, was presented to me by Sir Patrick Ross, of the 75th 
 Regiment, at Zaute, in 1819. 
 
 Reverse. SAECVLVM NOVVM. On the exergum S. C. A superb temple of eight columns on a 
 triple plinth, with three small statues on its apex, and one on each side of the pediment, 
 with waving veils- -"a guisa d'lride," and apparently seated. In the centre sits a figure with a 
 hasta pura ; some will have this to be the Emperor himself; while others, among whom is 
 the discerning Vaillaut, insist that it represents Jupiter Capitoliuus. Had it, however, been 
 meant for the latter, there would have been, as on that of Vespasian, the other two Capitoline 
 deities ; moreover the upper part of the idol would have been naked — which is not the case — 
 and the head appears to be tutulated. It probably alludes to a temple consecrated, perhaps in 
 A. D. 248, to commemorate the New .Era ; for the Sceculum Novum of the legend intimates, that 
 the 1000th year from the building of Rome having expired, another age had commenced ; as has 
 been already observed in the 9th Dissertation of Spanheim, one of the best medallists who ever 
 applied F. R. S. to his name. It is remarkable, that this reverse appears on the denarii of 
 Etruscilla, Hostilianus, Trebonianus, and Volusianus. 
 
 OTACILIA. 
 
 Marcia Otacilia Severa is one of those Empresses of whom so little mention is 
 made in history, that it is not known whether she was of Dacian, Arabian, 
 or, as her name would imply, of Roman birth. She appears to have been mar- 
 ried to Philip Senior about A.D. 234, and was saluted Augusta, on her husband's 
 elevation to the Purple, ten years afterwards. Besides the younger Philip, she had 
 a daughter, whose name is unknown, but who, according to Zosimus, was the 
 w ife of Severianus, the Praetor of Mcesia and Macedonia. When her husband and 
 son were murdered, A.D. 249, Otacilia was permitted to retire into private life, 
 and nothing further is related respecting her. 
 
 The several writers assert that this Princess was religious, prudent, and virtu- 
 ous ; and that she not only professed Christianity herself, but also persuaded her 
 husband and son to embrace it. Yet I am " free to confess," as our states- 
 men say, that after having handled so many of her coins in honour of the goddesses 
 of Fecundity, Piety, Modesty, Security, and Concord, besides her participation in 
 the Secular ceremonials, and her Juno Conservatrix,* I feel inclined to agree 
 with the worthy Tristan, that instead of the pure doctrine of revealed religion — 
 " elles semblent marquer toute autre verite, par la multitude de diverses sui tes 
 de deitez, qui y sunt representees." But this consideration must not suppress 
 an anecdote which has been recorded on the authority of St. Chrysostom, in 
 
 * Juno was struck both on silver and brass ; and is incompatible for a Christian, even if the Virtues might be allowed. 
 
( 270 ) 
 
 support of the contrary position. When Gordian was "done away with," the new 
 Imperial family arrived at Antioch towards the end of Lent, and were desirous of 
 joining in the service that was to be performed on Easter eve. Babylas, the 
 Bishop of that city, met them at the church door, prevented them from advancing, 
 and unawed by the presence of the master of the world, represented to Philip the 
 impropriety of his entering that holy place with hands that were polluted with 
 the blood of his benefactor; and that after having committed so heinous a crime, 
 he could not assist at those sacred rites, till he had expiated his guilt by penance. 
 The Emperor and Empress on this remonstrance sacrificed dignity to duty, and 
 having submitted to the penalty imposed by the Bishop, received absolution. 
 This story is the less probable, because the best authorities assure us, that Philip 
 carefully concealed his having been instrumental to the death of the beloved 
 Gordian. 
 
 There are Latin medals of Otacilia, in each of the metals and sizes, except 
 assaria ; the silver, and large and middle-brass being so common, as only to be 
 retained for singularity of type, or height of perfection. There are also Greek 
 and Colonial brass, from medallions to coins of the third magnitude, besides the 
 potin of Egypt. A remarkable coin bearing the Furies, struck by the Antiochians 
 of Caria, in honour of Otacilia, deserves distinct mention, because it was not 
 usual to represent the vices, or hurtful beings, Ihough deified, upon Imperial medals ■ 
 and not only Luxuria, Superbia, Vindicta, Ambitio, Mephitis, and other inauspi- 
 cious ladies, were banished from the Roman mint — but even the twin brothers, 
 Mors and Somnus, and Pluto,*- the "Jupiter infernus et Siygius." On this coin, 
 the awful "agmina soeva sororum" — whom Apollo, in iEschylus, abusingly de- 
 signates "Old Maids" — are armed with the snakes, torches, and poniards, to punish and 
 torment wickedness ; and at their feet are gaunt dogs — " visceque canes ululare per 
 umbras." The hags awaited the judgment of Rhadamanthus, upon sinners, with 
 an impatience that marked them as Furies ; and they were attended by Terror, 
 Paleness, and Death : — 
 
 " Fear, and Dismay, and agonizing Pain, 
 
 With frantic Kage, complete the loveless train. "f 
 
 CCCCLX. 
 
 Obverse. MARCIA OTACIL. SEVERA AVG. (Marcia Otacilia Severa, Augusta.) The profile 
 of the Empress, with a serious but pleasing expression of countenance, considerable beauty, 
 and an appearance of about 30 years of age. The hair is parted in front, carried behind the 
 
 * Tanini thought he hatl discovered Pluto on a denarius of Valerianus, inscribed JEternitati Jtuyy., where a bearded 
 man, veiled and togated, is seen with a sickle ; but it is evidently Saturn. 
 
 f Spanheim mentions a coin, also bearing Tisiphone, Alecto, and Megaera, which was struck at Lyrbe, a Pamphylian 
 town, to the southward of Antioch, in the reign of the younger Gordian. 
 
( 271 ) 
 
 ears in waves, and brought up at the back of the head in a broad plait to a diadem on the crown, 
 so as to give the lady a galeated appearance. This medal, in the highest preservation, and 
 slightly tinged with spots of pea-green patina, was one of the Maltese hoard. See 
 No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. PIETAS AVGVSTAE. In the field S. C. A standing female, robed in the suffibulum, and 
 veiled with the long flammeum, holds an open acerra with her left, and bears a flame upon 
 her right hand. This alludes to the devotion with which the Imperial family celebrated the 
 Secular Games, and is certainly against the notion entertained by so many learned men, — 
 for the incense-casket alone is sufficient to demolish the tale of Otacilia's baptism. See 
 CCCXCII. Piety was a term of extended application, not only comprehending the duty of 
 man towards the Gods, but also the respect of children towards their parents, and the due 
 performance of the social compact ; so that although it was short of Grace, in our sense of the 
 word, it must be classed among the perfections of the soul. The filial attribute of this Virtue 
 will be recollected in the interesting story of the " Roman Charity," by which a prison was 
 converted into a temple of Piety : it is told both by Valerius Maximus, and the elder Pliny. 
 
 CCCCLXI. 
 
 Obverse. MARCIA OTACIL. SEVERA AVG. [Marcia Otacilia Severa, Augusta.) A fine head 
 of Otacilia, with a modest air, head-dress as before, and the bosom neatly robed. This 
 medal, in splendid perfection, and thinly varnished with brown patina, was one of the 
 collection found at Casal Zurika, as related under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. SAECVLARES AVGG. (Saculares Augustorum.) On the exergum S. C. A well- 
 represented Hippo-potamus walking, which, though not altogether unknown, being the only one 
 exhibited, was probably " the lion" of the Secular spectacles of A. D. 248; having been, 
 according to a denarius of the same Empress, stamped with the numerals 1 1 1 1 , the fourth of 
 the curious beasts introduced into the Circus on that occasion. This animal was well known 
 in Egypt in ancient times, and though it disappeared from thence in the age of Julian, it is 
 so associated with the recollections of that country, that some of the Italian medallists still call it 
 the " Elefante Nilotic©." Some of the old naturalists insisted upon its being actually like a horse ; 
 though it resembles that spirited and beautiful quadruped.no more than does a porcupine, a tiger, 
 a badger, or any thing that has the faculty of running upon four legs. Bochart asserts it to be 
 She Behemoth of Job : the description, however, is not so clear as that of the Leviathan, 
 or Crocodile, in the succeeding chapter. But though the modern Hippo-potamus does not 
 quite equal the monstrous Behemoth of Scripture, it is nevertheless a most formidable creature, 
 and the importation must have given no little trouble to those who shipped him. Having "tried 
 my hand" at this kind of work, I entertain a fellow-feeling for the distresses of the ancient 
 mariners ; whose terrors, as they transported the wild beasts over the sea, are well depicted 
 by Claudian,-— 
 
 "The fainting slave let fall his trembling oar, 
 And the pale master fear'd the freight he bore." 
 
 PHILIP JUNIOR. 
 
 Marcus Julias Philippus Junior, the son of Philip Senior and Otacilia, was 
 horn about A. D. 237, and declared Csesar at the early age of seven years. He 
 was the first who bore the title of Nobilis Ccesar, a distinction which was con- 
 tinued afterwards to the princes not associated in the empire — and was also 
 bestowed on those to whom the Emperors intrusted the cares of the State. Thejoung' 
 Philip uas associated in the government, with the title of Augustus, A. D. 247, 
 
( 272 ) 
 
 and served the office of Consul for that, and the following year, with his father, 
 that they might jointly celebrate the Secular Games. Zosimus thinks he was killed 
 with his father, at Verona; but more accredited accounts say, that when ihe news 
 of the Emperor's death arrived at Rome, Otacilia carried the youth to the camp 
 for protection, where the soldiers immediately slew him, in the arms of his mother. 
 This happened in the summer of A. D. 249; and though he was deified by the 
 Senate, Padre de Natalibus reckons him among the martyrs of the church. 
 
 Most authors agree in describing young Philip, as a youth well educated, and 
 of promising hopes, but withal so grave that, after his fifth year, no one, by any 
 contrivance, ever could make him smile ; and when his father once laughed aloud in 
 the circus, the boy was observed to frown at him, with manifest displeasure : — 
 " JV am Ludibus Scecularibus ridentem Patrem severo vultu inspcxisse dicilur, 
 nelut ilium corrigens." It is asserted that his mother wisely instructed him in the 
 tenets of the Christians ; but the part he played in the celebration of the Secular 
 Games — so abhorrent to their faith — seems to contradict the assertion. Appre- 
 hension, however, whether moral or religious, may have infused the melancholy 
 for which — though of such tender years — he was remarkable ; for never were times 
 in which it was more necessary, for the Princes of Rome, to repeat the almost 
 inspired lines of Horace : — 
 
 " Inter spem curaroque, timores inter et iras, 
 Omnem crede diem tibi diluxisse supremum : 
 Grata superveniet, quae non sperabitur, hora." 
 
 The silver and large and middle-brass Roman medals of this Prince are so 
 common as to be valued principally according to their perfection ; but the aurei and 
 medallions are rare, and high priced. There were also Colonial, Greek-Imperial, 
 and Egyptian coins struck in his honour ; and among them was one bearing the 
 Three Furies, which, like that of his mother, was stamped at Antioch. Struvius 
 plausibly thinks that this device alludes to the triple powers of Diana, to whom the 
 ancients assigned duties in hell, on earth, and in heaven. 
 
 In mixed Cabinets, the coins of the younger Philip are followed by those of 
 Marinus and Jotapianus, the rebel chiefs ; and also by those of Pacatianus and 
 Sponsianus, two " pretenders" entirely unknown to history : but there are no Latin 
 medals of either of them. 
 
 CCCCLXII. 
 
 Obverse. M. IVL. PHILIPPVS CAES. (Marcus Julhis Philippus, Ccesar.) The bare and 
 boyish head of the younger Philip, with innocent features, and so pleasing an air as afford 
 little corroboration to Ihe story of his never smiling. This medal, in the highest possible 
 perfection, with the metal hardly discoloured, was one of the Maltese treasure, mentioned under 
 No. CCCXCV. 
 
( 273 ) 
 
 Reverse. PRINCIPI IVVENT. (Principi Juventutis.) In the field S. C. The young Prince, 
 habited in a camp-dress, holds a globe and a hasta pura, or wand, so called because it was not 
 pointed with iron. This simple distinction, the precursor of the white rods of our couit 
 officers, was often the reward of military merit, and at all times a badge of honour, as well 
 as a symbol of authority ; whence Virgil describes Marcellus as — 
 
 — — — " pura juvenis qui nititur hasta." 
 
 This medal was probably struck A. D. 244,* on the Caesar's becoming "First," or — as 
 following the example of Conyers Middleton, who puts Emperor for lmperator — I have in 
 this Catalogue rendered it, " Prince" of the Roman Youth. See No. CCLXXXI1I. 
 
 CCCCLX1II. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. M. IVL. PHILIPPVS AVG. {lmperator Marcus Julius Philippus, Augustus.) A 
 handsome profile of Philip Junior, who has now assumed the Augustan laurels ; his shoulders 
 are covered with a chlamys over a cuirass. This singularly fine medal is in perfect condition, 
 and barely discoloured ; it was one of the hoard found at Casal Zurika. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. L1BERALITAS AVGG. III. {Liberalitas Augustorum, tertia.) On the exergum S. C. 
 
 The two Philips seated on X-formed curule chairs, in imperial robes, and stretching out 
 their right hands open, in token of benevolence to all ranks. This device was evidently 
 struck upon the donation made to the Public, in A. D. 248; but it differs from others 
 typical of Liberality, in being without the usual attributes. 
 
 The Ebur curule — Sella Eburnea — or Curule Chair, an ivory seat not unlike our 
 folding camp-stools, was appropriated to certain magistrates, as the iEdiles, Praetors, Censors, 
 and Consuls. These dignified senators were carried in them, and also those who triumphed, — 
 the chair being fitted into the Currus, a kind of chariot, from whence Curulis is derived : 
 and the loss of the r is justified after Farina a farre.f It seems to have been adopted from 
 the Etrurians, in the early days of Rome, but we are not informed from whence they pro- 
 cured their ivory. Upon medals, the Curule Chair expresses a curule magistracy ; and also 
 steadiness and duration of effice, — as Bolzani remarks — "Perennitatis, ceternceque quietis 
 hieroglyphicum esse sel/a?n. ,, The learned author perhaps arrived at this conclusion, from 
 his close study of Egyptian antiquities, where the sedent figures are not only characteristic 
 of eternal rest from being seated, but also from the arms being in coherence with the body, 
 and the legs joined. 
 
 CCCCLXIV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. M. IVL. PHILIPPVS AVG. {lmperator Marcus Julius Philippus, Augustus.) 
 
 The profile of Philip Junior, with the laurel wreath over short hair, and the features expressing 
 an age beyond boy-hood. This medal, in complete preservation, and slightly tinted with 
 brown patina, was one of those found as described under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. SAECVLARES AVGG. (Scecu/ares Augustorum.) On the exergum S. C. A strange 
 beast of the cervine tribe, which medallists have termed Alces, or Elk, though it has not the 
 very high shoulders, nor large head of the Ceivus Alces : its horns, instead of dilating to a 
 broad palmated form, are small and erect ; and it has a long tuft of hair pendant from 
 the throat — not appended to the under-jaw as Pedrusi has figured it — and which evidently is 
 not the caruncle alluded to by Linnaeus. The Alee, described in the Bceotics of Pausanias, 
 as being between a stag and a camel, is not without some analogy to the creature under 
 consideration ; but it is not to be recognised in that mentioned by Julius Caesar, " De Bello 
 Gallico," L. VI, cap. 27, — nor in the Alee or Bonasus of Pliny, nor in the Equi-cervus of the 
 Scholiast. From the striking accuracy with which lions, elephants, hippo-potami, antelopes, 
 
 * The younger Philip's medals inscribed Principi Iuventutis, appear to have been minted between A.D. 244 and 246, a 
 slight difference of age being perceptible on the portraits. Among the first struck after he was declared Augustus, are 
 those with Virtus as a type, a term uniting fortitude and gallantry ; but it is remarkable that Fortitudo, and Mugnani- 
 mitns, are Virtues unknown on the fascia of Imperial medals. 
 
 f This etymol'gy is supported by Aulus Gellius and Isidore, who are respectable, though not very ancient authority. 
 
 2 N 
 
( 274 ) 
 
 and deer, are delineated upon the medals of Philip, the faithfulness of this representation 
 cannot be questioned ; and it is much to be regretted that we have not yet found more of 
 the rarer quadrupeds, which were exhibited on that great • occasion. A reverse with the 
 Camelopard, would have stifled the ebullitions of ignorance vented, less than 50 years ago, 
 when Vaillant brought the skins of several of those animals, from Africa, — one of which was 
 examined under a magnifying lens, to detect whether it was a composition.* These 
 considerations made me the more regret the medals lost by the accident mentioned at 
 p. 228, as there were possibly some inedita destroyed. 
 
 DECIUS. 
 
 Caius Messiusf Quintus Trajanus Decius was born, of an illustrious family, at 
 Bubalia, near Sirmium, in Pannonia, A.D. 201. He was a man of courage, wisdom, 
 and experience, which carried him to the highest honours ; but history throws no 
 light upon his early career. Being an excellent soldier, he was selected by Philip, 
 much against his inclination, to quell the revolt in Moesiaand Pannonia ; but he had 
 no sooner arrived at his camp, A.D. 249, than the legions proclaimed him Emperor. 
 As he was threatened with death incase of refusal, necessity got the better of fidelity, 
 he assumed the imperial title and dignity, and having defeated Philip, was 
 acknowledged by the Senate and the People. In the following year Decius took the 
 field against a formidable invasion of the Goths, and obtained such advantages over 
 them, that they sued for peace. But the Emperor, desirous of securing future 
 repose, resolved to continue hostilities till his enemies were destroyed, a measure 
 which drove them to desperation. In a furious battle at Abricium, in Thrace, young 
 Decius was slain ; to revenge whose death the Emperor rushed forward, exclaiming 
 
 to his troops " Be not cast down, we have lost but one man." He was soon, 
 
 however, entangled in a morass, where he perished, with great numbers of his army, 
 partly suffocated in the mud, and partly destroyed by the showers of arrows and 
 darts which the Barbarians discharged upon them, while they could neither advance 
 nor retreat ; and to this fatal catastrophe, Gallus, his successor, is by some thought to 
 have treacherously contributed. Decius, together with three of his sons, thus fell, 
 A. D. 251, after a reign of nearly two years and six months, and his unhappy end 
 was attributed by Ecclesiastical historians, to divine vengeance. It appears from 
 
 * It is well known that there were 10 Camelopards exhibited at Philip's Games. The remark, therefore, in the 
 Philosophical Transactions for 1770, p. 27, of none having been seen in Europe since Julius Caesar's time, is erroneous. 
 Several of the deer tribe unknown to Moderns, but described by Ancients, have been lately discovered in Ethiopia, by 
 Messrs. Ebr«nberg and Hemprich, the German naturalists. In the order of Ruminants, they say — "their discoveries were 
 more especially brilliant, and furnished ample materials for the illustration of data afforded by the Ancients." 
 
 + The name of Messius is common to Decius, and his four sons — a number which must be doubtfully admitted — 
 whence we may conclude that it was the patronymic of the family ; that of Quintus being in the middle is against its being 
 a mere praenomen. The sons were all declared Caesars ; and the two eldest, at least, "Leaders of the Roman Youth." 
 
( 275 ) 
 
 Eutropius, that the honour of apotheosis was paid him, with the usual ceremo- 
 nies ; but the denarii quoted by Mezzo-barba and Eckhel, which would otherwise 
 corroborate that fact, are both suspected.* 
 
 Decius was a prince endowed with many good qualities and great ability, affecting 
 the ancient manner, so as to be generally beloved by the Pagans, insomuch that the 
 Senate voted him not inferior to Trajan, and bestowed upon him the admired title 
 of Optimus. But his high reputation was stained, and his name rendered infamous, 
 by the seventh and most terrible persecution of the Christians ; which was so 
 rancorously and inexorably inflicted, as to drive thousands of people into deserts, 
 caves, and fastnesses, and foster monachism : and it is not a little remarkable, that, 
 under the inscrutable decrees of Providence, some of the best emperors were the 
 most bitter persecutors of that sect, whose " halcyon days " were under the vile 
 Commodus. On other points, his character seems to have been unimpeachable, 
 as a Sovereign. He shewed the greatest deference for the Senate, and restored to 
 them the important office of appointing a Censor, which had been laid aside from 
 Domitian's time, and had been monopolized, neglected, or abused, by the princes 
 before him. He also built or repaired the walls of Rome, and solemnly conse- 
 crated them ; a ceremony usually performed on removing the Pomcerium, or area 
 adjoining them, as was customary with every increase of territory. This was a 
 matter of great exultation ; but the desire of extending their dominions beyond just 
 bounds, proved fatal in the event — " Immunitas peperit Impunitatem, et Filia 
 devoravit Matrem." 
 
 The medals of Decius are found in each of the metals, and sizes ; as well Latin, 
 as Greek-Imperial, Egyptian, and Colonial, the last of which only bear the epithets 
 Pius, Felix. The denarii are very common, and it is curious that some of the types 
 of the former reign are used upon them ; one, with a fascia stamped TR. P. III., 
 is quoted by Eckhel, as a proof that they are in error who assert that the Tribuni- 
 tian Power is not marked, because the Emperor had restored that authority to the 
 people. The large and middle-brass are as common as the silver ; but there is a 
 novelty in the mintage of Decius, in the medalets,-j* or coins, which, though not 
 much larger than the early large-brass, weigh two of the sestertii of his own 
 reign. They are well known, having the types of Felicity, Liberality, and 
 
 * Banduri, from Victor, says that Decius perished in the 50th year of his age; ani also proves from an Egyptian coin, 
 where mention is made of the third year of his reign, that he must have died about the beginning of December. 
 
 f This term, though it now obtains, has been very badly chosen, since the diminutive et seems rather to apply to medals, 
 than medallions. The portrait of Decius, on these medalets, is ornamented with the radiated crown, which though placed 
 on the posthumous coins of Augustus, as a token of deification, was afterwards put upon those of living emperors. The 
 large-brass, however, invariably appears with the laurel-wreath ; and the custom has descended to our times, with what 
 Finkerton terms—" a most risible and truly Celtic absurdity." 
 
( 276 ) 
 
 Victory ; and — unlike the medallions — being marked with S. C. were probably 
 used as ordinary money. Assaria, or third-brass, which had not been struck by 
 the Senate since the days of the Antonines, now re-appear. See page 245.* 
 
 CCCCLXV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. C. M. Q. TRAIANVS DECIVS AVG. (Imperator Caiusf Messius Quinlus 
 Trajanus Decius, Augustus .) The laurelled head of Decius, with sensible features, and 
 the appearance of rather more than middle age ; the bust being in armour. This medal is in 
 capital preservation, and incrusted with green and red patina ; it was procured from Mr. M. 
 Young, in 1825, having formerly belonged to the well-known cabinet of Mr. Miles. 
 
 Reverse. LIBERALITAS AVG. {Libcralitas Augusti.) On the exergum S. C. The Emperor 
 seated on a tribunal, assisted by a togated figure, superintends a public donation ; before him 
 stauds the personification of Liberality with her tessera and cornucopias, and a citizen ascends 
 the steps. Besides the ticket held by this statue, to notify the amount of the largess, the 
 Curatores Annonce distributed small tesserae among the populace, as orders for the receipt 
 of such a portion, as was stamped upon them ; whence Juvenal — 
 " Surnmula ne pereat, qua vilis tessera venit 
 Frumenti." 
 
 This medal was probably struck A. D. 249, upon the Emperor's arrival in Rome, where he 
 was received with every demonstration of joy. The city now seemed to abound in plenty, for 
 besides Liberality, and Abundance, a new type of Fruitfulness was struck on the denarii of 
 this reign, under the title of Ubertas. Veritas is also assigned to a silver coin of Decius, 
 but as that legend does not appear upon other Roman medals, it may possibly be a mis-reading 
 of Vberitas, which now becomes frequent. Indeed Veritas, though a virtue of the highest 
 import, has not been duly honoured ; the ancients neglected her, and among the moderns, 
 the word is commonly subscribed to the falsehoods of anonymous slanderers. 
 
 CCCCLXVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. C. M. Q. TRAIANVS DECIVS AVG. (Imperator Cuius Messius Quintus Trajanus 
 Decius, Augustus.) The laureated profile of the Emperor, with a wrinkled brow, and older 
 features than above. This medal, in excellent condition and partially stained with grass-green 
 patina, was one of the Maltese hoard. See CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. GEN. ILLYRICI. (Genius Jllyrici.) In the field S. C. A virile figure standing, with a 
 cornucopias and the sacred patera ; he is naked except a chlamys over his left shoulder, and a 
 modius on his head. The Genius of a province was equivalent to Bonus Eventus, or Good 
 Success, a deity who presided over agriculture, and great actions, and as such he was com- 
 plimented by Titus, and other Princes, upon medals. The Genii in general, being inferior 
 to the Lares, must have been the prototypes of the modern ghosts; though excepting that 
 of Caesar at Philippi, the vision of Varus emerging from the marshes, J and the one recorded 
 by Pliny, those bugbears do not appear in Roman story. Virgil, indeed, shews that the 
 people believed — "Simulacra modis pallentia miris." See No. CCCCXCVI. 
 
 CCCCLXVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. C. M. Q. TRAIANVS DECIVS AVG. (Imperator Cuius Messius Quintus Tra- 
 janus Decius, Augustus.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with close hair and beard, 
 
 * Baudelot describes some small pieces of money, resembling assaria in size, but bearing the head of an old woman, 
 with S. C. on the reverse. These, he says, were struck for the slaves during the Saturnalia; and the initials, instead of 
 expressing Senatorial authority, simply mean Saturni Consulto. 
 
 f Dr. A. Visconti, following Banduri, calls this Cneius; but the latter contradicts himself, by producing a Greek 
 inscription which plainly shews Cuius. 
 
 \ The Roman camp was beset by the active Arminius, whose followers were spending the night in jollity. The broken 
 slumbers of Caecina were disturbed by a fearful dream, which is thus related by Tacitus : — " Ducemque terruit dira quies, 
 nam Quinctilium Varum sanguine oblitum ex paludibus emersum cernere et audire visus est, velut Tocantem, non tamen 
 obsecutus, et manum intendentis repulisse ! 
 
( 277 ) 
 
 grave features, a wrinkled brow, and the bust in a cuirass. This medal is in the finest 
 condition, the metal being hardly discoloured, owing to its having been shut up iu one of the 
 amphorae found at Malta. See CCCXCV. 
 Reverse. GENIVS EXERCITVS 1LLYRICIANI. In the field S. C. A naked Genius, as on the 
 last medal, but with the addition of a military standard behind him. This was struck A. D. 
 249, to shew that Decius, justly enough, ascribed his advancement to the lllyrian army : 
 "<i militibus Illyricianis Jmperator f actus, ab Senatu Augustus est appe/latus." The 
 medals in honour of this event are numerous, and I have had several with the ensign planted 
 before the figure. Of the province Juvenal says — 
 
 "Horrida vitanda est Hispania, Gallicus axis, 
 Illyricumque latus." 
 
 CCCCLXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. C. MESS. Q. DECIO TRAI. AVG. [Imperatori Ccesari Caio Messio 
 Quinto Decio Trajano, Augusto.) The head of the Emperor, with old but intelligent features, 
 attired as before. This medal, in fine preservation and varnished with Saxon-green patina, 
 spotted with red, was purchased at Albano, near Rome, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. DACIA. In the field S. C. A stolated female, with her hair richly attired, and holding a staff 
 surmounted with the head of an animal which, from its shape, and ears, most men would pro- 
 nounce to be that of an ass. But this is a point much disputed among antiquaries, apparently 
 because so ignoble an animal seems unworthy of decorating a national standard. Eugelius, 
 whose coin was probably in an indifferent condition, says that it is part of a dragon, of which 
 the body and tail have been omitted by the artist ; Padre Blasi calls it the head of a horse, 
 for a reason equally applicable to five hundred other countries, "that of the people being great 
 riders ;" and Mons. le Bon, who makes out a beard, will have it to be the true " tete d'une 
 ehevre," on account of Dacia's being mountainous. It is, however, clearly an ass's head, 
 and I think the medal before me would have convinced the doubters. The origin of this sym- 
 bol is now unknown : some think it was assumed as a warlike ensign, because the bray of an 
 ass resembled the Paphlagonian trumpet ; others suppose it was derived from the Scythian 
 custom of sacrificing the long-eared beast to Apollo ; and a third set consider it as the emblem 
 of valour, because the animal was called Zuov dv'mtirev. Be this as it may, a spear thus 
 decorated seems to have been a common standard of the northern nations ; nor was the 
 patient quadruped itself always despised, since we find Jacob in blessing his sons, com- 
 plimented Issachar as a " strong ass," alluding no doubt to his fortitude and contempt of 
 danger: — " Nominat Issachar, seu asinum fortem, quod constans esset, Jirmus, et intre- 
 pidus," saith Patin — and it may be added, that the native ass of the Great Asiatic Desert 
 is a very different animal from our ill-used donkey, as may be seen in Sir Robert Porter's 
 Travels. This medal was struck A. D. 250, to record the liberation of Dacia, from the 
 incursions of the Barbarians. See No. CLXXI. Count Mezzo-barba inserts a denarius, 
 inscribed Dacia Capta, among the coins of this year ; but he is palpably in error, and may 
 have mis-read an injured legend of Dacia Felix, which was then struck. 
 
 CCCCLXIX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. C. M. Q. TRAIANVS DECIVS AVG. [Imperator Caius Messius Quintus Tra- 
 janus Decius, Augustus.) The laureated head of Decius, with very close hair and a smooth 
 chin ; the features are strongly marked and handsome, but indicative of a more advanced age 
 than the Emperor had attained. This medal, cased with green and red patina, and in the 
 highest preservation, was presented to me by the Bey of Bisertah, in 1822, it having re- 
 cently been found among the ruins of Utica. 
 
 Reverse. PANNONIAE. In the field S. C. Two stolated and veiled females stand in the middle cf 
 the field, the one on the right hand holding a sceptre, and that on the left having a military 
 standard before her. This interesting device illustrates the ancient divisions of the province into 
 superior and inferior, the separation being made by the river Arabo; one of these divisions was 
 
( 278 ) 
 
 called Pantionia prima, which must be the figure with the sceptre, and the other Pannonia 
 secunda, which by the standard is shown to have been garrisoned. The medal was struck about 
 A. D. 250, on the same account as those of lllyricum and Dacia ; and the women elevate their 
 right hands in token of thauks for their liberation. Decius had beaten the Barbarian invaders, 
 and obliged them to abandon all the country they had taken possession of. This success made 
 him hope for still greater, and resolving to take advantage of the consternation his enemies 
 were in, he determined utterly to extirpate them. Thus was he led to abandon his usual 
 prudence, and involved in the disastrous result already mentioned. 
 
 ETRUSCJLLA. 
 
 Annia Cupressenia Herennia Etruscilla is a princess known only by medals and 
 marbles, for as historians have not given the name of Decius's wife, there was a 
 considerable difficulty respecting- her, till the inscriptions ofMuratori and Maffei 
 were published. It is recorded that she bore several children ; but though 1 have 
 admitted that Decius had four sons, out of sheer courtesy to other authorities, there 
 is no substantial testimony for more than two : to these a daughter is added, who 
 was named after the Empress, and is said to have been married to Volusianus. 
 Etruscilla became an Augusta A. D. 249, and lost her honours, after the disas- 
 trous death of her husband, in 251; but from the deification of the latter, and the 
 policy of Gallus, she was probably respected in private life. 
 
 For a long time the antiquaries assigned Orbiana as a wife to Decius ; but one 
 of his coins being found in the French cabinet, with Etruscilla's head upon the 
 reverse, the former lady was restored to Alexander, as has been already related : 
 besides which, the Egyptian medal marked L£, or year 5, is decisive of her not having 
 been united to Decius, who reigned only half that period. Before the time of 
 Seguin, Etruscilla was mistaken for the daughter of Decius ; but as a son of that 
 Emperor was named Herennius Etruscus, it is evident that she was his wife. 
 
 There are Latin medals of Etruscilla in the three metals, and of all the sizes 
 except small-brass ; and there are also Greek-Imperial, Egyptian, and Colonial coins 
 in honour of her. In the Roman mintage, the gold is very rare, but the silver and 
 middle-brass are common, and the large-brass — of which the reverses are few and 
 trite — is only of a slight degree of rarity, the value depending upon comparative 
 perfection. A high-priced dupondius is mentioned by Mionnet, representing three 
 females, but as it is of two kinds of copper, and without the Senatorial stamp, it is 
 only an exception to what is here stated. 
 
 CCCCLXX. 
 
 Obverse. HERENNIA ETRVSCILLA AVG. {Herennia Etruscilla, Augusta.) A fine head of the 
 Empress, her hair smoothed down with stripes across and bound by a vitta, her features good 
 
( 279 ) 
 
 but not expressive, and her bosom robed. This medal is in perfect condition, and stained 
 with Saxon-green patina on the obverse and brownish-red on the reverse ; it was one of the 
 Maltese hoard described under No. CCCXCV. 
 Reverse, FECVNDITAS AVG. (Fecunditas August ce.) In the field S. C. A female, magnificently 
 attired, stands with a cornucopia? in her left hand, and extends her right towards a child by 
 her side which is trying to reach it. See No. CCCCVII. Some who assert that Etruscilla 
 bore four sons and a daughter to Decius, appeal to this medal in proof of her fertility ; but 
 the type was a customary compliment to those Empresses who had families : and would 
 answer as well for one child, as for a dozen. The deity herself seems to have been no other 
 than Juno, who was invoked in child-birth, and by those who desired children, in a manner 
 at once absurd and obscene: aud well they deserved the scourging which the priests admini- 
 stered, with goat-skin whips, to their naked bodies, as part of the ceremony. 
 
 CCCCLXXI. 
 
 Obverse. HERENNIA ETRVSCILLA AVG. {Herennia Etruscilla, Augusta.) The profile of 
 Etruscilla, apparently in middle ag-e, with her hair smoothly waving, and a diadem in front ; 
 her neck is graceful, but the features are expressive of pertness, and are meaner than on the 
 last. This medal, thinly varnished with brown patina, and in capital preservation, was one of 
 those found at Malta. See CCCXCV. 
 Reverse. PVDICITIA AVG. (Pudicitia Augusta.) On the exergum S. C. A richly robed female 
 seated on a high-backed throne, holds a long sceptre in her left hand, and with her right 
 lifts the flammeum which covers her head. See No. CCCXCI. Chastity was a virtue more highly 
 prized than practised by the Romans: and Horace, recounting the benefits which the presence of 
 Augustus brought upon the city, says— 
 
 " Nullis polluitur casta domus stupris ; 
 Mos et lex maculosum edomuit nefas ; 
 Laudantur simili prole puerperal." 
 A modern Italian proverb distinguishes the double attributes of this goddess, by making 
 chastity a virtue, and modesty a beauty of the fair sex : but Propertius best describes her — 
 " Non illis studium vulgo conquirere amantes, 
 lllis ampla satis forma, Pudicitia." 
 
 HERENNIUS. 
 
 Quintus Herennius Etruscus Messi us Trajan us Decius — one of the princes who, 
 as Eckhel* complains, had more names than there were years in his reign — was 
 the eldest son of Decius and Etruscilla, and is commonly called Decius Junior. 
 Nothing is known of him till his father's accession to the Sovereignty, A. D. 249, 
 when he was declared Caesar, and invested with the Tribunitian Power, as is 
 proved by medals, though not mentioned in history. In the following year he was 
 sent, at the head of a well-disciplined army, to check the incursions of the Gothic 
 King Cniva ; by whom, after gaining some successes, he was attacked when off 
 his guard, and totally defeated, with dreadful carnage, himself hardly escaping. 
 In the beginning of A. D. 251, his father marched to his relief, decorated 
 
 * " Aevum imperatoruin occipimus, quo plerumque majorem videmus nominum numerum, quam annorum, quilms 
 ioiperavere, quibus adeo hrevitatem imperii quadam ratione compensavere." 
 
( 280 ) 
 
 him with the fasces, and elevated him to the dignity of Augustus, as an associate 
 in the Imperial dignity. The honours thus conferred, were not long enjoyed. 
 The Decii, it seems, by the advantages which they gained in the field, reduced the 
 Goths to offer the cession of their booty and prisoners, for an unmolested retreat. But 
 the Emperor would listen to no terms, and the enemy being driven to desperation, 
 fought furiously in the ensuing battle. Young Decius signalised himself in an 
 eminent manner, and killed several adversaries with his own hand ; but being in 
 front of the lines, he was mortally wounded with an arrow, and fell from his 
 horse in the sight of the whole arrny. The saying of Decius on this occasion, I 
 have already recorded in the sketch of his life ; but surely Tristan mistakes the 
 spirit of the Emperor's exclamation, in rendering it — "Z,a perte d y im soldat 
 ne lay sembloit pas de grande consequence." The youth was deified, together 
 with his father, by the Senate. Some writers assert that he was married to a 
 lady named Tryphonia, who suffered martyrdom in the Christian cause, under 
 Valerian, but the authority is most questionable. 
 
 The Roman medals of this unfortunate Prince, with the exception of silver, are 
 scarce, especially the aurei ; and there are no small-brass. The Colonies, Greece, 
 and Egypt, also struck coins to commemorate his career, but there is nothing re- 
 markable in the types. Of the sestertii, that with the temple of Peace, and those 
 bearing the title of Augustus, are esteemed the most rare. 
 
 cccclxxii. 
 
 Obverse. Q. HER. ETR. MES. DECIVS NOB. C. (Quintus Herennius Etruscus Messius 
 Decius, Nobilis,* Ctesar.) The bare head of Herennius with very close hair, a mild intelligent 
 countenance, and an appearance of not more than fourteen or fifteen years of age; the shoulders 
 are covered with a sagum. This medal, in remarkably high condition and thinly tinted 
 with green and brown patina, was one of the store found at Malta. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS. In the field S. C. A juvenile and graceful figure of the 
 Prince in camp attire, holding a dart transversely with its point upwards in his left hand, and 
 a "baculum inclinatum" in his right. This was probably struck A. D. 249 ; and the type, by 
 the position of the dart, expresses the brave youth's readiness to defend the empire, of which 
 he very soon gave unequivocal proofs. See No. CCLXXXIII. Eckhel quotes an aureus 
 from Pellerin with this reverse, but which from the inscription and laureated portrait, proves 
 that Herennius was " Princeps Juventutis " after he had become an Augustus. 
 
 CCCCLXXIII. 
 
 Obverse. Q. HER. ETR. MES. DECIVS NOB. C. {Quintus Herennius Etruscus Messius 
 Decius, Nobilis, Ccesar.) The naked head of Herennius, with remarkably short hair, and an 
 anxious expression of countenance, though the features resemble those described above ; the 
 bust is covered with drapery. This medal, in splendid perfection and tinged with brown and 
 green patina, was one of those described under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 * I mentioned on p. 271, that Philip the Younger was designated Nobilis on his coins ; but this epithet, I believe, now 
 hrst appears upon large-brass. Vir Nobilis belongs to the Eeclining Empire. 
 
( 281 ) 
 
 Reverse. PIETAS AVGVSTORVM. On the exergum S. C. The praefericulum, the lituus, the 
 aspergillum, and other pontifical instruments, as detailed under No. CCXXXVII. From this 
 type it seems, that though the relentless persecutions of the Christians disgraced the reign 
 of the Decii, those Princes paid every outward respect to their own religion, feeling with 
 Cicero that Piety is — "Justitia adversus Deos." Indeed piety was a virtue which received 
 the highest applause, for it was well thought that men who zealously worshipped the gods, 
 would also be disposed to govern well; and it was deemed a fortunate omen to commence a 
 reign with religious ceremonies. The adage of Tully differs little from the sentiment of 
 St. Austin, who bases piety in the thinking highly of God : — " de Deo optime existimare 
 Pietatis est exordium." 
 
 There is a peculiarity in the legend of this medal, because it shews that though Herenuius 
 was yet but a Caesar, he enjoyed the title of Augustus as well as his father. Of this there is no 
 mention in the frequently-quoted inscription given by Gruter, whose admirable skill in 
 philology reflects credit on his first instructress — the University of Cambridge.* 
 
 CCCCLXXIV. 
 
 Obverse. Q. HER. ETR. MES. DEC1VS NOB. C. (Quintus Herennius Etruscus Messius 
 Decius, Nobilis Ccesar.) The unlaureated profile of Herennius, with characteristics and 
 attire as before, but rather older features. This medal, in very fine condition and covered 
 with brownish-green patina, was purchased at Manfredonia, in 1819, for a sum equivalent 
 to two-pence sterling. 
 
 Reverse. PIETAS AVGG. (Pietas Augustorum.) In the field S. C. This is a manifestation of Roman 
 Piety, as opposed to the devotion of the Christians, which was now degraded with the appel- 
 lation of " The Impiety," rather than the more usual meaniug of the fascia — filial affection, 
 voluntas grata in parentes." It represents Mercury with the virga somnifera in his left 
 hand, and the crumena, or leathern purse in his right; and except the petasus on his 
 head, the talaria to his feet, and the chlamys over his shoulders, he is naked. See No. CCL. 
 The light form and swift attributes of this God were probably derived from the phenomena of 
 the planet of the same name, with whose motions the ancients were, to the credit of their 
 acuteness, somewhat acquainted, though many modern astronomers are content to pass 
 through life without looking out for it : 
 
 " Nam mitis in alto 
 
 Jupiter occasu premitur ; Venerisque salubre 
 Sidus'habet : motu celer Cyllenius haeret." 
 
 In allusion to the celerity of their prototype, the Roman messengers wore a feather in their 
 caps, a custom continued in Italy to the present day, with the Volanti, or running footmen ; 
 and when the business was very pressing, a feather was put into the letter itself, which 
 may explain Juvenal's 
 
 " Tanquam diversis partibus orbis 
 Anxia prsecipiti venisset Epistola penna." 
 
 The " caducifer alis " may have derived its origin from the rod of Moses, since the worship 
 of Mercury travelled from Egypt into Greece ; or, as the illustrious Bacon expressed it — 
 " a light air which passed from more ancient people into the flutes of the Grecians, and 
 became modulated into the many beautiful harmonies of their most plastic and poetic religion." 
 In proof of this I may mention that the figure strongly resembles one of a large Thoth, 
 or Mercury, on a basaltic stone, which I accidentally picked up in Egypt, and which now 
 stands in the library of the princely palace at Stowe. 
 
