MARCUS AURELIUS, A.D. 161-180. AV Aureus (7.27 gms), Rome Mint, A.D. 164. NGC Ch EF, Strike: 5/5 Surface: 3/5. RIC-90 var. (bust type); Calico-1888. Obverse: ANTONINVS AVG ARMENIACVS, laureate and cuirassed bust right; Reverse: P M TR P XVIII IMP II COS III, Victory standing right, placing oval shield inscribed VIC AVG on palm tree to right. This true head turner is struck in very high relief with the obverse giving a very impressive portrait of Marcus Aurelius. Streaks of brilliance remain, especially in the fields which dazzle and pop. Very little evidence of wear is present on the obverse, but the reverse does display a slight degree of rub. This wholly desirable example is certain to catch the fancy of many a collector of Roman gold.
