Lot 2204
C. Memmius C.f. Silver Denarius (3.83 g), 56 BC. Rome. C MEMMI C F before, QVIRINVS behind, laureate head of Quirinus right. Reverse: MEMMIVS AED CERIALIA PREIMVS FECIT, Ceres seated right, holding torch and grain ear; at her feet, serpent. Crawford 427/2; Sydenham 921; Memmia 9. Beautifully struck and perfectly centered. Beautifully toned. NGC grade Ch AU*; Strike: 5/5, Surface: 5/5. Fine style. Estimate Value $1,500 - 2,000
From the Dr. Patrick Tan Collection.
Quirinius was a god of war of Sabine origin who was assimilated with Romulus, Rome's founder. It seems that here Memmius is either referencing a Sabine family origin, or else claiming descent from Romulus. The reverse legend states that it was an ancestor of the moneyer who in 202 BC as (plebeian) aedile held the first festival to the goddess Ceres, the Cerealia. The festival was held annually for several days in April since being first instituted, and included races in the Circus Maximus and theatrical events.
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| Realized $1,763 |
