Seleucis and Pieria, Caracalla, Tetradrachm
215-217 - Emesa - Billon - EF(40-45)
Laureate head of Caracalla, right.
Eagle standing facing, head left, wings spread, holding wreath in beak; between legs, radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Shamash left; crescent in upper right field, behind head.
Type variety with the crescent in the upper right field.
•ΑΥΤ • Κ • Μ • Α • - • ΑΝΤΩΝΕΙΝΟϹ • Ϲ •Ε • Β •
ΔΗΜΑΡΧ ΕΞ ΥΠΑΤΟϹ ΤΟ Δ
12.54 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.