Watch List notes:

Maximianus, first reign, 286-305. Antoninianus (Billon, 23 mm, 3.71 g, 7 h), Rome, 1st officina, 291. IMP MAXIMI-ANVS P F AVG Radiate, draped and cuirassed bust of Maximianus to right; on neck, curious circular punch. Rev. VIRTVS AVGG / XXIA Hercules standing facing, head turned to left, holding club, trophy and lion's skin. RIC 515. Scarce, and very unusual with a countermark. Minor scratches, otherwise, extremely fine.



Exactly what the mark is on the obverse is uncertain. It makes no sense as a banker's mark since the coin's intrinsic and tariffed value was inconsequential. Yet it is certainly not a flan or metal fault. In some ways it is quite a mystery.