CNG 105, Lot: 773. Estimate $1500. Sold for $5500. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

The Triumvirs. Mark Antony. Autumn 32-spring 31 BC. AR Denarius (16.5mm, 3.97 g, 5h). Legionary type. Patrae(?) mint. Praetorian galley right / Aquila between two signa; CHORTIVM • PRAETORIARVM around, above. Crawford 544/8; CRI 385; Sydenham 1213; RSC 7. Good VF, bright surfaces, slightly off-center obverse. Excellent metal quality. Rare.

From the estate of Robert B. Beckett, Jr. Ex Classical Numismatic Group 82 (16 September 2009), lot 961.

The praetorian cohorts take their name from the praetorium, or tent, of the commander. These elite troops went on campaign as the personal accompaniment of their generals. Mark Antony likely had four or more praetorian cohorts with him at Actium.