Lot 309: ROMAN EMPIRE. Gold Bracteate Votive Burial Offering (1st-4th Century AD). Ex William Spengler Collection.

Obv: Thinly hammered gold, with bust left.
Rev: Incuse of obverse.

Photographed by Wm. Spengler 3-8-98.

Weight: 0.49 grams.
Diameter: 23.73 mm.

This is a gold votive used by a wealthy Roman in lieu of Charon's obol, a coin placed on the tongue of the dead to ensure their passage across the river Styx and into the afterlife.

• Offered By: VAuctions
• Lot #: 309
• Listing #: 180016
• Closed: Thursday, May 10, 2012 6:34:00 PM CT
• Estimate: $300