UNCERTAIN GERMANIC TRIBES, Aurum Barbarorum. Late 3rd-early 4th centuries. 'Quinarius' (Gold, 16 mm, 2.50 g, 12 h), 'Gordian Group'. Imitating Elagabalus, 218-222. IMP ANTONINVS Laureate and draped bust of Elagabalus to left. Rev. DIAANV[...]TIIM Male figure, nude except for cloak draped over his shoulders, standing front, head to left, holding scales in his right hand and palm frond or club in his left. Aurum Barbarorum -, cf. II, 1872 (same obverse die, but differing reverse type). With original suspension loop. An exciting piece with a highly interesting reverse. Minor scratches, otherwise, good fine.

The reverse side of this beautiful piece shows a male figure holding scales in the right hand and a palm branch or a club in the left. Given the absence of a direct precedent in Roman coinage, it must be a reinterpretation by the Germanic artist. Undoubtedly influenced by depictions of Moneta, the palm branch or club perhaps represents a misinterpretation of a cornucopiae, or the depiction is a blend of Moneta and Hercules.