Here is a truly splendid specimen of the Anted Rig (Theta Type) gold stater which has a lot to commend it to the discerning collector. First, the slightly ovoid flan does us a favour on both sides of the coin. Second, the Dobunnic ‘Tree of Life’ emblem is fully displayed in a central position – a key advantage with a singularly symmetrical motif such as this. Third, the ‘Tree of Life’ is so sharply struck that you can see the distinctive spiky point at the end of each of the ten branches. Fourth, the wide open spaces surrounding the ‘Tree of Life’ are totally problem-free: silky-smooth with lustrous, mirror-like surfaces, no scuffs or scratches or disfiguring blemishes. Fifth, almost all of the ANTED RIC legend is visible, particularly the first part which ends in a Greek theta, implying that the name was pronounced Anteth, not Anted. Finally, the horse too is well centred, which means we can clearly see not only its ‘safety-pin’ head, but also its three tails. Once again, the surfaces around the horse are as flawless as the obverse. If only all gold staters could be as beautiful as this! Chris Rudd September list.                                                                           2.8.10