CNG: Coin pageClassical Numismatic Group, Inc.
 
Description
149, Lot: 200. Estimate $150. Sold for $166.

MOESIA INFERIOR, Tomis. Maximinus I. AD 235-238. 
Æ 25mm (10.28 g). Laureate, draped and cuirassed 
bust right / [MH]TRO PON/TOU TWME/WC, man 
(emperor?) in cart left drawn by ox and led by 
woman who holds trophy over shoulder; D above. 
Varbanov 5483; Moushmov 2178. VF, green patina.

From the Garth R. Drewry Collection.

This puzzling reverse scene first appears on 
coins of Tomis under Commodus and continues 
through the reign of Philip I. It is not 
apparent who the man in the ox cart is supposed 
to represent, and the the figure leading the 
cart varies, sometimes female, sometimes male, 
and carrying different attributes. If it is 
meant to be a mythological scene, the reference 
is unclear. If it is an imperial procession, the 
meaning of the ceremony is likewise unclear. 

From the CNG Electronic Auction 149, October, 2006.
By permission of CNG, www.cngcoins.com.