 * One can hardly mention Gruter's Alma Mater, without recollecting his obligations to his natural mother, who is an 
 ornament to British female biography. This lady's maiden name was Catharine Fisher, and besides French, Italian, and 
 English, she was completely mistress of Latin, and so well skilled in Greek, that she could read Galen in the original, which 
 according to Bayle, is more than one physician in a thousand can do. 
 
 2o 
 
( 282 ) 
 
 HOSTILIANUS. 
 
 Caius Valens Hostilianus Messius Quintus, the younger son of Decius and 
 Etruscilla, was declared Caesar at the same time with his brother Herennius, A.D. 
 249. It seems that he was left at Rome, when his father and brethren marched 
 against King- Cniva, by which he escaped the miserable fate that befel them, A. D. 
 251. Trebonianus Gallus, who succeeded to the empire, hoping to remove all im- 
 pressions of his having been accessary to the calamity which had befallen the Roman 
 army, politically adopted the young Prince, and married Volusian, his son, to the 
 daughter of the deceased Emperor. There are few further particulars respecting this 
 youth, except that he received the Fasces, and soon afterwards died of the dreadful 
 plague which desolated Europe A.D. 252 ; a year marked by the combined 
 scourges of famine, drought, and universal war. 
 
 Such is the whole of the brief story of Hostilianus, as it can be gleaned from 
 very conflicting evidence, for there is not only great obscurity, but amass of positive 
 contradictions in the history of these times; and were it not for the intelligible and 
 unquestionable testimony of medals and marbles, we should be all adrift. Thus one 
 party declares that the Prince was elected by the Senate, when Gallus was proclaimed 
 by the army ; and another imputes his adoption to Decius, who was his real father. 
 Eutropius seems to confound him with Gallus; and while Victor, reasonably enough, 
 ascribes his death to the plague, Zosimus assures us that the Emperor caused him 
 to be secretly assassinated. Some writers assert that he was married to Orbiana, 
 while others are as sure that he was united to a daughter of Decius ; and do not 
 scruple to say that there are medals which prove it, though they omit telling us 
 where they may be seen. Those who call him the son of Decius ground their 
 opinion on the authority of Zosimus ; while their opponents quote Zonaras and 
 Cedrenus, and contend that the names " Valens Hostilianus " never belonged to the 
 family of the Decii. But Eckhel, in an able review of the controversy, shews the 
 weakness of the latter argument, and proves that the medal of Severus Hostilianus, 
 cited hi defence of this opinion by Goltzius, is a fabrication. 
 
 There are Latin medals of this Prince in each of the sizes and metals, yet they are 
 not easily obtainable in high condition, and the gold is especially rare: there are 
 also Greek-Imperial ones, and Colonial, but I never met with any struck in Egypt. 
 Of the large-brass, those bearing the title and attributes of Augustus, are reckoned 
 the scarcest, though the types are unimportant. The silver series is the most 
 common ; and is remarkable for having some inscribed C. OVAL. OSTIL. MES. 
 
( 283 ) 
 
 COVINTVS CAESAR, which are evidently Greek words in Latin letters, and seem 
 to prove that some of the Roman money, particularly that without the S. C, was 
 made in the provinces. 
 
 CCCCLXXV. 
 
 Obverse. C. VALENS. HOSTIL. MES. QVINTVS N. C. (Cuius Valens Hostilianus Messius 
 Quintus, Nobilis Ccesar.) The naked head of Hostilian, with very close-cut hair, smooth 
 chin, projecting nose, and pleasing features, expressive of about fourteen years of age. 
 This medal, in beautiful condition and covered with brown patina, was one of the Maltese 
 hoard. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS. In the field S. C. A young paludated warrior, with a spear 
 in one hand, and a legionary ensign in the other: a device probably struck A. D. 249. 
 It is corroborated by an inscription given in Gruter, which was found at Valencia. See No. 
 CCLXXXIII. The Paludamentum was a square cloak, made of the finest wool, and worn 
 from the shoulders — where it was fastened by the jewelled button called " candidus umbo" — 
 hanging down the back. It was principally assumed in camps, as being more suitable 
 for action than the toga, whence the saying — " Togam paludamentum mutuvit." 
 
 CCCCLXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. C. VALENS. HOSTIL. MES. QVINTVS N. C. (Cuius Valens Hostilianus Messius 
 Quintus, Nobilis Ccesar.) The unlaurelled head of the Prince, with peculiarities as before, 
 but the sagum on the shoulders is more widely spread. This rnedal is in extremely fine pre- 
 servation, though thinly varnished with brown-and-green patina ; it was one of the store 
 found at Malta, as described under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. PRINCIPI IVVENTVTIS. On the exergum S. C. A female with her hair tastefully 
 attired and diademed, but otherwise naked to the waist, is seated on a singular throne, with 
 her left arm leaning upon a lyre, and her right hand holding an olive branch. This represents 
 Juventas, the Goddess who presided over youth among the Romans, taking her charge at 
 the assumption of the prsetexta ; but who, according to Vossius, should not be supposed identical 
 with the Grecian Hcbc. In the early medals of Marcus Aurelius, this deity is personated 
 by a stolated matron standing at an altar; it is therefore difficult to decide why she is here 
 unrobed : the olive-branch may indicate the exemption from war, enjoyed by the youth of 
 Rome, when Gallus purchased his inglorious peace — if so, the medal must have been struck 
 A. D. 251, just before Hostilian was associated in the Empire. 
 
 CCCCLXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAE. C. VAL. HOS. MES. QVINTVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Caius Valens 
 Hostilianus Messius Quintus, Augustus.) The laurelled head of Hostilian, with the expres- 
 sion of feature as above, save that the nose is less prominent. This medal, though mishapen from 
 the dye, a fault which now becomes very common, is in excellent condition, and scarcely 
 patinated ; it was procured in exchange for a colonial one of the same Prince, from the Cavalier 
 Ludovico Bailie, of Cagliari, in 1824. 
 
 Reverse. SECVRITAS AVGG. (Securitas Augustorum.) In the field S. C. A noble female 
 leaning gracefully on a column, with her right hand upon her head — an attitude by which the 
 Ancients symbolised sleep, the period of which requires the security afforded by a good 
 government; she is naked to the loins, and in an attitude not unlike that of Venus Callipyga. 
 This medal was struck to denote the stability of the state on the political union of Gallus and 
 Hostilian, towards the close of A. D. 25!. See No. CCCCXXI. 
 
 About this time there were medals struck to the young Prince, with Hygieia feeding 
 her snake, and inscribed Salus Augusti, indicating that he had either recovered, or was 
 . convalescent from illness : these may have been premature, but they prove that he had been 
 attacked ; and his death, considering the circumstances of the time, is more likely to have 
 resulted from disease, than from the treachery of his Imperial Associate. 
 
( 284 ) 
 
 TREBONIANUS GALLUS. 
 
 Caius Vibius Trebonianus Gallus was born about A. D. 207, his ancestry and 
 country being alike uncertain, though there is ground for believing him to have 
 been of good family, and a native of Meninx, the modern Jerbah, a spot which may 
 be termed the Isle of Wight of Barbary. He rose to rank and station ; but there is 
 no mention of his employment, till we find him commanding the troops on the 
 frontiers of Mcesia A. D. 250. In the following year, hastening to succour those 
 Romans who had escaped the carnage at Abricium, he was proclaimed Emperor ; 
 and the Senate, having neither authority nor courage enough to resist the army, pru- 
 dently acquiesced in the appointment.* The history of his reign is involved in dense 
 obscurity, and what one author asserts, is contradicted by another. It seems to be 
 generally admitted that Hostilia Severa was his wife, though nothing more is said of 
 her: )et there are some who mention Cornelia Supera as his consort, and others 
 who assert that he was married to ASma.^ He was killed, together with his son, 
 by his own soldiers, near Interamna, when marching against iEmilianus, A. D. 254, 
 after a reign of two years and four months. 
 
 The character of Gallus has been most severely impugned, from allegations 
 written recentibus odiis. He is accused of having betrayed Decius into the hands 
 of the Goths ; but that disaster is certainly as attributable to rashness as to any pos- 
 sible perfidy : besides which, his deification of Decius, his adoption of Hostilian, 
 and marrying the daughter of the deceased emperor to his own son, are such 
 cogent testimonies of his regard for the family of the Decii, as to invalidate the 
 details of Zosiraus. The imputation of his having destroyed his young co-adjutor 
 lias been already dismissed ; and it remains to notice the third great charge which 
 has been brought against him. It is averred that instead of revenging the death of 
 his predecessor, he concluded a dishonorable peace, which rendered the Lords of 
 Nations tributary to Barbarians ; and that by purchasing his safety, he led on the 
 future distress of his country : " The dangerous secret," says Gibbon, " of the 
 wealth and weakness of the empire had been revealed to the world." But when 
 the loss of two armies by the prowess of the same formidable foe is considered, and 
 also that the Persians were then invading and the plague desolating his dominions, 
 it seems to have been imperiously necessary that he should close with such terms 
 
 * It is said tliat on receiving advice of Decius's death, the Senate elevated one Perpenna to the Purple, but that he died 
 soon after his inauguration. The ever ready, and it must be added skilful, Goltzius produces a medal of him, inscribed 
 IMP. CAES. AVF. PERPENNA LIC1NIAN. (Imperator Ccesar Aufidius Perpenna Licinianus.) But no other 
 medallist has ever had the luck to see one. 
 
 t The Alexandrian Chronicle makes one of these ladies to be a very fury, cutting her husband's throat. 
 
( 285 ) 
 
 as could be obtained :— nor was he the first who had been driven to a pecuniary 
 composition — for Domitian paid a yearly stipend to Decebalus; and Macrinus 
 purchased a peace from the Parthians, at the price of a million and-a-half sterling-, 
 besides booty and captives. See Nos. CXXIH and CCCLXVIII. 
 
 But in endeavouring to vindicate Gallus from calumny, it is not my intention to 
 shield him from the odium which he really deserves; for at a time of unexampled pub- 
 lic misery — when the plague raged with unremitting violence, when great part of the 
 empire was afflicted with drought and famine, and while the provinces were devas- 
 tated by successive swarms of Barbarians — this effeminate ruler wallowed in all the 
 sensualities of a mere brute, and consumed his time as a slave to his own voluptuous 
 pleasures. Nay more — he revived and rigorously executed his predecessor's edicts 
 against the Christians, and proved himself to be as cruel as he was unmanly : "As 
 for Gallus," says Eusebius, alluding to this persecution, " he neither remembered 
 the calamities of Decius, nor did he consider, so diligently as he ought, what had 
 been the chief occasion of his ruin, but unhappily stumbled against the same stone." 
 The defence of the state being thus abandoned by the Emperor, it was assumed by 
 iEmilianus, the commander in Maesia, who gallantly cleared his province of the 
 Goths, and killed many thousands of them, in consequence of which the soldiers 
 saluted him as their sovereign. This measure aroused Gallus from the ignominious 
 lethargy into which he had fallen ; but it was now too late — the die was cast, he 
 met with the end he merited, and left a name which is deservedly contemptible. 
 
 There was a large coinage of Trebonianus Gallus in Rome, Greece, Egypt, and 
 the Colonies, though there is nothing very important in the types, except some par- 
 ticulars of the tribunitian power, which have enabled medallists to correct the 
 chronology of those confused times. Of the Latin mintage, the silver, and large 
 and middle-brass are common, but there are no assaria. Le Menestrier describes 
 a medal of Gallus, in honour of his wife : the obverse shewing the head of a middle- 
 aged woman, with her hair short and negligently dressed, is inscribed HOSTILIA 
 SEVERA AVGVSTA— -the reverse has a female seated, with IVJNO MARTI ALIS ; 
 but the old gentleman must have been imposed upon. The sestertii, which have 
 been declining for some time, now fall off rapidly both in execution and spread ; 
 besides which they are so mishapen that the engrailment, or ring of dots, is seldom 
 perfect, and the characters are indistinct from the similarity of N to M, while the 
 latter resembles 1VI. 
 
 CCCCLXXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. C. VIBIVS TREBONIANVS GALLVS AVG. [Imperator Ccesar Cuius 
 Vibius Trebonianus Gallus, Augustus.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with close 
 
( 286 ) 
 
 hair and beard, and a large throat, the face being, as Tristan says, assez martiale et virile, 
 but at the same time rather plebeian. This medal, though somewhat mishapen, is in the 
 best preservation, and partially tinted with grass-green patina ; it formed one of the hoard 
 described under No. CCCXCV. 
 Reverse. IVNONI MARTI ALI. On the exergum S. C. A richly attired and veiled matron is seated on 
 a throne, and what is remarkable, holds up a globe in her left hand: in her right she has a bunch, 
 which has been called an olive-branch, ears of wheat, and heads of lances ; — but Eckhel 
 very positively maintains that it is a pair of shears for cutting hair, and supports his argument 
 by learned quotations, summing up in these words : " At vero iterum aio nummos hujus argu- 
 menti copiosos, et nitidissimos musei Ccesarei certam nobis forficulam offerre.^ On 
 those medals which represent the deity in a temple, only one pair of scissars is observable— 
 but this figure holds three, so that each of the Parca? might have been accommodated. This 
 type appears to have begun and ended with the present reign, though the worship of Juno 
 Martialis was dated from the rape of the Sabines ; but she was now invoked, with all the Gods 
 of Olympus, to stay the plague which afflicted the empire. See No. CLXXXIX. 
 
 CCCCLXXIX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. C. VIBIVS TREBONIANVS GALLVS AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Caius 
 Vibius Trebonianus Gallus, Augustus.) The laureated profile of Gallus, with peculiarities 
 as on the last, but with a sharper and more anxious look. This medal, in excellent preserva- 
 tion and varnished with black patina, was purchased at Lord Morton's sale, in 1830. 
 
 Reverse. AETERNITAS AVGG. {Mternitas Augustorum .) In the field S. C. A noble female 
 richly attired, holding back her vest with the left hand, and upon her right, supporting a 
 globe, on which rests a phoenix with a radiated head. See No. CCXXXI. This was struck 
 in the vain hope that the empire would continue for ever in the Vibian family. If it was 
 issued A. D. 251, then it related to Hostilian, but if in the following year, the associated 
 Augustus was Volusian : " hac sola pernicie, insignes Gallus, et Volusianus" says Paulus 
 Orosius, in speaking of the horrid plague then raging. The Rev. W. Cooke, who engraved 
 this type, has made a serious mistake as to its import, in adducing it as a proof that both the 
 father and son were deified. 
 
 CCCCLXXX. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. C. VIBIVS TREBONIANVS GALLVS AVG. {Imperator Ccesar Caius 
 Vibius Trebonianus Gallus, Augustus.) The laurelled profile of the Emperor, with short 
 hair and character nearly as before, but a more sedate expression; the shoulders are covered 
 with a sagum. This medal, in full preservation and incrusted with dense-green patina, was 
 purchased from a collector at Naples, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. APOLL. SALVTARI. (Apollini Salutari.) In the field S. C. A bold and well-executed 
 naked figure of Apollo — " intonsus et crinitus ;" he looks to the left, with one hand on a 
 lyre, placed upon a rock, and the other holding a branch of laurel, which was sacred to him. 
 As the ancients generally ascribed to this deity cases of sudden death, especially when the 
 deceased was "sun-smitten," so also they deemed his power omnipotent in assuaging pesti- 
 lence.* The malady which gave occasion to the striking of this medal, seems to have travelled 
 from Ethiopia, and is said to have raged 15 years, in an unheard of manner, destroying 
 incredible numbers of people ; so that the altars of the Gods were earnestly resorted to, and 
 Apollo was implored by the whole empire. Nor was his sister forgotten, for Diana Venatrix, 
 with her bow and arrow, first appears on medals, in this reign ; she was therefore probably 
 invoked to avert the scourge, being considered a doctress. From this plague St. Cyprian, the 
 martyred Bishop of Carthage, took occasion to write his excellent treatise " De Mortalitate." 
 See Nos. CCII and CCCLIV. 
 
 » Second-brass medals are found, inscribed to Apollo Arnazi, which, from wanting the S. C. are apparently Colonial. 
 Pellerin conjectures the word to be compounded from Arna and Asisium, two towns of Umbria. 
 
( 287 ) 
 CCCCLXXXI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. C. VIBIVS TREBONIANVS GALLVS AVG. {Imperator Ccesar Cuius 
 Vibius Trebonianus Gal/us, Augustus.) The laurelled head of Gallus, with short hair and 
 beard, good features, and a calmer expression than on the last. This medal is in excellent 
 preservation, being round, and cased with brown patina, on which are some pea-green spots ; 
 it was one of the Maltese hoard mentioned under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. P.M. TR. P. IIII. COS. II. P. P. (Pontifex Maximus, Tribunitia potestate quartum, 
 Consul iterum, Pater Patrice.) In the field S. C. Gallus in sacerdotal vestments and 
 veiled, stands before an altar, with the sacred patera in his right hand, and a truncheon 
 in his left. He is therefore in the character of Pontifex Maximus, for the patera held by a 
 mortal, shews his priestly office ; but in the hand of an immortal, indicates that he was 
 sacrificed to. In this character the Emperor presided over all religious ceremonies, feasts, 
 and institutions ; he was also the Annalist — Pontificum libri"— and Astronomer of the 
 State, and by consequence the regulator of the year ; for to his care it was owing, that the 
 festivals appointed for certain days, fell at their appropriate seasons.* See No. XXIV. This 
 medal was struck A. D. 254, on Callus's taking the field against iEmilianus ; for it was a 
 sacred obligation that the Commander of an army, previous to quitting Rome on an expedition, 
 should implore the favour of the Gods, and especially sacrifice in the temple of Jupiter 
 Capitolinus — " in hoc templo Imperatores ad bella ituri vota nuncupabant. ,> 
 
 It may be remarked, that Volusianus, the son, has a medal exactly of this type and date ; 
 but it is known that all Augusti, colleagues in the empire, from the time of Balbinus and 
 Pupienus, were Pontifices Maximi together. See No. CCCCXXX1I. 
 
 VOLUSIANUS. 
 
 Caius Vibius Afinius Trebonianus Gallus Veldumnianus Volusianus was the son 
 of Trebonianus Gallus, and — according to many — ofHostilia Severa; but from 
 appearances, it is probable that his mother's name was Afinia. He seems to have been 
 a young man when Gallus obtained the sovereignty, having been declared Caesar, 
 at the close of A. D. 251 ; and on the death of Hostilian, in the year following, 
 styled Augustus. He was married to Herennia Etruscilla, as before mentioned, but 
 we do not find that he had any children by her. He shared in all the dangers and 
 prosperity of his father, and was assassinated with him, A. D. 254. Occo mentions a 
 denarius inscribed Consecratio ; but it is not probable that he received the honour 
 of an apotheosis, and the genuineness of the coin may well be doubted. 
 
 Volusian is said to have resembled Gallus in manners as well as in fortune, being 
 strongly given to indolence, yet withal so charitable and kind, that during the 
 horrors of the plague, he attended personally, and was careful that the rites of 
 
 * Julius Caesar first published the debates of the Senate ; and though this " liberty" was checked by the cautious 
 Augustus, four different records came into vogue: the first related to the acts of the Emperors, — the second to those of 
 the Conscript Fathers, — the third to the public transactions of the People,— and the fourth to the festivals, births, 
 marriages, deaths, and domestic occurrences. The last was called the Diuma, and was circulated through Italy and 
 the Provinces, 
 
( 288 ) 
 
 sepulture should be paid to those who died. A noble medallion which informs us 
 of his magnificent entry into Rome, and, like that of Philip, is inscribed Virtus 
 Jiugustorum, was stamped as an evidence that the father and son had gained the 
 throne by valour and merit, and not by treachery. But that ardent antiquary, 
 L?etus, in his "Compendium" describes their reign as — " infaustum, atque infelix, 
 rerum gestarum monumentis obscurum, verum clade generis humani memorial 
 traditum." 
 
 The medals of this Prince are nearly of similar value and device with those of his 
 father, and were also struck in Rome, Greece, Egypt, and the Colonies ; though the 
 types are mostly trite. Of the Latin mint, the silver, and large and middle-brass are 
 common, but there are no small-brass known. It should be observed, that the 
 name of Trebonianus is given to Volusian, only upon the Greek-Imperial coins ; and 
 his titles of Pius, Felix, are confined to the colonial ones. 
 
 CCCCLXXXII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAE. C. VIB. VOLVSIANO AVG. (lmperatori Ccesari Caio Vibio Volusiano, 
 Augusto.) The laureated head of Volusian, with close hair, smooth chin, and whiskers on 
 the side of the face ; the features are good, but common, and are expressive of about 25 
 years of age. This medal is round, even to the beads of the engrailment, and is in the highest 
 preservation, though scarcely patinated ; it was found at Malta. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. CONCORDIA AVGG. (Concordia Augustorum.) In the field S. C. A stolated matron 
 stands with a patera in her right hand, and two cornucopise in her left, alluding to the peace 
 and abundance which must result, from the happy harmony existing between the father and 
 son, when it was minted, in A.D. 252. Peace, Tranquillity, and Concord,* present but one 
 idea ; yet the Romans made three distinct goddesses of them. The last was a beneficent 
 deity, and promoted peace in families ; the first settled the animosities of states : Concord 
 was also the founder of amity and good-will among people under the same prince ; as was 
 Peace between them and nations under other sovereigns. This virtue is said to be often 
 n presented " sub imagine Ciconice ;" but it certainly cannot be frequent on Roman medals, 
 that bird being rather a symbol of Maternal Love, whence Petronius calls it " Pietalis cultrix.' 
 See No. CXCI. 
 
 CCCCLXXXIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAE. C. VIB. VOLVSIANO AVG. [lmperatori Ccesari Caio Vibio Volusiano, 
 Augusto.) The laureated portrait of Volusian, with particulars as above, but with somewhat 
 of a better expression of countenance, and the robes over the shoulders more distinctly marked. 
 This medal, in the highest preservation and barely discoloured, was one of the Maltese hoard. 
 See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. IVNONI MARTIALI. In the field S. C. A circular temple on a triple plinth, with an 
 ornamented dome, and festoons between the columns ; in the adytum sits a female figure, with 
 the " forficula " in her right hand, but there is no peacock. This device was struck on the 
 
 * 1 cannot mention these words, without recollecting a humorous misunderstanding of the last. During the rejoicings 
 for the peace in 1802, some English sailors passing by the house of M. Otto, the French Ambassador, in Portman Square, 
 and seeing, among other preparations for the illumination, the words Peace and Concord, by mistake read the latter 
 conquered. On which one of them furiously shouted out " they conquer us ; they be d — d!" and immediately thun- 
 dered a peal at the door. Half a dozen lacqueys answered the knock from within, and a crowd collected without. The 
 indignant sailors demanded the reason for placing that obnoxious word, which was carefully explained, but to no pur- 
 pose ; so that M. Otto actually ordered it to be taken down, and the word Amity placed in its stead. 
 
( 289 ) 
 
 same occasion, as No. CCCCLXXV1IT. Theepitlietof martial, applied to Juno — " cui vincla 
 jugalia curce," — was probably derived from her being the mother of Mars, whom she had so 
 singularly conceived. She was adored by the Sabines, as a curite Goddess, or one armed with 
 a spear : and Ovid makes Mars consign to her, the care of the " Eternal City" and of Romulus, 
 who as his son, was her grand-son : — 
 
 " Sed neque pceniteat ; nec gens mihi carior ulla est : 
 Hie colar, hie teneam cum Jove templa meo. 
 Ipse mihi Mavors, * Commendo mcenia,' dixit, 
 ' Haec tibi ; tu pollens urbe nepotis eris.' " 
 On thus introducing an uncommon edifice, it may be remarked that besides the Capitol, the 
 Pantheon, and others of the first rank, there were no fewer than 400 temples in Rome, exclu- 
 sive of their Lararia, and other places, wherein sacred statues were placed. They preferred 
 the most elevated sites for them, whence Virgil's— 
 
 "Tectum augustum, ingens, centum sublime columnis, 
 Urbe fecit summa." 
 
 iEMILIANUS. 
 
 Marcus Sallustius Caius* Julius Aemilius Aemilianus was born in Mauretania, 
 of a humble family, about A. D.208 — "obscurissime natus, obscurius imperavit" 
 says Eutropius. Serving as a soldier, he raised himself through successive ranks, 
 and is said to have gained the Fasces ; but this is not recorded in the Fasti. 
 He governed Moesiaand Pannonia under Gallus ; and having rallied the intimidated 
 Romans, defeated the barbarian invaders with immense carnage, and compelled 
 them to retire ; a gallantry for which the elated soldiers saluted him Emperor, on 
 the field of battle, in the autumn of A. D. 253. The intelligence of this revolt, and 
 the consequent hostile approach of the rebel, broke Gallus from his pleasures, and 
 he marched forth at the head of a considerable army ; on which occasion the Senate 
 branded the usurper as a public enemy to the State. But the contest was quickly 
 decided, and that accommodating Body readily confirmed the victor in all those 
 titles which the army had bestowed upon him, adding their legal sanction to the 
 right of conquest. The historical fog of these times is dense indeed. It seems 
 that on the advance of Valerian with his disciplined legions, the army of iEmilianus, 
 composed of traitors to their former sovereign, again "turned tail," and slew their 
 late idol. But while some agree that iEmilian's revolt thus met with its desert, 
 others affirm that he was executed by order of his rival ; and a third party maintains 
 that he died a natural death. "They fell upon their leader, to avoid shedding the 
 blood of their fellow-citizens," says Zonaras ; " he died of disease," cries Aurelius 
 Victor, who is followed by Casaubon ; and, according to Victor the Younger, he 
 
 * The praenomen of Caius is only seen upon one coin ; but Marcus is common on those of Dacia and Viminaciuni. 
 Banduri mentions a medal with the name of Julius, but Eckhel thinks it is only to be found in Goltzius. Sallustius is 
 derived from SAL. on a coin of Damascus, which is also cited by Banduri. 
 
 2p 
 
( 290 ) 
 
 was butchered near Spoletum, at a place thenceforward called the " bloody bridge/' 
 Eutropius only remarks, that he died after an obscure reign of three months 
 (Zonaras says four,) but does not hint that he was murdered ; what he says, 
 however, is sufficient to shew clearly that iEmilian came between Gallus and 
 Valerian, and vanished in A. D. 254. 
 
 The character of this Prince labours under the same conflicting uncertainty as his 
 end ; but he must have had much personal merit, to have raised himself from 
 the humblest to the highest stations. He seems to have been brave without 
 rashness ; and had he lived, would probably have accomplished the promises he made 
 to the Senate, of clearing 1 the empire from all its enemies, by driving the Goths out 
 of Thrace, and the Persians out of Mesopotamia. According to some authors, he 
 governed with mildness and moderation ; according to others, he was arbitrary and 
 tyrannical, acting more like a soldier than a prince, and doing many things highly 
 unbecoming an Emperor. Pedrusi abuses him as barbarous and sordid ; and, 
 irritated at his vile extraction, asserts " non era capace di spiriti nobili, e generosi.'" 
 As these invectives go beyond what can be proved by evidence, I cannot agree with 
 him ; nor altogether with the peroration which a modern historian has delivered, in 
 these words: — " He got the empire by treachery and ingratitude, kept it without 
 any reputation, and lost it shamefully." 
 
 Though some fastidious authors will hardly admit the title of this Emperor, his 
 reign is one of interest to numismatists and antiquaries. The employment of 
 Comes Domesticorttm, so celebrated in the fourth century, now first appears as 
 the Commander of the Domestici, or household guards ; they were superior to the 
 Praetorians in rank ; and were, under the Christian Emperors, honoured with the 
 sacred Labarum. Comes, (whence the modern term Count,) was therefore already 
 a title of dignity, and does not, as some imagine, owe its original to Constantine. 
 There is also some slight medallic evidence, that the despotic appellation of Dominus 
 was assumed as a title by iEmilian ; though the " Domino Nostro Cccsari /Krnili- 
 ano fortissimo principi" of Goltzius, seems rather suspicious. 
 
 A Roman mintage in honour of iEmilian took place, in each of the metals, and of 
 the three general sizes ; for there are even assaria with the S. C. ; but they are all, 
 together with the Colonial and Greek-Imperial coins, of great rarity, and, I believe, 
 no Egyptian ones have been found. As the large-brass are especially valuable, and 
 the head bears a considerable resemblance to that of Philip Senior, the falsarii have 
 ingeniously, but roguishly, made some transformations to cheat the unwary. Yet 
 about this time, strange mistakes occur, even on medals which are undoubtedly true; 
 and such incongruous reverses appear, that it seems as if, on the accession of a new 
 
( 291 ) 
 
 Emperor, only the portrait was shifted ; as was the case, a few years ago, with the 
 English local tokens. It is not in the close observance of such types as the 
 Apollo, and Diana Venatrix, which might have been re-engraven, that this is so 
 apparent, as in the legends " Concordia Augg." and " JEternitas Augg." which, 
 from their plural form, if not relating to this Emperor's wife, must have belonged to 
 Gallus, Hostilianus, or Volusianus. 
 
 iEmilian was married to Caia ve/Cnea Cornelia Supera, a Princess known only 
 by her medals, which, of the Latin mint, are restricted to silver and small-brass, and 
 are of extreme rarity. She was formerly assigned as a wife to Valerian Junior ; while 
 others gave her to Gallus ; but the judicious Eckhel produces medallic and 
 irrefragable proof that those opinions are erroneous, and restores the lady to her true 
 place. On a denarius shewn me, in the museum of the Benedictine Convent of 
 S. Marti no, near Palermo, she seems about 30 years of age, having good features, 
 and her hair arranged somewhat similar to Etruscilla's, but with a band at the hinder 
 part of the head. The bust is placed upon a crescent, perhaps in recollection of 
 Cicero's — " Infra Lunam jam nihil est nisi mortale et caducum, supra Lunam 
 sunt ceterna om?iia." See note to p. 262. 
 
 CCCCLXXXIV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. AEMIL1 AN VS P. F. AVG. [Impcrator Ccesar Mmilianus, Pius, Felix, 
 Augustus.) The laureated head of the Emperor, with short hair, a close but thick beard, and 
 a sensible middle-aged countenance, with somewhat of a Moorish cast. This medal, though 
 mishapen from the mint, is in very excellent preservation, and partially tinged with greenish 
 patina ; it was one of the Maltese hoard. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. VICTORIA AVG. Victoria Augusli.) In the field S. C. A winged Victory in transparent 
 robes — " tenues sinuantur Jiamina vestes " — marching across the field, with a palm-branch 
 in one hand, and a laurel crown in the other. The decree which had declared iEmilian a pub- 
 lic enemy, was now rescinded ; he was invested with the imperial power and honours, and his 
 late victory over the Goths celebrated by the medal before us. Some have supposed it to 
 commemorate his advantage over Gallus, which is very unlikely, as there was no battle. 
 Gibbon thinks the conflict was with new swarms of Barbarians, who did not hold themselves 
 bouud by the obligation into which their brethren had entered with the Romans ; but Pom- 
 ponius Laetus, self-styled lnfortunatus, whose advantages were surpassed only by his enthusiasm 
 and diligence, expressly says — " Cum Scylhce, soleriissimum ialrocinandi germs, contcnti 
 pretio non essent." 
 
 CCCCLXXXV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. AEMILIANVS P. F. AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Mmilianus, Pius, Felix, 
 Augustus.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with details as before, but the expression 
 more placid, and the robes over the shoulders better expressed. This medal, though mishapen, 
 is in admirable perfection, and varnished with brown patina; it was obtained at Lepanto, 
 in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. SPES PVBLICA. In the field S. C. The figure of Hope, attired in transparent drapery, 
 and holding the blossom, as on No. XXXIX. This device expresses the general wish for an 
 auspicious government, and an anticipation of the fulfilment of the Emperor's promises. But 
 the great and good Valerian was advancing with forced marches, and the hope faded before 
 his approach, so that, according to Eutropius, " tertio mense extinctus est;'" that writer, 
 
( 292 ) 
 
 however, must have reckoned iEmilian's reign only from the death of Gallus — and not from 
 the time when the former was proclaimed, as others have done. The same type was also struck 
 in small-brass. 
 
 CCCCLXXXVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. AEMILIANVS P. F. AVG. [Imperator Casar JEmilianus, Pius, Felix, 
 Augustus.) The laurelled head of iEmilian, with good but very sedate features, and the 
 hair, beard, and other particulars, as on the last. This medal, densely cased in Saxon-green 
 patina and in capital condition, was purchased on the 28th dav of Mr. M. Trattle's sale, 
 in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. VOTIS DECENNALIBVS S. C. (Votis Decennalibus, Senatus Consultu.) An inscrip- 
 tion encircled by a garland, as on No. CCCCXXXIX. This expresses the vows for a happy 
 decennium, which were publicly voted at the accession of the new Emperor, in the prospect 
 of a prolongation of his reign: but the solemnity was of no avail against the progress of his 
 puissant adversary. 
 
 Some difficulty occurs as to the date of these medals, from the circumstance of there 
 being legends with TR1B. POT. 1., which must have beeen in A. D. 253 : but the coins 
 which bear them were Colonial, as is evident from the numeral. And iEmilian having only 
 reached Rome early in A. D. 254, we may safely assign all the Latin mintage to that year. 
 It should be added that the three medals which record the Consulship, as mentioned by 
 Angeloni, Tanini, and Mezzo-barba, are doubted. This circumstance of the Tribunitian 
 Power appears to have escaped the recollection of the ablest forgers ; and I have before me a 
 coin which has been fabricated from a Philip Senior, with the portrait carefully tooled to 
 resemble the Moorish expression of iEmilian, and the legend apparently so perfect as to 
 deceive any eye, but that of an experienced medallist — yet the reverse has been left P. M. 
 TR. P. I1II. COS. II. P. P. ! 
 
 CCCCLXXXVII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. CAES. AEMILIANVS P. F. AVG. (Imperator Ccesar Mmilianus, Pius, Felix, 
 Augustus.) The laureated profile of the Emperor, with close hair and beard, and grave but 
 intelligent features. This rare medal seems to have received a bruise in minting, but is other- 
 wise in the highest perfection though scarcely patinated ; it was one of those found at Malta, 
 as described under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. A POLL. CONSERVAT. (Apollini Conservatori.) In the field S. C. Apollo I.yristes, 
 beardless and crinite, stands, as the author of all harmony, with a branch of laurel in his right 
 hand, and his left supporting a lyre which rests on a rock. See No. CCCCLXXX. Apollo 
 was a most popular deity, though Lucian stigmatized him as a vain and lying fortune-teller. 
 He appears upon the medals of all sizes and metals of this reign ; not in the feminine apparel of 
 the Palatine statue, but as a noble youth, delicate yet vigorous, with limbs free, and an 
 attitude not very dissimilar from that of the immortal Apollo Venator, thus celebrated by a 
 poet of our day : — 
 
 " Or view the Lord of the unerring bow, 
 The God of life, and poesy, and light — 
 The Sun in human limbs array'd, and brow 
 All radiant from his triumph in the fight ; 
 The shaft hath just been shot — the arrow bright 
 With an immortal's vengeance ; in his eye 
 And nostril beautiful disdain, and might, 
 And majesty, flash their full lightnings by, 
 Developing in that one glance the Deity."* 
 
 * This poetic description of what, to my own feeling, is the finest statue in the world, must be softened by the prose one 
 of Master Edmund Warcupp, who wrote tor " General Satisfaction," in J660 : — "In the filth armoiy (of the Vatican) is the 
 Apollo Pitheo, with a serpent at his feet, and carcase having a piece of cloth upon one arm, a bow and airows in his band, 
 and all over naked." It should be noticed, that modern antiquaries, if they see a serpent, however peaceful its attitude, 
 as an attribute of Apollo, will have it to be Python, — w hereas it is merely an emblem of the God of Health. 
 
( 293 ) 
 VALERIANUS. 
 
 Publius Licinius Valerianus * was born of a noble family, A. D. 190; and served 
 with such signal reputation, in the principal civil and military employments of the 
 State, under both good and bad emperors, that he was judged worthy of supreme 
 authority, before he attained it. lie rose to the consular dignity A. D. 237 ; and 
 was deputed by the Africans, in the following year, to advocate the cause of the 
 Gordians, at Rome. When the office of Censor was revived, A. D. 251, Valerian, 
 who was then serving in Thrace, was unanimously named by the Senate, for that 
 important station, saying : — " Let Valerian be Censor : let him, who has no faults of 
 his own, note and correct the faults of others; he, whose prudence, modesty, and gravity, 
 become the Senator ; who is the friend of good men, the foe of tyrants ; the enemy 
 of vice, illustrious by descent, correct in life,eminent for learning, unexcelled in morals, 
 the counterpart of antiquity/' Being ordered againstiEmilian, his soldiers,on learning 
 the death of Gallus, invested him with the Purple A. D. 253, and their choice was 
 confirmed in the following year. In A. D 258 he marched to oppose the Persians, 
 who were laying waste Asia-Minor with fire and sword ; where, about two years 
 afterwards, he had the misfortune to fall into the hands of the cruel Sapor, who had 
 been worrying the Romans from the time of the Gordians. Here the venerable 
 sovereign underwent the Vcb Victis ! so often uttered by his countrymen ; and after 
 suffering the most brutal indignities, died in captivity, about A. D. 263, in the 74th 
 year of his age. His calamity was commiserated by all the princes of the earth, save 
 his son Gallienus, — who, however s taking advantage of a report of his death, 
 deified him. 
 
 Valerian was undoubtedly a man of integrity and praise-worthy conduct, and 
 must have steered clear of the vices of those dissolute times, or he could not have 
 obtained such an established and popular character : but his capacity appears to 
 have been over-rated ; and it may be doubted whether he were not deficient 
 in the activity, discretion, and resolution required in emergencies. On 
 his accession, he studied to justify the great opinion which the world had 
 conceived of him. He enacted many excellent laws, advanced men of merit, 
 moderated the taxes, suppressed many prevalent disorders of the age, and, had 
 he remained merely a Censor at Rome, might have preserved the affections of the 
 Senate and the People. He began by treating the Christians with singular kind- 
 ness and humanity ; but in the third year of his reign, instigated by one Macrianus, 
 an Egyptian Conjuror, commenced a furious persecution against them, throughout 
 
 To these names Victor the Younger adds " Colobius," which does not appear upon medals, 
 
( 294 ) 
 
 the whole empire ; and many thousands of these victims were put to unheard-of 
 tortures and shameful deaths, in the hope of averting the plague ! For this the 
 learned Dr. Holyday — who owns that he felt a divine rapture in publishing poetry 
 — thus lashes him — 
 
 " Valerian Christians vext, Sapores flay'd him, 
 How cruelty helps justice ! they repaid him." 
 
 The captivity of Valerian threw the Empire into the deepest affliction, being the 
 most signal disgrace which had befallen the Romans, since the defeat of Crassus, 
 or, indeed, since the foundation of their City. But whether he was fairly taken 
 in the field, or perfidiously seized during a conference is uncertain. The haughty 
 Persian tarnished the glory of his success by ungenerous insolence towards his 
 unfortunate prisoner. After having exhibited him loaded with chains, over purple 
 robes, he made him his footstool, while mounting his horse ; jocosely remarking, 
 that " this posture was a better proof of who had conquered, than all the pictures 
 which the Romans could paint."* The unhappy and aged Emperor endured the 
 humiliations of the vilest slaves ; and, after death, his body was flayed, and the 
 skin, died red and stuffed with straw, was exposed to public derision in a temple.f 
 
 The medals of Valerian are found in every form and metal, as well Latin, as 
 Greek-Imperial, Colonial, and Egyptian ; the most common being the silver, the 
 middle and the small-brass. Numerous sestertii were struck, but with trite reverses, 
 resembling those of the other Emperors about that time, as Apollo, Fides, Sal us, 
 Concordia, Securitas, and Votis Decennalibus. Some of these are poor in design, and 
 clumsy in shape ; wherefore those are most prized which have roundness, and a fair 
 spread. One of the denarii bears a type of Diana the huntress, drawing an arrow 
 from its quiver, inscribed REL1GIO ; a legend which otherwise only appears on 
 a medal of Marcus Aurelius. See No. CCL. Another denarius bears DEO 
 VOLKANO, which from the orthography, was probably not struck at Rome. 
 The types of this hard-working God — alike ridiculed for his lameness, which was 
 his misfortune, and his dirtiness, which was the fault of his trade — are very scarce, 
 and supremely so upon large-brass : he is usually represented meanly attired, with a 
 beard and matted hair, as when he officiously limped into the berth of Ganymede : — 
 
 " Vulcan with awkward grace his office plies, 
 And unextinguish'd laughter shakes the skies. " 
 
 * The triumphs of Sapor, and his contest with Valerian, were the subjects of many sculptures in bas-relief, several of 
 which are still extant. 
 
 f The account of Agathias, that the aged Monarch was skinned alive, and rubbed with salt, is not corroborated by 
 any other ancient historian. Occo says — " Tandem ipsuui crudellissima morte, a cervictbus cute ad imos pedes detracts, 
 
 nccavit." 
 
( 295 ) 
 
 CCCCLXXXVIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. C. P. LIC. VALERIANVS P. F. AVG. (Imperator, Ccesar, Publius Licinius 
 Valerianus, Pius, Felix, Augustus.) The laureated profile of Valerian, with close hair, 
 smooth chin, good eye, and aquiline nose ; but the face is fat; the throat short and thick. 
 This medal, in very superior condition, the metal being barely discoloured, was one of those 
 found at Malta, as mentioned under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. ORIENS AVGG. (Oriens Augustorum.) In the field S. C. Appollo Gradicns, with 
 his right hand raised, and a globe in his left ; he is naked except a light chlainys over the 
 shoulders, and a " corona radiata" on his head — " imposuitc/ue comce radios." I cannot 
 deem this device a vain boast of advantages gained in the East, as it has been called, 
 but rathertake it for atribute of Pagan piety. The Sun, as observed under No. CCCLXXXII, 
 was always a favourite object of worship j and it was now regarded with unusual veneration, 
 on account of the increasing desolation of the plague, especially because the Lord of the Silver 
 Bow, was looked upon as an inflictor, as well as a stayer of pestilence. Thus Shakspeare, 
 makes Leontes, the King of " Sicilia," on hearing of his son's sudden death, exclaim — 
 " Apollo's angry; and the heavens themselves 
 Do strike at my injustice." 
 
 CCCCLXXX1X. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. C. P. LIC. VALERIANVS P. F. AVG. [Imperator, Ccesar, Publius Licinius 
 Valerianus, Pius, Felix, Augustus.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with a physiog- 
 nomy resembling the above ; and somewhat corroborative of the description which says he 
 was tall, well-made, and of a majestic air : his constitution, it is added, was robust. This 
 medal, though not well spread, is in admirable perfection, and the original colour of the 
 metal scarcely altered, from its having been hermetically sealed, in one of the Maltese 
 amphorae. See No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. FIDES MILITVM. In the field S. C. A female figure, in the full robes of a Roman 
 matron, with her hair splendidly arranged, stands in the centre of the field, holding an ensign in 
 each hand, to which are suspended little bucklers and other military ornaments, in order to com- 
 memorate the fidelity of the legions to the Emperor. This coin was probably minted early in 
 A. D. 254, on an occasion similar to that mentioned under No. CCCCXLIX. The army was 
 certainly devoted to Valerian, which was fortunate for the empire, since hordes of Barbarians 
 were sorely harassing the frontiers, on all sides ; and the Franks now make their first appearance 
 in history. But though most able generals — as Aurelian, Postumus, Balista, Probus, 
 Aureolus, Ingenuus — were put into commission, the Public was longing for a peaceful delivery 
 from war, as may be seen by the denarii struck about this time, to Jupiter Pacator Orbis. 
 
 ccccxc. 
 
 Obverse, IMP. C. P. LIC. VALERIANVS P. F. AVG. [Imperator, Ccesar, Publius Licinius 
 Valerianus, Pius, Felix, Augustus.) The laurelled head of the Emperor, with character- 
 istics as before, and the shoulders clothed in Senatorial vestments. This medal, whicli 
 is in high preservation, round, and varnished with green-and-brown patina — was presented to 
 ine by Lieutenant Thomas Graves, R. N. in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. LIBER AL1TAS AVGG. III. [Liberalitas Augustorum tertia.) In the field S. C. A 
 stolated female, personifying Liberality, with her attributes, the cornucopias, and a tessera 
 marked with six spots, as the amount of the donation. This was probably struck about the 
 end of A. D. 257, when Valerian had occupied himself in regulating the disorders of the State, 
 and making provision for their future prevention : and among other acts for maintaining his 
 popularity, he was liberal to the people — " Congiariis Populum mollivit" says Trebtllius 
 Pollio. But the arts of peace were too sadly depressed by the disorganised condition of public 
 affairs, and the hostile invasions on the Rhine, the Danube, and the Euphrates. Count 
 Mezzo-barba reasonably suggests, that this donative was given upon the Emperor's quitting 
 Rome, to assume the command in the East. 
 
( 296 ) 
 
 CCCCXCI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. C. P. LIC. VALERIANVS P. F. AVG. (Imperator, Ccesar, Publius Licinius 
 Valerianus, Pius, Felix, Augustus.) The laureated head of Valerian, with details as 
 before, and a sedate expression of features. This medal, in the very best condition and slightly 
 covered with brown patina, was one of the Maltese hoard. See No. CCCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. VICTORIA AVGG. (Victoria Augustorum.) In the field S.C. A winged Victory, 
 habited in long robes, stands with her right hand upon a shield resting on the ground, and in her 
 left, holds a palm-branch — "pretium victoribus. , ' On the Roman family medals this God- 
 dess is very frequently represented in a chariot drawn rapidly along by two horses, from which 
 they were called Victoriati ; but on large-brass she generally appears with a laurel crown and 
 the palm-branch : this type, therefore, with a shield is unusual. She was afterwards represented 
 with a trophy, whence Claudian, l)e Laudibus Stilichonis : 
 
 1 quam certa fuere 
 
 Gaudia, cum totis exsurgens ardua pennis, 
 Ipsa Duci sacras Victoria panderet aedes, 
 Et palma viridi gaudens, et amicta trophaeis 
 Custos Imperii Virgo." 
 
 This medal was probably struck about A. D. 259, when Antioch was retaken, and the rebel- 
 lious Cyriades slain. For as yet every thing prospered with Valerian ; and the successes of 
 Gallienus in the West, of Aurelian in Illyricum, and of Regillianus in Pannonia, authorised 
 the present stable type of Victory. It is therefore difficult to surmise, why Sapor was not 
 closely pressed after the catastrophe of A. D. 260. The graceless successor made no effort to 
 redeem his father, though most of the foreign princes, and even the allies of the Persians, 
 implored his freedom. The arrogant victor, however, was so elated with his success, that he 
 would neither regard menaces, nor listen to entreaties ; but the prowess of the chivalrous 
 Odenathus, of Palmyra, humbled his pride, and must have destroyed him, had not the domestic 
 treachery of Zenobia occurred. It is recorded, that nothing aggravated the anguish of the 
 miserable captive, more than the ungrateful neglect of his son, feeling with Lear — 
 
 " How sharper than a serpent's tooth it is 
 To have a thankless child ! " 
 
 MARIMANA. 
 
 Nothing is known of Mariniana except from medals ; but as Trebellius Pollio shews 
 that Valerian was twice married, and that his sons Gallienus and Valerian Junior 
 were by different mothers, she is considered as the second wife of that Emperor, 
 especially as the fabric of their medals is in strict resemblance. On these premises 
 a romantic and affecting' tale of her captivity, by Sapor, has obtained currency; 
 but whether mother, spouse, sister, or daughter of Valerian, which are alike 
 uncertain,* she could not have shared his humiliations, since a coin of Viminacium 
 affords positive proof that she was deified in A. D. 254 ; and must consequently 
 have died at the commencement of t'ie reign. 
 
 * It is, of course, most probable, that she was the wife of Valerian, but her title of Augusta is unrecorded. 
 
( 297 ) 
 
 The family of Valerian has greatly perplexed inquisitive antiquaries ; and the 
 name of his first wife is no where mentioned : Eckhel thinks it might have been 
 Galliena — " Conjicere subit, fuisse dictam Gallienam, a qua nomen jftlio, ut 
 Domitiano a matre Domitid, Herennio Etrusco ab Heremtid Etruscilld.^ 
 Mariniana is supposed to have been the daughter of Carvilius Marinus, who com- 
 manded Pannonia under Philip; and she is usually recognized as the mother of Valerian 
 Junior. Moris, de Serviez, who is never at a loss, tells us that her exaltation only 
 served to make her modesty and humility more conspicuous ; and, for the edification 
 of the Due de Chartres, boldly adds — " Mariniana had the same fate with her hus- 
 band, and fell into the hands of the Persians. Sapor respected neither her sex nor 
 her dignity. He treated her with the utmost brutality, so that a Roman empress 
 was forced to submit to such mortifications as would scarce have been put upon the 
 meanest of women. There are but few people that have philosophy enough to endure 
 such heavy strokes of fortune as these. Mariniana, besides her own ill-usage, had 
 always before her eyes that of Valerian. The Persians made their chains daily more 
 insupportable, by adding to their miserable condition the most outrageous affronts. 
 The poor unfortunate empress, not being able to bear it any longer, died, and had 
 the vexation of leaving the most illustrious person on earth, in the power of his 
 bitter enemies, who made a jest of his calamities/' 
 
 The medals of Mariniana are rare, and, if in good condition, high-priced ; and 
 except the Colonial one of Viminacium already mentioned, they are confined to the 
 silver, and three sizes of brass of the Roman mint. The fascia is generally Consc- 
 cratio ; but a denarius has been described with F 'elicit as Deorum, which is curious 
 as being an unusual legend. 
 
 CCCCXCII. 
 
 Obverse. D1VAE MARINIANAE. The head of a beautiful wemau, with a face expressive of 
 thoughtfulness and intelligence. Her hair is carefully attired, and a sacred veil falls from the 
 back of the diadem to the peplus, which covers the shoulders : thus recording- the honours of 
 consecration to a lady, whose imperial title is not given. This fine medal, in high perfection 
 and slightly tinted with green-and-brown patina, was one of those found at Malta, as described 
 under No. CCCXCV. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. In the field S. C. A peacock standing with his tail expanded. This 
 is the only large-brass reverse of Mariniana among all those recovered at Casal Zurica, nor 
 have I ever seen any other ; yet a variation from it is priced by M. Mionnet — " Paon enlevant 
 V Imperatrice " — at20 francs. This is another instance of the impropriety of pricing a catalogue; 
 for as there is not a coin of that type either in the French Collection, the British Museum, or 
 any other cabinet that I have inspected, it is clear that, if it could be purchased, 20 francs 
 would be a very inadequate sum. But such an attempt is liable to another and more serious 
 objection : for no medal can be valued till it has been seen and examined. It is idle to say 
 that such a step is an approximation towards a standard, because every hour of medallic 
 experience proves the contrary. 
 
 The portrait shews, that the veil was still the distinctive mark of deification, nor were 
 the apotheosis <lone away from medals, till after the time of Constantine, when a hand from 
 the clouds, bestowing a crown, was substituted. 
 
 2q 
 
( 298 ) 
 
 GALLIENUS. 
 
 Publius LiciniusGallienus,* the son of Valerian by his first wife, was born about 
 A. D. 218, and associated in the empire, A. D. 253. Having the command of the 
 army in the West, he was, for several years, very successful over the Alemanni,"f 
 the Heruli, and the Franks : and in A. D. 260, became sole Emperor, when his father 
 unhappily fell into the hands of Sapor. But this rank was now an unenviable honour : 
 for no sooner did the tidings of the defeat of the Romans reach the barbarous 
 nations, than incredible multitudes poured in on all sides, while treason, and pesti- 
 lence, floods and earthquakes, carried desolation through the heart of the empire. 
 Gallienus was unequal to stem such a torrent, and after an inglorious reign of 15 years, 
 was assassinated by his own officers, together with his son,:}: and, it is thought, his 
 wife also, before Milan, A. D. 268. The wretched assembly which still dishonoured 
 the name of Senate, instantly declared him an enemy to the state, erased his name from 
 all public inscriptions, and cast many of his ministers and friends from the Tarpeian 
 Rock : on receiving his death-blow, however, he had ordered the insignia of the 
 imperial dignity to be carried to Claudius Gothicus, who in return protected his 
 remaining friends and relations, and caused the same Senate to deify him with the 
 usual solemnities. Claudius was a magnanimous leader, and certainly almost the 
 only man in the empire capable of sustaining the name and dignity of a Roman 
 Emperor, in those turbulent times. 
 
 The character of Gallienus has not been spared by historians; but though he 
 was a bad man and a worse prince, he was as good as some emperors who wear a 
 fairer name. The unfeeling indifference which he shewed towards his captive father, 
 was as base as it was dishonourable and criminal ; and during the calamities of Rome, 
 he was immersed in dissipation and gross sensuality, and was only roused from his 
 sordid pleasures by danger; — shewing no more concern, according to Pollio, for 
 the loss of a province, than for that of L an old cloak. Thus when told of the revolt 
 of Egypt, he exclaimed — "Cannot we live without Egyptian linen?" Being in- 
 formed that Gaul was lost, he laughingly said — " Will not the land abide without 
 
 * Besides these, gome Greek coins give him the name of Egnatius, perhaps from his mother. 
 
 f Zonaras says, that with a body of only 10,000 men, Gallienus defeated 300,000 Alemanni— but he may tell that to the 
 
 Marines. 
 
 J Aurelius Victor says, that his son Gallienus, whom he had made Caesar, and his brother who was honoured with the 
 title of Augustus, were both slain with him at Milan ; though according to Zonaras, the brother and the son of Gallienus 
 were put to death at Rome, by order of the Senate. The soldiers were highly incensed, but the conspirators appeased them 
 by the distribution of 20 pieces of geld to each man. This sum was taken from the coffers of Gallienus, who always 
 carried an immense treasure w ith him whenever he left the city ; exactly as I have seen practised in the present day, by the 
 Easha of Tripoli, who never takes a ride without having his gold and jewels carried in the cavalcade, lest the castle gates 
 should be shut at his return. 
 
( 299 ) 
 
 Gallic tunicks ? " So also, when he learnt the desolation of Asia — " Cannot we 
 subsist," said he, " without saltpetre." He was, moreover, so coxcomical as to 
 delight in a display of jewels and glittering finery, even to powdering his hair with 
 gold-dust. Yet he was not wanting in intelligence nor bravery, was very eloquent, 
 and a great encourager of learning. He had also a considerable talent for poetry ; 
 and his historian tells us, that on the marriage of his brother's son, he made an ex- 
 temporary epithalamium, which far excelled those that were written at the same time, 
 after many days study, by the best Greek and Latin poets then in Rome. It is not 
 devoid of elegance, but is barely admissible here : — 
 
 " Ite, agite, o Juvenes, et desudate medullis 
 Omnibus inter vos ; non murmura vestra columbac, 
 Brachia non hederae, non vincant oscula conchas. 
 Ludite, sed vigiles nolite extinguere lychnos ; 
 Omnia nocte vident, nil eras meminere lucernae." 
 
 The charge of cruelty appears to be that which lies most heavily against him. 
 When Odenathus conquered the army of Sapor, Gallienus claimed the unmanly 
 exultation of a triumph, and to swell the procession, mock-captives were led, dressed 
 like Goths, Sarmatians, and Persians : during the shew, some wags gazed very 
 earnestly on those who personated the latter, in order, they said, to discover the 
 Emperor's father, a joke which so incensed Gallienus that he commanded them 
 immediately to be burnt alive. His directions to Celer probably suggested those of 
 Louis le Grand, in after-times, to ravage the Palatinate: "Let the inhabitants of 
 Mcesia," said Gallienus, "be put to the sword, I shall not be satisfied with your 
 killing such only as have borne arms against me, and might have fallen in the field : 
 you must in every city destroy all the males, old and young : spare none who have 
 wished ill to me, none who have spoken ill of me, the son of Valerian, the father 
 and brother of princes." But the object of his conduct at Byzantium, so decried by 
 Pollio, may have been to gain a good end without being scrupulous as to the means ; 
 for his soldiers had sacked the place, and utterly destroyed its inhabitants ; and not 
 expecting otherwise to be admitted within the walls, he promised pardon to the mur- 
 derers, whom, however, on his entry, he put to the sw ord. Yet his justice was not 
 always merciless: when he condemned a seller of false jewels to be exposed in the 
 amphitheatre, and the trembling wretch expected a ravenous lion, a cock was let 
 loose at him, with the words — " Imposturam fecit, iwposturam passus est." 
 It is thought, however, that Salonina planned this punishment. 
 
 Latin medals of this Emperor exist of all metals and sizes, and the silver, with the 
 middle and small-brass, are very common ; there are also Colonial, Greek-Imperial, 
 
( 300 ) 
 
 and Egyptian coins struck in honour of him. On account of the public calamities, all 
 the deities of the Pantheon were now invoked; and an incredible quantity of denarii 
 and assaria to Apollo, Bacchus, Castor, Diana, Esculapius, Hercules, Janus, Juno, 
 Jupiter, Mars, Mercury, Minerva, Neptune, Serapis, and Vulcan, corroborate the 
 testimony of history. There is also a great number of silver legionary coins ; and 
 among the reverses peculiar to the time is Alacriias, well typified by a pegasus ; 
 Dona. Jlug. illustrated by Mercury with a dog ; and Segetia, the goddess of crops yet 
 growing. In the abundance of his coinage, Gal lien us restored the consecrations 
 of Augustus, Vespasian, Titus, Nerva, Trajan, Hadrian, Antoninus Pius, Marcus 
 Aurelius, Commodus, Severus, and Alexander, in billon ; but he has furnished no 
 reason for introducing Commodus into such company. 
 
 I shall have more to say upon the coinage of this reign, in the sequel, but must 
 here mention the strange aureus on which Gallienus is represented effeminately 
 crow ned with wheat-ears instead of laurel, and inscribed Gallience Augusta, with 
 Ubique Pax on the reverse. This has been thought to have been struck by one 
 of the usurpers in contempt, or by the Senate in raillery ; for it was coined when the 
 empire was harassed by disease, barbarian aggression, and the struggles of the 
 Thirty Tyrants, — a period, when heaven and earth seemed to concur in heaping 
 afflictions upon Rome:* but the Senators may be acquitted ; for those were no 
 "laughing" times for the Conscript Fathers; and his treatment of such as jeered 
 at his triumph, shewed that Gallienus was not inclined to leave a joke unnoticed. 
 
 CCCCXCIII. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. GALLIENVS P. F. AVG. (Imperator Gallienus, Pius, Felix, Augustus.) The 
 laureated head of Gallienus, with handsome features, a thick short beard growing on the throat 
 and chin, and the bust robed. This medal, in excellent preservation and thinly patinated, 
 was procured at Naples, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. MONETA AVGG. (Moneta Augustorum.) The stolated deities of the mint, with cornucopia?, 
 to signify that cash supplies all things, and balances to shew that equity is requisite in money 
 transactions : a mass of metal, at the feet of each, represents gold, silver, and brass. This 
 emblem of the Emperor's care to preserve the just weight of money, was struck about A. D. 
 2G3, when a sad adulteration of the coinage was taking place ; and it is remarkable that this, 
 as well as others of the same type struck by Probus, Carus, Numerianus, Carinus, Diocletian, 
 Crispus, and other sovereigns, are without the S. C. or stamp of senatorial authority. From 
 this it may be concluded that they were struck by the Emperor's order, for a particular pur- 
 pose ; and we, moreover, find that some of them were gilt, and others in some measure inlaid, 
 so that the paludamentum of the obverse was covered with gold, the other parts remaining bare. 
 
 * Besides wars and intestine commotions in every province, the year 262 was afflicted with other deplorable calamities. 
 The whole atmosphere was overcast with dense and dark clouds, so that for several days together the light of the sun 
 was obscured ; this was followed by dreadful peals like thunder, from the bowels of the earth, w hich opened in many places 
 and swallowed up great numbers of people, with their habitations. At the same time, the sea swelling beyond its bounds, 
 desolated vast tracts, and drowned whole cities ; and the plague still raged so violently as to carry off 5000 persons a day, 
 ia Rome only 
 
( 301 ) 
 
 Moneta was n title given to Juno, from monere, to admonish, she having given the Romans 
 advice just before the arrival of Breunus. For this a temple was erected, wherein the silver 
 of the commonwealth was laid up ; this afterwards became the public mint, from which 
 circumstance the stamped metals took the name of money.* Ovid describes the temple thus : — 
 
 " A t ee quoque in sunima Junoni templa Monetae, 
 Ex voto memorant facta, Camille tuo. 
 Ante domus Manli fuerat, qui Gallica quondam 
 A Capitolino reppulil arma Jove." 
 Gold has been worshipped through all ages, and by all classes, without hypocrisy. But in 
 Juvenal's time, it seems, Moneta had no home, for he declares that though no temples rise, 
 nor altars blaze to her name — 
 
 " Yet is thy full divinity confess'd, 
 Thy shrine established here, in every breast." 
 Some, however, think the Satirist in error; and Arnobius asks — " Quis ad extremum Deam 
 pecuniam esse credat, quam velut maximum numen vestrce indicant Literce ?" 
 
 CCCCXCIV. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. GALLIENVS AVG. {Imperator Gallienus, Augustus.) The laurelled head of the 
 Emperor, with the shoulders robed. This medal, in secondary condition and thinly varnished 
 with greenish patina, was purchased from Mr. Till, in 1830. 
 Reverse. IOVI CONS. AVG. (Jovi Conservatori Augusti.) On the exergum S. C. Instead of 
 the usual majestic figure, with the spear and fulinen of supreme power, we have here a huge 
 goat, representing Amalthea, whose horns were converted to cornucopia, and skin into an 
 aegis; it is not, like that of Oiselius — " cum uberibus distends, 7 ' yet it was no doubt derived 
 from the fable of Jupiter's having been suckled by one of those animals — whence Ovid's 
 " Oleniam Jovis altricem dixere cape/lam.^ Again — 
 
 " Stat quoque capra simul : Nymphse pavisse feruntur 
 Cretides ; infanti lac dedit ilia Jovi." 
 And Germanicus, in his translation from the " Phsenomena" of Aratus, says — 
 
 "Ilia putatur 
 
 Nutrix esse Jovis, si vere Juppiter infans 
 
 Ubera Cretese mulsit fidissima caprse : 
 
 Sidere quae claro gratum te gestat alumnum." 
 Besides the goat, there appear many other animals on the smaller coins of Gallienus, as the 
 wolf, lion, bull, stag, panther, and boar ; there are also the ibis, eagle, and stork ; and the 
 monsters centaur, griffin, pegasus, Capricorn, and hippocampus. These were all sacred to 
 tutelary deities, to whom Gallienus offered up so many supplications, that he obtained the title 
 of Conservator Pietatis. 
 
 ccccxcv. 
 
 Obverse. GENIVS P. R. (Genius Populi Romani.) A very handsome head of Gallienus, radiated, 
 and tutulated with a modius — or something resembling one — and the neck bare. This full 
 spread round medal, in the very highest preservation, and incrusted with brown-pink patina, 
 was obtained by exchange at Cagliari, in 1824. 
 
 Reverse. INT. VRB. S. C. (Intrans Urbem, Senatus Consultu.) This is an inscription encircled 
 by a garland of laurel, which compliments the Emperor, on his entering Rome — perhaps from 
 his German campaign. This medal, however, not only bears no date or name, but is only 
 assigned to Gallienus, on account of the strong resemblance of the portrait to that emperor. 
 
 * The well known silver consular coin of the Carisian family was probably struck when T. Carisius superintended the 
 mint : it bears the head of Juno, inscribed Moneta, as an obverse ; with an anvil, hammer, pincers, and die — the implement* 
 of coining — on the reverse. 
 
( 302 ) 
 
 The likeness is palpable, though the face from being beardless is certainly too youthful, and, 
 coupled with his denarius inscribed Jubentas, has made some writers imagine him young ; but 
 this was only as compared with his father, since he was 34 years of age when he began to reign. 
 
 The obverse is a compliment to the emperor under the type of the Genius of Rome, and is 
 remarkable as giving the bust only of a personification, a practice which had been discontinued 
 from the age of Augustus till about A. D. 230. We see, by No. CCCCLXVI, that the 
 ancients not only ascribed a genius to particular persons, but to places also. Thus jEneas, 
 when a serpent glided from the tomb of Anchises, exclaimed — 
 
 " Hoc magis iuceptos genitori instaurat honores, 
 Incertus, Geniumne loci, Famulumne parentis 
 Esse putet." 
 
 Pi udentius sarcastically ridicules the notion of a genius of Rome : — 
 
 "Quanquam cur Genium Rom^e mihi fingitis unum ? 
 Cum portis, domibus, thermis, stabulis, soleatis 
 Adsignare snos Genios, perque omnia membra 
 Urbis, perque locos, Geniorum millia multa 
 Fingere, ne propria vacet angulus ullus ab umbra." 
 
 CCCCXCVI. 
 
 Obverse. IMP. GALLIENVS P. F. AVG. GERM. [Jmperator Gallienus, Pius, Felix, Augustus, 
 Germanicus.) The laureated profile of Gallienus, with expressive features, knitted brow, the 
 beard curled on the throat, and the shoulders robed. This medal, in excellent condition, and 
 coated with pea-green patina on the obverse, and deep brown on the reverse, was obtained at 
 Patras, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. RESTITVTOR ORBIS. On the exergum S. C. The emperor, paludated and grasping a 
 lance, gives his right hand to a kneeling female, who wears the "corona turrita," but is 
 represented as rather diminutive. See No. CLXXXII. This was probably struck on some 
 advantage having been gained by Odenathus, or one of the Lieutenants of Gallienus — but, as in 
 his "Bonce Fortune?," " Felicitas,' 1 '' "Restitutor Generis Humani," " Restitutor Orientis," 
 and several others of his types, it is more boastful than true. That inscribed " Restitutor 
 Galtiarum, ,, alludes, with more pretension, to successes in the three Gauls — Comata, Cisalpina, 
 and Narbonensis." 
 
 SALONINA. 
 
 Cornelia Salonina* seems to have been married to Gallienus, about ten years 
 before his advancement to the throne ; but there are no particulars of her birth or 
 family. Even the date of her death is uncertain, but it is thought she was assas- 
 sinated, with her husband and younger son, A. D. 268. She bore several children 
 to the Emperor, of whom Saloninus and Julius Gallienus, though confounded by 
 historians, are distinguished by medals ; and a marble of Gruter's has made us 
 
 * These are the only names of this Empress upon the Latin medals — but the Greek-Imperial ones add Julia, Licinia, 
 Publia, and Chrysogone. Some writers have called her Pipa, or Pipara l thus confusing her with the daughter of Attalus, 
 king of the Marcomanni, whom Galienus procured from her father, as his concubine, in return for a part of Pannonia. 
 This precious compact must have taken place subsequent to the capture of Valerian, and many years after the marriage 
 of Salonina ;— yet Occo calls the latter " Regis Marcomannorum filia ; and Pedrusi says she was of most noble birth — 
 "yerc/ie fu figlia d'Aitalo Re di jPerpamo." 
 
( 303 ) 
 
 acquainted with her daughter Julia — "nobilissima puella" — who was married to 
 Sergius Terentianus, and became the grandmother of St. Liraena, who suffered 
 martyrdom under Diocletian. 
 
 Salonina was a woman of extraordinary beauty, great talents, affable disposition, 
 and irreproachable conduct. Though historians scarcely mention her, there is 
 sufficient to gather that she was a warm encourager of learning, and very popular 
 at Rome. She patronised Plotinus with great liberality ; and Tristan records 
 the high honour she did him — " de luy permettre de bastir une ville en la 
 Campanie appellee Plotinopolis, en une situation propre, pour pouvoir 
 philosopher commodement " Zonaras tells us that she accompanied Gallienus, 
 when he marched against the Heruli ; and how that being left in the camp, with 
 but a very slender guard, she was in imminent danger of falling into the hands of 
 the enemy, who had despatched a resolute band to carry her off. These men ad- 
 vanced so cautiously that they came within sight of the camp, without being per- 
 ceived, when a Roman soldier, who had strayed out by chance, saw them, gave the 
 alarm, and encountered the Barbarians till assistance arrived. 
 
 There are Latin medals of Salonina in each of the metals and sizes, but of which 
 the silver and small-brass only are very common. There are also numerous Colonial, 
 Greek-Imperial, and Egyptian coins, in her honour — but those of the Colonies, as 
 well as the Greek large-brass, are rare, Some singular types were struck on her 
 denarii — as the " Junoni Conservatrici Augusta? " with a hart ; " Annona," now 
 first given to an empress ; and "Augusta in Pace," which is groundlessly con- 
 sidered as having been struck by one of the " Tyrants," in contempt, as a companion 
 to the " Ubique Pax " of Gallienus. 
 
 CCCCXCVII. 
 
 Obverse. CORNELIA SALONINA AVG. (Cornelia Salonina, Augusta.) The profile of the Empress, 
 with intelligent features, indicative of about 30 years of age, and her bosom robed. Her hair is 
 carried in plaits to the hinder part of her head, with a portion reaching from the nape of the 
 neck to the crown, where it meets a frontal diadem. This medal, though not well spread, is 
 in excellent condition, and covered with green-and-red patina ; it was procured at Nice, in 1823. 
 
 Reverse. PIETAS A VGG. (Pietas Augustorum.) On the exergum S. C. A richly attired sedent 
 female, with a hasta pura in her left hand, and extending her right towards a couple of children 
 before her, while a third child stands by the side of the throne. In this group Pedrusi sees 
 the offspring of Gallienus and Salonina — or, as he poetically expresses it — " In questi potiamo 
 ravvisare i tre pegni preziosi, con cut la Cesarea Donna arricehi il Talamo del suo 
 Augusto Consorte." This is, perhaps, the case, though it may be merely a symbol of charity 
 towards the " Puellse alimentariae," as on No. CXLVI1. The female is not veiled, for the 
 reason which Laurence Beger gives, in his Thesaurus ex Thesauro Palatino selectus ; — 
 " Pietatis, quce erga Deum est,effigiem velato solere pingi habitu,quce vero erga homines, 
 absque velo." 
 
( 304 ) 
 
 I have attempted to shew, under Nos. CCCCLXXIH-IV, that Pietas was not absolutely con- 
 fined in its meaning to filial affection ; and it may now be added that it afterwards became* an 
 epithet of honour ; — whence Theodoric addressed the emperor Anastasius " Ad Serenissimam 
 Pietatem vestram." From this the designation of " Holiness" probably obtained : for th« 
 good Catholics, would hardly have adopted the mere Ciceronian " Sanctitas hominis." 
 
 CCCCXCVIII. 
 
 Obverse. CORNELIA SALONINA AVG. (Cornelia Salonina, Augusta.) The head of the 
 Empress, with a beautiful countenance, the hair attired as above, the neck finely turned, and 
 the bosom neatly robed. This medal, in excellent preservation, and coated with grey patina, 
 was presented to me by Mr. T. Burgon, in 1825. 
 
 Reverse. IVNO REG1NA. In the field S: C. A veiled female, standing, with the sacred virga in 
 her left hand, and a patera in her right — the attitude being similar to that on No. CCCXXIII, 
 but without the peacock. This device is in compliment to an empress " ?noribus Sanctis ;" 
 and the goddess is habited in the robes of a Roman matron, as a mark of decorum 
 and decency : — 
 
 " Matronse, prseter faciem, nil cernere possis, 
 Cajtera, ni Catia est, demissa veste tegentis." 
 
 SALONINUS. 
 
 Publius Licinius Cornelius Saloninus Valerianus Gallienus, the son of Gallienus 
 and Salonina, as is indicated by his names, was born about A. D. 242, and declared 
 Caesar by his grandfather at the age of 11. He was sent into Gaul to learn the art 
 of war under Postumus, one of the most puissant generals of the age ; and was 
 accompanied by a tutor named Sylvanus, or Albanus, who was to instruct him in the 
 sciences. Authors differ as to the immediate cause of what followed, though they 
 all agree in the catastrophe, and that the contentions between the general and the 
 youth's preceptor, led to his death. It seems that Postumus, having defeated some 
 German invaders, was ordered by Sylvanus to send the booty to Saloninus; at 
 which the soldiers were so provoked, that they revolted, proclaimed their leader 
 Emperor, and murdered the Prince, and his imprudent tutor, at Colonia Agrippina, 
 A. D. 259. 
 
 Saloninus is said to have been a Prince of wit, and good abilities, but greatly 
 addicted to pleasure, and, in the words of Tristan, " lascif comme son pere." 
 Trebellius Pollio records that some officers, who were invited by Gallienus to a 
 feast, having laid aside their richly-mounted girdles during the repast, the young 
 Saloninus secretly stole them, and the losers were obliged to keep silence. The 
 next time they received a similar invitation, being asked why they sat down with 
 their girdles on, they answered — "Salonina deferimus." 
 
 There are Latin medals of Saloninus in all metals and sizes, of which those of 
 billon and small-brass are common ; the rest are rare, and when in good preservation 
 
( 305 ) 
 
 bring- high prices. There are also Greek-Imperial and Colonial coins bearing his 
 effigies, but I know of none that were struck in Egypt. A peculiarity in the legends 
 of this Prince is, that some of the coins minted during his life bear the title of 
 Augustus, while those after his death have but that of Caesar — whence it may be 
 inferred that the former was informally bestowed by his father, and not confirmed 
 by the Senate. Eckhel thinks this may have arisen from Gallienus's having desig- 
 nated his son Imperator, when sent into Gaul, in order to give him authority ; and 
 that some of the moneyers, accustomed to see this title accompanied by that of 
 Augustus, made the mistake.* 
 
 Much confusion has arisen from attributing some of the medals of Saloninus, 
 to Valerian Junior, the brother of Gallienus, a prince of courage, virtue, and ability. 
 But it is certain, notwithstanding the feeble admissions of Pollio, that the latter was 
 never either Caesar or Augustus, and that consequently no medals were struck in 
 his honour. Eckhel has therefore — after ably discussing the ancient historians, the 
 Fasti, marbles, and medals, in proof of his position — restored to Saloninus all those 
 coins which had been assigned to Valerian Junior. The denarii of Julius Gallienus, 
 the younger brother of this Prince, are involved in uncertainty; and the medal of 
 Galliena — the cousin of Gallienus, who instigated the assassination of Celsus, the 
 usurper — was only known to Goltzius. 
 
 CCCCXCIX. 
 
 Obverse. P. C. S. VALERIANVS CAES. (Publius Cornelius Saloninus Valerianus, Ccesur.) 
 
 An interesting- juvenile head of the youthful prince, with good features, close cut hair, and the 
 sagum on his shoulders, 't his medal is round, and though scarcely patinated, is in superior 
 condition ; it was purchased from the collection of the late Mr. Paternoster, of Ilitchin, in 1832. 
 
 Reverse. PRINCIPI IVVENT. (Principi Juventutis.) In the field S. C. A young warrior, 
 bare-headed, and in a graceful attitude, holds a spear,-f- with the point downwards, in his left 
 hand, and a globe in his right : the one shewing the world ruled, and the other that arms are 
 ready against those who disturb its peace. See No. CCLXXX1II. I have had two or three 
 specimens of this type, but none with a slave at the prince's feet, as figured in Queen 
 Christina's collection, and described by Occo and Angeloni. On all but the medal before us, 
 he is styled Nubi/i.i Ceesar, which agrees well with Spanheim's " Nobilissimus adolescenti- 
 bus Equestris or<}inis." 
 
 D. 
 
 Obverse. DIVO CAES. VALERIA NO. (Divo Ccesari Valeriano.) The bare head of Saloninus, 
 with boyish features, and short hair, as above. This medal, in capital preservation and coated 
 with reddish-brown patina, was obtained at Corinth, in 1820. 
 
 Reverse. CONSECRATIO. On the exergum S. C. A stately rogus of five stories, decorated with 
 sculptures and festoons, surmounted by a triumphal biga, bearing a statue of the deceased 
 Prince. See No. CCL1II. This marks the respect paid to the memory of the murdered 
 
 » A new legend appears on a denarius of Saloninus : it represents Jupiter giving a Victory to the laureated Gallienus, 
 and is inscribed " Dii NntrHores" whence Tristan thinks the Emperor calls himself one of the nourishers of the child. 
 There is also another with "Jovi Creseenti" on which an infant sits upon a goat, holding on by one of its horns; and thus 
 we are told, hoys were taught to ride, being set upon sheep and goats, before they were allowed to try horses. 
 
 f From the length of the barbs of this spear, an antiquary has lately described it as the " pedum," or pastoral stail'i 
 an attribute not at all connected with the legend or device of the medal. 
 
 2 it 
 
( 306 ) 
 
 Saloninus, with whose untimely death Gallienus was much affected, though for several years 
 he did not march lo avenge it. This is the last "Divus" on large brass, though the title 
 was continued on other medals, and was even applied to Constantine the Great :* it may be 
 supposed, however, that occasional'gleams from the light of Christianity, had weakened the 
 rays of divinity attached to it, and reduced its value to that of 44 sacred " majesty, assumed by 
 our own kings, after James the First. Still it was presumed by the people, that these deified 
 princes were so many additions to the corps of Semones, or mortals who obtained immortality. 
 They had long fallen into disrepute. Lucian is confounded with their numbers, and is for 
 making every deity produce certificates of his parentage and place of nativity, and how he 
 came to be a god. And Juvenal, rallying the frequent apotheoses, represents poor Atlas, as 
 almost sinking under the accumulated weight of such a multitude of celestials : — 
 
 " Nec turba Deorum 
 
 Talis, ut est hodie, contentaque sydera paucis 
 
 Numinibus miserum urgebant Atlanta minori 
 
 Pondere." 
 
 The mythic system of the Romans, however, inconsistent as it was, had no such absurdity as 
 gods wounded, imprisoned, and enslaved by mortals ; and on the whole was somewhat less 
 fanatical than that of the Greeks. But it was based on the grossest materialism; and the 
 sole prospect afforded by their Elysium, was merely a perpetuation of the exercises and 
 sports enjoyed on the banks of the Tiber, to the faithful : the disbelievers consoled themselves 
 under the adage—" Edamus et bibamus ; post mortem nulla voluptas." 
 
 Thus closes the series of Roman Medals which I have attempted to describe ; an 
 attempt in which, however I may have failed, it must be seen that those precious relics 
 are highly important to learning - , taste, and moral feeling - , as indisputable monuments 
 of the grandeur, confirmations of the history, and demonstrations of the high state of 
 the fine arts of the first city of the ancient world. But with the fall of the family r 
 of Gallienus, ends the history of the Higher Empire ; and it is a singularly remark- 
 able coincidence, that the very period at which historians have agreed to commence 
 the Lower Empire, is also that where the Latin large-brass coinage terminates ; or, 
 at least, where the legitimate sestertius becomes extinct, and the fine yellow brass of 
 the Roman mint disappears. But the real assarium, or small-brass coin of eight 
 to the ounce, becomes surprisingly common — for though medallists make a trite 
 application of the name, it was rarely minted till towards the end of Gallienus's 
 reign. Nor are these the only numismatic peculiarities of that period: thencefor- 
 Avard Colonial and Greek-Imperial medals are seldom met with : notwithstanding 
 those of potin, a mixture of copper and tin with a little silver, and of billon, or 
 copper with a small alloy of silver, were still common in Egypt. The argentei, first 
 materially debased by Severus, had now become so vitiated as to be little better 
 than the coins called " Denarii teris," and " Philippei-j" serei," which were merely 
 
 * !\Tr. Thurburn, of Alexandria, presented me with a small-brass coin of Constantius Clilorus, having his deification 
 legend on the obverse, and the reverse inscribed " Itcquies opiimorum meritorum." 
 
 f The word philip had become a familiar appellation for any kind of coin — as argenteus pkillippw, &c. 
 
/ 
 
 ( 307 ) 
 
 copper washed with silver ; — a depreciation which will be at once perceived by the 
 following scale : — 
 
 Weight in grains. Pure silver. 
 
 Augustus 55*7 54*3 
 
 Severus 53-1 30-4 
 
 Caracalla 50-1 22-7 
 
 Decius 52-2 12-5 
 
 Postumus 48-2 99 
 
 The sun of the Roman Power was now descending 1 rapidly to the political 
 
 horizon, and besides the earthquakes, floods, pestilence, and other miseries of Gal- 
 
 lienus's reign, the several armies advanced their own generals to the Ceesarian 
 
 laurels, almost simultaneously, and filled the Provinces with insolence, rapine, and 
 
 blood. These usurpers, who were mostly men of superior talents, are designated 
 
 the Thirty Tyrants, an epithet perhaps given by some Philhellenes, since no more 
 
 than 19 can be mustered by history, unless we admit that Lollianus, iElianus, and 
 
 Laelianus, were three distinct personages : they may be thus classed by a medallist — 
 
 ]. 
 
 Those whose coins are 
 undoubtedly true. 
 
 Those whose coins are 
 suspected. 
 
 Those of whom no coins 
 are known. 
 
 Postumus Cyriades Valens 
 
 Lielianus Ingenuus Balista 
 
 Victorinus Ceisus Saturninus 
 
 Marius Piso Frugi Trebellianus 
 
 Tetricus 
 
 Macrianus 
 
 Quietus 
 
 Regalianus 
 
 Alex. iEmilianus 
 
 Aureolus 
 
 Sulpitius Antoninus 
 
 These Tyrants were a disunited set, each working for his own object ; but amidst 
 their treasons, the brave Odenathus continued faithful, and saved the Roman 
 authority in the East. This excellent warrior was scarcely known tili Ihe captivity of 
 Valerian, when by rich gifts and earnest entreaties he endeavoured to procure the 
 enlargement of his sovereign. But the haughty Sapor tore the letters, threw the 
 presents into a river, and threatened to destroy the donor, unless he prostrated 
 himself in bonds to solicit forgiveness ; which arrogance so exasperated Odenathus, 
 that he swore to pursue the Persians with fire and sword, and to humble the pride 
 of their monarch. His numerous victories indicate that, had he not been treache- 
 rously assassinated, he would fully have accomplished his vows; as it was, he had 
 the satisfaction of driving Sapor through Edessa, capturing his wives and treasure, 
 and reducing Ctesiphon — services for which Gallienus associated him in the 
 Empire. 
 
( 308 ) 
 
 But the public evils were irremediable ; and such was the universal alarm, that 
 many persons died through fear. Under circumstances like these, it is no matter 
 of surprise that the " desperatio de Salutate ReipubliccB, >> which in the prouder 
 days of Rome was a heinous crime, had now become general. In vain were the 
 Sybilline books consulted, in vain were public processions made, and sacrifices 
 offered on every altar — the plague raged with as great violence as ever, and all 
 nature seemed to unite in rendering the division of the Upper and Lower Empires 
 a memorable epoch. These extraordinary calamities so moved Gallienus to remorse, 
 that thinking to pacify the wrath of Heaven, he relaxed the persecution against the 
 Christians, and sent forth edicts in their favour. Such was the aspect of affairs at 
 this crisis of Roman fate : and one of the most striking indications of decadence 
 was, that after a long course of foreign war and conquest, Rome became indifferent 
 to her external affairs, and absorbed by intestine commotions : and it is probable 
 that this apathy led to the ruin of the " Eternal City," since it was merely the 
 opinion of her inactivity that encouraged the Barbarians first to insult, and ulti- 
 mately to conquer those who had become so degraded in moral virtue and physical 
 strength : — 
 
 " Non his juventus oria parentibus 
 Infecit aequor sanguine Punico, 
 Pyrrhumque, et ingentem cecidit 
 
 Antiochum, Annibalemque dirum." 
 
( 309 ) 
 
 ADDENDA. 
 
 I mentioned at p. 36, that the medal of Britannicus, No. XLIII. was of question- 
 able authenticity; and since those remarks were printed, an opportunity has been 
 offered of replacing it by the following : — 
 
 Obverse. KAAYAIOE BPETANNIKOE KAIEAP. A youthful unlaureated head, having 
 sensible features, smooth small chin, prominent nose, well-placed eye, and a long throat, with 
 the shoulders robed. This rare medal was formerly in the Rothlin collection. It is coated 
 with olive-green patina, is in remarkable preservation, and was purchased at Mr. Willett's 
 sale, in 1834, for 15 guineas. 
 
