ROMAN IMPERATORIAL, . Marc Antony struck under Octavian Southern or Central Italy, late 40-early 39 BC.
ROMAN IMPERATORIAL, . Marc Antony struck under Octavian Southern or Central Italy, late 40-early 39 BC.
AR Denarius, late 40-early 39 BC, 3.79g (20mm, 12h).
Bare head r.; ANTONIVS upwards to l., IMP downwards to r. / Winged caduceus; CAESAR IMP around below.
Pedigree: This coin cited in A. Banti and L. Simonetti, Corpus Nummorum Romanorum Vol. II (Florence, 1973); ex. Andrew McCabe Collection, collector's tickets included; ex Numismatica Ars Classica AG, Auction 100, 29 May 2017, lot 1671; ex Numismatica Varesi, Auction 43, 20 April 2004, lot 14 (hammer: EUR 850); ex Kunst und Münzen, FPL 4, 1970, lot 117; ex Kunst und Münzen 3, 6 November 1969, lot 201 (est. CHF 900)
References: Crawford 529/3; CRI 303; BMCRR Gaul 94; CNR II 38/1 (this coin cited); RSC 5
Grade: Obverse well centered and struck, some wear. Reverse slightly o/c, but all details visible. Scratches "X" - Possible graffito. Pleasent iridescent cabinet toning. VF+/EF. (rr1241)
Mark Antony is historical figure of legendary heights. He has been portrayed in books, theatrical productions and modern day film. Undoubtedly he led a remarkable life. He was first and foremost a soldier, later he became a politician because of his urge for power. He has been cast a passionate lover, as well as a man that abused the goodwill of those who loved him. He was married 5 times. The first two history has not been kind to. The last three were amazing women without having to have the affiliation with Mark Antony. It is well documented the role that his third wife Fulvia played behind the scenes. She was politically motivated and was considered to be one of the most powerful Roman women. His fourth wife Octavia Minor was the sister of his fellow triumvirate Octavian and later nemesis. He married Octavia for for political maneuvering but she still bore several children (four) with him. After he left her for Cleopatra VII she continued to be there for him and even after Antony and Cleopatra's death she helped to raise their remaining children.
This coin was struck when Antony and Octavian were still united and working together for the good of the Republic.