Lot 3747

Description

L. Calpurnius Piso Frugi, (90 B.C.), silver denarius, Rome mint, (3.65 grams), obv. Apollo laureate head to right, XXXXI behind, rev. naked horseman galloping to right holding palm, LXIII above, L.PISO FRVGI and Roma monogram below, (S.235, Cr.340/1, B.Calpurnia 12). Deep old cabinet toning with blue highlights, a few nicks and flan chips, otherwise good very fine or better.

This coin forms part of the principal war-coinages of the Romans during the conflict with the Marsic Confederation. The type refers to the Ludi Apollinares that was proposed by the praetor L. Calpurnius Piso and established in 212 B.C. The horseman alludes to the various races that occurred as part of the games.