D N VALEN - S P F AVG

Diademed, draped and cuirassed bust of Valens right.

Photos of an obverse lead mold being one of two parts of two molds sold by Classical Numismatic Group, link to the sale and their website: https://www.cngcoins.com/Coin.aspx?CoinID=365757.

The second part is an URBS ROMA reverse mold struck in Trier, link to this mold in the database: https://www.all-your-coins.com/en/emperors/romaines-moules-de-faux-d-epoque/moules-de-revers-seuls-et-revers-revers/urbs-roma. It is very likely and even almost certain that these two sides come from the same coin. These two molds are each 5.00 mm thick and weigh 261.620 grams. Classical Numismatic Group does not specify whether it is the total weight of the two molds (which seems most likely given the use of the term "total weight") or only one. Let us quote Classical Numismatic Group about this rare set of molds: ''Lead Counterfeiter’s Mold for AR Siliqua. Dimensions: overall dimensions of each section, approximately 49x47x5mm with 54mm at point of connection. Total weight: 261.620 grams. Two lead plates designed for casting, each with impression of one side of a Trier mint siliqua of Valens (cf. RIC IX 27e2). Intact, earthen patina and traces of deposits. Extremely rare.''.