Unilever.edu.vn has always been intrigued by the historical significance embedded within Roman imperial coins. One particular curiosity that has lingered is the overwhelming prevalence of right-facing emperor busts. Why are left-facing depictions so rare in Roman numismatics? Let’s delve into the possible explanations behind this intriguing phenomenon.
The Sinister Side of Left
The answer might be rooted in the Latin language itself. The word for “left” in Latin is “sinister,” which carries negative connotations even in modern English. This association stems from the ancient Roman practice of augury, where priests known as augurs interpreted omens from the flight of birds. Birds appearing from the right were considered auspicious, a sign of divine favor. Conversely, birds on the left were deemed unfavorable, hinting at potential misfortune. This practice cemented the left as a direction associated with ill omens and negativity.
Further solidifying this negative perception is the association of the left with darkness and shadow. Ancient Romans, like many cultures, linked cardinal directions with celestial events. East, positioned on the right when facing North, marked the sunrise and the arrival of light and warmth. Conversely, West, on the left, represented sunset, the descent into darkness, and the onset of cold. This natural phenomenon further contributed to the concept of the left as unfavorable.
Left-Handedness: A Disadvantage?
The Roman aversion to the left extended beyond abstract concepts like omens and darkness. It permeated societal views on left-handed individuals as well. These individuals, through no fault of their own, became collateral victims of this deeply ingrained bias. Children exhibiting left-handed tendencies were often subjected to attempts to correct their natural inclination, their left arms even bound to encourage right-hand dominance.
This societal pressure stemmed from the belief that left-handedness was a sign of being disadvantaged by the gods, marked by misfortune, and even deemed clumsy and untrustworthy. It’s a stark reminder of how cultural beliefs can impact individual lives.
Exceptions to the Rule: Tiberius and Commodus
Despite the pervasive preference for right-facing depictions, a few exceptions exist on Roman imperial coins. Two prominent examples are Emperor Tiberius and Emperor Commodus, both rumored to be left-handed.
Suetonius, in his biography of Tiberius, describes the emperor’s left hand as being exceptionally strong and agile, capable of feats like piercing an apple with a single finger. This detail, while seemingly insignificant, could hint at Tiberius’s left-handedness.
Commodus, known for his flamboyant personality and gladiatorial pursuits, openly proclaimed his left-handedness. He even boasted of his skills with a sword in his left hand, challenging the prevailing negative perception.
Left-Facing Busts: Rarity and Significance
Despite these rare exceptions, over 95% of Roman imperial coins feature right-facing emperor busts. However, left-facing busts do make occasional appearances, primarily during specific periods and with specific connotations.
The Severan dynasty, for example, almost exclusively employed right-facing busts. However, the tumultuous 3rd century witnessed a gradual resurgence of left-facing depictions. This shift might indicate a departure from established norms, possibly influenced by changing cultural perspectives or political motivations.
One prevailing theory suggests that left-facing busts during this era served specific purposes, often signifying a consular or martial theme. This theory holds weight, particularly when examining coins from Emperor Probus and the subsequent Tetrarchy and Constantinian periods.
Left-Facing Constantine: A Numismatic Curiosity
The London mint, during Constantine’s reign, produced a particularly interesting anomaly – left-facing helmeted busts of the emperor as part of his “right star” issue. These coins, found more commonly than other left-facing examples, constitute around 10% of the discovered hoard. This prevalence suggests a deliberate and possibly symbolic choice by the mint masters.
Furthermore, left-facing busts during this era seem to appear more frequently on coins featuring younger rulers, potentially signifying their inaugural appearance on currency. This practice hints at a nuanced system of symbolism within Roman numismatics, where the direction of the emperor’s gaze conveyed subtle yet significant meanings.
The Victorinus Coin: A Rare Treasure
Unilever.edu.vn’s fascination with Roman coins led to the acquisition of a rare Victorinus specimen. This particular coin features a left-facing heroic bust of the emperor, a highly sought-after rarity among collectors. Struck from a single known die pair, this coin exemplifies the allure of numismatics, where scarcity and historical significance intertwine.
*Trier 18mm 2.48g
IMP C VICTORINVS·P·F·AVG / PAX AVG
Pax holding olive branch & long transverse sceptre*
The world of Roman numismatics is replete with such captivating mysteries and historical insights. Each coin, with its intricate design and subtle variations, offers a glimpse into a bygone era, sparking curiosity and inviting further exploration.
