{"product_id":"ancient-roman-bronze-coin-18k-gold-cufflinks-circa-300-ad","title":"Ancient Roman Bronze Coin 18K Gold Cufflinks, Circa 300 AD","description":"\u003ch2 class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\" data-end=\"611\" data-start=\"562\" data-section-id=\"1uafex0\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProbable Coins of Constantine and Crispus in Antique London Gold Mounts\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"841\" data-start=\"613\"\u003eAn extraordinary pair of cufflinks spanning approximately sixteen centuries of history. Each cufflink is centered with an authentic ancient Roman bronze coin, later individually mounted in finely crafted British 18K yellow gold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1133\" data-start=\"843\"\u003eInformation accompanying the cufflinks from the specialist from whom they were acquired dates the coins to approximately \u003cstrong data-end=\"974\" data-start=\"964\"\u003e300 AD\u003c\/strong\u003e. Based on the surviving portraits and inscriptions, the coins appear to date more specifically from the early 4th century AD, during the Constantinian period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1450\" data-start=\"1135\"\u003eOne coin bears the clearly visible inscription \u003cstrong data-end=\"1202\" data-start=\"1182\"\u003eCRISPVS NOB CAES\u003c\/strong\u003e, identifying \u003cstrong data-end=\"1227\" data-start=\"1216\"\u003eCrispus\u003c\/strong\u003e, the eldest son of Emperor Constantine the Great. The inscription translates approximately as “Crispus, Most Noble Caesar.” Crispus served as Caesar under his father and appeared on Roman coinage between AD 317 and AD 326.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1779\" data-start=\"1452\"\u003eThe companion coin appears to depict \u003cstrong data-end=\"1538\" data-start=\"1489\"\u003eConstantine I, known as Constantine the Great\u003c\/strong\u003e, creating a particularly compelling father-and-son pairing. Constantine ruled during one of the most consequential periods in Roman history, and his reign marked a profound transition in the political and religious life of the Roman Empire.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1800\" data-start=\"1781\" data-section-id=\"98pvco\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Roman Coins\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"1943\" data-start=\"1802\"\u003eThe coins retain substantial original detail, including imperial portraits, portions of their Latin inscriptions and ancient reverse imagery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2398\" data-start=\"1945\"\u003eThe Crispus coin appears consistent with a bronze nummus struck at the Roman mint of \u003cstrong data-end=\"2043\" data-start=\"2030\"\u003eLondinium\u003c\/strong\u003e, present-day London, around \u003cstrong data-end=\"2086\" data-start=\"2072\"\u003eAD 317–318\u003c\/strong\u003e. Comparable examples carry the reverse inscription \u003cstrong data-end=\"2161\" data-start=\"2138\"\u003eSOLI INVICTO COMITI\u003c\/strong\u003e, with the radiate sun god Sol standing while raising one hand and holding a globe in the other. The visible inscription and portrait correspond closely with documented London-mint issues of Crispus. \u003cspan data-state=\"closed\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"2793\" data-start=\"2400\"\u003eThe Constantine coin also appears to belong to the \u003cstrong data-end=\"2474\" data-start=\"2451\"\u003eSOLI INVICTO COMITI\u003c\/strong\u003e series. The inscription is generally understood as a dedication to Sol Invictus, the Unconquered Sun and companion of the emperor. Constantine-era London issues bearing this reverse type were produced during the early 4th century, commonly between approximately AD 312 and AD 317. \u003cspan data-state=\"closed\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3128\" data-start=\"2795\"\u003eBecause portions of the coins are covered by their later gold settings, the complete mint marks and inscriptions cannot be examined without removing them. The Constantine attribution and precise numismatic classifications should therefore be regarded as informed visual identifications rather than independent certified attributions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"3162\" data-start=\"3130\" data-section-id=\"eqcg8n\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEdwardian London Gold Mounts\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3304\" data-start=\"3164\"\u003eMany centuries after the coins were struck, they were transformed into distinguished cufflinks using substantial \u003cstrong data-end=\"3303\" data-start=\"3277\"\u003e18K yellow gold mounts\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3548\" data-start=\"3306\"\u003eEach ancient coin is surrounded by a fitted circular gold bezel. The open-backed construction allows portions of the reverse sides to remain visible, preserving the archaeological character of the coins rather than concealing them completely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3757\" data-start=\"3550\"\u003eTraditional figure-eight connectors join the coin fronts to elegant marquise-shaped gold terminals. The warm tone of the yellow gold provides a striking contrast against the deeply patinated bronze surfaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"3808\" data-start=\"3759\"\u003eThe British hallmark sequence appears to include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4001\" data-start=\"3810\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"3819\" data-start=\"3812\"\u003eJSG\u003c\/strong\u003e sponsor’s mark\u003cbr data-end=\"3837\" data-start=\"3834\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"3848\" data-start=\"3839\"\u003eCrown\u003c\/strong\u003e traditional British gold mark\u003cbr data-end=\"3881\" data-start=\"3878\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"3889\" data-start=\"3883\"\u003e18\u003c\/strong\u003e indicating 18-carat gold\u003cbr data-end=\"3917\" data-start=\"3914\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"3937\" data-start=\"3919\"\u003eLeopard’s head\u003c\/strong\u003e for the London Assay Office\u003cbr data-end=\"3968\" data-start=\"3965\"\u003e• Lowercase \u003cstrong data-end=\"3987\" data-start=\"3980\"\u003e“o”\u003c\/strong\u003e date letter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4401\" data-start=\"4003\"\u003eThe leopard’s head confirms that the mounts were assayed in London, while the crown and “18” marks denote 18-carat gold. British sponsor’s marks identify the individual or business that submitted an article for assay and do not always identify the actual craftsman who made it. The identity connected with the \u003cstrong data-end=\"4320\" data-start=\"4313\"\u003eJSG\u003c\/strong\u003e mark has not been independently confirmed. \u003cspan data-state=\"closed\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"4875\" data-start=\"4403\"\u003eBased on the style of the lowercase “o” and the surrounding hallmark group, the date letter appears consistent with the London assay year \u003cstrong data-end=\"4554\" data-start=\"4541\"\u003e1909–1910\u003c\/strong\u003e, placing the gold mounts in the \u003cstrong data-end=\"4607\" data-start=\"4587\"\u003eEdwardian period\u003c\/strong\u003e. Since exact British hallmark dating depends on the letter’s font and surrounding shield shape, the date is most accurately recorded as \u003cstrong data-end=\"4770\" data-start=\"4744\"\u003eapparently London 1909\u003c\/strong\u003e unless formally confirmed by the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office. \u003cspan data-state=\"closed\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"4893\" data-start=\"4877\" data-section-id=\"1iz91iu\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5758\" data-start=\"4895\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"4907\" data-start=\"4897\"\u003eCoins:\u003c\/strong\u003e Two authentic ancient Roman bronze coins\u003cbr data-end=\"4951\" data-start=\"4948\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"4975\" data-start=\"4953\"\u003eSpecialist dating:\u003c\/strong\u003e Circa 300 AD\u003cbr data-end=\"4991\" data-start=\"4988\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"5025\" data-start=\"4993\"\u003eMore specific probable date:\u003c\/strong\u003e Early 4th century AD\u003cbr data-end=\"5049\" data-start=\"5046\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"5071\" data-start=\"5051\"\u003eProbable rulers:\u003c\/strong\u003e Constantine I and Crispus\u003cbr data-end=\"5100\" data-start=\"5097\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"5120\" data-start=\"5102\"\u003eProbable mint:\u003c\/strong\u003e Londinium, Roman Britain\u003cbr data-end=\"5148\" data-start=\"5145\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"5174\" data-start=\"5150\"\u003eVisible inscription:\u003c\/strong\u003e CRISPVS NOB CAES\u003cbr data-end=\"5194\" data-start=\"5191\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"5213\" data-start=\"5196\"\u003eReverse type:\u003c\/strong\u003e SOLI INVICTO COMITI\u003cbr data-end=\"5236\" data-start=\"5233\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"5248\" data-start=\"5238\"\u003eMetal:\u003c\/strong\u003e