Contorniates, late 4th-early 5h century. Contorniate (Orichalcum, 36 mm, 22.51 g, 2 h). ALEXAN-DER MAG Bust of Alexander 'the Great' to right, wearing lion skin headdress; to right, five circular punches. Rev. [NVS M]AGCO-NM[ONIMVS] A man seated right on a rock, head to left, wearing cloak and tunic, supporting his head with his left hand. Alföldi, Kontorniat-Medaillons, p. 6, 22 and pl. 5, 9-12 and pl. 6, 1-9. Rare. Holed and the reverse very weak, otherwise, fine.


The meaning of the unusual inscription on this contorniate remains uncertain. The obverse reads ALEXAN-DER MAG, while the reverse bears NVS MAGCO-NMONIMVS. It is clear that the legend is intended to form a continuous text running from obverse to reverse. It identifies Alexander as 'Magnus', the Great, yet the meaning of Magconmonimus is as obscure as the identity of the figure on the reverse. This name is not only unattested in any known source, but also appears linguistically implausible. It is most likely a corruption - perhaps of Macedonicus, a title explicitly applied to Alexander on other contorniates.