 Reverse. AAABANAEflN. Apollo naked, standing in an easy attitude to the left, with a quiver 
 at his back ; his left hand holding a bow, and on his right hand a bird sitting. At his feet 
 a ram standing. Apollo was the divinity most frequent on the coins or Alabanda, in Caria, 
 and he is known to have been much worshipped there. No representation, however, of him 
 occurs on other coins of this town in a similar attitude, and with similar attributes. The 
 device is described by Seguin, San Clemente, Sestini, and Mionnet; but Sestini thinks his 
 specimen was altered and retouched from a coin of Claudius, as described in Mionnefs 
 Supplement, v. 6, p. 438. 
 
 Anxious to compress within moderate limits, the quantity of interesting matter 
 arising from numismatic researches, I fixed on a series of 500 medals only for 
 description ; but it was quickly found that at least 100 more, from their perfection 
 and expressive reverses, pressed hard for admittance : — but to adhere to round num- 
 bers, only 99 were replaced in the Cabinet, owing to the last of Sabina, and first of 
 iElius Caesar, having by mistake, both been numbered CXCII. And although, from 
 having made frequent reference to the others in their numerical order of arrangement, 
 I can at present only enumerate the addenda here, I may take a future opportunity 
 of descanting upon them. 
 
 i. 
 
 Tiberius Ti. Caesar divi Aug. F. August. P. M. Tr. Pot. XXXVII.— -Head of the Emperor. 
 
 Absque epigraphe. — A magnificent temple, with sculptures. 
 
 ii. 
 
 Agrippina Senior. Agrippina Germanici Caesaris. — The head of Agrippina Senior. 
 
 Ti. Claudius Caesar Aug. Germ. P. M. Tr. P. Imp. P. P.— S. C. and countermarks. 
 
 in. 
 
 Claudius Ti. Claudius Caesar Aug. P. M. Tr. P. Imp. P. P.— The head of Claudius, counter- 
 marked. 
 
 Nero Claudius Drusus German. Imp. — A triumphal arch. 
 
 IV. 
 
 Nero Nero Claud. Caes. Aug. Ger. P. M. Tr. P. Imp. P. P.— The head of Nero. 
 
 Adlocut. Coh. — The Emperor haranguing soldiers. 
 
( 310 ) 
 
 V. 
 
 Galba Imp. Ser. Sulp. Galba Caes. Aug. Tr. Pot.— The head of Galba. 
 
 Adlocut. — The Emperor haranguing soldiers to the left. 
 
 VI. 
 
 Galba Ser. Sulp. Galba Imp. Caesar Aug. P. M. Tr. P.— The head of Galba. 
 
 Honos et Virtus. — The personifications of Honour and Virtue. 
 
 VII. 
 
 Galba Imp. Ser. Sulp. Galba Caesar Aug. Tr. P.— The head of Galba. 
 
 Absque epigraphe. — A winged Victory marching. 
 
 VIII. 
 
 Vespasian Imp. Caes. Vespasian. Aug. P. M. Tr. P. P. P. Cos. III. — The head of Vespasian. 
 
 Victoria Augusti. — Victory writing on a buckler. 
 
 IX. 
 
 Vespasian Imp. Caes. Vespasian Aug. P. M Tr. P. Cos. III. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Mars Victor. — Mars with a trophy, at an altar. 
 
 x. 
 
 Vespasian Imp. Caes. Vespasian. Aug. P. M. Tr. P. P. P. Cos. III. — The head of Vespasian. 
 
 Roma. — Rome seated on the Seven Hills, with attributes. 
 
 XI. 
 
 Titus T. Caesar Vespasian. Imp. Ill I. Pont. Tr. P. II. Cos. II. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Judaea. — The Emperor and two Jewish captives. 
 
 XII. 
 
 Titus Imp. T. Caes. Vesp. Aug. P. M. Tr. P. P. P. Cos. VIII.— The head of Titus. 
 
 Felicit. Public. — A stolated female with a cornucopia?. 
 
 XIII. 
 
 Domitian Imp. Caes. Domitian. Aug. Germ. Cos. XI. — The head of Domitian. 
 
 Absque epigraphe. — Peace burning- a pile of arms. 
 
 XIV. 
 
 Domitian Imp. Caes. Domit. Aug. Germ. Cos. XI. Cens. Pot. P. P. — The head of Domitian. 
 
 Absque epigraphe. — The Emperor and four soldiers at an altar. 
 
 xv. 
 
 Domitian Imp. Caes. Domit. Aug. Germ. Cos. XI. Cens. Pot. P. P. — The head of Domitian. 
 
 Annona August. — The types of Annona and Ceres. 
 
 XVI. 
 
 Domitian Imp. Caes. divi Vesp. F. Domitian Aug. P. M. — The head of Domitian. 
 
 Tr. P. Cos. VIII. Des. Villi. P. P.— Minerva galeated and standing. 
 
 XVII. 
 
 Nerva Imp. Nerva Caes. Aug. P. M. Tr. P. Cos. II. P. P.— The head of Nerva. 
 
 Providentia Senatus. — Nerva receiving the globe from a senator. 
 
 XVIII. 
 
 Trajan Imp. Caes. Nervae Trajano Aug. Ger. Dac. P. M. Tr. P. Cos. V. P, P.— The head 
 
 of Trajan. 
 
 Portum Trajani. — A hexagonal haven with ships. 
 
( 311 ) 
 
 XIX. 
 
 Trajan Imp. Caes. Nervae Trajano Aug. Ger. Dac. P. M. Tr. P. Cos. V. P. P. — The head 
 
 of Trajan. 
 
 S. P. Q. R. Optimo Principi. — The Emperor crowned by Victory. 
 
 xx. 
 
 Hadrian Hadrianus Augustus. — The head of Hadrian. 
 
 Clementia Aug. Cos. III. P. P. — A stolated female with lance and patera. 
 
 XXI. 
 
 Hadrian Hadrianus Aug. Cos. III. P. P. — The head of Hadrian. 
 
 Pietas Aug. — A female standing with a stork. 
 
 XXII. 
 
 Hadrian Hadrianus Augustus P. P. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Cos. III. — The adoption of jEHus by Hadrian. 
 
 XXIII. 
 
 Hadrian Hadrianus Aug. Cos. III. P. P. — The head of Hadrian. 
 
 Cappadocia. — Personification of the Province, with attributes. 
 
 XXIV. 
 
 Hadrian... Hadrianus Aug. Cos. III. P. P. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Exerc. Dacicus. — The Emperor haranguing three soldiers. 
 
 xxv. 
 
 Hadrian Hadrianus Aug. Cos. III. P. P. — The head of Hadrian. 
 
 Adventui Aug. Hispaniae. — The Province, Emperor, and attributes. 
 
 XXVI. 
 
 Hadrian Hadrianus Augustus.— The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Cos. III. — Pantheistic. An eagle on a fulmen, a peacock, and an owl standing on 
 a shield. 
 
 XXVII. 
 
 Hadrian Hadrianus Aug. Cos. III. P. P. — The head of Hadrian. 
 
 Tellus Stabil. — A recumbent female with attributes. 
 
 XXVIII. 
 
 Sabina Sabina Augusta Hadriani Aug. P. P. — The head of Sabina. 
 
 Pietas Aug. — A veiled female with two children. 
 
 XXIX. 
 
 Sabina Sabina Augusta Hadriani Aug. P. P. — The head of the Empress. 
 
 Concordia Aug.— The Empress seated on a throne, with attributes. 
 
 XXX. 
 
 iElius Aelius Caesar. — The head of JEhus. 
 
 Tr. Pot. Cos. II. — A female with lotus, cornucopiae, and rudder. 
 
 XXXI. 
 
 ^Elius Aelius Caesar. — The head of JEUus. 
 
 Tr. Pot. Cos. II. — A sedent female, with attributes. 
 
 XXXII. 
 
 Antoninus Pius.,,,. Antoninus Aug. Pius P. P. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Tr. Pot. Cos. III. — Janus bi-frons standing with a lance. 
 
( 312 ) 
 
 XXXIII. 
 
 Antoninus Pius Antoninus Aug. Pius P. P.— The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Africa. — A female holding a basket aud cornucopia. 
 
 XXXIV. 
 
 Antoninus Pius Antoninus Aug. Pius P. P. — The head of Antoninus Pius. 
 
 Alexandria. — A stolated female with a stork. 
 
 xxxv. 
 
 Antoninus Pius Antoninus Aug. Pius P. P. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Dacia. — A female with a basket and vexillum. 
 
 xxxvi. 
 
 Antoninus Pius Antoninus Aug. Pius P. P. — The head of Antoninus Pius. 
 
 Mauretania. — A tall female with a basket and dart. 
 
 XXXVII. 
 
 Antoninus Pius Antoninus Aug. Pius P. P. Tr. p. XXII. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Foituna Opsequens. (Sic.) — A female with rudder, coinucopiae, and patera. 
 
 XXXVIII. 
 
 Antoninus Pius Antoninus Aug. Pius P. P. Tr. p. XXII. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Aed. divi Aug. Rest. Cos. III. — An octostyle temple, with figures. 
 
 XXXIX. 
 
 Faustina Senior.... Faustina Aug. Antonini Aug. Pii P. P. — The head of the Empress. 
 
 Junoni Reginae. — The throne of Juno, with a peacock and sceptre. 
 
 XL. 
 
 Faustina Senior Faustina Aug. Antonini Aug. Pii P. P. — The head of Faustina Senior. 
 
 Concordia Aug. — A female with attributes, rests against a cippus. 
 
 XLI. 
 
 Faustina Senior Diva Faustina. — The head of the Empress. 
 
 Ceres. — The goddess with a torch and some ears of wheat. 
 
 XLII. 
 
 Marcus Aurelius Aurelius Caesar Aug. Pii F. Cos. — The head of Marcus Aurelius. 
 
 Juventas. — A young female before a tripod. 
 
 XLIII. 
 
 Marcus Aurelius Aurelius Caesar Antonini Aug. Pii F. — The head of Aurelius. 
 
 Tr. Pot. VI. Cos. II. Honos. — A togated figure with a laurel branch. 
 
 XLIV. 
 
 Marcus Aurelius Aurelius Caesar Antonini Aug. Pii F. — The head of Aurelius. 
 
 Tr. Pot. VI. Cos. II. Virtus. — A martial figure with a lance and paiazonium. 
 
 XLV. 
 
 Marcus Aurelius M. Antoninus Aug. Tr. P. XXVI. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Imp. VI. Cos. III. — A sedent female, with a victory, lance, and shield. 
 
 XLVI. 
 
 Faustina Junior Faustina Aug. Pii Aug. Fil. — The head of Faustina Junior. 
 
 Pudicitia. — A sedent female lifting the Peplus. 
 
 XLVI I. 
 
 Faustina Junior Faustina Aug. Pii Aug. Fil. — The head of the Empress. 
 
 Absque - epigraphe. — Diana Venatrix, with her bow and arrow. 
 
( 313 ) 
 
 XLVIII. 
 
 Faustina Junior Faustina Augusta. — The head of the Empress. 
 
 Absqu£ epigraphe.— A stolated female between a lion and peacock. 
 
 XLIX. 
 
 Faustina Junior Faustina Augusta. — The head of the Empress. 
 
 Venus Victrix. — Venus holding a shield with two cupids on its surface. 
 
 L. 
 
 Lucius Verus Imp. Caes. L. Aurel. Verus Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Prov. Deor. Tr. P. Cos. II. — A robed female with cornucopia; and globe. 
 
 LI. 
 
 Lucius Verus Imp. Caes. L. Aurel. Verus Aug. — The head of Verus. 
 
 Felic. Aug. Tr. P. III. — A Praetorian galley with four rowers. 
 
 HI. 
 
 Lucius Verus L. Aurel. Verus Aug. Armeniacus. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Tr. Pot. V. Imp. II. Cos. II. — Verus between four military standards. 
 
 LIU. 
 
 Lucius Verus L. Verus Aug. Arm. Parlh. Max. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Tr. Pot. VI. Imp. 1III. Cos. 11. — Victory inscribing Vic. Par. on a shield. 
 
 LIV. 
 
 Lucius Verus Divus Verus.- — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Consecratio. — A rogus bearing a quadrigated car. 
 
 LV. 
 
 Lucilla Lucilla Aug. Antonini Aug. F. — The head of the Empress. 
 
 Pietas. — A female sacrificing at an altar. 
 
 LVI. 
 
 Lucilla Lucilla Aug. Antonini Aug. F. — The head of the Empress. 
 
 Venus. — The goddess holding the mystic apple. 
 
 LVII. 
 
 Commodus Imp. L. Aurel. Commodus Aug. Germ. Sarm. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Tr. P. II. Cos. P. P. De Germanis. — A pile of arms, and implements. 
 
 LVIII. 
 
 Commodus L. Ael. Aurel. Comm. Aug. P. Fel. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 P. M. Tr. P. XVII. Imp. VIII. Cos. VII. P. P.— The Emperor, and Victory on 
 a column. 
 
 LIX. 
 
 Commodus M. Commodus Antoninus Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Tr. P. VI. Imp. UIl. Cos. III. P. P. — Commodus superintending a donation. 
 
 LX. 
 
 Commodus M. Commod. Ant. P. Felix Aug. Brit. P. P. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Auctor Pietatis P. M. Tr. P. XIIII. Imp. VIII. Cos. V. P. P.— Stolated female 
 and altar. 
 
 LXI. 
 
 Commodus M. Commodus Ant. P. Felix. Aug. Brit. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Joyi Juveni P M. Tr. P. XIIII. Imp. VIII.— Jupiter with a lance and fulmen 
 
 2s 
 
( 314 ) 
 
 Lxir. 
 
 Commodus M. Conimodus Ant. P. Felix Aug. Brit. P. P. — The head of Commodus. 
 
 Apol. Monetae P. M. Tr. P. XV. IMP. VII. Cos. VI.— Apollo leaning on a column. 
 
 LXIII. 
 
 Commodus M. Commodus Ant. P. Felix Aug. Brit. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Gen. Aug. Felic. P. M. Tr. P. XVI. Imp. VIII. Cos. VI.— A Genius before an altar. 
 
 LXIV. 
 
 Commodus L. Aurel. Commod. Caes. Aug. Fil. Germ. Sarm. — The head of Commodus. 
 
 Jovi Conservatory — Jupiter affording protection to Commodus. 
 
 LXV. 
 
 Commodus L. Aurel. Commodus Aug. Germ. Sarm. — The head of the Emperor- 
 
 Juuoni Sispitae Tr. p. II. Imp. II. Cos. P. P. — Juno jaculatrix, and snake. 
 
 LXVI. 
 
 Commodus Commodus Ant. P. Felix Aug. Brit. P. P. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Miner. Vict. P. M. Tr. P. XIIII. IMP. VIII. Cos. V. Des. VI.— Minerva Victrix 
 and trophy. 
 
 Lxvir. 
 
 Pertinax Imp. Caes. P. Helv. Pertinax Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Vot. Decen. Tr. P. Cos. II. — The Emperor sacrificing at an altar. 
 
 LXVIII. 
 
 Severus L. Sept. Sev. Pert. Aug. Imp. III. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Moneta Aug. Cos. II. P. P. — The three Monetae, with attributes. 
 
 LXIX. 
 
 Severus. L. Sept. Sev. Pert. Aug. Imp. V. — The head of Severus. 
 
 Vota Publica. — Two togated figures sacrificing. 
 
 LXX. 
 
 Severus. L. Sept. Sev. Pert. Aug. Imp. X. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Paci aeter. P. M. Tr. P. VI. Cos. II. P. P. — A sedent female with an olive-branch. 
 
 LXXI. 
 
 Severus Severus Aug. Parth. Max. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Restitutor Urbis. — Severus sacrificing at an altar. 
 
 LXXII. 
 
 Julia Domna Julia Domna Aug. — The head of the Empress. 
 
 Veneri Victr. — Venus Callipyga leaning against a column. 
 
 L XXII I. 
 
 Julia Domna Julia Augusta. — The head of the Empress. 
 
 Junoni Lucina. — Juno seated with a swathed infant. 
 
 LXXIV. 
 
 Caracalla M. Aurel. Antoninus Pius Aug. Brit. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Secuiitati Perpetuae. — A sedent female with attributes. 
 
 LXXV. 
 
 Caracalla M. Aurel. Antoninus Pius Aug. Brit. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 P. M. Tr. P. XIIII. Cos. III. P. P.— A graceful seated female, with a palm-branch. 
 
i 
 
 ( 315 ) 
 
 LXXVI. 
 
 Caracalla Antoninus Augustus. — The head of Caracalla. 
 
 Rector Orbis. — Figure with a globe and lance. 
 
 LXXVII. 
 
 Geta P. Septimius Geta Pius Aug. Brit.— The head of Geta. 
 
 Fort. Red. Tr. P. HI. Cos. TI. P. P. — Fortune seated, with attributes. 
 
 LXXVIII. 
 
 Geta P. Septimius Geta Pius Aug. Brit. — The head of Geta. 
 
 Tr. P. III. Cos. II. P. P. — A sedent female, with various attributes. 
 
 LXXIX. 
 
 Macrinus Imp. Caes. M. Opel. Sev. Macrinus Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 P. M. Tr. P. II. Cos. P. P. — The Emperor seated, with a globe and truncheon. 
 
 LXXX. 
 
 Elagabalus Imp. Caes. M. Aur. Antoninus Pius Aug. — The bead of the Emperor. 
 
 Libertas Augusti. — A stolated female with attributes. 
 
 LXXXI. 
 
 Elagabalus Imp. Caes. M. Aur. Antoninus Pius Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Mars Victor. — Mars marching with the opima spolia. 
 
 LXXXII. 
 
 Elagabalus Imp. Caes. M. Aur. Antoninus Pius Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Pontif. Max. Tr. P. II. Cos. II. P. P.— Roma Nicephora with attributes. 
 
 lxxxih. 
 
 Julia Maesa Julia Maesa Aug. — The head of Julia Msesa. 
 
 Saeculi felicitas. — A female with a patera and caduceus. 
 
 LXXXIV. 
 
 Alexander Imp. Sev. Alexander Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Liberalitas Augusti IIII. — Alexander superintending a donation. 
 
 LXXXV. 
 
 Julia Mamaea Julia Mamaea Augusta. — The head of Julia Mamaea. 
 
 Juno Augusta. — A sedent female, with an infant and attributes. 
 
 LXXXVI. 
 
 Maximinus Maximinus Pius Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Providentia Aug. — A female with cornucopias. 
 
 LXXXVH. 
 
 Gordianus Pius Imp. Gordianus Pius Fel. Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Laetitia Aug. N.— A robed female with a rudder and garland. 
 
 LXXXVIII. 
 
 Gordianus Pius Imp. Gordianus Pius Fel. Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Fides Militum. — Gordian on horseback, between two standards. 
 
 LXXXIX. 
 
 Philip Senior Imp. M. Jul. Philippus Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Saeculares Augg. — A cylindrical altar, inscribed Cos. III. 
 
 xc. 
 
 Otacilia Marcia Otacil. Severa Aug. — The head of the Empress. 
 
 Concordia Augg. — A sedent female, with a double cornucopias. 
 
( 316 ) 
 
 XCl. 
 
 Philip Junior Imp. M. Jul. Philippus Aug. — The head of Philip Junior. 
 
 Saeculares Augg. — A cippus inscribed Cos. II. 
 
 xtll. 
 
 Decius Imp. C. M. Q. Tiajanus Decius Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Pax Augusti.— A female with a wand and branch. 
 
 xcm. 
 
 Treb. Gallus Imp. Caes. C. Vibius Trebonianus Gallus Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Libertas Aug. — A female with a wand and cap. 
 
 xciv. 
 
 Treb. Gallus Imp. Caes. C. Vibius Trebonianus Gallus Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Votis Decennalibus. — Inscribed in a garland. 
 
 xcv. 
 
 Volusian Imp. Cae. C. Vib. Volusiano Aug. — The head of Volusian. 
 
 Pax Augg. — A female with a hasta-pura and olive-branch. 
 
 xcvi. 
 
 Volusian Imp. Cae. C. Vib. Volusiano Aug. — The head of Volusian. 
 
 Felicitas Publica. — A stolated female with a sceptre and caduceus. 
 
 XCVII. 
 
 Valerian „ Imp. C. P. Lie. Valerianus Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Virtus Augg. — An armed warrior, with spear pointed downwards. 
 
 XCVIII. 
 
 Gallienus Imp. C. P. Lie. Gallienus P. F. Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Diana Felix. — Diana the huntress, with a dog. 
 
 XCIX. 
 
 Gallienus Imp. Gallienus Pius F. Aug. — The head of the Emperor. 
 
 Jovi Ultori. — A figure of Jupiter holding a thunderbolt. 
 
 FINIS. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 Page 
 
 Abbreviations condemned - - 99, 109 
 
 A bundantia Aug. reverse of Gordianus Fins - 258 
 
 a reverse of Trajan - - 259 
 
 Acclamation medal of Hadrian - - 102 
 
 Acerra, Christians tortured for not using it - 223 
 
 or incense casket - 271 
 
 Achaia visited by Hadrian - 102 
 
 Achelous and Amultheea - 234 
 
 Acron, his spoils borne - - - 53 
 
 Acrostolium, a symbol of Neptune - - 100 
 
 Addison, on medallic devices - - vii 
 
 his opinion on a reverse of Nero - 42 
 
 on a medal of Trajan - 84 
 
 on a coin of Hadrian - - 105 
 
 in error as to a coin of J. Domna - 189 
 
 on Veneri Felici of Faustina Junior 143 
 
 on the double Cornucopia? - - 234 
 
 Adelphi of Terence quoted ... 153 
 
 Adiabeni warred on by Severus - - 185 
 
 Adlocut. Galba haranguing to the left - 309 
 
 Aug. a reverse of Nerva - 77 
 
 a reverse of M. Aurelius - 136 
 
 Coh. a reverse of Caligula - - 31 
 
 reverse of Nero - - 4 1 
 
 Ad/oculio, a reverse of Galba - 46 
 
 , on a reverse of Caracalla - - 194 
 
 Adolescens, the term - 133 
 
 Adsertori Libertatis Publicce, Vespasian - 56 
 
 Adularia, probably the ancient Murrha - 150 
 
 Adulterated medals, poem on - - xix 
 
 Adventui Aug. Britannia, a reverse of Hadrian 104 
 
 Cilicice, a reverse of Hadrian - 105 
 
 Felicissimo, a reverse of Severus 186 
 
 Gallics, a reverse of Hadrian - 105 
 
 Hispanice, a reverse of Hadrian 311 
 
 Judcea, a reverse of Hadrian - 106 
 
 A dventus, crossing a river, reverse of M. Aurelius 137 
 
 Aug. a reverse of Hadrian - 98 
 
 Mauretanice, reverse of Hadrian 107 
 
 Augg. reverse of Philip Senior - 266 
 
 August i, an unpublished reverse of Geta 200 
 
 reverse of Elagabal us - 214 
 
 Adversa, two heads facing each other - xiv 
 Adytum, place of the principal deity in a temple 85 
 Ad. divi Aug. Rest, reverse of Antoninus Pius 312 
 Agis, part of the body armour - - 82 
 described by Virgil - 134 
 
 2 
 
 Page 
 
 Aqypt visited by Hadrian - 103 
 
 Agyptos, a reverse of Hadrian - - 102 
 
 Alia Capitolina - 106 
 
 Alian mentions the rabbits of Spain - - ib. 
 
 on elephants - - - - 186 
 
 Alianus, Lollianus, or Lcclianus, Tyrant - 307 
 
 Alius Ccesar, his birth, adoption, and death 113 
 
 his character - - ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - ib. 
 
 his countenance described - 114 
 
 Sabinus, on the beauty of Maximus - 242 
 
 Cardus on Gordianus Afr. Junior - 247 
 
 adopted, reverse of Hadrian - - 31 1 
 
 Amilian, altered medals of Philip passed for - 290 
 
 JEmilianus, humble birth, rise, and death - 289 
 
 his qualifications and character - 290 
 
 estimation of his medals - ib. 
 
 married to Cornelia Supera - 291 
 
 his features described - - ib. 
 
 Aneas, Anchises, and Ascanius, rev. of Ant. P. 120 
 
 Ajquitas August i, reverse of Alexander - 230 
 
 Publico, reverse of Aquilia Severa - 218 
 
 Regno, risible error upon - - 170 
 
 Aquit. Aug. a female, reverse of Pertinax - 170 
 
 Ara of Rome, remarks on - 267, 268, 269 
 
 Arugo, and Arugo nobilis - xiv 
 
 As Cyprium, copper of the Dupondii - xv 
 
 Asehylus, on the Furies ... 270 
 
 Ascu/apius conveyed to Rome - -- 167 
 
 a reverse of Pescennius Niger - 177 
 
 a reverse of Caracalla - 194 
 
 Aternilas, a common type of Faustina Senior 128 
 
 with a female and phoenix - ib. 
 
 „ with an elephant biga - - ib. 
 
 with a hexastyle temple - - 129 
 
 three females, reverse of Faustina J. 145 
 
 Empress on a winged female, ditto ib. 
 
 an elephant biga, ditto - - 147 
 
 Augg. elephant, reverse of Philip S. 268 
 
 a female, reverse of Gallus 286 
 
 Aternitati Aug. Apollo, reverse of Gordianus P. 261 
 
 Aternity, how represented - - - 128 
 
 Afinia, the reported wife of Gallus - - 284 
 
 Africa, personifications and emblems of - 103 
 
 visited by Hadrian - - - ib. 
 
 a female and lion, reverse of Severus - 185 
 
 a female standing, reverse of Antoninus P. 31 1 
 
( 31 
 
 Page | 
 
 Africani, the two elder Gordians - - 244 
 
 Agathias, his account of Valerian's captivity - 294 
 Agathocles, his emblem of Africa - - 10 J 
 
 Agcrona, the goddess of silence - - 2GG 
 
 Agmina sceva sororum, or Furies - - 2/0 
 
 Agostini on cuniculus ... 100 
 
 his remark on the Britons - - 119 
 
 on an jEternitas of Faustina Junior 140 
 
 definition of Fecundity - - 154 
 
 , on Ubertas - 259 
 
 Agrippu Marcus Vipsanius, birth and marriages 1 1 
 
 death and character 12 
 
 his medals - ib. 
 
 his physiognomy ib. 
 
 Agrippina, Drusilla, Julia, reverse of Caligula 31 
 
 Senior, descent and birth - 25 
 
 . her character and death - 20 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her aspect described - ib. 
 
 , her bones conveyed to Rome 28 
 
 Junior, her birth and marriages - 37 
 
 poisons Claudius - 32, 38 
 
 her disappointed ambition ib. 
 
 murdered by order of Nero ib. 
 
 estimation of her medals - 39 
 
 on medals during her life - ib. 
 
 her features described - ib. 
 
 Alabanda, medal of Britannicus struck at - 309 
 Alacrilas, reverse of a denarius of Gallienus - 300 
 Alani, they check Gordianus Pius - - 259 
 
 Alate, a term for winged - - 67 
 
 Alhinovantes wrote on Drusus Sen. - 21 
 Albinus, parentage, birth, and military services 178 
 
 his exaltation and death - - ib. 
 
 why named Albinus - - ib. 
 
 had many good qualities - - 179 
 
 but a voracious appetite - - ib. 
 
 his features described - - ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 Alces, or Elk of Philip Junior - - 273 
 
 A/ciati on Concord - 135 
 Aldus Minutius, on the double flute - - 165 
 
 A/ecto, Tisiphone, and Meg (era, of Gordianus P. 270 
 Alex, ab Alexandre, on Parthia - - 117 
 
 Alexander, his parentage, birth, and adoption 223 
 
 his danger and elevation - 224 
 
 his accession, reign, and death - ib. 
 
 his character, conduct, and acts ib. 225 
 
 positively favoured the Christians ib. 
 
 his adoption of a divine aphorism ib. 
 
 the number of his wives questionable ib. 
 
 his spirited conduct at Antioch - 226 
 
 estimation of his medals - ib. 
 
 8 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Alexander, his aspect described - - 227 
 
 replenishes the public granaries - ib. 
 
 his severe justice - - 231 
 
 his aphorism on soldiers - ib. 
 
 warned by a female Druid - 233 
 
 commendation of Gordianus Afr. S. 246 
 
 Alex. Aimilianus, one of the Thirty Tyrants - 307 
 
 Alexandria, a reverse of Hadrian - - 104 
 
 personification of - - ib. 
 
 visited by Caracalla - - 196 
 
 a female, reverse of Antoninus Pius 311 
 
 Alexandrians lampoon Hadrian - - 104 
 
 Alexianus, the grandson of Massa - - 222 
 Alirn. Jtal. legend of two of Trajan's medals 81, 82 
 
 Almaach, the beautiful double star, a conceit 224 
 
 Alphabetical order of Geta's dishes - - 200 
 
 Altar, the constellation - 159 
 
 Altar e Viaticum - - - - 141 
 
 Altered medals, their ingenuity - - xix 
 
 Amalthcea and Achelbus - 234 
 
 her horns and skin - - 301 
 
 Ambitio, not represented on Imperial medals - 270 
 
 Amity replaced by M. Otto for Concord - 288 
 Ammianus, on the Forum of Trajan - -87 
 
 on the wife of Maximinus - 240 
 
 Amor Mutuus, a reverse of Balbinus - - 251 
 
 Amphitheatre, Flavian, strictures on - 63 
 
 Amphorce found at Malta - 228 
 
 Ampliatori Civium, a reverse of Antoninus Pius 125 
 
 Amulet worn by Domitian - - 67 
 
 Anachronism of Pynson - - 61 
 
 Anadema, or fillet - 111 
 
 Analysis of Roman large-brass - xvi, xvii 
 
 Anastasius complimented by Theodoric - 304 
 
 Anchises with his son and grandson - - 120 
 
 Ancona, supposed representation of - 85 
 
 its triumphal arch - - - 86 
 
 Ancyra, now Angur, coins found there - 229 
 Andria of Terence quoted - - 153, 165 
 
 A. N. F. F. Hadriano Aug. P. P. a reverse 109 
 
 Angel, probable representation of one - 146 
 
 Angeloni, on an iEternitas of Faustina Junior 145 
 
 his medal of iEmilian doubted - 292 
 
 his coin of Saloninus - - 305 
 
 Anglo-Saxon medals of Offa - 263 
 
 Animals, strange ones slain under Philip - 267 
 
 Annia Lucilla, medals mistaken for D. Lucilla's 1 13 
 
 Annia Faustina, descent, beauty, and marriage 218 
 
 elevated by Elagabalus, divorced ib. 
 
 did not assume the name of Julia ib. 
 
 estimation of her medals ib. 219 
 
 her aspect described - ib. 
 
 Annius Verus, his parentage, birth, and death 148 
 
i 
 
 ( 319 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Annius Vcrus, estimation of his medals - 148 
 
 his aspect - - ib. 
 
 Anniversary of Rome, the 1000th ~ - 260 
 
 „ its zero-point a question 207 
 
 Ann. DCCCLXX1III. Nat. Urb. P. Cir. Con. 99 
 
 Annona described - 02 
 
 Aug. a reverse of Titus - - ib. 
 
 Augusti Ceres, a reverse of Nero - 41 
 
 Annona Augusti, a reverse of Nerva - 77 
 
 Aug. sedent female, reverse of Macrinus 200 
 
 August, two females, reverse of Domitian 310 
 
 Militaris, provision for the army - 200 
 
 distinguished from Copia - - 259 
 
 legend first given to an Empress - 303 
 
 Antelope, a reverse of Philip Senior - - 208 
 
 Antioch privileged to coin money - 50 
 
 Antinous, his medals should be destroyed - 97 
 
 disgraces astronomy - - ib. 
 
 Antiquist, an indifferent antiquary - - 218 
 
 Antiphellas, medal struck by, to Britannicus 30 
 
 Antonia, her parentage, birth, and marriage - 22 
 
 widowhood and death - ib 
 
 estimation of her medals - - 23 
 
 her countenance described - ib. 
 
 her description of Claudius - 34 
 
 Antoniniades, by Gordianus Africanus Sen. 110, 244 
 
 Antonine column described - - 120 
 
 Antoninus Pius, birth, and employments - 114 
 
 adoption, accession, and death 115 
 
 person, and character - ib 
 
 estimation of bis medals - 110 
 
 his aspect described - ib. 
 
 repairs the temples - 125 
 
 Antonius, the prenomen of the Gordians - 243 
 
 Autumn, how personified - - - 103 
 
 Anubis, carried by Commodus - - 105 
 
 Apameans, a supposed medallion by them - 204 
 
 Aplustre, the ornament of the poop - 101, 150 
 
 Apocolokintosis, a satire by Seneca - note, 32 
 
 Apollinaris, writes on the miraculous rain - 139 
 
 Apollini Augusto, a reverse of Antoninus Pius 119 
 
 Apollo with the nimbus, a reverse of Antoninus P. 123 
 
 in a quadriga, reverse of Caracalla - 195 
 
 as represented on a reverse of Alexander 232 
 
 a type of oriental successes - 232, 201 
 
 stigmatized by Lucian - _ 292 
 
 the inflictor of sudden death - - 294 
 
 with a ram, reverse of Britannicus - 309 
 
 Arnazi, on medals of Gallus - 280 
 
 Conservat. Apollo Lyristes, of iEmilian 292 
 
 Lyristes, how represented - - 119 
 
 Monetae, a reverse of Commodus - 313 
 
 Salutari, a reverse of Gallus - 280 
 
 Tape 
 
 Apollo Venator, Loid Byron on the - - 292 
 
 sipot/ieosis, supposed origin of - - 141 
 
 disappears about Constantine's time 297 
 
 Apparitions believed in by the Romans - 270 
 Apple, an attribute of Venus - 112, 143 
 
 Apuleius, his epithet for victory - - 252 
 
 Aqua Marlia, its pure waters - - 80 
 
 Trajana, a reverse of Trajan - - ib. 
 
 Aquas Curtiam, &c. foiged on rev. of Vespasian 56 
 
 Aqvi/eia, courage of its women - - 237 
 
 Aqui/ia Severa, a vestal, marries Elagabalus 217 
 
 repudiated, restored to favour - ib. 
 
 uncertainty of her fate - ib. 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her features described - 218 
 
 Aquiliferi, or eagle-bearers - - 89 
 
 Aquinum, birth-place of Pescennius Niger - 175 
 Ara Pacts of Nero quoted - - 126, 146 
 
 Pudicitice, a reverse of Plotina - 91 
 
 Arabia reduced by Trajan - - 79, 86 
 
 Arab. Adquis. a reverse of Trajan - - 8(5 
 
 Arabians warred on by Severus - - 185 
 
 Arabo, dividing Upper and Lower Pannonia - 277 
 
 Aratus, translated by Germanicus - - 24 
 
 on the nurse of Jove - - 301 
 
 Arch of Constanline - - - 87 
 
 Arc/iytas, his ghost - 120 
 
 Arcus Augg. an interesting reverse of Caracalla 192 
 
 Area, the field or surface - xiv 
 
 Argceus Mount, an emblem of Cappadocia - 117 
 
 Argentri, the silver coins - 300 
 
 Argentocox, a British Prince - 188 
 
 Arginussce, the sea fight of - 125 
 
 Argyraspides, the select corps imitated - 231 
 
 Aristotle, on money - - xi 
 
 his knowledge of elephants - 186 
 
 Armenia reduced by Trajan - - 79 
 
 et Mesopotamia in potestatcm P. R. R. 89 
 
 king of, crowned by Antoninus P ; us 1 19 
 
 Armeniacus, a title of M. Aurelius and L. Vtrus 135 
 
 besets the Roman Camp - 276 
 
 Army reformed by Hadrian - - - 101 
 
 Arnobius, on moneta - 301 
 
 Arnuphis the magician - - 139 
 
 Arsacidce, their tombs ravaged by Caracalla 197 
 
 Art, as exhibited on Large-Brass - xv 
 
 Artabanes invades the Roman territory - 204 
 
 Artemidorus mentions the apple of Venus - 112 
 
 Artists of the Lower Empire - xv 
 
 Arvalian Brothers, proved by a medal - 214 
 
 As and its subdivisions - - xii 
 
 Ascalon, a temple at, plundered - - 221 
 
 Asia, a reverse of Antoninus Pius - - 116 
 
( 320 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Asia, personification of - - - ib. 
 
 Aspergillum, or Aspei solium described - 133 
 
 Assay of denarii - 307 
 
 Astarte married to El Gubal - 210 
 
 Astarte, or Venus Caelestis - 220 
 
 As tore! h of the Philistines - - - 221 
 
 Astronomer of the state - - - 287 
 
 Astronomy disgraced - - 07 
 
 Ass, its head a national standard - - 277 
 
 its bray like the Paphlagouian trumpet ib. 
 
 Assaria, admission respecting them - - 245 
 
 re-appear in the coinage of Decius 276 
 
 common in the Lower Empire - 306 
 
 Asses wild, twenty killed in the games of Philip 267 
 
 Asturco, an ambling nag - 266 
 
 Assyria subdued by Trajan - - 79 
 
 Assyrius, a name of Elagabalus - - 209 
 
 Athenceus on justice - 230 
 
 Atlas bending under the weight of Gods - 306 
 
 Attalus sells his daughter to Gallienus - 302 
 
 Atventus Aug. a reverse of Commodus - 157 
 
 Attic Drachmas, their purity - - xix 
 
 Auctor Pietatis, a reverse of Commodus - 313 
 
 Augurs implored for the health of patients - 195 
 
 Augusta, title declined for a time by Plotina - 91 
 
 in Pace, a reverse of Salonina - 303 
 
 Augustan laurels, the Emperor's wreath - 273 
 
 Augusti, three in Rome at once - - 199 
 
 Augustine, Saint, on Tranquillitas - - 266 
 
 Augustus, an antiquary - - - x 
 
 his birth, parentage, and death - 4 
 
 qualities and character - - 4, 5 
 
 estimation of his medals - - 5 
 
 his aspect described - 6 
 
 affects to resemble Apollo - - ib. 
 
 peculiarity on coins of Salouinus - 305 
 
 Aulularia of Plautus quoted - - 153 
 
 Aulus Gellius, on the triumphal arch of Trajan 85 
 
 respectable though not ancient 273 
 
 Aurclian on sun worship - 215 
 
 an able general - - - 295 
 
 Aurelius Ccesar Aug. reverse of Antoninus Pius 123 
 
 Victor quoted on Trajan - 80 
 
 praisesauto-biography ofSeverus 183 
 
 on Julia Domna - - 188 
 
 on the character of Alexander 226 
 
 on the family of Gallienus - 298 
 
 Aureolus, his aureus inscribed Prudentia - 248 
 
 one of the Thirty Tyrants - - 307 
 
 Aureus, or gold coin of Rome - xvi, xix 
 Aurum Coronarium - 117 
 Ausonius quoted on Claudius - - 33 
 on Venus Genetrix - -112 
 
 Page 
 
 Atisonius, his description of the sphynx - 158 
 
 Austin St. on the Galli - 144 
 
 on Felicitas ... 180 
 
 his definition of Piety - - 281 
 
 Baby/as, bishop of Antioch, his spirit - 270 
 
 Bacchus, on a coin of Severus - - 185 
 
 a reverse of Gallienus - - 300 
 
 his mystic basket - xiii 
 
 Bacon on the religion of Greece - - 281 
 
 Baculum inclinatum, a badge of command - 280 
 
 Batica, famous for olives - - - 105 
 
 Balbinus, his dread of Maximinus - - 238 
 
 his birth, employment, and elevation 249 
 
 his fear of Maximus - - 250 
 
 inhumanly murdered with his colleague ib. 
 
 character and acquirements - 251 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 his aspect described - - ib. 
 
 Balista, one of the Thirty Tyrants - - 307 
 
 Banduri, on the age of Decius - - 275 
 
 on the praenomen of /Emilian - 289 
 
 in error on the Caius of Decius - 276 
 
 Baracans, or robes used in Barbary - - 255 
 
 Barbary pirates, tribute paid them - - 83 
 
 Barbers introduced into Rome - 99 
 
 Bare head, indicative of a Caesar - - 101 
 
 Barmecide feasts of Elagabalus - - 211 
 
 Baronius on the Thundering Legion - - 139 
 
 Busha of Tripoli carried treasure with him - 298 
 
 Bassiana, name assumed by Elagabalus - 209 
 
 Baths of Alexander - - - - 229 
 
 Battle-field inimitably described by Tasso - 249 
 
 Baudelot on the Bulla A urea - 42 
 
 mentions a coin of Pescennia Plautiana 177 
 
 on Saturnalian medals - - 276 
 
 Bayfus, his representation of a sail - - 151 
 
 Bayle mentions Caesar's assassination - 1 
 
 excuses Hadrian - - 95 
 
 on the reading of Galen - - 281 
 
 Beard, appears first on Hadrian - 97, 99 
 
 Beauvais, his essay on medals - - xix 
 
 on a medal of Annius Verus - 148 
 
 in France, medals found at - 229 
 
 Bedford, tradition at, respecting King Offa - 263 
 
 Bedriacum, battle of, lost by Otho - - 48 
 
 Beger, on the veil of Piety - 303 
 
 Behemoth of Job - - - - 271 
 
 Bellona, her offices and personification - 247 
 
 Bellori on the Isis and Osiris of Commodus - 164 
 
 Bellum calces equi - 266 
 
 Bengal Adjutant, immunity of - - 103 
 
 Benvenuto Cellini, his fabrication - - 142 
 
I 
 
 ( 321 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Berenice and Titus - - - -63 
 
 represented with long ringlets - 102 
 
 Biberius, a nickname of Tiberius - 15 
 
 Bicipitous coins, those with two heads - xx 
 
 Bigati, a class of Roman coins - - xii 
 
 Billon, copper with a small alloy of silver - 30G 
 
 Bimart on the Circensian games - - 99 
 
 Biragi on a coin of Nero - - - 44 
 
 ... on the medals of Lucilla - - 114 
 
 Births in Rome, their number noted - - 153 
 
 Bissas, or old Dupondius - - - xii 
 
 Blacas, Due de, purchases a medal of Plotina 92 
 
 Blood, taste of the Romans for - - 63 
 
 Boar, represented on a coin of Gallienus - 301 
 
 Bochart, his derivation of Spain - - 106 
 
 on the hippo-potamus - - 271 
 
 Bccotics of Pausauias quoted - - 273 
 
 Bolzani on hieroglyphics - - - ib. 
 
