1978-1979 Band XXVIII-XXIX - Bayerische Numismatische ...

Observations on an Augustan Coin Type 29
without, and presumably the bulk of this enormous issue was struck in the
short period of six years, despite a priori objections sometimes raised. The
X on the scarcer varieties is presumably a control mark to distinguish the
later strikings 7.
Abbildungsverzeichnis
Taf. 6, 1: Gaius left, Lucius right, no X.
Taf. 6, 2: Gaius right, Lucius left, no X.
Taf. 6, 3: Gaius left, Lucius right, X in field.
Taf. 6, 4: Gaius right, Lucius left, X in field.
All specimens reproduced with the permission of the American Numismatic
Society.
It has been argued that the very bulk of the issue and the diversity of styles apparent
among various specimens indicates a long period of production. This could equally
well be due to a large unhomogeneous body of engravers producing during a shorter
period of time. It has also been urged that some coins ought to be dated late because
of „quite mature" portraits (BMCRE I, cxiv). In 2 B. C. Augustus was already sixtyone
years old, and in any event, these portraits cannot be relied upon. On some of
these coins Augustus appears very juvenile.