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Emperor on Horseback Spearing Fallen Captive

The face is a classic bearded hero's portrait, the muscled cuirass is beautifully detailed, and the leather straps protecting the rider's loins are sharp and clear. It is even possible to see the rider's well - developed biceps and neck muscles. He is every inch the mighty warrior.

This coin is one of those rare little gems one comes across from time to time that make collecting ancients such an alluring treasure hunt. It came in a group of ten from one of the author's favorite mailorder sources. A large hoard of radiates from the reigns of Aurelian, Tacitus, Florianus, and Probus had recently been discovered and most of the coins were in near mint condition. Because it had a rather flat, gray patina and was not highly silvered like most other coins in the hoard, the author obtained a tiny masterpiece for under $40.