 Bon, M. le, on the Dacia of Decius - - 277 
 
 Bonce Spei, a reverse of P. Niger - - 177 
 
 Fortunes, a reverse of Gallienus - 302 
 
 Bonasus of Pliny ... - 273 
 
 Boni Eventus- a reverse of P. Niger - 177 
 
 Bonus k or good success, a deity - 276 
 
 Boze, M. purchases an aureus of P. Niger - 177 
 
 Bramin-bird, immunity of - - 103 
 
 Brantome excuses Domna's frailty - - 188 
 
 Brass coinage - - - - vi 
 
 medals, advantages of - ib. 
 
 the yellow, ends with the Upper Empire 306 
 
 Braying of an ass like the Paphlagonian trumpet 277 
 
 Brest, medals found at 228 
 
 Bridge of Caligula - - - - 29 
 
 over the Danube, by Trajan - 82 
 
 Brigantes defeated by Lollius Urbicus - 120 
 
 Brindisi, medals found at - - - 228 
 
 Britain, invaded by Caesar - - 2 
 
 Caligula marches against - 29 
 
 probably the occasion of his harangue 31 
 
 sneered at by Florus - - 102 
 
 visited by Hadrian - - - 104 
 
 a victory in, recorded - - 158 
 
 Pertinax restores order there - 168 
 
 ruled by Albinus -■ 1/8 
 
 wall built across, by Severus - 182 
 
 severe campaign of Severus in - 187 
 
 visited by Severus, Caracalla, and Geta 182 
 
 a success in, recorded by Caracalla - 193 
 
 sneered at by Horace - - ib. 
 
 the return of Geta from, denoted - 200 
 
 a success in, recorded by Geta - 201 
 
 Britannia, reverses of Antoninus Pius - 120 
 personification and emblems of - ib. 
 
 Page 
 
 Britons, Agostini's remark on the - - 119 
 
 in alliance with Rome, attacked - 120 
 
 Britannicus, surname of Claudius and his son 33 
 
 the son of Claudius and Messalina 35 
 
 supplanted by Nero, and poisoned 36 
 
 estimation of his medals - ib. 
 
 his features described - - ib. 
 
 Maximus, a title of Severus - 187 
 
 struck at Alabanda - - 309 
 
 British Museum, the Trustees censured - 25 
 
 its officers shackled - 219 
 
 King, Caractacus liberated - - 33 
 
 Princess twits Julia Domna - - 188 
 
 Browne, Sir Thomas, on the epitaph of Gordian 257 
 
 Bruise, a break in the patina - xiv 
 
 Brutus assassinates Julius Caesar - - 1 
 
 his coins mentioned - - 5 
 
 Bryant on the reverse of Roman ases - 160 
 
 doubted the existence of Troy - 263 
 
 quotes a medallion on the Deluge - 264 
 
 Bubulcus vows a temple to Salus - - 167 
 
 Buffon knew less of elephants than Aristotle - 186 
 
 Bull, reverse of Gallienus - 301 
 
 Bulla, description of - 42 
 
 Bull's head, as an umbo on the British shield 120 
 
 Bulls drawing a biga, reverse of Caracalla - 195 
 
 Busbequius on the number of medals extant - 228 
 
 Bust of a personification - 302 
 
 Bustuarii at funerals ... 140 
 
 Butera, Sicilian Prince, his strength - - 2^38 
 
 Byron on the Eternity of Rome - - 248 
 
 on gladiatorial combats - - 267 
 
 on the Apollo Belvedere - - 292 
 
 Byzantium, its fate under Severus - - 177 
 conduct of Gallienus at - - 299 
 
 Cacus and Hercules, a reverse of Antoninus Pius 120 
 
 Caduceatores, messengers of peace - 20 
 
 Caduceus, symbol of eloquence, power, concord ib. 
 
 Caducifer a/is, from the rod of Moses - 281 
 
 Ccecina's fearful dream - 276 
 
 Ccesar, the first whose effigies appear on coins 2 
 
 a title for the heir apparent - 5 
 
 a title of the leader of the Roman youths 28 
 
 the race extinct in Nero - - 39 
 
 adjunct title of the heir of the Empire 113 
 
 on a sudden attack " — 194 
 
 his aphorism on money - - 231 
 
 peculiarity on coins of Saloninus - 305 
 
 C'cesarea in Palestine - - - 6 
 
 Germanica, a medal of - 177 
 
 Ccesar ian laurels, represent Imperial power - 307 
 
 Ccesaris Astrum, or Julium Sidus - - S 
 
( 322 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Ccesonia, the depraved wife of Caligula - 29 
 
 Caius and Lucius Caesars - - 6 
 
 Calamities of the Roman Empire - - 300 
 
 Calamus Odoratus - - - 86 
 
 Caligce, or military sandals - - 28 
 
 Caligula affects regard to his relations - ib. 
 
 his birth, accession, and death - ib. 
 
 his matchless dissimulation - ib. 
 
 his depravity and folly - 29 
 
 attempts to suppress the best poets - 32 
 
 estimation of his medals - 30 
 
 attempt to extinguish his memory - ib. 
 
 his aspect described - - ib. 
 
 his extraordinary biidge - 29 
 
 celebrated harangues on medals - 31 
 
 Callipyga, a reverse of Domna - - 314 
 
 Catpurnia mistaken for Plautilla - - 240 
 
 Ca/purnius, the son of Nerva, forged coin of 75 
 
 Calycopis, the Venus of Newton - - 1 12 
 
 Camel represented on a medal of Trajan - 80 
 
 Camelopard, unknown to moderns 50 years ago 274 
 
 Camelopards, ten exhibited in the games of Philip 267 
 
 Camerarius, his mistake as to Calpurnia - 240 
 
 Camillus, an assistant at sacrifices - - 31 
 
 Campo Vaccino, the site of the Forum - 129 
 
 Campus Martins, funerals there ~ - 140 
 
 Candidati, whence so called - 255 
 
 Cundidus U?nbo, a jewelled button - - 283 
 
 Cantharus, an attribute of Bacchus - - 185 
 
 Cape/la on Osiris - 163 
 
 Capita aut navim ! a game - 160 
 
 Capite velalo, head veiled for sacrifice - 164 
 
 Capitol, ascended by Claudius on his knees - 33 
 
 its grand temple represented - - 58 
 
 Capitolinus on a pro-consul of Asia - - 117 
 
 mentions an inundation of the Tiber 121 
 
 on Antoninus Pius - 119, 122 
 
 in illustration of lndulgentia - 124 
 
 on Marcus Aurelius - 132, 140 
 
 his anecdote of Tertullus - 142 
 
 on Lucius Verus's suppers - 149 
 
 on the lion of Lucius Verus - 150 
 
 on the character of Pertinax - 168 
 
 on Albinus - - 178, 179 
 
 on the cruelty of Macrinus - 202 
 
 on Diadumenian - - 207 
 
 his version of a satire on Maximinus238 
 
 on the ring of Maximinus - ib. 
 
 on military virtue - - 240 
 
 on the foppery of Maximus - 242 
 
 on Maximus or Pupienus - 252 
 
 on the death of Gordian - - 258 
 
 Cappadocia, a reverse of Antoninus Pius - 117 
 
 Page 
 
 Cappadocia, personification of ib. 
 
 reverse of Hadrian - - 311 
 
 Cappadocians, a vicious people - - 117 
 
 Capra Africana, the Ghazal - - 268 
 
 Caprece, the den of Tiberius - - - 16 
 
 Capreneus, a nickname of Tiberius - - 16 
 
 Capricorn, the nativity sign of Augustus - 7 
 
 of Vespasian - 55 
 
 Caput Mortuum of the dead - - 140 
 
 Caracalla, his birth, advancement, marriage - 190 
 
 why so called - - - ib. 
 
 assassinated by Macrinus - - 191 
 
 his cruelty, folly, and extravagance ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - - 192 
 
 those called liberalities 194 
 
 his features described - 192, 193 
 
 in a triumphal car - - 193 
 
 scared with dreadful visions - 195 
 
 his veracity doubted - - 196 
 
 and Elagabalus, their medals 192, 212,213 
 
 Caraccio indebted to sculpture - - vii 
 
 Caractacus, liberated by Claudius - 33 
 
 Carinus, curious medal of - - 300 
 
 Caritas mutua, a reverse of Balbinus - 251 
 
 Carisius, a superintendent of the mint - 301 
 
 Carnival, origin of - - - 144 
 
 Carpentum pompaticum, or Thensa - xiv, 11 
 
 Carpi, return of Philip from the - - 266 
 
 Carse Mr. his experiment with elephants - 186 
 
 Carter on, a dexterous Dutch forger - xxi, 262 
 
 Cams, curious medal of 300 
 
 Casaubon on the Lectisternia - - 146 
 
 on the letter L to Greek numerals - 233 
 
 on the death of ./Emilian - - 289 
 
 Casal Zurica, medals found at 228 
 
 Cassiodorus reports a saying of Theodoric - ix 
 
 on military discipline - - 231 
 
 Cassius, his coins mentioned - 5 
 
 Cast coins, lighter than the true - xx 
 
 Castor, Geta complimented under that device 200 
 
 Castra Scelerata, a camp so called - 21 
 
 Cato the Censor censured - 2, 47 
 
 Catti, Domitian's pretended victory over - 67 
 
 Catullus on Spain - 106 
 
 on eclipses - 145 
 
 Caul, superstition respecting it 207 
 Cavallucci, ludicrous origin of 170 
 Cavea Pullarice - 133 
 Cavino, a dextrous forger - - xx 
 Cawthorn^s medallic ignorance - - 177 
 Cedoaldo and Offa, kings of England - 263 
 Cedrenus prejudiced against Alexander - 226 
 claims Philip Senior as a Christian - 264 
 
/ 
 
 ( 323 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Cedrenus on Hostilian - 282 
 
 Cellarius, his orthography of Phoenice - ] 17 
 
 Cellini Benvenuto, his fabrication - - 142 
 
 (Waits, one of the Thirty Tyrants - - 307 
 
 Celtiberia typified by a rabbit - - 106 
 
 Censor, a reverse of Vitellius - - 53 
 
 office of - - -54 
 
 restored by Decius - - 275 
 
 bestowed on Valerian - 203 
 
 Centaur, on a medallion of Marcus Aurelius - 133 
 
 represented on a coin of Gallienus - 301 
 
 Centum Cello:, a port constructed by Trajan 80 
 
 Columnce burnt - 207 
 
 Ceres, represented on a reverse of Sabina - 111 
 
 the goddess, a reverse of Faustina Senior 312 
 
 Cerulean standard given to Agrippa - 12 
 
 Cervus Alces, of Philip Junior - - 273 
 
 Cestus of Venus - 143 
 
 Chabrias, the Athenian admiral - - 125 
 
 Chalcitis, or copper ore - xviii 
 
 Chald&us, synonimous with Astrologus - 139 
 
 Chammillardt, on a medal of J. Mamaea - 235 
 
 Charger, a stately one - 157 
 
 Chariot-driving, a Roman accomplishment - 239 
 
 Charon's fare - - - - 140 
 
 Chastity and modesty distinguished - - 279 
 
 Chifflet, wrote on the medals of Otho - 50 
 
 Chios, the celebrated horses of - 44 
 
 Chlamys, a robe - - - 158 
 
 Christian Legion - 126 
 
 Christians, first persecuted by Nero - - 40 
 
 protected by Antoninus Pius - 115 
 
 , favoured by Commodus - - 155 
 
 bitterly persecuted by Decius - 275 
 
 Christianity persecuted by Trajan - - 80 
 
 Christina, Queen, on the medals of Otho - 50 
 
 quoted - - - 305 
 
 Chronicle of ' Manetho - 267 
 
 Chronological order of medals preferred - xvii 
 
 point of difficulty - - 267 
 
 Chronology aided by medals - - v 
 
 Chrysostom, St. on Philip and Otacilia - 270 
 
 Ciacconius, on the ashes of Trajan - 88 
 
 Ciampani on the Nimbus - 123 
 
 Cicero, puns on the monetary triumvirs - 9 
 
 eulogizes gladiatorial exhibitions - 63 
 
 „ on the Ibis - 103 
 
 , on the Cappadocians - - - 117 
 
 on Juno Sospita - - - 119 
 
 on Ops - 123 
 
 his notion of the Divi - - 159 
 
 invoked the Dii Magni - - 180 
 
 on the public health - - 195 
 
 Page 
 
 Cicero, his derivation of Venus - - 220 
 
 on Prudentia - 248 
 
 his invocation to Jupiter Stator - 259 
 
 on Faith .... 265 
 
 his definition of Piety - - 281 
 
 on the Crescent - 291 
 
 Cilicia visited by Hadrian - 105 
 
 Cilicians prone to knavery - ib. 
 
 despised by the Greeks - 117 
 
 Cimon redeems his father's body - - 126 
 
 Circensian games celebrated by Trajan - 84 
 
 Circus Maximus, a reverse of Trajan - ib. 
 
 on a reverse of Caracalla - 193 
 
 Cisalpina, a division of Gaul - - 302 
 
 Cista used as a seat - - - - 1 1 1 
 
 Cistifer, the ornament of Isis - - 193 
 
 Cistophori, a class of medals - - xiii 
 
 Cithara, a lyre of four strings - - 119 
 
 Civic Crown, on what occasions granted - 47 
 
 Civitatibus Asia; Restitutis, of Tiberius - 17 
 
 Claudia, infant daughter of Poppaea, coin of 41 
 
 Claudian, his eulogy of Stilicho - 47 
 
 on the olive crown - - 105 
 
 on a wand - 107 
 
 on a storm - - - 126 
 
 on the phoenix - 128 
 
 on Fortuna Redux - - - 181 
 
 on Africa - 185 
 
 on the Circensian games - - 195 
 
 on the car of Diana - - 196 
 
 on embarking wild beasts - - 271 
 
 on victory with a trophy - - 296 
 
 Claudius, his descent, birth, and elevation - 32 
 
 soothed the Praetorians by bribery - ib. 
 
 poisoned by Agrippina Junior - ib. 
 
 his deification - - - ib. 
 
 his acquirements and conduct - ib. 33 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib- 
 
 , his aspect described - - 34 
 
 as described by his mother - - ib. 
 
 his reason for honouring Spes - ib. 
 
 games in honour of his father - ib. 
 
 recalls those exiled by Caligula - ib. 
 
 Gothicus, a magnanimous leader - 298 
 
 Clelia, her reputation on questionable data - 165 
 
 Clemency, a boast of Tiberius - 17 
 
 Clementia, a shield — reverse of Tiberius - ib. 
 
 of Gordian, doubtful - - 258 
 
 Aug. reverse of Hadrian - - 3U 
 
 Cleopatra, middle-brass coin of, mentioned - 6 
 
 Clown derived from Colonus - - 161 
 
 Clunia Sulpitia, a town of Spain - 48 
 
 Cluvius, charge against Agrippina Jun. - 38 
 
( 324 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Cnepk, the Eternal Spirit - 159 
 
 Cniva, a Gothic king - 279 
 
 Cock, dedicated to Mercury - 137 
 
 Lucian's - 124 
 
 Coelatores, or dye engravers - - vii 
 
 Ccclestis, an epithet of Venus - - 221 
 
 Caenarii, or refiners of metals - - vii 
 
 Coin, its derivation - - - xi 
 
 Coin and medal, in ancient numismatics - xiii 
 
 Colonia Julia Valcntia - - - iii 
 
 Romulensis, their flattery of Lucia - 1 1 
 
 Nemausus, interesting medal of - 13 
 
 Commodiana, Rome so called - - 1G1 
 
 Colonial medals, there objects - - 3 
 
 seldom met in the Lower Empire 306 
 
 policy of ancients and moderns compared 50 
 
 Col. L An. Com. a reverse of Commodus - 161 
 
 Colonus, the original of clown - - ib. 
 
 Colossceum, now Coliseum - - - 63 
 
 Colours of the theatrical factions of Rome - 268 
 
 Columella on elephants - - - 186 
 
 Column, the one before the temple of Bellona 57 
 
 of Trajan, an interesting reverse - 88 
 
 Comata, a division of Gaul - 302 
 
 Comes Domesticorum, established by jFmilian 290 
 
 , the precurser of Count - - ib. 
 
 Commissioners of the Navy of Rome - x 
 
 Comitia, the place of magisterial elections - 255 
 
 Commodus, parentage, biith, and marriage - 154 
 
 murdered by Marcia - - 155 
 
 his abominable depravity - - ib. 
 
 yet favours the Christians - - ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - - 156 
 
 his aspect described - - ib. 
 
 his skill in archery - - 157 
 
 careful of the frumentarian supplies 161 
 
 his excessive vanity - - ib. 
 
 assumes the attributes of Hercules 163 
 
 his cowardly but murderous freaks ib. 
 
 first stamped Nobilitas on medals 265 
 
 Concord personified by a female standing - 112 
 
 mistaken by some sailors for conquered 288 
 
 Augustor, two figures, rev. of M. Aurelius 134 
 
 Mi/it. a female with 2 ensigns, D. Julianas 172 
 
 Concordia Aug. a reverse of Sabina - - 312 
 
 sedent female, reverse of Sabina 311 
 
 female and cippHs, Faustina S. 312 
 
 Augg. sedent female, Balbinus - 251 
 
 sedent female, rev. of Pupieuus 254 
 
 female standing, Volusian - 288 
 
 sedent female, rev. of Otacilia 351 
 
 Augusta, a reverse of Domitia - 73 
 
 Augustor, two figures, rev. of L. Verus 150 
 
 Concordia Augustorum, reverse of Oibiana - 234 
 
 sedent female, ditto - ib. 
 
 Tranquillity, and Peace, three deities 288 
 
 exercitum, a reverse of Nerva - 77 
 
 with a dove, reverse of Faustina Junior 143 
 
 ... sedent female, reverse of Albinus - 180 
 
 a female, reverse of Cornelia Paula - 217 
 
 a female, reverse of Aquilia Severa 218 
 
 a reverse of Annia Faustina - 219 
 
 with two figures, rev. of Tranquillina 262 
 
 Concordice, a reverse of Antoninus Pius - 121 
 
 as a symbol of marriage - - ib. 
 
 JEternce, a reverse of Plautilla - 198 
 
 Augg. Four figures, reverse of Geta 201 
 
 Cong. Aug. IIII. reverse of M. Aurelius - 135 
 
 Congia Raimondo, the Sardinian poet - 249 
 
 Congiar Primutn, a reverse of Titus - - 61 
 
 pr. a reverse of Nerva - - 76 
 
 Congiarium, its signification - - 41 
 
 I. a reverse of Nero - - ib. 
 
 II. ditto and probable date of III. 42 
 
 Conon, an astronomical friend of Archimedes 145 
 Conquests of Verus, an imposition - - viii 
 Conscience, liberty of, established by Nerva - 75 
 Conscript Fathers, the Senators - - 160 
 Consecratio, reverse of two medals of Marciana 93 
 a reverse of Sabina - — 112 
 
 empress on an eagle, Faustina Sen. 129 
 a rogus, reverse of Faustina Senior ib. 
 with a rogus, reverse of M. Aurelius 139 
 eagle and casket, rev. of M. Aurelius 140 
 quadriga, reverse of M. Aurelius ib. 
 eagle on a globe, rev. of M. Aurelius 141 
 emperoronan eagle, rev. of M. Aurelius ib. 
 lectisternium, rev. of Faustina Jun. 146 
 an altar, reverse of Faustina Junior ib. 
 peacock, reverse of Faustina Junior ib. 
 a rogus, reverse of Faustina Junior 147 
 female on an eagle, rev. of Faustina J . ib. 
 a quadriga, reverse of L. Verus - 152 
 eagle on a globe, rev. of Lucius Verus ib. 
 a pyra, reverse of Pertinax - 171 
 
 a rogus, reverse of Severus - 187 
 
 with a pyra, reverse of Caracalla - 197 
 a rogus, reverse of Antoninus Pius 125 
 a rogus, reverse of Maesa - - 223 
 empress on a peacock, rev. of Paulina 241 
 empress in a biga, reverse of Paulina ib. 
 of Gordianus Pius, suspected - 261 
 of Volusian doubted - _ 287 
 
 a peacock, reverse of Mariuiana 297 
 a rogus, reverse of Saloninus - 305 
 a rogus, reverse of Verus - 313 
 
( 325 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Consecrations, restored coins of Gallienus 300 
 
 Conservator Pietatis, title of Gallienus - 301 
 
 Constantia, a reverse of a medal of Antonia - 23 
 
 Constantine, his treason - - 87 
 
 his triumphal arch - ib. 
 
 „ the Great, called Divus - - 306 
 
 Constancy, how represented - - 31 
 
 Constantius Chlorus, his deification medal - 306 
 
 Consul suffectus, irregularity of Elagabal us - 209 
 
 Consular Coins, or family series - v, xviii 
 
 Consular procession under Antoninus P. - 124 
 
 Constellation, a disgraceful one - 97 
 
 Contorniates, or tokens - xvii 
 
 Cooke, the Rev. W. on a coin of Trajan - 87 
 
 on the medals of Lucilla - 114 
 
 on the Cestus of Venus - 143 
 
 Her. Rom. Aug. of Commodus 164 
 
 on the quadriga of Alexander 231 
 
 on a reverse of Maximinus 239 
 
 mistakes a medal of Gallus 286 
 
 Copia distinguished from Annona - - 259 
 
 Corbulo, his successes - - 43 
 
 Cordus, on the death of Gordianus Pius - 258 
 
 Corinthian brass, an erroneous term - 59 
 
 Cornelia, her reputation on questionable data 165 
 
 Cornelia Paula, her marriage and dismissal - 216 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her countenance described - ib. 
 
 Supera, the wife of iEmilian - 291 
 
 no large-brass medals of her ib. 
 
 her features described - ib. 
 
 Cornucopia, abundance, fertility, and happiness 19 
 
 Corona radiata, description of 8 
 
 turrita, worn bv Syria - - 118 
 
 a symbol of Italy - - 121 
 
 a globe, worn by Italia - 137 
 
 Corymbus of a galley - - - 100 
 
 Cos. V. Congiar. secund. a reverse of Trajan 81 
 
 Cothurni, or buskins of Bacchus - - 185 
 
 Countermarks differ from monograms - 21 
 
 Covintus for Quintus - 283 
 
 Cracks, not always a sign of genuineness - xx 
 
 Crassus, standards taken from, restored - 7 
 
 Crepidce, or sandals of iEsculapius - - 194 
 
 Crescent on the shoulders - - - 145 
 
 — typical of chastity and majesty - 262 
 
 Cretans despised by the Greeks - - 117 
 
 Crispilla, wife of Pupienus - 253 
 
 Crispina, her marriage, banishment, and death 165 
 
 her beauty, libertinism, and pride - ib. 
 
 estimation of her medals - - 166 
 
 her countenance described - - ib. 
 
 Criapus, curious medal of - - 300 
 
 Page 
 
 Crocodile represented on medals of Hadrian 103, 108 
 
 on a medal of Caracalla 196 
 
 or leviathan of Job - - 271 
 
 Cross, substituted for the usual sceptre - 239 
 
 Crotalia, an ornament - 106 
 
 Crowns, exploratory - - 30 
 
 civic - - 7 
 
 of gold - - - - 117 
 
 of olive - 105 
 
 Ctesiphon, reduced by Trajan - 89 
 
 Cucullio, a disguise of Nero and Verus - 149 
 
 Cudworlh, on the Capitoline deities - - 180 
 
 Cultrarius, a butcher priest - - 165 
 
 Cuniculosce Celtiberice jili - - - 106 
 
 Curatores Annona', their office - - 276 
 
 Cur it e, or armed with a spear - - 2S9 
 
 Curule chair, placed on a mundus - 21 
 
 described ... 273 
 
 Customs and manners illustrated by medals - v 
 
 Cuvier on elephants - - - - 186 
 
 on the hippotigris - - - 194 
 
 Cyathus, or cup for wine - - - 163 
 
 Cybele, her names and attributes - 144 
 
 a mere stone from Pessinus - - 221 
 
 Cymini Sector, a nickname of Antoninus Pius 115 
 
 Cyprian St. writes de Mortalitate - - 286 
 
 Cyriades, one of the Thirty Tyrants - - 307 
 
 Dac. Parihico, a reverse of Hadrian - 98 
 
 Dacia bewailing her fall - - 83 
 
 conquered by Trajan - - 87 
 
 personification of, on a medal of Trajan ib. 
 
 nature of the country - - ib. 
 
 virile personification of - - 105 
 
 a reverse of Hadrian - - - ib. 
 
 capta, a mis-read legend of Decius - 277 
 
 felix, a reverse of Decius - - ib. 
 
 female and standard, a reverse of Decius ib. 
 
 female standing, reverse of Antoninus P. 312 
 
 Dacier on the Christian legion - - 126 
 
 Madame, on the double flute - 105 
 
 Damis, or Antelope - - - 26S 
 
 Dante on forged sequins - xix 
 
 on Fortune - - - - 181 
 
 Danube, Trajan's bridge over the - - 82 
 
 personification of the - - ib. 
 
 Daphne, a noted suburb of Antioch - - 149 
 
 Dates established by medals - _ v 
 
 Durics, their purity - - - - xix 
 
 Daughters of the Eternal City - - 165 
 
 Dece Custodes, the application of - 169 
 
 Death sudden, inflicted by Apollo - - 294 
 
 Deaths in Rome, their number noted - - 153 
 2 D 
 
( 326 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Debased coin of Caracalla - - - 194 
 
 Debasement of silver money - - 306 
 Debeltatori Gentium Barbararum, rev. of Const. 83 
 
 Decadence of Rome - 308 
 
 Decebalus grants a peace to Damitiun - 71 
 
 conquered by Trajan - -79 
 
 probably represented on a medal - 83 
 
 destroys himself - - - ib. 
 
 his head sent to Rome - - ib. 
 
 Decennalian coins, their object - - 130 
 
 Decii, the names of Decius and his sons - 280 
 
 Decius, his descent, birth, rise, and death - 274 
 
 his qualities, acts, and character - 275 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 ,.. his countenance described - - 276 
 
 Junior, a name of Herennius - 279 
 
 Decursio, a reverse of Nero - - 43, 44 
 
 a chariot race of the Circus - 43 
 
 drill of soldiers, and the Ludus Trojan 44 
 
 Decussis, a piece of ten ases - - xii 
 
 De Germanis, a reverse of M. A melius - 138 
 
 a pile of arms, rev. of Commodus 313 
 
 Deification medal of Julia (Titi f.) - - 65 
 
 Deities, their extraordinary numbers - - 306 
 
 Deluge, the, supposed medallion of - - 264 
 
 Democritus on eating snakes - - - 167 
 
 De Mortalitate, a work of St. Cyprian - 286 
 
 Denarii, a singularity on those of Philip - 264 
 
 scale of their depreciation - - 306 
 
 cerii, vitiated coins of Gallienus - ib. 
 
 ceris, copper coins washed with silver ib. 
 
 their assay - - - 307 
 
 Denarius, a silver coin equal to four sestertii xvi 
 
 De Non, his remark on Roman medals - 83 
 
 Deo V olkano, reverse of a denarius of Valerian 294 
 
 Depreciation of the denarii - 306 
 
 Derna, coins used for weights at - 228 
 
 De Sarmatis, a reverse of M. Aurelius - 138 
 
 Desperatio de Salvtate Reipublicce - 307 
 
 Deus Certus Sol, its ancient worship 7 215 
 
 Device and symbol distinguished - - xiii 
 
 Devices classed - viii 
 
 Dexippus on Alexander's first wife - - 225 
 
 on Gordianus Afr. Junior - - 247 
 
 , on Gordianus Pius - - 256 
 
 D 1 Hancarville on the numbers of medals extant 228 
 
 Diacritical distinctions of Carac. and Elagab. 212 
 
 Diadem, hateful to the Romans - - 207 
 
 Diana in a bull biga, reverse of Caracalla - 195 
 
 a type of chastity and majesty - 262 
 
 Felix, a reverse of Gallienus - - 316 
 
 Lucif. female with torch, rev. of Faust. J. 143 
 
 Lucifera, doubtful rev. of Diadumenian 206 
 
 Page 
 
 Diana Venatrix, first on medals of Gallus - 286 
 
 on a reverse of Faustina Junior 312 
 
 Didia Clara, parentage, birth, and marriage 174 
 
 elevation and fall - - ib. 
 
 estimation of her medals - 175 
 
 her aspect described - - ib. 
 
 Diaclumeniarius, parentage, birth, elevation, death 206 
 
 his beauty and ability - ib. 
 
 said to have been born with a caul 207 
 
 estimation of his medals - ib. 
 
 his aspect described - 208 
 
 Didius Julianus, parentage, birth, appointments 171 
 
 purchase of the empire and death ib. 
 
 character variously represented 172 
 
 hatred of him exaggerated - ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - ib. 
 
 his countenance described - ib. 
 
 Digamma, the JEohc - - 33 
 
 Dii Magni, Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva - 180 
 
 Auspices ; of Severus - 201 
 
 JSutritores, legend of a dena. of Saloninus 305 
 
 Dio on Roman money - - xii 
 
 quoted on Trajan - - - 80 
 
 in illustration of a coin of Trajan - 90 
 
 on the character of Plotina - - 91 
 
 on the habits of Hadrian - - 101 
 
 his history of Antoninus Pius lost - 116 
 
 illustrative of the apotheosis of Antonine 125 
 
 asserts Aurelius was poisoned - - 130 
 
 on the character of M. Aurelius - 131 
 
 on a miraculous tempest - - 139 
 
 on Faustina Junior 142 
 
 on the death of Lucius Verus - - 149 
 
 on the destructiveness of Commodus - 157 
 
 on the senate of Commodus - - 160 
 
 on the colony of Commodus - - 161 
 
 on Didius Julianus - 172 
 
 charge against D. Julianus - - 173 
 
 on the character of P. Niger - - 176 
 
 questions the veracity of Severus - 183 
 
 on the debased coin of Caracalla - 194 
 
 on the dower of Plautilla - - 198 
 
 antipathy between Caracalla and Geta - 201 
 
 on the character of Macrinus - - 203 
 
 on the character of Elagabalus - - 211 
 
 advised to retire from office - - 225 
 
 a friend and counsellor of Alexander - 226 
 
 the colleague of Alexander - - 231 
 
 Diocletian, curious medal of - 300 
 
 Diodorus Siculus, on solar worship - - 215 
 
 Dis Genitalibus, a reverse of Crispina - 166 
 
 Custotibus, a female, reverse of Pertinax 169 
 
 Auspkib. Hercules, Bacchus, rev. of Severus 184 
 
I 
 
 f 327 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Disciplina Aug. a reverse of Hadrian - - 101 
 
 Discipline of the army renewed by Hadrian - ib. 
 
 Dioscuri, known by their stars - 144 
 
 Distyle temple of Janus - - - 160 
 
 Diurna or Roman Gazette - 287 
 DivcB Matidice Socrui, suspected rev. of Matidia 93 
 
 Ccesaris Mater, a reverse of Domitia - 74 
 
 Divi Filius, a legend of Augustus - 3 
 
 M. Pii F. a remarkable legend of Severus 184 
 
 Divination by the Sortes - 203 
 
 Divine Providence, emblems of - - 170 
 Divinity, types of - - 8, 82, 85 
 
 Divo Getce Pio, a denarius mentioned by Occo 200 
 
 Pio, with an altar, rev. of Antoninus Pius 126 
 
 with a column, rev. of Antoninus Pius ib, 
 
 Divos for Divus Julius - - 3 
 
 Divus, the last upon large-brass - - 306 
 
 Djezza Pasha of Acre - 202 
 
 Does sometimes draw Diana's car - - 145 
 
 Dog, an attribute of Autumn - - 163 
 
 attribute of Mercury, reverse of Gallienus 300 
 
 an attribute of Diana on a medal - 316 
 
 Dogs of the Furies - 270 
 
 Dolphin, a symbol of Neptune - 13, 100 
 
 and rudder, attributes of Venus - 143 
 
 Domestica, a particular toga - 255 
 
 Domino Nostro Ccesari JEmiliano of Goltzius 290 
 
 Dominus, an appellation refused by Augustus - 4 
 
 a title odious to Roman ears - SO 
 
 supposed to be assumed by iEmilian 290 
 
 Domitia Longina, her birth, marriages, and death 72 
 
 her depraved character - ib. 
 
 conspires against Domitian 73 
 
 extolled by Procopi us & Joseph, ib. 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her aspect described - 74 
 
 Lucil/a, wife of Alius - - 113 
 
 Domitian causes the death of Julia - - 64 
 
 parentage, birth, elevation, and death 65 
 
 character - - - ib. 
 
 his conduct, person, and acquirements 66 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 - his aspect described - -67 
 
 claims descent from Minerva - ib. 
 
 dubbed perpetual Censor - 68 
 
 liberal on public buildings - 71 
 
 — • Junior, his apotheosis medals - 74 
 
 Domitilla, her birth, marriage, and deification 59 
 
 her medals corroborated by Gruter - ib. 
 
 Domna, a family name - 189 
 
 Dotnus Aurea, near the Amphitheatre - 63, 229 
 
 Dona. Aug. reverse of a denarius of Gallienus 300 
 
 Donatives, largesses, Congiafia distinguished 41 
 
 Page 
 
 Donativum Clavarium - - - 28 
 
 Dotib/oons and Dollars of Spain - - xix 
 
 Doubts on Roman traditions - - ix 
 
 Drachmas of Athens, their purity - - xix 
 
 Dragon, the ensign of the Cohort - - 266 
 
 Dream, the fearful one of Csecina - - 276 
 Driving chariots prized by young nobles of Rome 239 
 
 Druid, a female one, warns Alexander - 233 
 
 Drusiance, camp entrenchments so called - 20 
 
 Drusilla, incestuous marriage with Caligula - 29 
 
 her death and deification - 31 
 
 her large-brass medal false - - 30 
 
 Drusus Jun. his birth, parentage, and death - 18 
 
 his vices and ambition - 18, 19 
 
 „ estimation of his medals - ib. 
 
 his countenance described - ib. 
 
 Sen. first Roman who sailed on North Sea 20 
 
 birth, parentage, and death . ib. 
 
 character and career - ib. 21 
 
 estimation of his medals - ib. 
 
 his physiognomy described - ib. 
 
 and Nero, the Caesars - 27 
 
 Dry den's version of Virgil's Caduceus - 138 
 
 Dry-rowing insufficient to make sailors - ix 
 
 Du (Jange on medals - - - xi 
 
 Ducats of Holland - xix 
 
 Du Choul, his Pietas of Titus - - 63 
 
 on Ceres - - - 1 1 1 
 
 on a medal inscribed Fides - 265 
 
 Dupondius old, or bissas - - - xii 
 
 or second-brass - - xv 
 
 Dyes, false ones found - - - 189 
 
 Eagle, stamp of the Este, or Modena collection 72 
 
 a symbol of Divinity - 93 
 
 , of the apotheosis of an Emperor ib. 
 
 Eagles, Roman, recovery of those lost by Varus 25 
 
 Earthquake, an extensive one in Asia - 17 
 
 a dreadful one - - 300 
 
 Eboracum, or York, Severus dies at - 182 
 
 Ebur curule, or curule chair - - 273 
 
 Eckhel quoted on a coin of Caligula - 31 
 
 on a medal of Titus - - 64 
 
 on the fasces of a lictor - - 98 
 
 on the medals of Hadrian - 97 
 
 on a medal of M. Aurelius - - 138 
 
 on the Veneri Felici of Faustina . 143 
 
 on an iEternitas of Faustina Junior - 145 
 
 rallies Winckelmann - - 153 
 
 on the reign of Balbinus and Pupu-nus 253 
 
 on a donative of Gordian - , 
 
 on the legend Fort. Duci 
 
 on the Vict. Brit, of Caracall" 
 
( 328 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Eckhel on the Concoidiae /Eterna? of Plautilla 198 
 
 distinctions of Caracalla & Elagabalus 212,213 
 
 on the nobility of Elagabalus - ib. 
 
 on the military dragon - - 200 
 
 on the conflagrations of Rome - 207 
 
 his denarius of Decius - - 275 
 
 on the names of Etruscus - - 279 
 
 on the Princeps of Heiennius - 280 
 
 on a coin of Hostilian - 282 
 
 on the shears of Juno - 286 
 
 proves Cornelia Supera the wife of iEmilian 291 
 
 on the wife of Valerian - - 297 
 
 on the coins of Valeriau Junior - 305 
 
 on the coins of Saloninus - - ib. 
 
 Eclipses foretold by Claudius - - 32 
 
 investigated by Conon - - 145 
 
 total one in the time of Gordian - 200 i 
 
 Egnatius, on the character ol Elagabalus - 211 
 
 Egypt, success of Napoleon in, how typified - 13 
 
 Egyptian, sedent figures ... 273 
 EIPHNH, legend of a coin of Agiippina Junior 255 
 Elagabalus & Caracalla, their medals 192,212,213 
 
 his parentage, birth, and elevation 208 
 
 his various names, and dirty death 209 
 
 his marriages, gluttony, and excesses 210 
 
 his extravagance and follies - 211 
 
 estimation of his medals - 212 
 
 his aspect described - - 213 
 
 assumption of P. P. proved by medal 214 
 
 his absurd preparations for dying 216 
 
 Elbow, supported by a statue - - 31 
 
 Electrum, used by Alexander - - 220 
 
 E Uf ante Nilotico, the hippopotamus - 271 
 
 Elephant, the Punic origin of Csesar - 2 
 
 curious particulars of the - - 180 
 
 Elephants, 40 bearing torches - - 3 
 
 their estimated age - 7 
 
 the type of dignity and eternity - 7 
 
 proboscis, an emblem of Africa - 103 
 
 32 exhibited in the games of Philip 267 
 
 Elephantis, the worship at - - 159 
 
 El Gabal, a Phoenician god, married to Astarte 210 
 
 Elk, or Alces - - - - 273 
 
 Elks killed in the games of Philip - - 267 
 
 Elysium, a material futurity - - 306 
 
 Emblems on Roman medals interesting - v 
 
 Emesa, the birth-place of Elagabalus - 208 
 
 curious medal of - - - 210 
 
 Emperor, for Imperator - 273 
 Endymion, astronomical explanation of - 145 
 Engelius, on the Dacia of Decius - - 277 
 England, coins found in various parts of - 229 
 Cedoaldo and Ofifa, kings of - 263 
 
 Page 
 
 England, Lucius, a doubtful king of - - 264 
 
 English guineas and pennies - - xix 
 
 Engruilment, a ring of dots - - xiv 
 
 Enlarger, an agnomen of Antoninus Pius - 125 
 
 Ennery's Catalogue, a probable error in - 245 
 
 Epictctus, his lamp - - x 
 
 Epigram on a Cappadocian - - 117 
 
 Epitaph on Maxi minus - 238 
 
 of Gordianus Pius - - - 257 
 
 Epii halamium by Gallienus - 299 
 
 Epulones, overseers of the Lectisternia - 146 
 
 Equatores monetarum, adjusters of money vii 
 
 Equestrian statue, a reverse of Antoninus Pius 124 
 
 of M. A m elius - - 135 
 
 Equi-cercus of the scholiast - - 273 
 
 Equiria, or games sacred to Mars - - 260 
 
 Equity and Justice distinguished - - 170 
 
 description of - 230 
 
 Equus bellator, or charger - 266 
 
 Erasmus on Spes - - - - 192 
 
 Ergaslula, horrid receptacles for slaves - 47 
 
 Eridanus, only river represented in the heaveus 227 
 
 Erizzo, error of - - - xii 
 
 on the sign of Taurus - - 195 
 
 Eros, the winged cupid - 198 
 
 Esculapius, the god of health 167, 177, 194 
 
 Este, the eagle of - - - 185 
 
 Eternal City, an epithet, of Rome - - 267 
 
 Eternity, a type of Rome's age - - 268 
 Ethiopia, dreadful plague, piobably from thence 286 
 
 Etrurians invented the curule chair - - 273 
 
 Etruscans, borrowed from by the Romans - 25 
 
 Etruscilla, known only by coins and marbles 278 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her features described - - 279 
 
 Etruscus, a name of Herennius - - 279 
 
 Euphrates on a medal of Trajan - - 89 
 
 Euripides on garlands - 166 
 
 Eusebius writes on a miraculous tempest - 139 
 
 on piety - 223 
 
 commends J. Mamaea's piety - 235 
 
 his opinion of Caligula - - 28 
 
 on the ashes of Trajan - - 88 
 
 on Dacia - - - - 87 
 
 on the public works of Caracalla - 194 
 
 on Macrinus and Diadumenian - 207 
 
 , on the character of Elagabalus - 212 
 
 on Alexander's character - - 226 
 
 on the death of Gordianus Pius - 256 
 
 on the death of the Philips - 263 
 
 on the apotheosis of Decius - 275 
 
 ., confounds Hostilian with Gallus - 282 
 
 ,. on the death of iEmilian - - 290 
 
a 
 
 ( 329 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Evangelist, the, on tribute money - - xii 
 
 Exactor, the second in the Mint - - vii 
 
 Exaggeration satirized bv Lucian - - 151 
 
 EX. A. P. fcx Argento'Publico - - 8 
 
 Exercitus Mauretanicus, a reverse of Hadrian 107 
 
 Rhceticus, a reverse of Hadrian - 109 
 
 Dacicus, a reverse of Hadrian - 311 
 
 Exergum, or Exergue - xiv 
 
 Ex Oracu/o Apollinis, a legend of Philip Senior "2(54 
 Exped. Aug. a teverse of Hadrian - - 100 
 
 Expeditio Judaica, a forged reverse of Hadrian xix 
 Exploratory crown - - - 30 
 
 Ex S. C. an elephant biga, reverse of Faustina Sen. 128 
 
 a mule, Thensa, reverse of Faustina Sen. ib. 
 
