The two silver coins, minted by notable moneyers in the Roman Republic, are carefully set in frosted yellow gold. The fine gold granulation on the half-spheres creates a beautiful contrast. The Roma coin was minted by Pinarius Natta in 155 BC, while the she-wolf coin was minted in 77 BC by Publius Satrienus.
The earrings are a testament to the historical significance of the goddess Roma and the she-wolf in Roman culture. Roma, personifying the city of Rome and the Roman State, was often depicted as a symbol of strength and power, wearing a winged helmet that represents victory. The she-wolf, on the other hand, was a symbol of Rome’s legendary origins and nurturing care, as depicted in the myth of Romulus and Remus. The combination of these symbols in the earrings is meaningful and reflects the importance of these figures in Roman history.
The use of silver coins from the Roman Republic further adds to the historical significance of the earrings. A Denarius was the standard silver coin used in Rome during that period, and moneyers like Panarius Natta and Publius Satrienus were entrusted with the responsibility of controlling the coin production process, including designing the coins themselves. Owning these coins in the form of earrings not only showcases their beauty but also carries a sense of connection to the rich history of Rome.
The attention to detail is evident in the design of the earrings: the posts are attached to half spheres that are decorated with fine gold granules, showcasing the millennia-old technique of granulation that has been passed down through the ages. This adds a touch of intricacy and elegance to the earrings, highlighting the skill and artistry of our goldsmith-artisans.
The backside of the Roma coin by Panarius Natta, depicts the goddess Victory riding a biga (a two-horse chariot) to the right, with the inscription “NAT” below and “ROMA” in the exergue, and is in extremely fine (XF) condition. The backside of the she-wolf coin featuring the helmeted goddess Roma is equally considered extremely fine (XF), reinforcing the connection between the goddess Roma and the founding myth of Rome in the form of the she-wolf.
