The Triumvirs. Mark Antony. Autumn 32-spring 31 BC. AR Denarius (155mm, 3.68 g, 6h). Legionary type. Patrae(?) mint.

Triton XXIII – Session Two – Greek Coinage Part II through Roman Imperial Coinage Part I
Lot: 638. Estimated: $ 1 500

Roman Republican, Silver

Sold For $ 3 750. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

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The Triumvirs. Mark Antony. Autumn 32-spring 31 BC. AR Denarius (155mm, 3.68 g, 6h). Legionary type. Patrae(?) mint. Praetorian galley right; ANT AVG above, III VIR • R • P • C below / Three signa decorated with wreaths and rostra; [C]HORTIS • SPECVLATORVM around above. Crawford 544/12; CRI 386; Sydenham 1214; RSC 6; BMCRR East 185; Kestner 3841; RBW 1837. Toned with a hint of iridescence, a touch of porosity. Near EF.

From the collection of Professor David R. Beatty, C.M., O.B.E. Ex Roma IX (22 March 2015), lot 576.

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 that was further developed during the empire under Augustus.

The final winners of all Triton XXIII lots will be determined at the live public sale that will be held on 14-15 January 2020. Triton XXIII – Session Two – Greek Coinage Part II through Roman Imperial Coinage Part I will be held Tuesday afternoon, 14 January 2020 beginning at 2:00 PM ET.

Winning bids are subject to a 20% buyer's fee for bids placed on this website and in person at the public auction, 22.50% for all others.