ROMAN TOKEN

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A large lead alloy discoidal token or seal of lead alloy and probably dating to the Roman period. The token is uniface and the obverse depicts a crude, or intentionally derogatory depiction of a male; presumably an emperor, the image wears a radiate crown and has a large hooked nose and large lips. There does appear to be evidence for some form of inscription around the edge. The reverse of the token is smooth and plain however it is slightly rounded giving the token a slightly dished profile. The radiate crown suggests this token dates from the first to late third century AD.Lead tokens with imperial busts of probable Roman date are known (e.g. LON-8C0467 and SUSS-2F5145) but are uncommon, with this example being conspicuous by its size. Prof. Martin Henig suggests these objects could be tesserae (not to be confused with mosaic elements of the same name) and used as a pass to allow entry into a military building or the baths, for example. Alternatively the object is possibly a seal but there are no perforations for a cord to attach.