Aureolus (?), vir clarissimus, circa 360-early 5th century. Weight (Bronze, 16x16 mm, 4.06 g, 12 h). Monogram of A, V, E, R, O and possibly L within linear square; all inlaid in silver. Rev. •V•C• inlaid in silver. Apparently unpublished and unique. Very fine.
As with lot 1905 above, the monogram is difficult to resolve. The letters R, E, O, and A are clearly identifiable, while P, L, V, and I may also be present. Although the design initially suggests an N, the identification is doubtful, since the shortened upper-left stroke joins the remainder of the monogram at an awkward angle. One possible reading is AVREOLI, the genitive of Aureolus. The inscription could therefore be expanded as AVREOLI V(IRI) C(LARISSIMI), '[weight] of Aureolus, vir clarissimus.' Even if this reading is correct, the individual concerned cannot be identified with the general Aureolus, who revolted against Gallienus in 268 and issued coins in the name of Postumus, since these weights belong to a substantially later period. Aureolus is a very rare name. The genitives AVRELIANI or VALERIANI might at first seem more likely, particularly if the apparent N is regarded as intentional, but neither accounts for the clearly recognizable O. AVREOLI would therefore offer an elegant solution, although the reading cannot be regarded as secure