Bulgari Monete Ancient Coin Necklace
Designed and crafted in Rome by Bulgari, c. 1980s, this 18K gold necklace is set with ten ancient tetradrachm coins. Joined by heavy, soft curb link chain, the eight bezel-set bronze billon coins depict the Maximianus Antoninianus (co-emperor of the tetrarchy with Diocletian, 286-305 A.D.) while the reverse variously show Hercules and the personifications of Victory, the city of Alexandria and the Genio Populi Romani. Long and glamorous, this unique Bulgari vintage sautoir combines history and modern chic in one stunning statement jewel.
Item #: N-21973
Artist: Bulgari
Country: Italy
Circa: 1980s
Dimensions: 40.75" length.
Materials: 18K Gold
Gram Weight: 372.8 g.
Signed: BVLGARI, Italian importation mark, 750, Made in Italy
Item #: N-21973
Artist: Bulgari
Country: Italy
Circa: 1980s
Dimensions: 40.75" length.
Materials: 18K Gold
Gram Weight: 372.8 g.
Signed: BVLGARI, Italian importation mark, 750, Made in Italy
It was Nicola Bulgari, a grandson of the founder, who in the 1960s revived the practice of mounting ancient coins in the firm's jewelry. Nicola's love of coins was inspired by his godfather, and his expertise in numismatic science was gained during his youth and throughout his career. The mounting of these coins, from Greek, Hellenistic, Roman and other sources, expresses the firm's deep connection with and inspiration derived from the mixed cultural heritage of Italy, the ancient tradition of Greek coinage, and their own Greek roots. At the same time, Bulgari's novel and inventive settings for these "coin gems" reflect the firm's long-standing commitment to strong, contemporary, pared-down design.
Maximianus ruled for decades with Diocletian as part of the Tetrarchy. His military skill complemented Diocletian's political prowess. He spent most of his life on military campaign, fighting the Gauls and the Germanic tribes throughout Europe. In 312 AD, his son Maxentius vied with Constantine for control of the Empire, but was defeated by him at the epic battle of the Milvian Bridge on the Tiber just north of Rome.
It was Nicola Bulgari, a grandson of the founder, who in the 1960s revived the practice of mounting ancient coins in the firm's jewelry. Nicola's love of coins was inspired by his godfather, and his expertise in numismatic science was gained during his youth and throughout his career. The mounting of these coins, from Greek, Hellenistic, Roman and other sources, expresses the firm's deep connection with and inspiration derived from the mixed cultural heritage of Italy, the ancient tradition of Greek coinage, and their own Greek roots. At the same time, Bulgari's novel and inventive settings for these "coin gems" reflect the firm's long-standing commitment to strong, contemporary, pared-down design.
Maximianus ruled for decades with Diocletian as part of the Tetrarchy. His military skill complemented Diocletian's political prowess. He spent most of his life on military campaign, fighting the Gauls and the Germanic tribes throughout Europe. In 312 AD, his son Maxentius vied with Constantine for control of the Empire, but was defeated by him at the epic battle of the Milvian Bridge on the Tiber just north of Rome.