 .... Senatus Consulto, a reverse of Marciana 93 
 Exsuperatorius, epithet assumed by Commodus 159 
 Eye on ship's bows, custom of placing the - 4 
 Ezekiel on sun worshippers - 215 
 
 Fabia Orcstilla, wife of the elder Gordian - 244 
 Fabric, proportions and workmanship of a medal xv 
 Family Coins, their value as a series - xviii 
 
 Fasces, synonimous with consulship - 282 
 
 Fascia, a term used for legend - - xiii 
 
 Factions in the theatres of Rome - - 268 
 
 Fadilla, daughter of Marcus Aurelius, murdered 191 
 Fair wind, a symbol of felicity - - 100 
 
 sex propitiated by chariot-driving - 239 
 
 Falsarii of the XVIth century - -74 
 
 introduced many Gordiani Africani - 247 
 
 False money of Caracalla - - - 194 
 
 Fascice tibiales, or leg ornaments of iEsculapius 194 
 Fasti, the name of Macrinus struck from the - 209 
 Fathers, the senators - 220 
 
 Faustina Sen. birth, marriage, death, deification 127 
 
 her beauty and licentiousness - ib. 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her portrait described - ib. 
 
 Faustina Jun. her parentage, marriage, and death 141 
 
 „ gross licentiousness - - 142 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her countenance described - 143 
 
 Fear consecrated - - - - 180 
 
 Feather worn by Roman messengers - 281 
 
 Feciales, messengers of war - - 20 
 
 Fecunditas, a type introduced by Faustina Jun. 154 
 
 female, globe, &c. reverse of J. Domna 189 
 
 confounded with Tellus - - ib. 
 
 said to be a reverse of Plautilla - 198 
 
 Aug.female standing, rev.of Etruscilla279 
 
 Augustce, a reverse of J. Mamaea 236 
 
 Temporum, a reverse of Orbiana 238 
 
 Fecundity prized by the Romans - - 144 
 
 Page 
 
 Fecundi'.y denned by the Archbishop of Tarragona 154 
 
 a French Encyclopediste 189 
 
 Felic. Aug. galley with 6 rowers, rev. of I,. Veins 150 
 
 Praetorian galley, reverse of Verus 313 
 
 Felicit. Public, a female, reverse of Titus - 310 
 Felicitas, female with lance, rev.of Albinus - 180 
 
 a common rev. of the medalets of Decius 275 
 
 Deorum, a denarius of Mariniaua - 297 
 
 Perpetua, a reverse of J. Mamaea - 236 
 
 Pub/ica, sedent female, rev. of J. Mamaea ib. 
 
 female, reverse of Volusian 316 
 
 Temporum, a reverse of J. Mamaea 236 
 
 Fe/icitati Aug. legend of 3 medals of Hadrian 100,101 
 Felicity typified by fair winds - - 100 
 
 Felix, a title first assumed by Commodus - 158 
 
 an epithet assumed by Carthage - 187 
 
 Fenelon on Mars and Bellona - - 247 
 
 Festina lente, a forged reverse of Augustus - xix 
 Festus, on the death of Gordianus Pius - 256 
 
 Fibula, or buckle - 106 
 Ficoroni wrote on lead money - - xvi 
 
 Ficus Ruminalis venerated - 158 
 Fidei Leg. female with an ensign, rev. of Severus 184 
 Fides, her province and attire - 92, 213 
 
 August, a reverse of Plotina - - 92 
 
 Exercit. of D. Julianus, questionable - 172 
 
 Exercitus, female with standards,Elagab. 213 
 
 ... 4 standards, rev. of Philip Sen. 265 
 
 Militum, a reverse of Maximinus - 239 
 
 female & two standards, Valerian 295 
 
 an equestrian, rev. Gordianus P. 315 
 
 horseman, &c. rev. Gordianus P. ib. 
 
 Mutua, a reverse of Balbinus - 251 
 
 Provineiarum, a legend in Du Choul 265 
 
 Public, two hands joined, rev. of Balbinus25l 
 
 Field, the surface or area - - - xv 
 
 File-marks not always a sign of spuriousness - xx 
 Finance, state of, under Macrinus _ 206 
 
 Fire of Rome, precautions taken by Nero - 42 
 Firmicus quoted - - - - 78 
 
 Fisci Judaiei Calumnia sublata, rev. of Nerva ib. 
 Fiscus Judaicus, a heavy exaction - - ib. 
 
 Fisher, Catharine, the mother of Gruter - 281: 
 Flammeum, a veil used at weddings - - 154 
 
 Flando, Feriundo, meaning of - 9 
 
 Flans, the pieces of metal for stamping - xx 
 
 Flaturarii, melters of metals - vii 
 
 Flavian Amphitheatre, a reverse of Titus - 03 
 
 dimensions of - ib. 
 
 reverse of Alexander 229 
 
 Flaxman, the Sculptor, a medallist - - vii 
 
 Fleets of Rome, strictures on the - - ix 
 
 Flies torment the Roman army - -86 
 
( 330 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Florez, figured a medal of Julia - 11 
 
 Florus jeers Hadrian - 102 
 
 Flower of a medal, its patina - xv 
 
 Cabinet, medals in highest perfection 258 
 
 Flute double, still used in Sardinia - - 165 
 
 Follis, a brass coin of the Lower Empire - xvi 
 
 Fops of Rome - 22!) 
 
 Forensis a particular toga - 255 
 
 Forficula, or shears - 288 
 
 Forgeries, shameless ones - xix 
 
 of Julius Ceesar's medals - 3 
 
 by plating metals - - 5 
 
 from the denarii - 245 
 
 Fort Duci, a reverse of M. Aurelius - 181 
 
 Red. sedent female, reverse of Geta - 314 
 
 Reduci, Fortune seated, reverse of Albinus 181 
 
 Fortissiimcs, an epithet assumed by Maximinus 237 
 
 Fortitude typified under Virtus - . 247 
 
 Fortitudo, not represented on imperial medals 273 
 
 Fortunes Manenti, a reverse of Commodus - 159 
 Fortuna Augusti, a reverse of Nerva - -76 
 
 Mobilis, contrasted with Manenti - 159 
 
 Muliebris honoured by Faustina Jun. 181 
 
 obscquens, a reverse of Antoninus Pius 120 
 
 Fortuna Opsequens, reverse of Antoninus Pius 312 
 
 P.. R. a reverse of Nei va - 77 
 
 Virilis worshipped by Servius Tullus 181 
 
 Fortune, the Goddess described - - 76 
 
 and Hope, a reverse of iElius - 1 14 
 
 Forum Trajuni, a reverse of Trajan - 87 
 
 Franks, their first appearance in history - 295 
 
 Frwlich on the children of Plautilla - 198 
 
 Frontal diadem, a female ornament - 91 
 
 Front, the obverse - - - - xv 
 
 Fruges accept ce, in the secular games - - 69 
 
 Frumentarian tessera, a type of Libeialitas - 61 
 
 supply attended to by Commodus 161 
 
 Fucinus, a lake partly drained by Claudius - 33 
 
 Fulgentius, his error respecting Venus Victrix 236 
 Fulmen,an attribute of supreme power xiv, 122 
 
 a legionary symbol - - 139 
 
 . assigned to Juno and Minerva - 181 
 
 Fulvia Pia, the mother ol Severus - - ib. 
 
 Fumus vendere, a traffic in offices - - 231 
 
 Fvnales, the outer horses of a quadriga - 239 
 
 Funera indicliva of the great - _ 140 
 Funeral ceremonies, importance of - 125,140 
 
 Fm ies the, represent! d on a coin of Otacilia 270 
 
 Fusarii, melters of metals - - vii 
 
 (Jubaf, or El Gubal, a Phoenician God - 209 
 
 Gaeta, iifad-clress of the women of - - 127 
 
 Galatia governed by Balbinus - - 249 
 
 Page 
 
 Galba, his parentage, employments, and death 45 
 
 defrauded of Livia's legacy - - ib. 
 
 his character - ib. 46 
 
 „ estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 his features described - - ib. 
 
 Galen, quoted on brass ... xviii 
 
 Galeria Fundana, wife of Vitelli us - 52 
 
 Valeria, her coin explained by Hardouin 236 
 
 Galerius Antoninus, his parentage and death 129 
 
 his aspect described - ib. 
 
 Galley, the type of Felicity - 100 
 
 government - - 101 
 
 Galli, or priests of Cybele - 144 
 
 Galliena, supposed first wife of Valerian - 297 
 
 Augusta, obv. of an aureus of Gallienus 300 
 
 medal of, known only to Goltzius - 305 
 
 Gallienus, his birth, elevation, and death - 298 
 
 unfeeling conduct regarding his father ib. 
 
 his sensuality, ability, and cruel acts 299 
 
 .. estimation of his medals - - 300 
 
 his features described - - ib. 
 
 purchases Pipara as a concubine - 302 
 
 favours the Christians - - 308 
 
 Gallus, a name of Trebonianus - - 284 
 
 Gambel/o, a dextrous forger - xx 
 
 Games exhibited by Antoninus Pius - - 124 
 
 Gannys murdered by Elagabalus - - 208 
 
 Ganymede, his office plied by Vulcan - 294 
 
 Gar/and of Phrygia - 108 
 
 Garlands borrowed from Greece - - 166 
 
 Gastrology of the Romans - 210 
 
 Gatil visited by Hadrian - 105 
 
 divided into Comata,Cisalpina,Narbonensis 302 
 
 Gaulish Mercury - 181 
 
 Gazelle, a corruption of Ghazal - - 268 
 
 Gemina, alludes to levies - - - 184 
 Gemonice, the place where bodies were dragged to 32 
 
 Gen. Illyrici, a reverse of Decius - - 276 
 
 Aug. Felic, a reverse of Commodus - 313 
 
 Genesareth, lake of - - - 61 
 
 Gentemque togatam - 2bb 
 
 Genetrix Orbis, a compliment to Livia - 11 
 
 Genetyllis, a vocation of Diana - - 143 
 
 Genii, inferior to the Lares - 276 
 
 Genio Senatus, a reverse of Antoninus Pius - 118 
 Genius AZxercitus Illyriciani, a reverse of Decius 277 
 
 Genius P. R. an obverse of Gallienus - 301 
 
 of Rome, ridiculed by Prudentius - 302 
 
 Geography illustrated by medals - v 
 
 Germania Capta, a reverse of Domitian - 68 
 
 subacta, a reverse of M. Aurelius - 137 
 
 Germanicus, his birth, honours, splendid career 23 
 his death imputed to poison - 24 
 
( 331 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Germanicus, learning and unparalleled excellence 24 
 
 his public funeral - - ib. 
 
 posthumous honours - 25 
 
 estimation of his medals - ib. 
 
 „ his aspect described - - ib. 
 
 on the nurse of Jove - - 301 
 
 Geta's consecration-medal, only known to Occo 200 
 
 his parentage, employments, and death - 199 
 
 £ his character, and hatred of his brother - ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - - 200 
 
 his features described - - - ib. 
 
 Geticus, a proposed epithet for Caracalla - 197 
 
 Ghazdl, the original of Gazelle - - 268 
 
 Ghosts rarely appear in Roman story - - 270 
 
 Giaur Manguri, or infidel's money - - 228 
 
 Gibbon, his summary of Augustus - - 5 
 
 on Marcus Aurelius - 132 
 
 his remark on Tillemont - - 264 
 
 on Didius Julianus - 172 
 
 on the peace purchased by Gallus - 284 
 
 , on the victory of jEmilian - - 291 
 
 why he followed Herodian in Alexander 226 
 
 Gifford, Mr. on a medal of Antoninus Pius - xi 
 
 his medallic ignorance inexcusable xi 
 
 Gilt medal, of a particular import - - 300 
 
 Girdle of Venus .... 143 
 
 Gladiators, 2000 fought in the games of Philip 267 
 Gladii JDrusiani, why sharp swords were so called 18 
 
 Globe, an error respecting one - - 221 
 
 in the hands of kings, misapplied - 260 
 
 its object on medals - 305 
 
 Gloria inferior to Honos - - - 118 
 
 a legend unknown in the higher empire 249 
 
 Gloria Exercitus, of Gordianus Afr. doubted ib. 
 
 Goat-skin tvhips used in the worship of Juno 279 
 
 Goethe, his medal whence copied - - 129 
 
 Gold Coinage, most exposed to theft - vi 
 
 Dust, used in the hair -- 299 
 
 worshipped through all ages - - 301 
 
 Goltzius, coin of Sulpicia Memmia, a forgery 225 
 
 his medals of Marcius and Hostilianus 263 
 
 his medal of Severus Hostilianus, false 282 
 
 his medal of Perpenna - - 284 
 
 his coin of iEmilian suspected - 290 
 
 Good huch, its benefit to a warrior - 265 
 
 Success, a Deity ... 276 
 
 Gordianus Afr. Se«. descent, birth, employments 243 
 
 elevation, brief reign, death 244 
 
 talents, character, and family ib 
 
 estimation of his medals - 245 
 
 , his aspect described - ib 
 
 coins different from his son's ib 
 
 J tin. parentage, employments, death 246 
 
 Page 
 
 Gordianus Afr. Jun. person and disposition - 246 
 
 large library bequeathed to him ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - 247 
 
 his countenance described - ib. 
 
 Gordianus Pius, his birth, elevation, and death 256 
 
 his attainments and character 257 
 
 estimation of his medals 258 
 
 his countenance described - ib. 
 
 Gorgon's Head, worn as an amulet - 42 
 
 Gospel, The, Denarius quoted in - - xii 
 
 Gotifreda, a Roman medallist - - 233 
 
 Greek Imperial, with head of a Roman Emperor xvii 
 
 seldom met in the Lower Empire 300 
 
 Greek mythic System, absurd - - ib. 
 
 Griffin, represented on a reverse of Gallieuus - 301 
 
 Gruter, on the coinage of Rome - - vii 
 
 on Ops .... 123 
 
 on inscriptions - - - 184 
 
 his admirable skill in philology - 281 
 
 his inscription on Hostilian - - 283 
 
 on the daughter of Salonina - - 302 
 
 Gubernator of a galley - 100 
 
 Guineas, their purity - xix 
 
 Hadrian, absurd error respecting - vi 
 
 extraction, birth, elevation, and death 95 
 
 his death-song - - - ib. 
 
 his ambiguous character - 95, 97 
 
 his travels, munificence, and public acts 96 
 
 estimation of his medals - - 97 
 
 his aspect described - - 98 
 
 omission of the name of Trajan - 100 
 
 disciplines the army - - 101 
 
 introduces pioneers, and a staff-corps 102 
 
 his retort upon Florus - - ib. 
 
 indifference respecting climate and food 101 
 
 's wall, in Britain ... 104 
 
 Hair powdered with gold dust - - 299 
 
 Hallcy, the astronomer, a medallist - - vii 
 
 Halt, Bishop, quoted - 173 
 
 Hamilton, W. R. Esq. his liberality - - 93 
 
 Hand on the head, a symbol of sleep - - 283 
 
 from the clouds, on medals - - 297 
 
 Hannibal, no medal of him - x 
 
 Haranguing the Army, a customary practice 194 
 
 Hardouin, error of - - - - xii 
 
 quoted as paradoxical - - 32 
 
 on a legend of Hadrian - - 9*j 
 
 on the letter L to Greek numerals - 233 
 
 on a coin of Galeria Valeria - 236 
 
 on Venus Victrix and Mars Victor - ib. 
 
 in error respecting the Carpi - 266 
 
 Hurttcell House, meridian marks at - 43 
 
( 332 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Hasta pura, why so called - - 273 
 
 Haustrum described - 133 
 
 Havercamp, his opinion of a singular tripod - 81 
 
 his opinion on a medal of Trajan 82 
 
 on a coin of Matidia - 94 
 
 on the Discipulina of Hadrian - 101 
 
 on a coin of Hadrian - - 109 
 
 on a coin of Antoninus Pius - 124 
 
 on an iEternitas of Faustina Junior 145 
 
 on a medal of Geta - - 201 
 
 on the quadriga of Alexander - 231 
 
 describes Greek medal of Gord. Afr. 245 
 
 on a medal of Gordianus Afr. Jun. 247 
 
 Huickush, or goad - - 93 
 
 Haym on a medal of Diadumenian - - 206 
 
 Hecate, a name of Diana - - 143 
 
 Helena, her type of security - - 245 
 
 Helmet held by Venus as an attribute - 236 
 
 Henpecking, ancient remedy against, - 145 
 
 Herculaneum and Pompeii destroyed - 60 
 
 Hercul. Romano Aug. a club, rev. of Commodus 163 
 
 Hercules, his offices - - - ib. 
 
 ... , and Bacchus crowning Caracalla&c Geta 201 
 
 and Cacus, a reverse of Antoninus Pius 120 
 
 Herculi Commodiano, sacrifice, rev. of Commodus 162 
 
 Romano Aug. reverse of Commodus - 164 
 
 Hercnnia, a name of Etruscilla - - 278 
 
 Herennius, his parentage and elevation - 279 
 
 his death and deification - - 280 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 his features described - - ib. 
 
 Hermetes, or Termini ... 138 
 
 Heradian on Marcia's plot - - - 156 
 
 on the character of Pertinax - 168 
 
 on Manlia Scantilla - - 173 
 
 on the health of Caracalla - 195 
 
 on the character of Macrinus - 203 
 
 the versifier of, on Alexander - 224 
 
 prejudiced against Alexander - 226 
 
 criticised - 232 
 
 prejudiced against J. Mamaea - 235 
 
 on the countenance of Maximinus - 239 
 
 Herodotus on the Ibis ... 103 
 
 on the plunder of a temple at Ascalon 221 
 
 Hernli, a party of, nearly surprise Salonina - 303 
 
 1 Icy ne, on a coin of Fadilla .... 242 
 
 Hiutus in the Augustan writers - - 263 
 
 Highway, how personified - - - 88 
 
 Hilaria, or feasts at births - 175 
 
 Hilar ilas P. R. a reverse of Hadrian - 109 
 
 Tempor. a female, reverse of D. Clara 175 
 
 Hippocampus, represented on a coin of Gallienus 301 
 Hippopotamus represented on a medal of Hadrian 108 
 
 Page 
 
 Hippotigris, probably the zebra - - 194 
 
 Hispania, a reverse of Hadrian - - 105 
 
 Clunia Sulp. a legend of Galba - 48 
 
 Historic doubts - - - - ix 
 
 History indebted to medals - - . - v 
 
 Hog, why sacrificed to Tellus - 71 
 
 a figure of a, erected in Jerusalem - 106 
 
 Holiness, the epithet whence derived - 304 
 
 Holland, Philemon, epigram on - note, 52 
 
 Holy cross substituted for the usual sceptre - 239 
 
 Holyday, Dr. on the cruelty of Severus - 183 
 
 his poetic rapture - - 294 
 
 Honori Aug. a reverse of Antoninus Pius - 118 
 
 Honorius celebrates the Ludi Triumphales - 266 
 
 Honos, personification of - - - 118 
 
 a togated figure, reverse of M. Aurelius 312 
 
 rev. of M. Aurelius alluding to his youth 133 
 
 Honos et Virtus, a reverse of Galba - - 310 
 
 Hope and Fortune, a reverse of JElius - 114 
 
 Horace, wrote an ode on Drusus Senior - 21 
 
 his master-piece the Secular Hymn - 70 
 
 invokes Fortune - - - 76 
 
 on Fides - - - 92 
 
 on the eagle of Jove - 93 
 
 on the lance - - - 107 
 
 on glory - - - - 1 1 8 
 
 on the ghost of Archytas - - 126 
 
 makes a vow - - - 136 
 
 on carrying images - - - 140 
 
 on Diana as Luna - - 145 
 
 on the lectisternia ... I4(j 
 
 on Fortuna Manentis - - 159 
 
 on the garlands worn at Festivals - 166 
 
 on public joy - - - 171 
 
 on the temple of Vesta - - 189 
 
 sneers at Britain - - - 193 
 
 on the effects of envy - - 252 
 
 on plenty - 259 
 
 fine lines on the uncertainty of life - 272 
 
 on Roman chastity - - 279 
 
 on decency of female dress - - 304 
 
 i on Roman degeneracy - - 308 
 
 Horcc, or nymphs of the air - 145 
 
 Horoscope of Julia Domna ... 188 
 
 Horse, a noble one on No. CCXXI. - - 124 
 
 a tine one of JYI. Aurelius - - 135 
 
 Horses wild, forty killed in the games of Philip 267 
 
 Host ilia Sever a, the wife of Gall us - 284 
 
 the medal of her doubted - 285 
 
 Hosti/ianus, his parentage, elevation, and death 282 
 
 confused evidence respecting him ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - ib. 
 
 his aspect described - - 283 
 
( 333 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Hound, an attribute of autumn - - 1 03 
 
 Husbands invoke MHN - 145 
 Hytenus, ten exhibited in the games of Philip 267 
 Hydraulic organ, invented by Nero - note, 44 
 Hygieia invoked in Terence's Hecyra - 167 
 
 Ibis represented on a coin of Hadrian - - 103 
 
 or stork Antoninus Pius - 312 
 
 Gallitnus - 30 1 
 
 ldcea, a name of Cybele ... 144 
 Ignobilis, an order - - - - 84 
 
 Immunity from holding public office - - 257 
 
 Imp. Recept. a reverse of Claudius - - 35 
 
 Imperator made a supreme title - 4 
 
 refused as a prgenomen by Claudius 33 
 
 ... continued also as a military distinction 89 
 
 Villi, a reverse of Trajan - ib. 
 
 II. Britan. reverse of Antoninus P. 120 
 
 rendered Emp. after Conyers Middleton 273 
 
 Imperial Greek, the head of a Roman Emperor xvii 
 
 medals, struck under Roman Emperors v 
 
 Impiety, the designation of early Christianity 282 
 Implements of coining, rev. of a consular coin 301 
 Impostor ludicrously punished - - 299 
 
 Improvisatore, applied to Balbinus - - 251 
 
 Impurus, a name given to the body of Elagabalus 209 
 Incuse, a description of one - - 17 
 
 no forged one known - - ib. 
 
 Index Expurgatorius, suggested by Caligula 32 
 Indtilgentia Aug. a reverse of Antoninus P. 124 
 
 Augg. in Car tli- rev. of Severus - 186 
 
 and Munificcntia distinguished - 187 
 
 lnedita, unpublished medals - 274 
 Infants presented before Juno Lucina - 144 
 
 Infortunatus, thus Lgetus styled himself - 291 
 Ingenuus, one of the Thirty Tyrants - - 307 
 
 Inspruck, a Napoleon medal, whence copied - 25 
 Inscription, that which is written across the field xv 
 Int. Urb. S. C. in a garland, rev. of Gallienus 301 
 Invicto Imperatori Tropceum, rev. of P. Niger 177 
 Invictus Sacerdos Aug. a rev. of Elagabalus 214 
 Invictus, an epithet assumed by Maximinus - 237 
 /. O. M. on a triumphal arch, a reverse of Trajan 85 
 
 Sponsor Sec. Aug. rev. of Commodus 162 
 
 Iphigenia of Euripides - 166 
 
 Isidore, respectable, though not ancient authority 273 
 Isis and Osiris on a reverse of Commodus - 164 
 Isis-Pharia venerated by Caracalla - - 193 
 
 Isidorus on money - - - - xii 
 
 Iso-politan franchise obtained by Singara - 262 
 Issachar compared to a strong ass - - 277 
 
 Italia, a reverse of Antoninus Pius - - 121 
 
 personification and attributes - - ib. 
 
 Jaculatrix, an epithet of Minerva - - 133 
 
 Page 
 
 Jacob, his blessing upon Issachar - - 277 
 
 Jamesl. assumes the style of sacred majesty - 306 
 Janus, his temple closed by Nero - 43 
 
 ....Vespasian - 55 
 
 bifrons, on a reverse of Commodus - 160 
 
 temple of, thrown open, A. D. 241 - 260 
 
 bifrons, a reverse of Antoninus Pius - 311 
 
 Jena of the Napoleon series, whence copied - 83 
 
 Jerbah, the Isie of Wight of Barbary - 284 
 
 Jerome St. claims Philip Senior as a christian 264 
 Jerusalem, anachronism on its conquest - 61 
 
 desolated under Hadrian - 106 
 
 Jews, great slaughter of - - 61, 106 
 
 Job on sun worship - - - 215 
 
 Behemoth and Leviathan - - 271 
 
 Jobert on the tortoise, as an attribute of Venus 143 
 
 on the double Cornucopia? - - 234 
 
 on a medal of Antoninus Pius - 266 
 
 Johnston on the efficacy of serpents - - 167 
 
 Jol, or Caesarea in Mauritania - 14 
 
 Josephus quoted on Antonia - - 22 
 
 praises Domitia - - 73 
 
 only mentions a fight on LakeGenesareth 01 
 
 Jotapianus, his medals follow those of Marinus 272 
 
 Jovi Cons. Aug. a goat, reverse of Gallienus 301 
 
 Conscrvatori protecting Macrinus - 205 
 
 Jupiter and Emp. rev. of Commodus 314 
 
 Crescenti, a reverse of Saloninus - 3()5 
 
 Ex super, a reverse of Commodus - 159 
 
 Juveni, a reverse of Commodus - - 313 
 
 Prcesidi Orbis, a reverse of P. Niger - 177 
 
 Statori, a reverse of Gordianus Africanus 259 
 
 JJItori, a reverse of Gallienus - 316 
 
 Victori, a reverse of Domitian - 71 
 
 Jovis Armiger, the eagle ... 146 
 
 Propugnator, a reverse of Alexander - 232 
 
 Jubentas, reverse of a denarius of Gallienus - 302 
 Jud. Cap. a reverse of Titus - hi 
 
 Judcea, personification and symbols - - 106 
 
 Emperor and two captives, reverse of Titus 310 
 
 Capta reverse of medals of Vespasian 57 
 
 Jugales, the two centre horses of a quadriga - 239 
 Jugata, two heads, side by side - - xv 
 Jiilia [Aug.Jil.) birth, marriages, and death - 13 
 
 character and miserable fate 13, 14 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her countenance described - ib. 
 
 (Tili fl.) parentage, marriage, and death 64 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her features described - id. 
 
 Domna, birth, horoscope, marriage, death 188 
 
 her beauty, talents, anil depravitj ib. 
 
 estimation of her medals - 18!* 
 
 » probably wore a wig - - 
 
 2x 
 
( 334 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Julia Domna, her aspect desciibed - - 189 
 
 has charge of the public records 190 
 
 Soamias, her parentage and marriage - 219 
 
 probably of the family of Sohemus ib. 
 
 her death and profligate character 220 
 
 sits in the Senate - - ib. 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her bust described - - ib. 
 
 Mcesa, her connexions and origin of name 221 
 
 her address, judgment, and merit 222 
 
 her death in old age - - ib. 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her features described - - ib. 
 
 Mamcea, parentage, marriage, and children 234 
 
 educates Alexander with great care ib. 
 
 character, assassination, deification 235 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 ., her features described - - 236 
 
 Julian, the apostate, quoted on Augustus - 5 
 
 eulogizes Plotina - - 91 
 
 on Marcus Aurelius - - 131, 132 
 
 on the uxorious grief of M. Aurelius - 142 
 
 on the character of Commodus - 155 
 
 on the cruelty of Severus - - 183 
 
 on the character of Geta - - 200 
 
 on Macrinus - 202 
 
 on the character of Elagabalus - 211 
 
 on sun worship .„_.,* 215 
 
 reason of his prejudice against Alexander 226 
 
 Julium Sidus, or Caesaris Astrum - 3 
 Julius Ccesar, an antiquary - - x 
 
 his birth, parentage, and death 1 
 
 his qualities and prowess - ib. 
 
 his effigies first stamped during life 2 
 
 and Pompey compared - ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - 3 
 
 on the Alee - 273 
 
 published the debates of the Senate 287 
 
 C'apito/inus, his history - 116 
 
 Gallienus, medals involved in uncertainty 305 
 
 Vindex, a soldier of spirit - 44 
 
 Junta Fadilla, betrothed to Maximus - 242 
 
 Junior and Senior, applied to females, questioned 37 
 Junius Cordus, on the death of Gordianus Pius 258 
 Juno, her popularity - 174 
 
 absurd ceremony of her worship - 279 
 
 Augusta, sedent female, rev. of J. Mamaea 315 
 
 Conservatrix, a reverse of Julia Mamaea 235 
 
 a reverse of Otacilia - 269 
 
 • Lucina, infants presented before her - 144 
 
 Martialis venerated - - - 111 
 
 Regina, how represented - - ib. 
 
 of D. Julianus, questionable - 172 
 
 female with peacock, rev. M. Scant. 174 
 
 Page 
 
 Juno Regina, veiled female, rev. of Salonina - 304 
 
 Junones, the tutelary deities of women - 174 
 
 Junoni Conservatrici Augustce, rev. of Salonina 303 
 
 Lucince, sedent female, rev. of Lucilla 153 
 
 seated female, rev. of Domna 314 
 
 Marliali, female, peculiar to Gallus - 286 
 
 a circular temple, Volusian - 288 
 
 her worship - - 289 
 
 Regince, a reverse of Sabina - 111 
 
 a throne, rev. of Faustina Sen. 312 
 
 Sispitce, a reverse of Antoninus Pius - 119 
 
 personification of - ib. 
 
 reverse of Commodus - 314 
 
 Jupiter ridiculed by Lucian - - 233 
 
 Capitolinus sacrificed to, by commanders 287 
 
 Conservator, description of - - 205 
 
 Custos, defined by Seneca - - 85 
 
 infernus et Stygius - - 270 
 
 Pluvius, De Sarmatis of M. Aurelius - 126 
 
 Jus Imaginis, privilege granted to statesmen - 84 
 
 Italicum, its privilege - 187 
 
 Justice and Equity distinguished - 170, 230 
 
 Justitia, inscribed to a portrait of Livia - 10 
 
 personified - - - - 110 
 
 Aug. a reverse of Hadrian - - 109 
 
 Augusti, female, reverse of Alexander 230 
 
 J us Toga, the right of fire and water - 255 
 
 Justus, a surname of P. Niger - - 175 
 
 Juvenal, on the phalerae of a horse - - x 
 
 pendentisque dei - - - ib. 
 
 on silver coins - - xi 
 
 on the fate of Sejanus - 15 
 
 satirizes the deification of Claudius, note 32 
 
 on Hippia - - 63 
 
 on ladies' fondness of the circus note, ib. 
 
 lashes the versatility of Palphurius qq 
 
 satirizes the cruelty of Domitian - ib. 
 
 ridicules fortune - - - 77 
 
 on the cupidity of the Romans - S5 
 
 on the temple of Concord - 112 
 
 a passage on Mars - - 120 
 
 on the ivory sceptre - - 134 
 
 on funeral perfumes - - 140 
 
 on Pudicitia ... 223 
 
 on chariot driving - 239 
 
 on Mars Ultor - - - 260 
 
 on the temple of faith - - 265 
 
 on good luck - - ib. 
 
 on the vanity of ancestry - - 265 
 
 on the Frumentarian Tessera - 276 
 
 on lllyria - - - 277 
 
 on a feathered letter - - 281 
 
 on Moneta - 301 
 
 on the multitude of Gods - - 306 
 
( 335 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Juvenis, the epithet of Gordianus Afr. Junior 247 
 Juventas, coin paid in her temple by adolescents 151 
 
 on a medal of Hostilian - - 283 
 
 a female, reverse of M. Aurelius - 312 
 
 Juvenilis, a reverse of M. Aurelius - - 133 
 
 Kappas, the three - - - - 117 
 
 K hell's aureus of Gordianus Afri. Sen. doubted 244 
 
 Klaproth, his analysis of large brass coins - xvi 
 
 Knights-errant, remarks on - 157 
 
 L. preceding a Greek numeral - - 233 
 
 JLabarum of a galley - - - 100 
 
 intrusted to the Domestici - - 290 
 
 Lambrequins, the pendant flaps of the lorica - 151 
 
 Ladies, their mania for theatres - 63 
 
 Lcelianus, Lollianus, or JElianus, a tyrant - 307 
 
 Lcetitia, in a garland, a reverse of Commodus 163 
 
 female with garland, &c. rev. of Crispina 160 
 
 described - - - - ib. 
 
 her various epithets - - 170 
 
 Aug. N. a reverse of Gordianus Pius - 315 
 
 fundata, a reverse of Philip Senior - 260 
 
 temporum, a female, rev. of Pertinax 170 
 
 Lcetus on the reign of Gallus and Volusian - 288 
 
 on the contract with barbarians - 291 
 
 Lampoon cruelly punished - 196 
 
 Lampridius on the titles of Commodus - 157 
 
 on the deslructiveness of Commodus 158 
 
 on Isis - - - - 164 
 
 on Elagabalus - - - 210 
 
 punning error on Alexander - 224 
 
 on the donatives of Alexander - 227 
 
 on the baths of Alexander - 230 
 
 on the consulship of Alexander - 231 
 
 .,. criticized - 232 
 
 .. on the wife of Alexander - 233 
 
 Lance, an emblem of divinity - 85 
 
 Lararia, inferior places of worship - - 289 
 
 Lares, superior to genii - 276 
 
 Large-brass coinage ends with the Upper Emp. 306 
 
 series, importance of the - - viii 
 
 or Sestertii, a valuable series, xv, xvi 
 
 analysis of - - - ib 
 
 marvellous variety of reverses - xvii 
 
 Largesses distinguished from Congiaria - 41 
 
 Laticlavium, a robe - 105 
 Latten,\n Du Cange, synonimous with Orichalcum xv 
 
 Launedda of Sardinia, the ancient Tibiae - 165 
 
 Laurel Crown, the emblem of an Emperor - 101 
 
 a charm against lightning and poison 246 
 
 wreath on modern heads, an absurdity 275 
 
 Laxce braccce of the Phrygians - - 151 
 
 Lead Money, probably trial pieces - - xvi 
 
 Page 
 
 Lear, his exclamation on a thankless child - 296 
 Lectisternia, or beds for the Gods - -70 
 
 or religious feasts - - 146 
 
 Lectula, a little bed - 144 
 
 Leg. XIIII. Gem. M. V. a reverse of Severus 184 
 
 Legend, that which is written round a medal - xv 
 
 of a medal, also called Fascia - 5 
 
 the soul of a medal - - 200 
 
 Legio Fulminatrix - - 31 
 
 Fulminans, story of - 139 
 
 Leo Lewis, the Paduan forger - - 142 
 
 Legion, its derivation and various amount - 184 
 
 Leones mansueti mentioned by Capitolinus - 267 
 
 Leopards, 30 exhibited in the games of Philip ib. 
 
 Lepida, the wife of Galba - - 45 
 
 no coins of her known - - 46 
 
 Lepidus, his coins mentioned - 5 
 
 Leptis Magna, birth place of Severus - 181 
 
 excavated by the author in 1816 185 
 
 Letters, falling off in their execution - 285 
 
 Leunclavius, on the bridge of Trajan - 82 
 
 Leviathan, or crocodile of Job - - 271 
 
 Lex Majestatis, abolished by Nerva - 75 
 
 Lib. Aug. Villi, a reverse of Caracalla - 194 
 
 Libella, a reduced As - - - xii 
 
 Liberalitas Aug. VII. rev. of Marcus Aurelius 139 
 
 Aug. figures, reverse of Maximinus 239 
 
 Aug. several figures, rev. of Decius 276 
 
 Augg. III. two Philips, Philip Jun. 273 
 
 Augg. III. female, rev. of Valerian 295 
 
 Augusti, figures, rev. of Alexander 227 
 
 Augusti 1111. figures, Gordianus P. 259 
 
 Augusti II1I. figures, Alexander 315 
 
 Augustorum, figures, Balbiuus - 251 
 
 figures, Pupienus - 254 
 
 nonum of Caracalla, its estimation 194 
 
 Liberality, a public donation - - 259 
 
 Liber i Aug. of Crispina, doubted - - 166 
 
 Libertas Aug. a female, rev. of Treb. Gallus - 316 
 
 , Augusti, a reverse of Galba - 47 
 
 female, reverse of Elagabalus 315 
 
 Publico, a reverse of Galba - 47 
 
 „, a reverse of Nerva - 76 
 
 Restituta, a reverse of Galba - 47 
 
 Liberty of Conscience established by Nerva - 75 
 
 Libitina, deaths recorded in her temple - 154 
 
 Libra, the constellation - 170 
 
 Libralis, or As Libralis - - - xii 
 
 Licinius Stolo, the triumvir - - 9 
 Lightning, ancient notion respecting 
 
 Lion, an emblem of Cybele - 190 
 
 with a fulmen, reverse of Caracalla - 19( 
 
 a reverse of Philip Senior - - 267 
 
 Lions, 00 exhibited in the games of Philip - ib. 
 
( 336 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Lisbon, medals found at 228 
 
 Lituus described - - - I.33 
 
 Lityerses of Phrygia - 108 
 
 Livia complimented by Augustus - 5 
 
 Drusilla, birth, marriages, and death - 9 
 
 character and conduct 9, 10 
 
 quarrels with Tiberius - 10 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her aspect described - ib. 
 
 JLivian mine, fine copper of the - - 1 1 
 
 Livy on Roman vanity - xviii 
 
 , on the worship of Pudicitia - - 223 
 
 on the temple of Sal us - - - 167 
 
 Locupletatori Orbis Terrarum, rev. of Hadrian 99 
 
 Loliia Paulina, her beauty and extravagance 30 
 
 medal imputed to her, false - ib. 
 
 her head insulted by Agrippina J. 37 
 
 Lollianus, JFJianus, or Lcs/ianus, a tyrant - 307 
 
 Lo/lius Urbicus defeats the Britons - - 120 
 
 London, its monument - - - 89 
 
 Lora, a spurious wine - 101 
 
 Lorica, a laminated one - 157 
 
 a part of the armour - - 137 
 
 Louis le (*rand, his infamous order - - 299 
 
 Lucan enumerates the types of divinity - 8 
 
 on the reptiles ot Lybia - - 103 
 
 on the Nile - - - - 108 
 
 on the planet Mercury - - 281 
 
 Lucian on the lamp of Epictetus - x 
 
 „ on Mineiva jaculatrix - - 134 
 
 satirizes Roman exaggeration - - 151 
 
 his false prophet - 190 
 
 parodies, the episode of Endymion - 195 
 
 lashes the false prophet - - 204 
 
 on Venus - 221 
 
 on spurs - - - 124 
 
 ridicules Jupiter - 233 
 
 stigmatizes Apollo - - - 292 
 
 ridicules the multitude of gods - 306 
 
 Lncillu, wife of iElius, no medals of her - 114 
 
 Annia, birth, marriages, exile, and death 152 
 
 vanity, beauty, and profligacy 152, 153 
 
 estimation of her medals - - 153 
 
 her countenance described - - ib. 
 
 Lucina, infants presented before her - - 144 
 
 Lucius, a doubtful king of England - - 264 
 
 Verus pelts drinking glasses - - xiii 
 
 Vitellius, father of the Emperor, coins of 52 
 
 Verus, his parentage, birth, and adoption 148 
 
 his elevation, marriage, and death 149 
 
 debaucheries and gluttony ib. 150 
 
 , estimation of his medals - ib. 
 
 , his aspect described - - ib. 
 
 , his effeminate cruize - - 151 
 
 Page 
 
 Lucretius invokes Venus Genetrix - - 112 
 
 on the Corona Turrita - - 144 
 
 Lucul/us, an antiquary - - x 
 
 Lud. Scec. reverse of medals of Domitian 68 to 71 
 
 Ludi Cir censes - - - - 127 
 
 , their 9th and last celebration - 266 
 
 Maximi, celebrated by Nero - note, 40 
 
 Scecularcs, description of - 68 to 71 
 
 Triumphales, celebrated by Honorius - 266 
 
 Trojce described - - - 157 
 
 Lugdunum, coins struck at - - - 179 
 
 Luna, a name of Diana - 143 
 
 Lupce, a nick-name for harlots - - 122 
 
 Luxuria, not represented upon Roman medals 270 
 
 Lybia, reptiles of - - - - 103 
 
 Lycabas, a poetical term for year - - 233 
 
 Lynx, an attribute of Bacchus - - 185 
 
 Lyons, the altar of, supposed representation - 16 
 
 Lyrbe, in Pamphylia, coin of - 270 
 
 Macellinus, a nickname of Macrinus - - 203 
 
 Macellum, a reverse of Nero - 43 
 
 Macrianus, an Egyptian conjuror - - 293 
 
 one of the thirty tyrants - - 307 
 
 Macrinus, extraction, birth, and employments 202 
 
 marriage, elevation, and death - ib. 
 
 contradictory accounts of his character ib. 
 
 he consults the Sortes Homericae 203 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 his countenance described - 204 
 
 purchases peace from the Parthians ib. 
 
 state of his treasury - - 206 
 
 Macrobias, quoted by Baudelot - - 42 
 
 on Osiris - 164 
 
 Mcecia Faustina, daughter of the Elder Gordian 244 
 
 no coin of her known - ib. 
 
 Maffei published an inscription on Etruscilla - 278 
 
 Magister morum, the censor - - 53 
 Magnanimitas , not represented on imperial medals 273 
 
 Magnia Urbica, a small brass coin cited - 220 
 
 Mahdut, an elephant driver - - 93 
 
 Malaria patients attended to by Juno Sispita - 119 
 
 Malleatores, those who struck the coin - vii 
 
 Mallia, an error of Spartian's for Manlia - 174 
 
 Malta, hoard of medals found at - 228 
 
 iMamias, on a reverse of J. Mama^a, a puzzle - 235 
 
 Manetho on Osiris - 164 
 
 tampered with by Pezron - - 267 
 
 Manlia Scantilla, obscurity of her history - 173 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her appearance described - I74 
 
 Manilius on the globe - - - 128 
 
 on the constellation Ara - - 159 
 
 „... on the constellation Libra - - 170 
 
( 337 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Manilius, on the torrid zone - - - 186 
 
 Manipulus, the military standard - - 243 
 
 represented on a reverse of Philip 265 
 
 Manners and customs illustrated by medals - v 
 
 Marcia, concubine of Com. favours Christianity 155 
 
 put to death by Did. Julianus - 156 
 
 Furnilla, coin attributed to her - 61 
 
 Marciana, her death and deification - - 92 
 
 her excellent character - ib. 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her bust described - 93 
 
 Marcius raised to the purple - - 263 
 
 a coin of him by Goltzius - - ib. 
 
