THRACE. Augusta Traiana. Caracalla, 198-217. Tetrassarion (Bronze, 30 mm, 17.37 g, 6 h). AYT M AYPH ANTΩNINOC Laureate and cuirassed bust of Caracalla to right, seen from behind; cuirass decorated with gorgoneion. Rev. ΑΥΓΟΥCTHC TPAIANHC River-god reclining left, head turned back to right, holding small tree in his right hand and leaning left on urn from which water flows; in background, hill surmounted by city walls with three towers. Schönert-Geiss 331 (V 106/R 285). Varbanov 1188. Rare and and undoubtedly among the finest known examples. A beautiful piece with an impressive portrait and exceptional reverse details. Nearly extremely fine.

An interesting little detail about this coin is that the emperor, whose bust is depicted from behind, is wearing his aegis backwards! Apparently having difficulty with perspective, the artist placed the fearsome Gorgoneion, intended to frighten enemies in battle, on the emperor's back instead of his chest.