Lot 2303
C. Fonteius, moneyer. AR Denarius minted at Rome, c. 114-113 BC. Laureate janiform head of Fontus (or Dioscuri). Reverse: Galley with navigator and three banks of rowers. Fonteia 1; Cr. 290/1; Syd. 555. Choice Very Fine.
Most all Roman men had three or more names - a praenomen, nomen and cognomen. The praenomen, like Gnaeus (Cn.), Marcus (M.) or Tiberius (Ti.), generally supplied the equivalent of today's first name. These are abbreviated on coinage at the beginning of the moneyer's inscription, followed by the nomen (family or clan name or gens). It is often by this second name (gens) that Roman Republican coinage is organized. The number which follows (like Fonteia 7) indicates the coin's chronology, or that this is the seventh type to be minted of the 17 systemized types for moneyers of the gens Fonteia. Cognomens are more like ancient personal names or sobriquets. This short note should make Republican coins more accessible and these descriptions more lucid.
The subject of Roman names is a complicated, but fascinating, one and several subtopics, like agnomina, women's names and the names of freed slaves, have not been touched upon. These will provide areas of further study for collectors interested in exploring a subject which reflects aspects of social and historical development of Western Civilization.
Estimated Value $200 - 250.
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| Realized $345 |
