The Pompeians. Sextus Pompey. 40-39 BC. AR Denarius (18mm, 3.70 g, 6h). Uncertain Sicilian mint. VF.

CNG Feature Auction 132
Lot: 723. Estimated: $ 750

Roman Republican, Coin-in-Hand Video, Silver

Sold For $ 3 000. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

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The Pompeians. Sextus Pompey. 40-39 BC. AR Denarius (18mm, 3.70 g, 6h). Uncertain Sicilian mint. The Pharos of Messana surmounted by statue of Neptune standing right, with foot on prow, holding trident and rudder; in foreground, galley to left, with aquila on prow and scepter, trident, and grappling-iron in stern / The monster Scylla left, her torso of dogs and fishes, wielding a rudder as a club with both hands. Crawford 511/4a; CRI 335; Sydenham 1348; RSC 2; RBW –. Lightly toned, hairlines, trace deposits. VF.

It seems beyond doubt that this coin marks Pompey's "victory" over Octavian's fleet, which was mainly accomplished by an unfavorable wind that drove the latter's ships onto the rocks known as Scylleum near the harbor of Messana. Therefore the dates given for this issue in RSC and Crawford (42-40 BC) are too early; the disaster at Messana occured circa 38 BC.

The final winners of all CNG Feature Auction 132 lots will be determined at the live online sale that will be held on 18-19 May 2026.

CNG Feature Auction 132 – Session Three – Lot 588-888 will be held Tuesday morning, 19 May 2026 beginning at 9:00 AM ET.

Winning bids are subject to a 22.5% buyer's fee for bids placed on this website and 25% for all others.

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