Lot 2085

Description

Augustus as Octavian, (27 B.C. - A.D. 14), silver denarius, uncertain Italian mint (probably Brundisium, maybe Rome), issued 32-29 B.C. (3.36 grams), obv. Octavian head bare to right, in line circle, rev. [C]AESAR on left across, DIVI F on right across, Mercury naked seated to right on cloak on rock, petasus slung behind, both hands on lyre, (S.456, RIC 257, C.61, BMC 597). Rough surface, attractive fine and rare.

Ex. Sydney Convention, November 13, 1976. Mercury was the inventor of the lyre and the protector of commerce. This type probably refers to the restoration of commerce to Italy after the battle of Naulochus.