jelida

It is unlikely that the issue would be with the master die, but it is possible that a working die was repaired either with fractionally larger ‘I’ and ‘T’ punches though I think die repairs with correct punches very slightly misplaced could have a similar effect. Jerry

In fact “ barbarous radiates” were produced unofficially as an ‘illicit’ currency from the third century or earlier , and tend to mimic the official currency then circulating for example the radiates of Tetricus but also the non radiates of the family of Constantine and later. On many of the third/fourth century Roman sites that I have detected they are as frequently found as non barbarous coins so they clearly circulated widely. Yes, this looks like a “barbarous’ coin to me, and a particularly interesting example. Jerry

The raised lines are due to cracks in a die nearing the end of its useful life. You do occasionally see raised blobs where a chunk of the die has actually broken off. Very common on coins of the C19 and earlier, and of little significance to collectors. Jerry

I would upgrade, but take your time to get coins with a similar tone, you should have plenty of choice. Good luck, Jerry

I’ll have to check the first, and you don’t have the third. I’ll email you the images probably tomorrow. Jerry

well spotted Terry, got me looking at my three 1861 Gouby G's , the first from LCA and then cheap examples from Ebay and the Midland Coin Fair. To my mind the second coin could also be a 're-entered colon' example, though with a narrower colon in this case. What do you think? Jerry

And sadly not class 4 but class 5, one of many subtypes but without the book and after a good few beers I’ll have to come back to this tomorrow. Jerry

Mintmark martlet. Jerry

I agree, I use it all the time, with searches that send me an email if matches occur. Jerry

All three coins require basic conservation to optimise their potential, but all are nice detector finds. Individually, a dedicated numismatic auctioneer is unlikely to take them on. The tealby has an exceptional portrait, but is marred by the edge chip though it remains the most desirable. Dobunnic units in uncleaned condition may struggle to hit £50, I would see if it can be improved - most detecting clubs have someone who could advise, the aluminium foil/ alkali method often works well. If I had to sell, I would offer these for via Ebay or Facebook, set a reserve or price if you wish and see what happens. But as a long-standing detectorist myself I would say keep them, and find the upgrade money elsewhere - you will always regret selling your best finds. Jerry

Best place? A coin fair every time, followed by a recognised dealer or auction house. EBay and Facebook are widely used but fraught with risk for a beginner, especially the latter due to the sheer number of fakes and misrepresentation. As you learn more about the subject you may be inclined to take greater risks on EBay - bargains can be had - but in general Caveat Emptor applies. Purchases via this forum are pretty safe if via a long-standing member, but only rarely offered. Jerry PS and welcome to the forum, sound advice (usually) freely offered here.

Thanks for posting this both. It was always too good to be true when the sellers fees disappeared, now the buyer takes the hit! I suppose poor Ebay has to make its billions somehow, after all they have to keep employing all those accountants/politicians to avoid paying tax! Jerry

Here are a couple of group pics of the British coins, I bought 36 on a little felt lined box, I think I have posted one of each type. I also bought a mixed lot in lesser condition including quite a lot of German coin types. Jerrj

Thanks Kai, I’ll get some photos over the next couple of days. Jerry