First Roman coin purchase...what do you think?

[evansuk2000]

Hi all, I just bought my first Roman Coin today:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/121373839864?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

I noticed it states 'cleaned' under the description...will this decrease value? Or in cases like Roman coins, can it sometimes help the value if they are cleaned? What do you think of the coin?

[VickySilver]

^{Yes, nice bit there. I think most ancient have been cleaned to some degree. Not sure but looks like it may have been in water for some while with a bit of porosity there.}

[Peter]

You must know what you are buying.

Get some books,look at Wildwinds.com

Fingers will be burnt.

[Peckris]

It doesn't look obviously cleaned but you will only get a clear idea 'in hand'.

As to the coin itself - it's a very typical late Republic denarius, with the winged helmeted Roma on the obverse, and quadrigatus (4-horse chariot) on the reverse along with the name of the moneyer. It's in a reasonable condition, and you paid a reasonable price. Good start! Roman is a fascinating area of collecting and many coins can be pciked up in high grade for a surprisingly modest outlay.

[TomGoodheart]

For those that just want to see a pic: