Return of the Standards Lost by Crassus

309, Lot: 281. Estimate $150. Sold for $220. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

Augustus. 27 BC-AD 14. AR Denarius (17mm, 3.70 g, 3h). Rome mint; P. Petronius Turpilianus, moneyer. Struck 19 BC. Diademed and draped bust of Feronia right / Parthian kneeling right, presenting standard inscribed X. RIC I 288; RSC 484. Near VF, toned, striking weakness.

From the RVP Collection.

This type commemorates Augustus’ diplomatic triumph in securing the restoration of the legionary standards which had been lost by Crassus and Antony in the disastrous campaigns of 53 and 36 BC. Many of the issues of this period commemorate this significant event.