Q. Antonius Balbus. 83-82 BC. AR Serrate Denarius (19.5mm, 3.81 g, 5h). Rome mint. Laureate head of Jupiter right; S • C downward to left / Victory driving quadriga right, holding reins, palm frond, and wreath; Q below horses; Q • (ANT)O • B(AL)B/PR in exergue. Crawford 364/1d; Sydenham 742b; Antonia 1. Beautiful iridescent cabinet tone. EF.
Q. Antonius Balbus was a member of the Marian party, and in 82 BC was appointed praetor of Sardinia. Before he left for his territory, the Senate ordered him to mint this issue to pay the army preparing to resist Sulla’s return. The reverse reflects expectation of Balbus for victory and consequent peace. Sulla was victorius, however; L. Philippus, a partisan of Sulla, removed Balbus from his position and had him slain.
