Lot 3623

Description

C. Mamilius Limetanus, silver denarius, Issued 82 B.C., 3.96 grams, Rome Mint, Crawford 362/1, Sydenham 741, B. Mamilia 6, BMC 2717, Obv. Bust of Mercury caped to r., caduceus and Delta behind, Rev. Ulysses walking to r. holding staff in l. hand and extending r. hand to his dog before him, C. MAMIL behind, LIMETAN in front, serrated edge. Lightly toned nearly extremely fine or better and very scarce, (1459).

Ex C. Pitchfork Collection and previously from Ross Sutton, (Suttle Coins), December 23, 1974.

This issue has on its reverse Ulysses, after an absense of many years, returning in a mean and humble dress to the island of Ithica, where he was at once recognised by his old dog, Argus, who died of joy at seeing his former master. The moneyer is presumably a son of C. Mamilius Lametanus a Tribune of the Plebs in 109 B.C. The type refers to descent from Telegonus son of Ulysses and Circe.