Coin, Diocletian, Antoninianus
AD 285 - Antioch - EF(40-45) - Billon - RIC:323
Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right.
Jupiter standing right, holding globe and scepter facing Hercules standing facing, head left, holding Victory and club; crescent on B between, XXI in exergue
IMP C C VAL DIOCLETIANVS P F AVG
IOVI ET HERCV CONSER AVGG
3.81 gr
An “EF(40-45)” quality
As in numismatics it is important that the state of conservation of an item be carefully evaluated before it is offered to a discerning collector with a keen eye.
This initially obscure acronym comprising two words describing the state of conservation is explained clearly here:
Extremely Fine
This means – more prosaically – that the coin has circulated well from hand to hand and pocket to pocket but the impact on its wear remains limited: the coins retains much of its mint luster, sharp detailing and little sign of being circulated. Closer examination with the naked eye reveals minor scratches or nicks.