CNG 100, Lot: 1827. Estimate $750. Sold for $1200. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

The Triumvirs. Mark Antony. Autumn 32-spring 31 BC. AR Denarius (17mm, 3.71 g, 12h). Legionary issue. Patrae(?) mint. Praetorian galley right / Three signa, each decorated with two wreaths and a prow; CHORTIS SPECVLATORVM around above. Crawford 544/12; CRI 386; Sydenham 1214; RSC 6. Good VF, toned, slightly granular surfaces. Rare.

Serving as scouts and messengers, the cohortes speculatorum filled the role of spies within each legion. Normally ten in number per legion, Mark Antony created a special group of cohortes who specifically served around him, carrying out personal instructions and protecting his well-being, essentially acting as an early secret service–a concept which was further developed during the empire under Augustus.