Beata Tranquillitas

The Beata Tranquillitas series of Trier was one of the most diverse and extensive emissions of Roman Imperial coinage. These coins were also imitated quite often. Imitations are typically of very good style, closely approximating their official prototypes. They can be recognized by bad alignment of the legends, especially on the reverse. Also, the letters VO/TIS/XX inscribed on the altar on the reverse are usually a give-away that the coin is ‘barbarous’.

 

 

3.02g/20.4mm

 

This imitative type of Constantine I has the emission mark T-F in the fields. In fact, official Trier mint Beata types never have their emission marks in the fields. These letters do occur on the reverse types that immediately preceded the Beata-series - VIRTVS EXERCIT with a Trophy or Vexillum and seated captives (RIC 279-298). Perhaps these prototypes were also imitated in the irregular workshop that produced the coin above, and the engraver added the familiar T and F on the reverse.

 

 

3.54g/19mm

 

This coin of Constantine has immaculate spelling, but the lettering is just off. Also, the letters VO/TIS/XX inscribed on the altar are not evenly aligned.

 

 

3.05g/18.8mm

 

This coin of Crispus shows the typical odd lettering on the reverse, although it is of a very good style. Moreover, the word ‘Tranquillitas’ – TRNQVILITAS on the coin – has a number of spelling errors.

 

2.85g/21.7mm

 

The coin above is one of the best barbarous coins I have ever seen.

 

2.12g/19mm

 

Another amazing barbarous coin of the Beata Tranquillitas series of Trier, with the bust of Constantine II Caesar holding Victory on globe. The legends are nicely engraved, but the lettering is slightly irregular, especially the latter part. The coin has a beautiful brown patina and a lovely barbarous style.