ROMAN. Agrippina I. Died A.D. 33. Bronze Sestertius (26.55g). Rome mint. Struck under Claudius, A.D. 42-43. Rare. AGRIPPINA M F GERMANICI CAESARIS, draped bust right / TI CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG GERM P M TR P IMP P P, around large S C; NCAPR within rectangular countermark. RIC 102 (Claudius); BMCRE 219 (Claudius); Pangerl 1. Lightly toned. Fine. The interpretation of this countermark remains uncertain and has been discussed extensively in the literature. Several expansions of the legend have been proposed, most commonly Nero Caesar Augustus Probavit, implying official approval, or alternatively Nero Caesar Augustus Populo Romano, suggesting an issue sanctioned for the Roman people. A further interpretation assigns the countermark to a later period, reading it as Nerva Caesar Augustus Probavit. The place of application is equally unresolved. Although an Italian origin is often proposed, stylistic and historical considerations also allow for a provincial context, most plausibly Gaul or Spain. In the absence of definitive evidence, both the meaning and the place of application must remain uncertain. For the same type see; Agora Auctions, Sale 27, lot 121, hammered USD 225. (P)

Estimate: AUD 500