 Marco Polo, on the gall of snakes - - 167 
 
 Marcomanni defeat Domitian - - 71 
 
 a warlike people - - 136 
 
 Marcus Aurel. describes Antoninus Pius - 116 
 
 games given by his predecessor 125 
 
 parentage, birth, and adoption 130 
 
 marriage, elevation, reign, death ib. 
 
 acquirements, habits, and acts 131 
 
 estimation of his medals - 133 
 
 his countenance described - ib. 
 
 sells his valuables to carry on war 137 
 
 beset by warlike barbarians - 139 
 
 Mare, Horatian pun upon - 170 
 Mariniana, wife of Valerian, unknown to history 296 
 
 died before her husband's captivity ib. 
 
 story of her treatment by Sapor, false 297 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her countenance described - ib. 
 
 Marinus saluted Emperor - - 263 
 
 his medals follow those of Philip Jun. 272 
 
 Marius, one of the thirty tyrants «. - 307 
 
 Mark Anthony, his coins mentioned - - 5 
 
 Marriage, typified under the legend of Concord 121 
 
 Mars, his adoration - 260 
 
 temple of, robbed - . ib. 
 
 ,. and Rhea, a reverse of Antoninus Pius 120 
 
 Victor, explained by Hardouin - 236 
 
 a reverse of Vitellius - 53 
 
 deity and altar, reverse of Vespasian - 310 
 
 Mars marching, reverse of Elagabalus - 315 
 
 Marsigli, his work on the Danube - - 82 
 
 Marsupium, or purse of Mercury - 138 
 
 Martem propugnatorem, reverse of Gordianus P. 260 
 
 Marti Pacifero, a reverse of Alexander - 227 
 
 Martial on the Flavian Amphitheatre - 63 
 
 fawned on Domitian - 66 
 
 praises Nerva - - .74 
 
 on the olive crown - 105 
 
 on Murrhine vessels - - 150 
 
 on Salus - - - - 167 
 
 ».u.... u . an epithet applied to Juno - - 289 
 
 Page 
 
 Mar lialis Juno venerated - - 111 
 
 Martianus Capella on the solar rays - 232 
 
 Mat. Augg. Mat. Sen. M. Pair, reverse of Domnal90 
 Mater, the title of first class goddesses - 144 
 
 Augg. Cybele drawn by lions, J. Domna 190 
 
 Castrorum, reverse of Julia Mamtea - 235 
 
 Deum, Cybele between lions, rev. of Soaemias 221 
 
 Patrice, a title given to Livia - 10 
 
 Materialism of the Roman religion - - 306 
 
 Matidia, birth, marriage, and death unknown - 93 
 
 her excellent character - - 94 
 
 estimation of her medals - - ib. 
 
 her aspect described - - ib. 
 
 Matri Castrorum, reverse of Faustina Junior 147 
 
 female, rev. J. Domua 190 
 
 Magna, Cybele betw. lions, rev. Faust. J. 143 
 
 Mauretania, a reverse of Hadrian - - 107 
 
 visited by Hadrian - - ib 
 
 female standing, rev. of Antoninus P. 312 
 
 Maximinus, parentage, birth, and elevation - 237 
 
 assassinated before Aquileia - ib. 
 
 courage, cruelty, and character - ib. 
 
 size, prodigious strength, voracity 238 
 
 estimation of his medals - - 239 
 
 his physiognomy described - ib. 
 
 Jun. of Capitolinus,impropei for Max. 242 
 
 Maximus, parentage, birth, and advancement - 241 
 
 slain with his father - - 242 
 
 beauty, foppery, and character - ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 , his aspect described - - ib. 
 
 confusion in this name with Pupienus 252 
 
 Mechanic's Institute founded by Pliny - 80 
 
 Medalets, a term improperly used - - 275 
 
 Medal and coin, synonimous in Numismatics - xiii 
 Medals, study of, misunderstood - v 
 
 whether money or not - _ xi 
 
 utility of their study - - v, vii, 306 
 
 beyond the power of the Senate - 214 
 
 restore Paulina in history - - 240 
 
 supply the history of Mariniana - 296 
 
 Medallions, probably not current money - xiii 
 Medicine slighted in Rome - 195 
 
 yet exceedingly prufitable - - ib. 
 
 Medicus, a title assumed by Verus and Aurelius 151 
 Meditations of Marcus Aurelius - - 132 
 
 Medusa's head, worn as an amulet by Domitian 67 
 
 P. Valerian on - - 167 
 
 Megcera, Alec to, and Tisiplione, rev. ofGordian 270 
 Memmia, wife of Alexander, medal ascribed to 235 
 Memoriu, its medallic meaning - - 27 
 
 Memories Agrippince, reverse of Agrippina Sen. ib. 
 
 Domitillce, legend of a medal of Domitilia 59 
 
 Meneslrier, ou a medal of Hostilia Severa - 285 
 
( 338 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Meniscus, a type of eternity - - 123 
 
 Mens bona enslaved - - - 169 
 
 Menti Laudanda, a reverse of Pertinax - ib. 
 Mentis alimonia, an epithet of hilarity - 175 
 
 Mephitis, not represented on imperial medals 270 
 Mercury, his attributes - 137 
 
 how represented - 281 
 
 the planet neglected by astronomers - ib. 
 
 Meridian marks of Hartwell House transit - 43 
 Mesopotamia reduced by Trajan - 79, 89 
 
 Mcssalina, her monstrous depravity - 33 
 
 her aspect described - - ib. 
 
 a colonial coin of - - ib. 
 
 fusesmedals tomakestatues of Mnester30 
 
 Messius, a name common to Decius and his sons 274 
 Meta, a conic pillar on a medal of Vespasian - 58 
 
 Sudans near the Flavian Amphitheatre - 63 
 
 Melius Marce/lus, father of Gordianus Afr. Sen. 243 
 Metro-political privileges bestowed on Neocorae 216 
 Mezza-barba's error respecting Lucilla - 154 
 probable error on a coin of Crispinal66 
 
 work contains discreditable errors 200 
 
 barba, questionable on Diadumenian - 208 
 
 his aureus of Soamiias doubtful 220 
 
 quotes a Prudentia of Aureolus 248 
 
 describes a Glor. Exerc. of G. Afri. 249 
 
 his denarius of Decius - 275 
 
 misreads a legend of Decius - 277 
 
 on a donative of Valerian - 295 
 
 MHN a deity invoked by husbands - 145 
 
 Middle Brass, a valuable series - xv 
 
 Middleton, Conyers, his example followed - 273 
 
 Miles, Mr. a well-known collector - - 276 
 
 Military standards, four, a reverse of Verus - 313 
 Milliarium Sceculum, a cippus, rev, of Philip Sen.266 
 
 Milton on Astoreth ... 221 
 
 Mind, honoured by Pertinax - - 169 
 
 Minerva, a reverse of Severus - - 185 
 
 galeated, a reverse of Domitian - 310 
 
 jaculatrix - - - 133 
 
 Pacif. Minerva, olive-branch, Albinus 180 
 
 Vict, a reverse of Commodus - 314 
 
 Victrix, a reverse of Orbiana - 234 
 
 Minister Fulminis, the eagle - 93 
 
 Mint, its ancient importance - - vii 
 
 Mionnet wrong in pricing his catalogue - 121 
 
 on a medal of Annius Verus - 148 
 
 figures a medal of Pertinax - 171 
 
 rare reverses - 200 
 
 describes a fifth liberality of Gordian 259 
 
 •• « on a dupondius of Etruscilla - 278 
 
 on a medal of Mariniana - 297 
 
 ••••• describes a coin of Britannicus - 309 
 
 Miraculous tempest - 139 
 
 Page 
 
 Missilia, money, kc. thrown during largesses xviii 
 
 cast among the populace - 40 
 
 Misitheus, his bravery and sagacity - 257 
 
 father-in-lawand minister of Gord.Pius 261 
 
 his talents and excellent character - ib. 
 
 dies suddenly - 257 
 
 Mnester, the dancer, statues from Caligula's medals 30 
 
 Modena or JEste, coins with a little silver eagle 72 
 
 treasure found at - - - 228 
 
 Moderationi, type of 17 
 
 Modesty and Chastity distinguished - - 279 
 
 Modius with corn - 103 
 
 the corn-measure, worn on the head - 276 
 
 Moesia, orders to ravage it - - - 299 
 
 Moles Hadriana, Verus interred there - 152 
 
 Moneta restituta, a reverse of Alexander - 226 
 
 whence derived - - - 30 L 
 
 Aug, three females, rev. of Severus - 314 
 
 Augg. three females, rev. of Gallienus 300 
 
 Moneta, the goddesses of the mint - - ib. 
 
 Monetary triumvirs - - 9 
 
 Money, remarks on xi 
 
 origin of the name - 301 
 
 Money ers, their number - - vii 
 
 Module, comparative size of a medal - - xv 
 
 Monograms differ from countermarks - 21 
 
 Monument of London - - 89 
 
 Moon, why worshipped - - - 195 
 
 Moral Virtues, their great number - - 258 
 
 More Majorum, a cruel mode of execution - 39 
 
 Mors, not represented on imperial medals - 207 
 
 Mosaic Deluge, on a reverse of Philip, doubted 264 
 
 Moses against Sun worship ... 215 
 
 Mosheim on the Thundering Legion - - 139 
 
 Moulds for forging denarii - 189 
 
 Mules feeding, a symbol of peace - 78 
 
 Munera, or funeral offerings - 140 
 
 Munificentia Aug. an elephant, rev. of Severus 186 
 
 and Indulgentia distinguished - 187 
 
 Munus vehicularium, an imposition obviated - 78 
 
 Mural crown, worn by Nicomedia - - 107 
 
 Muratori published an inscription on Etruscilla 278 
 
 Murcia, the goddess of fat ladies - 58 
 
 sloth - - 266 
 
 Murrhine vessels - - - - 150 
 
 Musgrave Dr. his Belgium Britannicum - 183 
 
 Musicians of Rome, a strike among the - 215 
 
 Mygdonius, a river of Mesopotamia - - 262 
 
 Mythic system of the Greeks and Romans - 306 
 
 Napoleon medals, whence copied - 13, 25, 83 
 
 coins current, but pictures prohibited 214 
 
 Narbonensis, a division of Gaul - - 302 
 
 Natalibus, Padre de, on Philip Junior - 272 
 
( 339 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Naumachite, represented on medals - - viii 
 
 sneered at by Smollett - - 268 
 
 Naval crown, worn after boarding an enemy - 12 
 
 _ power of the Romans, strictures on the ix 
 
 Naviculariis, enactment of the code - 200 
 
 Navius, reverse of Antoninus Pius - - 120 
 N. C.A.P. R. (Nummus concessus d Populo Rom.)21 
 
 Nebris, or fawn's skin, a distinction of Bacchus 185 
 
 Necessity consecrated - - - 180 
 
 Nematisus, interesting medal of 13 
 
 Neocorce, their Metro-political privileges 177, 216 
 
 Nep. Red. a reverse of Hadrian - - 100 
 
 Neptune, figure on a reverse of Agrippa - 13 
 
 styled Admiral by Newton - ib. 
 
 excluded from the Ludi Circenses - ib. 
 
 as depicted on a medal of Hadrian - 100 
 
 distinguished from Oceanus - ib. 
 
 sacrifice to, on a reverse of Commodus 164 
 
 Nero, birth and adoption by Claudius - 39 
 
 marriages and suicide - - ib. 
 
 the last of the Caesar race - 39 
 
 enormities, extravagance, and cruelties - 40 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 his features described - - - 41 
 
 his strange triumphal procession - 44 
 
 and Drusus, their birth, brief career, death 27 
 
 estimation of their medals 28 
 
 Nerva, descent, birth, elevation, and death - 74 
 
 his character and acquirements - ib. 
 
 adopts Trajan - - 75 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 his countenance described - ib. 
 
 instance of his liberality - 78 
 
 New Mra of Rome ... 269 
 
 Newton, Sir Isaac, styles Neptune, Admiral - 13 
 
 on Venus - - 112 
 
 on Cybele - - 144 
 
 his age of Rome - - 267 
 
 Nicephorus, or Victorious - 48 
 
 claims Philip Senior as a christian 264 
 
 Nicknames of the Romans - 51 
 
 Nicocreon, tyrant of Cyprus - - 162 
 
 Nicomedia relieved by Hadrian - - 107 
 
 Niger, why Pescennius was so called - 177 
 
 Nile, its personification and emblems - 108 
 
 Ndometer, or Sistrum - 102 
 
 Nilus, a reverse of Hadrian - - - 108 
 
 Nimbus, or Glory, a type of eternity - 123 
 
 Nine, too many for a party - - 149 
 
 Nobilis, an order - _ 84 
 
 first appears under Herennius - 280 
 
 C'cesar, a title of Saloninus - 305 
 
 Nobilissimus, assumed by Maximinus - 237 
 
 Nobilitas, a denarius of Elagabalus - - 213 
 
 Page 
 
 Nobilitas stamped on medals by Coniniotlus - 265 
 
 Augg. a reverse of Philip Senior - ib. 
 
 Nobility, highly priced by the Romans - 265 
 
 classed with Tranquillity by Shakspeare 266 
 
 Nonia Celsa, wife of Macrinus, a venal beauty 202 
 
 . though an Augusta, no medals known 203 
 
 Nonnus on Hercules - 163 
 
 Noumia, small-brass of the Lower Empire - xvi 
 
 Novi Homines, their pride - - 265 
 
 Novus, an order - - - 84 
 
 Numa gives rise to Nummus - - xii 
 
 Number of births in Rome, how noted - 153 
 
 Numerianus, curious medal of 300 
 
 Numerius Atticus deifies Augustus - 7 
 
 Numina legionum worshipped - - 265 
 
 Numismatics, or Numismatology, study of medals xvii 
 
 Numismatist, one understanding medals - vi 
 
 Nummi maximi, probably medallions - xiii 
 
 monetalcs - - - - 9 
 
 Nummus derived from Numa - - - xii 
 
 or money - - - - ib. 
 
 Nummularii, or assayers - - - vii 
 
 Nundina on a medallion of Lucilla - - 153 
 
 Nymphs of the air - 145 
 
 Oaken crown, a civic reward - - 7 
 
 Ob cives servatos, legend of Augustus - ib. 
 
 reverse of Caligula - 30 
 
 « a reverse of Galba - 47 
 
 Obelisk, the Egyptian one of Augustus - 84 
 
 Obverse, the front, or head side - xv 
 
 Obolus, the fare of Charon - - 140 
 
 Obscenities never found on Roman large-brass 158 
 
 Obscquens, an epithet of fortune - - 120 
 
 Obsequies, importance of - 125 
 
 Occo quoted on a coin of Caligula - 31 
 
 on a coin of Trajan - - 85 
 
 on the discipulina of Hadrian - - 101 
 
 on the medals of Lucilla - - 114 
 
 on an jEternitas of Faustina Junior - 146 
 
 on medals of Sooemias with Calestis - 221 
 
 his consecratio of Volusian doubted - 287 
 
 on the captivity of Valerian - - 294 
 
 .. .... his error respecting Salonina - - 302 
 
 his coin of Saloninus - 305 
 
 Oceanus distinguished from Neptune - 100 
 
 Octavia had coins to her honour - - 5 
 
 extract from the tragedy of 36 
 
 description of her features - - 40 
 
 Odenathus humbles the pride of Sapor - 296 
 
 cut off by domestic treason - ib. 
 
 his gallantry and victories - - 307 
 
 CEdipus of Seneca, the radiated head in the - 232 
 
 Offa, his Anglo-Saxon coins - - 263 
 
( 340 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Off'a, place of his buriul - 203 
 
 Oiselius quoted - - - xi 
 
 remark on a coin of Antoninus P. - 124 
 
 on an iEtemitas of Faustina J. - 14(i 
 
 his rare reverse of Commodus - 160 
 
 on an emblem of equity - - 230 
 
 on the Antelope ot Philip Senior - 2f>8 
 
 on Amalthea - - - 301 
 
 Onnphrius on the thundering legion - - 139 
 
 Opi Aug. a reverse of Antoninus Pius - 123 
 
 Opima Spolia of king Acron - - 53 
 
 Oppian dedicates a work to Caiacalla - - 191 
 
 Ops, personification of - - - 123 
 
 a name of Cybele - 144 
 
 Optimus, a special title of Trajan - - 81 
 
 , Princeps, a title borne by Antonius 125 
 
 this title bestowed on Decius - 275 
 
 Optio, the second in the mint - - vii 
 
 Orb, in the hands of modern kings, misapplied 2G0 
 
 Orbiana proved to be the wife of Alexander - 233 
 
 her features desciibed - - 234 
 
 estimation of her medals - - ib. 
 
 erroneously assigned to Decius - 278 
 
 Orbis Terrarum, appropriate for Roman emperors 260 
 
 Orcus Quietalis presided over the dead - 266 
 
 Orestilla Fabia, wife of the elder Gordian - 244 
 
 Organ, an hydraulic one invented by Nero - 44 
 
 Orichalcum, a fine yellow brass - - ib. 
 Oriens Augg. Appollo marching, rev. of Valerian 294 
 
 Origen instructs J. Mamsea in Christianity 235 
 
 Orontes represented by a swimmer - - 118 
 
 Orosius, on the secular games of Philip - 267 
 
 on Gallus and Volusian - - 286 
 
 Osiris, or the Sun, represented by an eagle - 4 
 
 compared with Serapis - - 163 
 
 and Isis, on a reverse of Commodus - 164 
 
 Osrhoeni warred on by Severus - - 185 
 
 Ostia, the port of, a reverse of Nero - 42 
 
 . the port re-edified by Trajan - 86 
 
 Otacilia, her birth and death - - 269 
 
 marriage, character, and principles ib. 
 
 estimation of her medals - - 270 
 
 her countenance described - - 271 
 
 Otho, birth, descent, elevation, and death - 48 
 
 marries Poppgea Sabina - - ib. 
 
 his character and disposition - 49 
 
 estimation of his medals - 50 
 
 description of his features - 50 
 
 wore a perriwig - - - ib. 
 
 Otto M. yields to a mistake of some sailors - 288 
 Ottone, the Italian for brass - - 50 
 Oration of Posthumius Tubertus - - 236 
 Ovid, his address to Augustus - 6 
 his prediction on Caius and Lucius - ib. 
 
 Tage 
 
 Ovid, compliments Livia - - 10 
 
 on the death of Diusus Senior - 21 
 
 his eulogy of the priestly title - - 18 
 
 dedicates the Fasti to Germanicus - 24 
 
 on the form of a galley - - 100 
 
 on full sails, as a type of happiness - 101 
 
 on Juno Regina - - - 111 
 
 describes Minerva jaculatrix - - 134 
 
 on the Ficus Ruminalis - - 158 
 
 on New-year's day - 160 
 
 on Mens bona - 169 
 
 on Vesta - - - - 189 
 
 on Spes - 192 
 
 on Mars Pacifer - 228 
 
 on the Manipulus - 243 
 
 on flowing drapery - - - 248 
 
 on the Equiria - 260 
 
 on Juno Martialis - 289 
 
 on light drapery - 291 
 
 on the nurse of Jove - - - 301 
 
 on the temple of Moneta - - ib. 
 
 Owl, on a reverse of Trajan - - - 88 
 
 on a reverse of Hadrian - - - 311 
 
 Oxen sometimes draw Diana's car - - 145 
 on a reverse of Commodus - - 161 
 
 Pacatianus known only by coins - - 272 
 
 Pacator Orbis, title assumed by Commodus - 160 
 
 rev. of a denarius of Valerian 295 
 
 Pace per Terra, &c. a legend of Nero - 43 
 
 Paci ceter. seated female, rev. of Severus - 314 
 
 Padre de Natalibus, on Philip Junior - 272 
 
 Paduans lighter than true coins - xx 
 
 Painting indebted to medals - - vii 
 
 ordered by Maximinus - - 240 
 
 Palestine conquered by Julius Severus - 106 
 
 indicated by the palm tree - ib. 
 
 Palilia, or Parilia - - - 99 
 
 Palladium, a reverse of Severus - - 185 
 
 Pallium, a robe - - - - 107 
 
 Palm branches borne in procession - 70 
 
 „ pretium victoribus - 214, 296 
 
 tree, emblematic of Judaea - 57 
 
 its sexual nature - - 175 
 
 Palmaris Dea of Apuleius - - 252 
 
 Paludamentum, a square woollen cloak - 283 
 
 Palus Pontina - - - 88 
 
 Pancton, on debasing metals - - xix 
 
 Pannonia, a reverse of iElius - - 1 14 
 
 personification of ib. 
 
 Pannonice, two females, a reverse of Decius - 277 
 
 Pantheistic coin, to several deities - - 311 
 
 owl, eagle, peacock, of Hadrian ib. 
 
 female, lion, peacock, of Faus. J. 313 
 
( 341 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Pantheon, a forged reverse of Agrippa - xix 
 
 Panther, one on a medal of Commodus - 158 
 
 an attribute of Bacchus - - 185 
 
 represented on a coin of Gallienus - 301 
 
 Panvinio on Cedoaldo and Offa - - 263 
 
 Paphlagonian trumpet, like the bray of an ass 277 
 Papinian, the celebrated lawyer, slain - 191 
 
 Parasemon of a galley - - - 100 
 
 Parazonium, a badge of command - - xiv 
 
 Parietarius, an epithet given to Trajan - 87 
 Parkes, his analysis of large brass coins xvi. xvii. 
 Parma, or shield of Minerva - 185 
 Part Arab. Part Adiab. a reverse of Severus ib. 
 Parthamaspates crowned by Trajan - 90 
 Parthia restores the standards taken from Crassus 7 
 
 receives a king from Trajan - 90 
 
 a reverse of Antoninus Pius - 117 
 
 Passover, origin of the Pulvinaria - - 146 
 
 Pater, the title of the greater gods - - 144 
 
 applies to the divinity of an emperor - 171 
 
 Patrice, designation first bestowed on Cicero 4 
 
 Senatus, an honourable epithet - 252 
 
 Patera, its signification - - - 287 
 
 Patientia, not found on large brass - - 258 
 
 Patin published a coin of Galeri us Antoninus - 130 
 
 on Annia Faustina - 218 
 
 on Venus - 220 
 
 on a coin»of J. Mamaea - - 236 
 
 on the blessing of Issachar - - 277 
 
 Patina, a beautiful metallic rust - - xv 
 
 cannot be counterfeited - xviii, xx 
 
 Patres, the senators - 208 
 
 Senatus a reverse of Balbinus - 251 
 
 Paul IIII. purchases gross forgeries - - xix 
 
 Paulina, her story unnoticed by history - 240 
 
 yet her character may be gathered - ib. 
 
 assigned to Maximinus by medals only ib. 
 
 estimation of her coins - - 241 
 
 her countenance described - - ib. 
 
 Paulas Orosius, on Gallus and Volusian - 286 
 Pausanias on the Pulvinaria - - 146 
 
 on the Alee - - _ 273 
 
 Pax Aug. a reverse of Vespasian - - 57 
 
 Augg. female and olive branch, rev. of Vol. 316 
 
 Augusti, a reverse of Vitellius - 53 
 
 a female, reverse of Decius - 315 
 
 fundata cum Persis, a reverse of Philip 265 
 
 Publico, sedent female, reverse of Pupienus 255 
 
 Peace, temple of, built by Vespasian - 55 
 
 , destroyed - - 162 
 
 burning a pile of arms - 57, 310 
 
 Concord, and Tranquillity, three deities 288 
 
 Peacock, sacred to Juno - - 93 
 symbol of the Apotheosis of an Empress ib. 
 
 Page 
 
 Peacock, Avis Junouia - - - 146 
 
 Pecunia, the early Roman money - xii 
 
 Pedrusi, his opinion of Caligula - - 28 
 
 quoted on a coin of Caligula - 31 
 
 his opinion of a singular Tripod - 81 
 
 on a coin of Trajan - - 84 
 
 on the triumphal arch of Trajan - 85 
 
 on the Discipulina of Hadrian - 101 
 
 mistakes a symbol of Achaia - 102 
 
 on a medal of Britannia - - 120 
 
 on a coin of Antoninus Pius - 124 
 
 figured a coin of Galerius Antoninus - 130 
 
 ....„ on a pantheistic symbol - - 181 
 
 in error, on a coin of Elagabalus - 214 
 
 on a medal of Soaemias - - 221 
 
 on the quadriga of Alexander - 231 
 
 on a coin of Gordianus Pius - 261 
 
 ... on a medal of Philip Senior - 268 
 
 his figure of an animal, rev. of Philip Jun. 273 
 
 on the character of iEmilian - 290 
 
 his error respecting Salonina - 302 
 
 on the Pietas of Salonina - - 303 
 
 on the pastoral staff - 305 
 
 Pegasus, a type of alacrity - 300 
 
 Pel/a, snakes tamed there - 204 
 
 Pellerin on the Pietas of Plautilla - - 198 
 
 on an aureus of Herennius - 280 
 
 Pelusium visited by Hadrian - - 103 
 
 Pendentisque dei of Juvenal - x 
 
 Pennies of England - xix 
 
 Peplus, a robe of divinity - 297 
 Perinthians strike a medallion to Cornelia Paula 216 
 
 strike a medallion to Alexander 227 
 
 Perpenna elevated to the purple - - 284 
 
 his medals only known to Goltzius ib. 
 
 Perpetual edict ratified by Hadrian - - 110 
 
 Persecution of Christianity, by Nero - 40 
 
 by Trajan - 80 
 
 by Decius - 275 
 
 Perritvigs introduced by Otho - - 50 
 
 Perseus on Janus - - - - 160 
 
 on equity - 170 
 
 Pertinax, parentage, birth, and occupation - 167 
 
 his servkes and elevation - - ib. 
 
 assassinated by the Praetorians - 1 68 
 
 his magnificent funeral - - 171 
 
 his character and meritorious acts - 168 
 
 his piety manifested - - 169 
 
 , estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 his countenance described - - ib. 
 
 Pescennia Plautiana, wife of P. Niger - 177 
 Pescennius Niger, parentage, birth, employments 175 
 
 v . slain near A ntioch - 176 
 
 summary of his character •• ib. 
 
 2 Y 
 
( 342 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Pescennius Niger, wh.y called. Nigfir - - 177 
 
 estimation of his uncials - 176 
 
 his aspect described - 177 
 
 Pi tun on the htter L to Greek numerals - 233 
 
 Pttasus, or winged helmet of Meicuiy - 138 
 
 Petrarch, a medallist - vii 
 
 on Aurelias and Faustina - - 144 
 
 Petronius Arbiter on concord, justice, peace, faith 230 
 
 on Prudentia - 218 
 
 on the Roman L'.mpire - - 200 
 
 on the stork - - - 288 
 
 Pezron, his management of Manetho - - 207 I 
 
 Philip, a familiar appellation of any coin - 30(5 
 
 Sen. an Arabian, birth of - 202 
 
 his services, elevation, and death 203 
 
 his character and administration ib. 204 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 his countenance described - ib. 
 
 Jan. parentage, birth, and elevation - 271 
 
 slain and deified - - 272 
 
 gravity and general character - ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 his features described - - ib. 
 
 Philippei cerei, washed with silver - - 300 
 
 Philistines, their Astoreth - - 220, 221 
 
 Phifo Bib/ius on sun worship - - 215 
 
 Philosoph. Transac. an erroneous remark in the 274 
 
 Pliilosophus, applied to M. Aurelius - - 130 
 
 Phocas, substitutes the holy cross for the sceptre 239 
 Phoebe hangs herself - - note, 14 
 
 Phoebus, a stayer of pestilence - - 294 
 
 Phcenice, a reverse of Antoninus Pius - 117 
 
 Phoenix described - 128 
 
 the emblem of power and eternity - 147 
 
 Phosphorus, supposed allusion to - 214 
 
 Phrygia, personification of - 108 
 
 Picta, an ornamented toga - 255 
 
 Picus Martins, a sacred bird - - xiy 
 
 Pied-forts, or mint proofs - xiii 
 
 Piero Valeriano, on the globe - - 195 
 
 on stability - - 246 
 
 Pietas, an obverse of Caligula - - 31 
 
 a reverse of Plautilla - - 198 
 
 not confined to filial affection - 304 
 
 pontifical instruments of Alex, doubted - 227 
 
 rev. of Maxminius 242 
 
 became an epithet of honour - 304 
 
 female sacrificing, reverse of Lucilla - 313 
 
 Aug. pontif. instruments, rev. of M. Aurel. 133 
 
 female sacrificing, reveise of Meesa 223 
 
 female and stork, rev. of Hadrian 311 
 
 female and children, rev. of Sabina ib. 
 
 Augg. pontif. instruments, rev. of Gord. P. 258 
 Mercury, a reverse of Herennius 281 
 
 Page 
 
 Pietas Augg. fern, and two children rev. of Salon. 303 
 
 August, a reverse of Matidia - 94 
 
 Augusta, a reverse of Augustus - G3 
 
 three figures, reverse of Titus ib. 
 
 Auguslce, fern, standing, rev, of. Qtacilia 271 
 
 Augustorum, reverse of Herennius - 281 
 
 Mutua, a reverse of Balbinus - - 251 
 
 Pietati Senatus, two figures, reverse of Commodus 159 
 Pietatis Cultrix, the stork so called by Petronius 288 
 
 Piety, differs fiom puritanism - - 223 
 
 a word of extended application - 271 
 
 defined by Cicero - . 281 
 
 St. Austin - ib. 
 
 Pileus, or cap of liberty - - 47 
 
 Pine-tree, sacred to Cybele - - 114 
 
 Pinkerton on the laurel- wreath - - 275 
 
 Pioneers first established by Hadrian - - 101 
 
 Pipa, or Pipara, daughter of Attalus - 302 
 
 bought by Gallienus - ib. 
 
 Pirates of Barbary were paid a stipend - 83 
 
 Piso poisons Germanicus - - 24 
 
 Frugi, one of the Thirty Tyrants - 307 
 
 Pius, a just appellation of Antoninus - 115, 125 
 
 Plague desolates Rome - 300 
 
 Plautin, his edition of Sambucus - - 138 
 
 Plautian, the haughty favourite of Severus - 197 
 
 «... .gives an immensedower with his daughter 198 
 
 Plautilla, splendid marriage and murder - 197 
 
 brutality with which she was treated 198 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her features described - - ib. 
 
 Plautus, extract from, on Slavery - 47 
 
 his Miles Gloriosus - - 118 
 
 his Aulularia quoted - - 153 
 
 Plebei Urbance Frumento constituto, rev. of Nerva 77 
 Pliny, the elder, his sum . of coinage unsatisfactory xii 
 
 on the olives of Boetica - 105 
 
 mentions the rabbits of Spain 106 
 
 ., an admirable observation of - 110 
 
 on Murrha - 150 
 
 , notion of the Divi - - 150 
 
 on the fat of a snake - 167 
 
 on Roman standards - 184 
 
 on Roman physicians - 195 
 
 on the myrtle at an ovation - 236 
 
 relates the Roman charity - 271 
 
 the younger, apostrophizes Nerva - 75 
 
 quoted on Trajan - 80 
 
 ou trophies - - 84 
 
 on Trajan's fame - 88 
 
 eulogizes Plotina - 91 
 
 extols Marciana - - 02 
 
 Plotina, marriage with Trajan, and death - 90 
 her excellent character and conduct ib. 91 
 
343 ) 
 
 P/otina steadily patronizes Hadrian - 91 
 
 estimation of her medals - - ib. 
 
 her features described - - ib. 
 
 Plotinus enlists in Gordian's army - - 261 
 
 patronized by Salonina - - 303 
 
 Plutarch quoted on Antonia - - 22 
 
 quoted on trophies - - 83 
 
 on a supreme being - - 159 
 
 on a symbol of Janus - - I GO 
 
 Pluto, not represented on Imperial medals - 270 
 
 Poetry indebted to medals - - - vii 
 
 Poisoning, imputations of, doubted - 24 
 
 Po/a, its amphitheatre - - 03 
 
 P&Htian first quoted medals - - vii 
 
 Pollio on the popularity of Valerian - - 293 
 
 on the conduct of Gallienus - - 299 
 
 his anecdote of Saloninus - . 304 
 
 Polybius on Roman sea affairs doubted - ix 
 
 Polyglot epitaph of Gordianus Pius - - 257 
 
 Pomcerium, or area adjoining the walls of Rome 275 
 
 Pompeii and Herculaneum destroyed - GO 
 
 an altar found there - - 120 
 
 Pompey, coins of, estimated - - note, 2 
 
 his theatre burnt - 2G7 
 
 and Julius Ccesar compared - 2 
 
 Pomponius Festus mention's a noted column - 57 
 
 Lcetus on Gordianus Pius - 257 
 
 self-styled Infortunatus - 291 
 
 Mela on the Britons - - 120 
 
 Pons Mlius, a forged reverse of Hadrian - xix 
 
 Pont. Max. Tr. pot. Cos. II. reverse of Hadrian 98 
 
 Pontif. Max. Fides with ensigns, rev. of Macrinus 204 
 
 Salus seated, a reverse of Macrinus ib. 
 
 Flavian Amphitheatre, rev. of Alex. 229 
 
 , Roma seated, rev. of Elagabalus 315 
 
 Tr. P. XII reverse of Caracalla - 192 
 
 XIII. reverse of Caracalla - ib. 
 
 II. Cos. II. a reverse of Geta - 201 
 
 Pontifex Maximus, the office explained - 18 
 
 the title divided - - 252 
 
 his various duties - 287 
 
 Pontiff's, their duties - - - - 19 
 
 Pontificum Ccena, a proverb - 215 
 
 libri, or annals, kept by the Pontiff 287 
 
 Pontine Marshes - - - 88 
 
 Pontus governed by Balbinus - - 249 
 
 Popa, a butcher priest - - -165 
 
 Pope, on medals 1, 88, 89, 177 
 
 his phrase on man - 265 
 
 Hadrian, mistaken for the Emperor - vi 
 
 Poppcea instigated Nero to murder his mother 38 
 
 cause of her death . - - 41 
 
 her coins - - - - ib. 
 
 Portrait nsed, though improperly, for likeness xr 
 
 Page 
 
 Portrait, peculiarities in, on Sestertii - - xviii 
 
 Port of Ostia, a reverse of Nero - - 42 
 
 Portum Trajani, a reverse of Trajan - - 310 
 
 Posca, a spurious wine ... 101 
 
 Postumus, a puissant general - - 304 
 
 one of the Thirty Tyrants - - 307 
 
 Polestas perpetua, legend of Alexander Severus xx 
 Potin, a mixture of copper, tin, and silver - 306 
 Pozzuoli, remains of Caligula's bridge there - 29 
 Pi crfericulum described - 133 
 Prcetexta, the robe of youth - 283 
 Prater. Recept a reverse of Claudius - 35 
 
 Praetorian Guards degraded by Stverus - 186 
 Preservation of medals, a principal point - xvii 
 Priamus of Rome, Gordianus Africanus J. - 246 
 Prices, in numismatic works useless 43, 121, 297 
 Primicerius, a mint-master - vii 
 Primi decennales, a reverse of M. A m elius - 136 
 Princ. Juveut. 3 youths on horseback, rev. of Geta 200 
 
 Jucentutis, youth and stand, rev. of Diadu. 208 
 
 Prince of the Roman youth, the office described 156 
 Princeps, or first, rendered Prince - - 273 
 
 Principi Juvent. figure and trophy, rev. of Com. 156 
 
 Prince and ensigns, rev. of Max. 243 
 
 , Prince, reverse of Philip Junior 273 
 
 Prince and dart, rev. of Heren. 280 
 
 sedent female, rev. of Hostilian. 283 
 
 young warrior, rev. of Hostilian. ib. 
 
 a warrior, reverse of Saloninus 305 
 
 Proboscis of an Elephant, an emblem of Africa 103 
 
 Probus, his artificial forest - 268 
 
 an able general ... 295 
 
 a curious medal of - - - 300 
 
 Procopius relates a strange anecdote of Domitia 73 
 Profectio, or departure, symbol of - - 266 
 
 Aug. reverse of M. Aurelius - 135 
 
 Augusli, Emp. and vict. rev. of Alex. 231 
 
 Pronuba, a name of Juno - - - 154 
 
 Propago Imperii, a reverse of Plautilla - 198 
 
 a reverse of Orbiana - 234 
 
 Propertius on the sistrum - 103 
 
 on ancient navigation - - Hil 
 
 on Mens bona - - 169 
 
 on the lynx - - - 185 
 
 on Pudicitia - - 223 
 
 on Venus Victrix - - 236 
 
 on chastity - - 279 
 
 Prophecy respecting Jerusalem fulfilled 61, 107 
 Prov. Deor. robed female, reverse of Vei ns 313 
 Provid. Aug. a ship sailing, rev. of Commodus 161 
 Providence, emblems of - - - 170 
 
 Providentia inscribed on an altar - - 126 
 
 Aug. a female, rev. of Maximums 315 
 
 Augg. a female, rev. of Gord. Af, .1. 247 
 
( 344 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Providentia August, a reverse of Titus - 62 
 
 , on coins of Constantine - 248 
 
 Deorum, fem. and globe, rev. of Pup. 254 
 
 Senatus, a reverse of Nerva - 310 
 
 ProvidenticE Aug. Hercules and Afr. rev. of Com. 162 
 
 Deorum, rev. of Antoninus Pius 122 
 
 female and globe, rev. of Pertinax 169 
 
 Provinces, represented variously - 117 
 
 Prudentia, or forethought, how typified - 248 
 
 only one coin, thus inscribed, known ib. 
 
 Prudentius on the worship of Rome - 45 
 
 on Juno - 174 
 
 on Venus Victrix - - 263 
 
 ridicules the Genius of Rome - 302 
 
 Pseudo-monela, imitation pieces - - xvii 
 
 Pub. Valerian, on the head of Medusa - 167 
 
 Publiui Victor, on the ashes of Trajan - 88 
 
 on the Capitoline deities - 180 
 
 Pudicitia, a reverse of Faustina Junior - 143 
 
 a reverse of Crispina - - 166 
 
 sealed, a reverse of Julia Maesa 222 
 
 her worship - - - 223 
 
 Aug. sedent female, rev. of Etruscilla 279 
 
 ... sedent female, rev. of Faustina Junior 312 
 
 Puellce Alimentarice, or charity children - 303 
 
 Faust iniance, reverse of Faustina Senior 127 
 
 Pulvinaria, derived from the passover - 146 
 
 Pupienus, his names, birth, and parentage - 252 
 
 merit, service, elevation, and death - 253 
 
 his excellent character - - ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 his aspect described - - 254 
 
 Purple, synonymous with Empire - - 263 
 
 Pyra, distinguished from Rogus - - 223 
 
 Python, the serpent of Apollo mistaken for - 292 
 
 Qnadi receive a king from Antoninus Pius - 119 
 
 a barbarous people - 136 
 
 Quadrans, or fourth of an As - - xii 
 
 Quudrantcs, the sixteenth of a sestertius - xvi 
 
 Quadrassis, a piece of four Ases - - xii 
 
 Quadriga of Elagahalus in a consular procession 214 
 
 triumphal, a reverse of Maximinus - 239 
 
 Quadrigated car, a reverse of Antoninus Pius 124 
 
 Quadrigati, a class of Roman coins - - xii 
 
 Quadruplators extirpated - - - 115 
 
 Quart inus, Titus, treacherously murdered - 241 
 
 no coin of him - - ib. 
 
 Quir.s, used by Virgil - 205 
 
 Quieta/is, her temple among the tombs - 266 
 
 Quietus, one of the Thirty Tyrants - - 307 
 
 Quinarius, half an aureus, or denarius - 133 
 
 Quimctilian meanly praises Domitian's poetry 66 
 
 Quincunx, a piece of five Ases - - xii 
 
 Page 
 
 i Quinquatria, a Roman festival ■» 38 
 
 Quinquatriun games, instituted by Domitian - 67 
 
 ; Quintia Crispilla, wife of Pupienus, medal to 253 
 
 j Quod Vice Mun. sunt, a reverse of Commodus 160 
 
 Rabbit, an emblem of Spain - - 106 
 
 Radiated croivn, on the medalets of Decius - 275 
 
 Rake, represented ou a coin of Albinus - 181 
 
 Raleigh, Sir Walter, on historical facts - 263 
 
 Ram, dedicated to Mercury - 137 
 
 represented on a reverse of Britannicus - 309 
 
 Raphael indebted to the Trajan column - 88 
 
 Ratiti, an early class of Roman coins - xii 
 
 Rutza forges Venetian sequins - - xix 
 Rector Or bis, a togated figure, rev. of D. Juliamis 173 
 
 a reverse of Caracalla - - 314 
 
 Regalianus, one of the Thirty Tyrants - 307 
 
 Regna adsignata, a reverse of Trajan - 90 
 
 Reinesius on the letter L to Greek numerals - 233 
 
 Relig. Aug. a temple, a rev. of Marcus Aurelius 137 
 
 Religio, reverse of a denarius of Valerian - 294 
 Reliqua Vetera HS. Novies mill, abolita, Hadrian 98 
 Requies oplimorum merit orum, Constat). Chlorus306 
 
 REST, or Restitution - - - 8 
 
 Restituti of Titus - - - 61 
 
 Restitutor Galliarum, rev', of Gallienus - 302 
 
 Generis Humani, rev. of Gallienus ib. 
 
 or bis, Fmp. and female, rev. of Gallienus ib. 
 
 Orientis, reverse of Gallienus - ib. 
 
 Urbis, a reverse of Severus - 314 
 
 Restitutori Achaice, a reverse of Hadrian - 102 
 
 Africce, a reverse of Hadrian - 103 
 
 Asice, a reverse of Hadrian - 104 
 
 Bithynice, a reverse of Hadrian - ib. 
 
 Gallics, a reverse of Hadrian - 105 
 
 Hispanice, a reverse of Hadrian - 106 
 
 Italice, a reverse of M. Aurelius - 137 
 
 Nicomedice, a reverse of Hadrian - 107 
 
 „ omitted by Mionnet - 200 
 
 Orbis Terrarum, rev. of Hadrian 108 
 
 Phrygice, reverse of Hadrian ib. 
 
