Q. Antonius Balbus, AR Denarius, Rome Mint, 83-82 BC – Victory in Quadriga

$240.00

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SKU: R8.30 Categories: ,

Description

Roman Republic, Q. Antonius Balbus, AR Denarius (silver, 3.74g, 19.6mm), Rome Mint, 83-82 BC
Obv: Laureate head of Jupiter to right; Sā€¢C behind; B below chin to right
Rev: Qā€¢ANTOā€¢BALB / PR; Victory in fast quadriga to right, holding wreath in her right hand and palm frond and reins in her left
Ref: Sydenham 742a; RBW 1374 (var.) Rarity/Choice: Common, aEF (original find patina with traces of untouched earth, expressive bust exhibiting full legend)
Note: Quintus Antonius Balbus was a Roman magistrate and moneyer during the late Republic. He issued coinage during a period of intense political and military conflict, particularly during the turbulent years of Sulla’s civil wars. His coins reflect the values and iconography significant to his position and times.Ā  The Denarius was a silver coin minted by P. Servilius Rullus around 100 BC. This coin was a critical denomination in the Roman economy, widely used for trade and daily transactions. The denarius typically featured symbolic imagery that conveyed political messages and highlighted the authority of the issuing moneyer. The obverse features a laureate head of Jupiter facing right. Jupiter, the king of the Roman gods, symbolizes supreme authority, power, and protection. The laurel wreath indicates victory and divine favor, which were significant attributes for a leader during times of conflict.Ā  The reverse shows Victory in a fast quadriga (four-horse chariot) moving to the right, holding a wreath in her right hand and a palm frond and reins in her left. The wreath represents triumph and honor, while the palm frond signifies victory and peace. The depiction of Victory in a quadriga underscores the military success and celebration of triumphs, aligning with the propagandistic nature of Roman coinage. The period of 83-82 BC was marked by the conflicts between the forces of Lucius Cornelius Sulla and those loyal to Gaius Marius. Sulla’s return to Rome and subsequent dictatorship brought significant political upheaval. Q. Antonius Balbus’ coinage reflects these tumultuous times, emphasizing themes of divine favor, military victory, and the legitimacy of authority.