Lot 2106

Description

Mark Antony, (32-31 B.C.), silver denarius, mint moving with Mark Antony, (3.470 grams), obv. praetorian galley to right with rowers etc., around ANT AVG III VIR. R.P.C., rev. legionary eagle between two standards, LEG II below, (cf.S.1479, Cr.544/14, Syd.1216, C. Mark Antony 27 [£65]). Slightly off centred on the obverse, grey patina, fine and scarce.

These legionary denarii were struck for the use of the fleet and legions when Antony was preparing for the struggle with Octavian. they are an interesting record of the number of legions in Antony's army and all are slightly baser than usual Republican and early Imperial denarii. Consequently many survived into use for many years, some turn up very worn. They can be regarded as 'Money of Necessity'.