 Revenue of Rome in the time of Elagabalus 211 
 
 Reverse, the opposite side to obverse - xv 
 
 Rex Armenis Datus, a reverse of Antoninus P. 1 19 
 
 a rev. of Lucius Verus - 151 
 
 Parthis Datus, a reverse of Trajan - 90 
 
 Quadis Datus, a reverse of Antoninus P. 119 
 
 Rhadamanthus, the judge of sinners - - 270 
 
 Rhcetia, a shield against Gaul - - 109 
 
 Rhcea, a name of Cybele - 144 
 
 and Mars, a reverse of Antoninus Pius 120 
 
 Rhinoceros exhibited in the games of Philip - 267 
 
 Rhodoginus, on Phrygian dances - . 108 
 
 Riding, how taught by the Romans - - 305 
 
( 345 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Right hand, the symbol of faith and loyalty 77, 251 
 
 the token of love and friendship - 201 
 
 River Gods, their attributes - - 81, 86 
 
 Road, how personified - - - 88 
 
 Rod of Moses furnished the caducifer alis - 281 
 Rogus distinguished from Pyra - - 223 
 
 Roma, a reverse of Nero - - 43, 44 
 
 female on seven hills, rev. of Vespasian 310 
 
 a reverse of Galba - - 48 
 
 Resurges, a reverse of Vespasian - -57 
 
 Renascens, a reverse of Nerva - 78 
 
 Victrix, represented on a coin of Trajan 84 
 
 RomcE MterncB, Rome seated, rev. of Gordianus 248 
 
 et Augusto, origin of this legend - 7 
 
 Roman traditions doubted - - - ix 
 
 charity, an interesting story - - 271 
 
 Rome, its greatness treated of, by Virgil - 248 
 
 _ its age - - - 267, 268 
 
 Romula, a town of Betica - - 11 
 
 Romulus attacks the palace of Amulius - 243 
 
 and Remus, story doubted - ix 
 
 , and the wolf, rev. of Ant. 122 
 
 Philip Sen. 267 
 
 Rope dancing by elephants - - - 186 
 
 Rostral crown, worn by the Admiral of the seas 12 
 Rostrata corona, Virgil's mention of it - 13 
 
 Rothelin collection, a coin of Britannicus from 309 
 Round, not much mis-shapen in minting - xv 
 Roundness of a medal valuable - - 294 
 
 Roxolani, warred against by Hadrian - - 1(!0 
 
 a barbarous people - - 136 
 
 Rueeus falsely accuses Virgil - 170 
 Rubenius, on a legend of Gordian's - - 260 
 
 Rudis, the wand of liberty - - - 76 
 
 Sabcean bough - - - 86 
 
 Sabina, her marriage and miserable death - 110 
 
 her character - - ib. 
 
 estimation of her medals - - 111 
 
 her features described - - ib. 
 
 Sacerdos, a reverse of a medal of Antonia - 23 
 
 Dei Solis Elagab. reverse of Elagab. 215 
 
 Sacramentum, or military oath - - 265 
 
 Sacred Majesty, assumed by James the First - 306 
 Scecularcs Augg. a lion, reverse of Philip Senior 267 
 
 she- wolf and twins, Philip Sen. ib. 
 
 - a stag, reverse of Philip Senior 268 
 
 an antelope, rev. of Philip Sen. ib. 
 
 „ hippo-potamus, rev. of Otacilia 271 
 
 strange beast, rev. Philip Junior 273 
 
 a cippus, rev. of Philip Senior 315 
 
 an altar, reverse of Philip Senior ib. 
 
 S (ecu/aria Sacra, a reverse of Severus - 187 
 
 S&cnlif elicit, a lectula, rev. of Faustina Junior 144 
 
 Pa 2 e 
 
 Scpculi felicitas, a reverse of J. Mamaea - 236 
 
 a female, reverse of Julia Mresa 315 
 
 S&cu/o Frugifero, a reverse of Albinus - 181 
 Sceculum novum, a temple, rev. of Philip Senior 269 
 Sagittarius, a symbol of Singara - - 262 
 
 Sagu/um, or Gaulish cassock - - 105 
 
 Sagum, a robe - - - - ib. 
 
 Sailors, their mistake on reading Concord - 288 
 Sails embroidered - - - - 101 
 
 Saint Augustine quoted - xvii 
 
 Matthew on tribute money - - xii 
 
 Sal. Gen. Hum. Hygieia raising a citizen, Com. 161 
 Salian hymn, name of Germanicus inserted in it 24 
 Saliares Epuloc, a proverb - 215 
 Salmasius on the double flute - - 165 
 
 Salonma, wife of Gallienus, little known of - 302 
 
 her beauty, talents, and disposition - 303 
 
 a warm patroness of Plotinus - ib. 
 
 estimation of her medals - - ib. 
 
 her countenance described - - ib. 
 
 Saloninus, his parentage, birth, and murder - 304 
 
 abilities, licentiousness, and dishonesty ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - - 305 
 
 a peculiarity in their legends - ib. 
 
 his features described - ib. 
 
 Saltier, or cross-wise - - 19 
 
 Sa/us, why inscribed to Livia - 10 
 
 female seated, tree, &c. rev. of Commodus 158 
 
 sedent female and snake, rev. of Crispina 167 
 
 Antonini Aug. female and snake, Elagab. 213 
 
 Augusti, female and snake, rev. Hostilian 283 
 
 Sa/vini on the letter L to Greek numerals - 233 
 Sambucus, his emblems - - note, 138 
 
 figures Herculi Commodiano of Com. 162 
 
 gives a medal of Pescennius Niger 177 
 
 Sampan of China - - - 101 
 
 Sa?i C/etnenle describes a coin of Britannicus - 309 
 Sanchoniathon, on sun worship - - 215 
 
 Sanctitas hominis of Cicero - 304 
 Sapientia, not on medals till Constantine's time 230 
 Sapor takes Valerian captive - 293 
 
 his arrogance - - - 307 
 
 Sannaiia, war with, by Hadrian - - 100 
 
 Sarmatians, barbarian invaders - - 136 
 
 Saturn, represented on a denarius of Valerian - 270 
 Saturnalian coins ... - 276 
 
 Saturninus, one of the Thirty Tyrants - 307 
 
 S. C. Senatus Consulto, the senatorial stamp - v 
 
 substituted by S. P. Q. R. - - 27 
 
 Saturni Consulto - 276 
 
 omitted on a coin of Gallienus - - 300 
 
 Scaliger, his derivation of medal - - xi 
 
 _ the elder, praises Alciati - - 135 
 
 Joseph, on Munhine vases - - 150 
 
 2z 
 
( 346 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Scaliger, on the double flute - - - 165 
 
 on the letter L to Greek numerals - 233 
 
 on the taking of Troy - - 263 
 
 Scantinian law revived by Philip - - 264 
 
 Sceptre with an eagle, origin of - 25 
 
 formerly a weapon - - - 141 
 
 Sch/egelius quoted on a coin of Caligula - 31 
 Scholiast, a seasonable friend - - 268 
 
 Scipio Africanus, an antiquary - x 
 Scorpio, the constellation - 170 
 Scorpion, an emblem of Africa - - 103 
 
 Scribonia, divorced by Augustus - - 9 
 
 Sculpture indebted to medals - - vii 
 
 Sea desolates vast tracts - 300 
 
 affairs of the early Romans - - ix 
 
 Seasons, emblems of the 163 
 Secespita described - 133 
 Secular games, celebrated by Domitian - 68 
 
 their eighth celebration - 187 
 
 ninth and last celeb, by Philip Sen. 266 
 
 hymn, extract from - - - 69 
 
 the master-piece of Horace - 70 
 
 Srcuritas Augg. sedent female, Gordian Af. Sen. 245 
 
 female and column, Hostilian 283 
 
 Perpctua, reverse of Caracalla - 314 
 
 temporum, female and column, Macrin. 205 
 
 Sedent, or seated, denotes stability - 144, 273 
 Segetia, the goddess of growing crops - 300 
 
 Seguin, on a quinarius of Alexander - - 233 
 
 corrects an error respecting Etruscilla - 278 
 
 describes a coin of Britannicus - 309 
 
 Seitz, on the horses of Chios - - 44 
 
 Sejanus, his base intrigues - 18, 19, 26, 27 
 
 his fall and destruction - 15 
 
 his insolence to Drusus Junior - 19 
 
 Sella Castre7isis, or camp-seat - - 151 
 
 Ehurnea, or curule chair - - 273 
 
 Sembella, the eighth of a sestertius - - xvi 
 
 Semis, or half As - - - - xii 
 
 Semones, or deified mortals - - - 306 
 
 St vale, the chief council of state - - 118 
 
 a i are instance of its propriety - 224 
 
 Senator, his insignia - - - - 118 
 
 with olive-branch, rev. of Gordian. Af. S. 245 
 
 Senators, their dread of Domitian - - 67 
 
 their supple infamy - - 215 
 
 Seneca satirizes the deification of Claudius - 33 
 
 recalled from banishment by Agrippina J. 37 
 
 his influence over Nero - - 38 
 
 countenances the murder of Agrippina Juii. 39 
 
 penned Nero's orations - - 40 
 
 on Jupiter Custos - - 85 
 
 his notion of the Divi - 159 
 
 his piaisse of clemency - - - 182 
 
 Page 
 
 Seneca, his (Edipus quoted - 232 
 Senex, an epithet given to the elder Gordian - 244 
 Senior and Junior, applied to females, questioned 37 
 Septizonium of Severus - - - 188 
 
 Serapidi Conserv. Aug. a reverse of Commodus 162 
 Serapis, his offices and attributes - ib. 163 
 
 consulted respecting Caracalla - 196 
 
 Serpent, emblem of prudence, reputed properties 167 
 
 of Apollo, mistaken for the Python - 292 
 
 Serpentine River, mock engagement upon - 268 
 Serviez, Mons. his absurd story of Mariniana - 297 
 Servius on the Sistrum - 102 
 
 on the Rogus and Pyra - - 223 
 
 Tullus, his enactment on deaths - 153 
 
 Sestertius, or large-brass - - xv, xvi 
 
 Sestini on a coin of Britannicus - - 309 
 
 Seven, a mystical number - 147 
 Severus, his parentage, birth, and employments 181 
 
 his elevation, death, and character 182, 183 
 
 ..... was an auto-biographer - - ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 his countenance described - -184 
 
 degrades the Praetorian guards - 186 
 
 lavishes treasures on the army - ib. 
 
 debases the silver money - - 306 
 
 Hosti/ianus, coin of, by Goltzius - 263 
 
 Sequins of Venice, an excellent coinage - xix 
 
 Sextans, or sixth of an As - - xii 
 
 Shakspcare on hope - - - 34 
 
 makes Hamlet's doublet like Hadrian's 95 
 
 his praise of clemency - - 182 
 
 on ambition - - - 188 
 
 on security - 245 
 
 classes nobility & tranquillity together266 
 
 , on sudden death - 294 
 
 on filial ingratitude - - 296 
 
 Shears held by Juno - 286 
 Shekels paid by Abraham - - xii 
 
 Shield, signification of, on a medal of Tiberius 17 
 Ship, a type of felicity - 100 
 
 Shoes with high heels - 133 
 
 Sibylline prophecy - - - - 69 
 
 books consulted - 307 
 
 Sicilia, a reverse of Antoninus Pius - - 118 
 
 Sideribus recepta, biga and fem. rev. of Faust. J. 145 
 Sidonius Apollinaris, on the theatrical factions 268 
 Sigl<z, letters for words - - vi 
 
 Signis Receptis, a reverse of Augustus - 7 
 
 devictis Germ. rev. of Germanicus 25 
 
 a reverse of Vespasian - 58 
 
 Silius Jtalicus on the Pontine Marshes - 88 
 
 on the personification of peace 255 
 
 Silver coinage - - - vi 
 money, scale of its debasement - 306 
 
( 347 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Simon, the Jew - - 57, 61 
 
 Simpulum described - 133 
 
 Singara, a town of Mesopotamia - . - 262 
 
 Sispita attended Malaria patients - - 119 
 
 Sistrum, an ^Egyptian symbol - - 102 
 
 Sixtus V. destroys the Septizonium of Severus 188 
 
 Slavery, horrid state of, in Rome - 47 
 
 Sleep symbolized by the hand on the head - 283 
 
 Small-brass, a valuable series - - xv 
 
 „ surprisingly common in the L. Em p. 300 
 
 Smollett, his sneer upon naumachias - - 208 
 Sohemus, King of Armenia, restored to his crown 151 
 
 Sol, a stayer of pestilence - 294 
 
 Solmus, on C'appadocia - - - 117 
 
 eulogizes Italy - - 121 
 
 Somnus, not represented on Imperial medals - 270 
 
 Soror Imp. Trajani, a reverse of Marciana - 92 
 
 Sortes Homericce - 203 
 
 Soul of a medal, its legend - - - 200 
 
 Soiv and pigs, a reverse of Antoninus Pius - 122 
 
 Spain, personification of, and emblems 105, 100 
 
 Spanheim on the new sera of Rome - - 269 
 
 on nobility - 305 
 
 Spartian, on the death of Trajan - 91 
 
 on Matidia - - - 94 
 
 on the mausoleum of Hadrian - 96 
 
 on the conduct of Hadrian - 99 
 
 on the habits of Hadrian - - 101 
 
 on Hadrian's visit to Gaul - - 105 
 
 on Sabina - - 1 10 
 
 on TElius - - - 114 
 
 on Lucilla's son - 154 
 
 on Didius Julianus - - 172 
 
 on Manlia Scantilla - - 173 
 
 on the character of P. Niger - 176 
 
 on the character of Severus - 182 
 
 on Julia Domna - 188 
 
 on Caracalla taking the title of German. 194 
 
 on the character of Geta - - 200 
 
 Spectatores, or assayers - - - vii 
 
 Spei Perpetuce, a reverse of Caracalla - 192 
 
 Spes, the goddess of Hope described - 34 
 
 a reverse of Claudius - - 34, 35 
 
 a reverse of M. Aurelius - - 133 
 
 Publico, Hope, a reverse of Diadumenian 208 
 
 , Hope with a blossom, rev. iEmilian 291 
 
 Sphynx represented on a medal of Hadrian - 108 
 
 described by Ausonius - - 158 
 
 Spintriati, coins of Tiberius - 16 
 
 Spolia opima, of king Acron - 53 
 
 Spon, on the pimpled face of Lucius Verus 151 
 
 Sponsianus, known only by coins . - - 272 
 
 Split coins, their ingenuity - xx 
 
 S. P. Q.. R. Senatus Populus Que Romanus 7, 27 
 
 Page 
 
 S. P. Q. R. A. N. F. F. Optimo Principi Pio. 256 
 
 Spread, a large adjustment of dimensions - xv 
 
 Spring, how personified - 163 
 
 Spurs, error respecting - - 5 
 
 never represented - 124 
 
 Staff-corps introduced by Hadrian - - 102 
 
 Stag, a reverse of Philip Senior - - 268 
 
 Stags sometimes draw Diana's car - - 145 
 
 Standing army of Rome - - - 184 
 
 Star, superstition respecting - 164 
 
 on medals of Elagabalus explained - 214 
 
 Stars, veil spotted with - 147 
 
 Statilia DIessalina, coins of - - - 41 
 
 Statius, on Dacia - - - - 87 
 
 on Janus - 160 
 
 on the right hand - 251 
 
 on Clementia - 258 
 
 Statue used for supporting the elbow - - 31 
 
 Stertinus, a physician, his pension doubled - 195 
 
 Sti/icho praised by Claudian - 47 
 
 Slimula, the goddess of Lust - - 266 
 
 Stork, a symbol of maternal love - - 288 
 
 represented on a coin of Gallienus - 301 
 
 Storks respected in Greece and Turkey - 103 
 
 on a medal of Hadrian - - 311 
 
 Story of early Rome doubted - - ix 
 
 Strabo on the Ibis - - - - 103 
 
 mentions the rabbits of Spain - - 106 
 
 on the Mauretanians - - 107 
 
 Stragu/a vestis, or funeral robe - - 140 
 
 Strenua, the goddess of Vigour - - 266 
 
 Strepsiceros, with turbinated horns - - 268 
 
 Struyk's catalogue of eclipses quoted - 260 
 
 Stycas found at Hexham - 229 
 
 Sudden deaths imputed to Apollo - - 294 
 
 Suetonius on the coins of Augustus - xii, xiii 
 
 his remark on the Pharos - 42 
 
 on the theatre - - - 63 
 
 dismissed his office - - 110 
 
 Suffibu/um, a female vest - - 111, 189 
 
 Sujfimenta given to the people - - 68 
 
 Suggestum, a high platform - 41 
 
 singularone on a medal of Maximums 239 
 
 Suidas on a miraculous tempest - - 139 
 
 Sulpicia Memmia, a forged coin of her - 225 
 
 Sulpitius Antoninus, one of the Thirty Tyrants 307 
 
 Summer, how personified - 103 
 
 Sun, its early worship - 215 
 
 -smitten, or killed by Apollo - - 280 
 
 Suppedaneum,a medallic term, not classical, note, 7S 
 
 Superbia, not represented on Imperial medals 270 
 
 Superu proved to be the wife of jEmilian - '291 
 
 Superstitions at Paris and London - - -07 
 
 Supper, cost of one given by L. Verus - 1«?0 
 
( 348 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Supreme Being, Pagan notions of - - 159 
 
 Sword, represented on coins - 53, 56 
 
 Symbol and Device distinguished - - xiii 
 
 Syncellus on the character of Alexander - 226 
 
 claims Philip Senior as a Christian 264 
 
 Syria, a reverse of Antoninus Pius - - 118 
 
 personification of - - - ib. 
 
 Syrma,the triumphal robe of Bacchus - 185 
 
 Tacitus quoted on Germanicus - - 25 
 
 on Livia - - - 10 
 
 on Agrippina Senior - - - 26 
 
 on Julia (Aug. f.) - - 1 4 
 
 on Drusus Caesar - - 27 
 
 on Antonia - - - 22 
 
 on Galba - - - - 45 
 
 on the Prince of the Youth - - 156 
 
 on the dream of Caecina - - 276 
 
 Talaria of Mercury - 138 
 
 Tanini, his medal of iEmilian doubted - 292 
 
 Tat pi tan Rock, the friends of Gallienus cast from 298 
 
 Turraco visited by Hadrian - - - 106 
 
 Tarragona, the Archbishop of, on Ubertas - 259 
 
 Tasso, his inimitable picture of a field of battle 249 
 
 Tatian sneers at Marcus Aurelius - - 132 
 
 Taurus the constellation, opinion on - - 195 
 
 Te Deum, an idea respecting - - 80 
 
 Telespliorus represented on a medal of Caracalla 195 
 
 Tcllus, a hog sacrificed to her, and why - 71 
 
 a name of Cybele ... 144 
 
 confounded with Ftcunditas - - 189 
 
 Stabil. a reverse of Hadrian - - 311 
 
 Temperantia absurdly typified - - 230 
 
 does not appear upon medals - ib. 
 
 Tempi. Divi. Aug. Rest, reverse of Antoninus P. 125 
 
 Temple of Peace destroyed by fire - - 162 
 
 Tempor. Felic. woman with 4 children, Faust. J. 144 
 
 _ cornu. and cadu. rev. of Commod. 163 
 
 Temporum Felicitas, a reverse of Antoninus P. 124 
 
 typified by two cornucopiae ib. 
 
 a reverse of M. Aurelius 133 
 
 four boys, rev. of Commodus 163 
 
 Tennis-ball of Fortune, an epithet of Peitinax 168 
 
 Terence, his Adelphi and Andria quoted - 153 
 
 ambo-dexterity of the Andrian - 165 
 
 Hecyra - 167 
 
 Terentia, wife of Cicero - - x 
 
 Termini, or Herinetes - 138 
 
 Terranova, in Sicily, medals found at - 228 
 
 Terra typified by Vesta - - - 189 
 Tertullian quoted on Trajan - - -80 
 
 writes on a miraculous tempest - 139 
 
 Tertullus, the paramour of Faustina Junior - 142 
 
 Tessera, or ticket, a type of Liberalities - 276 
 
 Page 
 
 Tesserce distributed among the people - 276 
 
 Tetricus, one of the Thirty Tyrants - 307 
 
 Theatrical factions of Rome - - 268 
 
 Themis, Livia represented in the character of - 10 
 Thensa, or sacred carriage - - xiv, 11 
 
 Theoclia, the daughter of J. Mama^a - - 234 
 
 Theodoric's compliment to Anastasius - 304 
 
 on coins - - - ix 
 
 Theophanes, the historian - 249 
 Thermce of Rome - - - 229, 230 
 
 Thesaurus of Laurence Beger quoted - 303 
 
 Third-brass coins re-appear in mint, of Decius 276 
 Thirty Tyrants, improper name in Roman history 307 
 Thoth, or Mercury, discovered by the author 2SI 
 Thunderbolt assigned to Juno and Minerva 181 
 
 the type of supreme authority - 232 
 
 Thundering Legion - - 31, 139 
 
 Thy r sus, an emblem of Bacchus - - 185 
 
 Tiber, attempt to set it on fire - 14 
 
 a haven formed by Claudius - - 33 
 
 personification of 121 
 
 Tiberinus, name given to the corpse of Elagabalus 209 
 Tiberis, a reverse of Antoninus Pius - 121 
 
 Tiberius, reasons for deifying- his benefactor 8 
 
 his birth and parentage - 14 
 
 his good and bad qualities - 15 
 
 his nick-names - - note, ib. 
 
 retreats to Capreae - - 16 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 his aspect described - ib. 17 
 
 popular in the Provinces - - ib. 
 
 Tibice still exist in Sardinia - - 165 
 
 Tibicen, a flute player - - - 165 
 
 Tibullus, on funereal ashes - 140 
 
 his type of peace - 255 
 
 Tigers, ten exhibited in the games of Philip - 267 
 Tigris, descended by Trajan - 79 
 
 the, on a medal of Trajan - - 89 
 
 Tillemont on Caracalla's expedition - - 193 
 
 admits the Christianity of Philip - 264 
 
 Times Newspaper, a superstition quoted from 207 
 Tin used in Roman brass - xvii 
 Tiridates receives his crown from Nero - 43 
 
 Tisiphone, Alecto, and Megcera, rev. of Gord. P. 270 
 Titiana, the wife of Pei tinax, her medals - 169 
 
 her aspect described - - ib. 
 
 Titus, his birth, education, and elevation - 59 
 
 public grief at his death - 60 
 
 .. his character and conduct - - ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - ib. 61 
 
 his aspect described - - ib. 
 
 and Berenice - - - 63 
 
 Toga, that national robe described - - 265 
 
 Tooled, a term for retouched - - 148 
 
( 349 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Tur/oniu, the Roman banker - 97 
 
 Tortoise, sacred to Mercury - 137 
 
 an attribute of Venus - - 143 
 
 Torch, an emblem of Ceres - - - 111 
 
 Tournaments, their origin - 157 
 Tractitius, name given to the corpse of Elagabalus 209 
 Trajan, first general who navigated the Indian ocean 79 
 
 his biith, elevation, and death - - ib. 
 
 his character, conduct, and public works ib. 
 
 prejudiced against Christianity - 80 
 
 estimation of his medals - 81 
 
 his aspect described - - ib. 
 
 his Gare of the poor - ib. 82 
 
 'a Column, an interesting reverse - 88 
 
 Trajectus, a reverse of Gordianus Pius - 2(>1 
 
 Tranqui/lina, daug. of Misitheus, marries Gord. ib. 
 
 uncertainty of her history - ib. 
 
 beautiful, virtuous, and popular 202 
 
 estimation of her medals - ib. 
 
 her aspect described - - ib. 
 
 Tranquillitas Augg. a reverse of Philip Senior 265 
 
 her office and temple - 266 
 
 Tranquillity personified on a coin of Antoninus P. ib. 
 
 classed with nobility by Shakspeare ib. 
 
 Concord and Peace, 3 dist. deities 288 
 
 Treasure carried by the Basha of Tripoli 298 
 Trebellianus, one of the Thirty Tyrants - 307 
 Trebellius Pollio, on the popularity of Valerian 295 
 
 on a theft of Saloninus - 304 
 
 Trebonianus Gallus, birth, employments, death 284 
 
 character severely impugned ib. 
 
 effeminacy and cruelty - 285 
 
 estimation of his medals ib. 
 
 descrip. of his countenance 286 
 
 Tressis, or Tripondius - - xii 
 
 Treviri, a martial race of Germans - note, 9 
 
 Trial pieces, experimental mintages - xvi 
 
 Tribunitia potestas, a power assumed by Augus. 11 
 
 did not always mark the year 18 
 
 Tribunitian date, an anomalous one - 64 
 
 « power of iEmilian, blunder of Falsarii 292 
 
 Tribute to the Barbary pirates - - 83 
 
 Triens, or third of an As - - xii 
 
 Trifidium or Trisulcum - 122 
 Triformis, an epithet of Diana - - 143 
 
 Trinacria, or Sicily, how represented - 118 
 
 Triple powers of Diana - - 145, 272 
 
 Triplicity of the secular games - - 267 
 
 Tripod, a singular one - - 81 
 
 Tripoli, Basha of, carried treasure with him - 298 
 Tripondius or Tressis - - xii 
 
 Tristan mistakes a symbol of Achaia - 102 
 
 on Sabina - - - 110 
 
 published a coin of Galerius Antoninus 130 
 
 Page 
 
 Tristan, on ^Eteinitas of Faustina Junior 145, 146 
 
 on the character of Lucilla - - 153 
 
 on the character of Commodus - 155 
 
 on the Sal. Gen. Hum. of Commodus 161 
 
 's epithets of Commodus - - 163 
 
 on Crispina's treatment by her husband 165 
 
 on the voracity of A lbinus - - 179 
 
 on a pantheistic symbol - - 181 
 
 'a summary of Domna's character - 188 
 
 'a summary of Caracalla's character - 191 
 
 on the cruelty of Macrinus - - 202 
 
 'a sneer at Elagabalus - - 218 
 
 on the character of Elagabalus - 212 
 
 on the character of Philip - - 263 
 
 on the religion of Otacilia - - 269 
 
 mistakes a saying of Decius - 280 
 
 on the countenance of Gallus - 286 
 
 on the liberality of Salonina - - 303 
 
 on the disposition of Saloninus - 304 
 
 on a denarius of Saloninus - - 305 
 
 Tristis, a name given to Pupienus - - 253 
 
 Triumph, an unmanly exultation - - 299 
 
 Triumphal arch, a reverse of Nero - - 44 
 
 car, on a reverse of Caracalla - 19-3 
 
 Triumviri Monetales - - -9 
 
 when they disappear - 203 
 
 Trophies, their use immemorial - 83 
 
 Trousers, distinctive marks of the Dacians - ib. 
 
 Troy, name of a favourite tournament - 28 
 
 taken at full moon - 263 
 
 Truncheon, a type of dignity - 255 
 
 Trustees of the British Museum - 25, 219 
 
 Tryphonia, the reported wife of Herennius - 280 
 
 Tunic, the robe of the lower orders - - 255 
 
 Tutela Italice, a reverse of Nerva - - 74 
 
 Tutulated, or wearing the high cap Tutulus - 269 
 
 Two coppers, metal mixed in coins - xvi, 278 
 
 Tympanum of Cybele - 143 
 
 Type, the figure represented - - xv 
 
 Tyrants, Thirty, improperly styled in Rom. Hist. 307 
 
 Ubertas denotes fruitfulness and plenty - 259 
 
 and Uberitas, new type in coin, of Decius 276 
 
 Ubique Pax, reverse of an aureus of Gallienus - 300 
 
 Ulpian children - _ _ 82 
 
 Ulpius Marcellus gains advantages in Britain - 158 
 
 Ultor, an epithet of Mars - 200 
 
 Umbo, or boss of a shield ... \ 
 
 a knob or button - 28R 
 
 Uncia, or twelfth of an As - - - xii 
 Uncial letters, the large ones of ancient inscriptions 8 
 
 Unctions, costly, lavished on legionary eagles - 184 
 
 Univiri, an order honoured at Rome _ - 23 
 
 Unlaurelled portrait, indicative of a Caesar - 101 
 
( 350 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Urania, or Venus Caelestis - 220 
 Urbis, how corrupted from oibis - - 101 
 
 Usefulness of pricing a printed catalogue 43, 121, 297 
 Usurpers, the Thirty Roman - 307 
 Utility of medals - - - - v,vii 
 
 V. this letter a singularity on a denarius of Elagab. 212 
 Valeris, one of the Thirty Tyrants - - 307 
 
 Valerian Junior, a prince of eourage and ability 305 
 
 medals of, restored to Saloninus ib. 
 
 Valerius Ma.rimus quoted on Antonia - 22 
 
 on the pulvinaria - 140 
 
 relates the Roman charity 271 
 
 Valuation of coins in numismatic works useless 43,297 
 Vail/ant, on a medal of Titus - 64 
 
 on river Gods - - 80 
 
 on a medal of Hadrian - - 99 
 
 on a coin of Antoninus Pius - 124 
 
 on the coins of Severus - - 183 
 
 on a medallion of Alexander - 227 
 
 on the marriage of Alex, and Orbiana 233 
 
 on the medals of the elder Gordians 245 
 
 on the saeculum novum of Philip Senior 269 
 
 the travel, his cameleopard skins suspect. 274 
 
 Vaterianus, his birth, elevation, and death 293 
 
 , his character and public acts ib. 
 
 opprobrious treatment of, in captivity 294 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 his aspect described - - 295 
 
 Vandals, first mention of - - - 137 
 
 Varius Avitus, a name of Elagabalus - 209 
 
 Varro mentions the rabbits of Spain - - 106 
 
 etymology of the capitol - - 180 
 
 on Roman bathing - 230 
 
 followed on the age of Rome - - 267 
 
 Vurus, recovery of the eagles lost by - 25 
 
 his shade troubles Caecina - - 276 
 
 Vegetius, quotation from, on drills - 44 
 Vehiculatione Italics Remissa, reverse of Nerva 78 
 Veil floating, indicative of divinity - 82 
 
 an astronomical attribute of Diana - 145 
 
 Velleius Paterculus quoted on Drusus Senior 21 
 Ven. Cal. reverse of a medal ascribed to Crispilla 254 
 Venator, an epithet of Apollo - - 292 
 
 Veneri Augustce, a reverse of Faustina Senior 127 
 
 felici, Mars and Venus, rev. of Faus. Jun. 143 
 
 Genetrici, a reverse of Sabina - 112 
 
 Victr. Venus Callipyga, reverse of Domna314 
 
 Venetian Sequins, their character - - xix 
 
 Veni, Vidi, Vici, a forged reverse of Caesar - ib. 
 Venus, with various attributes, to Faustina Jun. 143 
 
 goddess and apple, a reverse of Lucilla 313 
 
 blended with physiology, morality, history 166 
 
 illust. by Cicero, Patin, Lucian,Vos. 220,221 
 
 Page 
 
 Venus C&lestis, standing, a reverse of Soasmias 220 
 
 seated, a reverse of Soaemias - 221 
 
 Callipyga, security represented like her 283 
 
 a reverse oi Domna - 314 
 
 her Cestus - 143 
 
 Felix, a sedent female, rev. of Crispina 166 
 
 a reverse of J. Mamaea - - 236 
 
 Genetrix., l*er personification - 1 12 
 
 a reverse of J. Mama?a - 236 
 
 Victrix, Venus and Cupid, a rev. of Plau. 198 
 
 the watch-word at Pharsalia 236 
 
 explained by Hardouin - ib. 
 
 Venus, &c. rev. of J. Mamaea 230 
 
 Goddess, &c. rev. of Faust. J. 312 
 
 Verbena, a plant used in the Funus Indictivutn 140 
 
 Verge, the upper or lower edge - xv 
 
 Verissimus, an epithet given to M. Aurelius - 130 
 
 Veritas, on coins, probably a misreading - 276 
 
 Verus, or Lucius Verus - 148 
 
 Vespasia Polla, her medals false - - 55 
 
 Vespasian, birth, parentage, services, and death 54 
 
 character and conduct - ib. 55 
 
 the first emperor succeeded by a son 54 
 
 estimation of his medals - - 55 
 
 his pompous obsequies - 58 
 
 _ his aspect described - 56 
 
 Vesta, a reverse of Julia, Titi f. - 64 
 
 personified - - - ib. 
 
 a female sacrificing, reverse of Lucilla - 153 
 
 Mater, a temple, reverse of J. Domna - 189 
 
 female seated, a reverse of J. Domna - ib. 
 
 or Terra, attributes of - - - ib. 
 
 Vestal virgin married to Elagabalus - - 210 
 
 Vesuvius destroys Herculaneum and Pompeii - 60 
 
 Vexi/lum, or banner - - - - 117 
 
 Via Appia commemorated - - 88 
 
 Sacra, at Rome - 129 
 
 Trajana, a reverse of Trajan - 88 
 
 Vibius Rufus, an antiquary - - x 
 Vico Mneas, his early work on medals - xiv 
 Victoriati, a class of Roman coins - - xii 
 Vic. Par. a reverse of Lucius Verus - - 151 
 Victory writing, a reverse of Verus - 313 
 
 Vices, though deified, unrepresented on Imp. medals 270 
 Vict. Aug. Victory with a trophy, rev. of M. Aurel. 135 
 
 Brit. Victory seated, a rev. of Commodus 158 
 
 Victory and female, rev. of Caracalla 192 
 
 a winged Victory writing, rev. of Geta 201 
 
 Germa. a reverse of M. Aurelius - - 137 
 
 Part. Victory seated, a reverse of Macrinus 205 
 
 Victitnarius, a butcher-priest at sacrifices - 31 
 
 Victor the younger, on Pescennius Niger - 176 
 
 on the birth of Claudius Gothicus - 261 
 
 the younger, on the death of ./Emilian - 289 
 
( 351 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Victoria, common rev. of the medalets of Decius 276 
 
 Antonini Aug. a reverse of Elagabalus 214 
 
 Aug. a reverse of Vitellius - 53 
 
 winged Victory, rev. of iEmilian 291 
 
 Augg. Victory, rev. of Gordian. Af. S. 246 
 
 Victory, rev. of Gordian. A f. J. 248 
 
 Victory standing,rev.of Balbinus252 
 
 Victory standing-, rev. of Pupien. 254 
 
 Victory and shield, Valerian - 296 
 
 Augusti, Vot. X. a rev. of Alexander 231 
 
 .., Victory writing, rev. of Vesp. 310 
 
 Augustorum, several figures, Maximin. 240 
 
 Germanica, Emp. &c. rev. of Maximin us 240 
 
 Felici, Victory, reverse of Commodus 160 
 
 Justi Augusti, reverse of P. Niger - 177 
 
 IS avalis, a reverse of TitHS - 61 
 
 Parthica, Victory, a rev. of Macrinus 204 
 
 volans of Occo - 146 
 
 Victoria BrittanniccB, a reverse of Severus - 187 
 
 a reverse of Caracalla - 193 
 
 Victorinus, one of the Thirty Tyrants - - 307 
 
 Viminacium, coin struck there to Mariniana - 296 
 
 Vindex Julius, a spirited officer under Nero - 44 
 
 Vindicta, the wand used in manumitting slaves 47 
 
 or Vengeance, not on Imperial medals 270 
 
 Vionnet Pere, his poem on medals - - xix 
 
 Vir Nobilis, an epithet of the Lower Empire - 280 
 
 Virga somnifera, described by Virgil - 20 
 
 Virgatores, their duty - - 47 
 
 Virgil, his flattery of Augustus - 7 
 
 on the Corona radiata - 8 
 
 extract, illustrative of a return from sea 62 
 
 quoted on trophies - - 83 
 
 on an idol of Victory - - 84 
 
 on the eagle of Jupiter - - 93 
 
 on the form of a galley - - 100 
 
 on Palinurus - 101 
 
 on the apple of Venus - - 112 
 
 on the wolf of Romulus - - 122 
 
 on the fulmen - - - ib. 
 
 on the Tiber - - - ib. 
 
 describes the aegis of Pallas - - 134 
 
 on the funeral procession - - 140 
 
 on a sceptre - - - - 141 
 
 on trophies - 160 
 
 on the constellation Libra - - 170 
 
 on Cybele - - - - 190 
 
 on Quies as Securitas - _ 205 
 
 on the radiated crown - _ 232 
 
 on the greatness of Rome - - 248 
 
 on joined right hands - - 251 
 
 on the Corona Turrita - - 262 
 
 on the war horse - 2C6 
 
 dogs of the furies - - 270 
 
 Page 
 
 Virgil, on Marcellus - 273 
 
 on apparitions ... 276 
 
 on the site of temples - 289 
 
 on the genius of a place - - 302 
 
 Virginia Water, columns of Leptis Magna there 185 
 Virilis, the toga of grown men - - 255 
 
 Virt. Aug. a reverse of Commodus - - 158 
 
 Virtues, moral, their great number - - 258 
 
 Virtus, a reverse of M. Aurelitis - - 133 
 
 a martial figure, a rev. of Marcus Aurelius 312 
 
 Aug. soldiers passing a river, M. Aurelius 136 
 
 Augg. military figure, rev. of Gord. Af. J. 247 
 
 a warrior, reverse of Valerian - 316 
 
 Augustorum, rev. of a medallion of Volusian28S 
 
 Virtuti Augusti, a reverse of Commodus - 157 
 Visconti Alessandro, his coin of Gal. Antoninus 130 
 
 on an iEternitas of Faustina Junior - 145 
 
 » on the Col. L. Au. Com. of Commodus 161 
 
 ...describes a Fecunditas of Plautilla - 198 
 
 describes a Greek medal of Gordianus Af. 245 
 
 on the Tranquillitas of Philip Senior - 265 
 
 in error on the Caius of Decius - 276 
 
 Vitellius gets the marriage of Claudius legalized 37 
 
 his parentage, elevation, and death - 51 
 
 .».. gluttony, drunkenness, extravagance ib 52 
 
 estimation of his medals - - ib. 
 
 his aspect described - - ib. 
 
 Vitla, a band for the hair - 278 
 Vivez on Tranquillitas - 266 
 
 Volanti, or running footmen - - - 281 
 
 Vologeses drove Sohemus from his kingdom - 151 
 
 attempts to recover a golden throne - ib. 
 
 Voluptas does not appear on medals - - 230 
 
 Volusianus, his parentage, marriage, and death 287 
 
 his character and deportment - ib. 
 
 estimation of his medals - - 288 
 
 his countenance described - ib. 
 
 Vopiscus puns upon Commodus - - 155 
 
 on El Gabal - - - 215 
 
 on Probus - 263 
 
 Voracity of A lbinus - 179 
 
 Maximinus - 238 
 
 Vossius, his derivation of medal - - xi 
 
 on Venus - - - - 221 
 
 on Juventas and Hebe - - 283 
 
 V ot. Decen. Emp. at an altar, rev. of Commodus 314 
 Vota dccenna/ia, their object - - 136 
 
 Vota Publica, type of marriage, rev. of M. Aurel. 134 
 
 two figures, rev. of Severus - 314 
 
 Sol. pro Sal. a reverse of Commodus - 164 
 
 V otis Felicibus, a fine medallion of Commodus ib. 
 Votis Decennalibus,'m a wreath, rev. of Pupienus 256 
 
 in a garland, rev. of iEmilian 292 
 
 in a wreath, rev. of T. Gallus 316 
 
( 352 ) 
 
 Page 
 
 Vows periodical - 136 
 
 Vulcan, a reverse of Valerian - 294 
 
 Vulgar cera of Rome confirmed - - 267 
 
 Wait- Wak tree of the Arabians - - 153 
 
 Wall-Jloiver, an epithet given to Trajan - 87 
 
 Wall of Severus, in Britain - 182 
 
 Wand, emblematic of divinity - - 147 
 
 Warcupp, Master Edmund, on the Apollo Belv. 292 
 
 Warrior and three standards, rev. of Maximinus 239 
 
 Wheat-ears instead of laurel, to Gallienus - 300 
 
 White rods, whence derived - 273 
 
 Wig of Otho - - - - 50 
 
 or moveable head-dress, on a bust of J.Domna 190 
 
 Wild beasts, their transport a cause of terror - 271 
 
 Winckelmann rallied by Eckhel - - 153 
 
 Winds fair, symbol of felicity - - 100 
 Windsor Park, columns, &c. of Leptis Magna there 185 
 
 Winter, how personified - - 163 
 
 Wives, Jobert's advice to - - - 143 
 
 Wolf of Rome, story doubted - - ix 
 
 , probable origiu of the story - 122 
 
 suckling Rom. and Remus, rev. of Ant. P. ib. 
 
 represented on a coin of Gallienus - 301 
 
 Women of Aquileia, their courage - - 237 
 
 Wreaths much used at festivals - 30 
 
 Xip Inline on the triumphal arch of Trajan - 85 
 
 on Dacia - - - - 87 
 
 on the thundering legion - - 139 
 
 on the imitation of Apollo - - 195 
 
 Page 
 
 Yellow brass, disappears with the Upper Empire 306 
 
 York, or Eboracum, Severus dies at - - 1S2 
 
 Youth, Prince of the, defined - - 156 
 
 Zaghwdn mountains - 187 
 
 Zebra, probably the hippotigris of the Ancients 194 
 
 Zemisces, John - - - - 123 
 
 Zeno, absurd error respecting - - vi 
 
 Zenobia, her treachery to Odenathus - - 296 
 
 Zingari, or gypsies - 262 
 
 Zinc used in Roman brass - xvii 
 
 Zodiac and stars - - - - 121 
 
 and seven stars ... 152 
 
 the, describes the labours of Hercules - 163 
 
 Zonaras prejudiced against Alexander - 226 
 
 on the wife of Maximinus - - 240 
 
 on Hostilian - 282 
 
 on the death of iEmilian - - 289 
 
 his improbable relation of a victory - 298 
 
 on an escape of Salonina - - 303 
 
 Zone, or cestus of Venus - 143 
 
 torrid, animals of the - 186 
 
 Zosimus, on Manlia Scantilla - - 173 
 
 confirmed by a medal of Severus - 187 
 
 regrets the secular games - - 266 
 
 on the daughter of Otacilia - - 269 
 
 on the death of young Philip - 272 
 
 on Hostilian - 282 
 
 Zurika Casal, in Malta, medals found at - 228 
 
 Zygantes, water of, conveyed to Carthage - 187 
 
 J. Webb, Printer, Bedford. 
 
GETTY RESEARCH INSTITUTE 
 
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