ANTONINUS PIUS, A.D. 138-161. Egypt. Alexandria. AE Drachm (25.41 gms), RY 5 (A.D. 141/42). NGC VF★, Strike: 5/5 Surface: 4/5.Forschner-580. <strong>RARE</strong>. Laureate head of Antoninus Pius facing right; Reverse: Reaper standing right harvesting grain. Commemorates Egypt as the breadbasket of the Roman Empire. After the Battle of Actium and the downfall of the Ptolemaic Dynasty, Egypt became an Imperial province. The region had long been a major agricultural power thanks to the climate and gentle flooding of the Nile. This agricultural aptitude led to monetary wealth as well. The Roman governor of Egypt - a personal appointee of the Emperor - used the two or three legions at his disposal to ensure the grain shipments kept the capitol fed. Nice portrait with full legends. Nice even brown patina and quite attractive.