British hallmarked 18K yellow gold\u003cbr data-end=\"5286\" data-start=\"5283\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"5313\" data-start=\"5288\"\u003eGold mounting period:\u003c\/strong\u003e Edwardian, apparently London 1909\u003cbr data-end=\"5350\" data-start=\"5347\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"5371\" data-start=\"5352\"\u003eSponsor’s mark:\u003c\/strong\u003e JSG\u003cbr data-end=\"5378\" data-start=\"5375\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"5395\" data-start=\"5380\"\u003eAssay mark:\u003c\/strong\u003e Leopard’s head for London\u003cbr data-end=\"5424\" data-start=\"5421\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"5450\" data-start=\"5426\"\u003eGold standard marks:\u003c\/strong\u003e Crown and 18\u003cbr data-end=\"5466\" data-start=\"5463\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"5479\" data-start=\"5468\"\u003eDesign:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ancient coin fronts with marquise-shaped gold terminals\u003cbr data-end=\"5538\" data-start=\"5535\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"5557\" data-start=\"5540\"\u003eConstruction:\u003c\/strong\u003e Open-backed settings with traditional figure-eight connectors\u003cbr data-end=\"5622\" data-start=\"5619\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"5641\" data-start=\"5624\"\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e [Add measurements]\u003cbr data-end=\"5663\" data-start=\"5660\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"5682\" data-start=\"5665\"\u003eTotal weight:\u003c\/strong\u003e [Add total weight]\u003cbr data-end=\"5704\" data-start=\"5701\"\u003e• \u003cstrong data-end=\"5720\" data-start=\"5706\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent overall antique condition\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"5773\" data-start=\"5760\" data-section-id=\"1uef3h1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"5975\" data-start=\"5775\"\u003eThe ancient bronze coins retain rich brown surfaces with areas of naturally developed green patina, softened details, irregular coloration and surface variation consistent with their considerable age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6158\" data-start=\"5977\"\u003eThese characteristics are inherent to ancient bronze and form an important part of each coin’s historical appearance. They should not be regarded as damage or manufacturing defects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6394\" data-start=\"6160\"\u003eThe later gold mounts display light surface marks and wear consistent with age and previous use. The ancient coins remain securely held within their fitted gold bezels, and the articulated figure-eight connectors function as intended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"6416\" data-start=\"6396\" data-section-id=\"4dkazj\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCollector’s Note\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6513\" data-start=\"6418\"\u003eThese cufflinks are especially compelling because they combine two distinct historical periods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"6818\" data-start=\"6515\"\u003eThe coins originate from the Roman Empire during the age of Constantine and Crispus, when Roman Britain was still integrated into the wider imperial world. Approximately sixteen centuries later, the coins were mounted in hallmarked Edwardian London gold and transformed into wearable historical objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"7118\" data-start=\"6820\"\u003eThe apparent pairing of Constantine the Great and his son Crispus gives the cufflinks additional historical resonance. Rather than featuring two identical coins selected solely for appearance, the pair appears to preserve a relationship between two important figures from the Constantinian dynasty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-end=\"7272\" data-start=\"7120\"\u003eA remarkable acquisition for a collector of ancient coins, Roman history, archaeological jewelry, Edwardian goldwork or unusual gentlemen’s accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"DSF Antique Jewelry","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44516259004482,"sku":null,"price":7950.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0142\/3405\/8816\/files\/Ancient_Roman_Constantine_and_Crispus_Coin_18K_Gold_Cufflinks_Circa_300_AD.jpg?v=1785084092","url":"https:\/\/dsfantiquejewelry.com\/products\/ancient-roman-bronze-coin-18k-gold-cufflinks-circa-300-ad","provider":"DSF Antique Jewelry","version":"1.0","type":"link"}