T. Didius. 113-112 BC. AR Denarius (19.5mm, 3.82 g, 6h). Rome mint.

Electronic Auction 509
Lot: 486. Estimated: $ 200

Roman Republican, Silver

Sold For $ 650. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

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T. Didius. 113-112 BC. AR Denarius (19.5mm, 3.82 g, 6h). Rome mint. Helmeted head of Roma right; Roma monogram to left, mark of value below / Two gladiators fighting, each holding shield, one attacks with flail, the other with staff or sword. Crawford 294/1; Sydenham 550; Didia 2; RBW 1134. A few light marks. VF.

From the Collection of a Yorkshire Gentleman. Ex Nicoleta Collection (Classical Numismatic Group Electronic Auction 375, 1 June 2016), lot 629.

A popular type, and the only Roman denarius featuring gladiatorial combat. Crawford suggests that the design was an act of political propoganda on Didius’s part, implying that he would hold gladiatorial games should he be elected aedile. Whether or not he was remains unknown.

Closing Date and Time: 9 February 2022 at 12:41:40 ET.

All winning bids are subject to an 18% buyer’s fee.