Lot 3386

Description

P. Licinius M.f.Crassus, (55 B.C.), silver denarius, (3.95 grams), obv. Laureate and diademed bust of Venus right, S.C. behind, rev. Female figure standing before her horse which she holds by the bridle, shield and cuirass at her feet, around P. CRASSVS M F, (S.394, Cr.430/1, Syd.929, RSC Licinia 18). Toned with golden highlights, good/fine and scarce.

This moneyer was the son of the wealthy triumvir M. Licinius Crassus who supressed the slave rebellion by Spartacus. He accompanied him on a fateful invasion of Parthia in 53 B.C. where both were killed. This hastened the outbreak of civil war between Caesar and Pompey.