Lot 1165
L. Hostilius Saserna. Silver Denarius (3.72 g), 48 BC. Rome. Head of Gallic captive (Vercingetorix?) right; behind, Gallic shield. Rev. L H[OSTILIVS] above, SASERN below, two warriors in biga galloping right, one driving and the other holding shield and brandishing spear. (Crawford 448/2a; HCRI 18; Sydenham 952; Hostilia 2). Well centered obverse with residual luster. About extremely fine. Estimate $3,250UP
Probably one of the most iconic coins associated with Julius Caesar's Gallic Wars, the obverse type has long been identified as a portrait of Vercingetorix, the great chief of the Arverni captured at the battle of Alesia in 52 BC, although both Crawford and Sear have expressed doubts about this identification. However, the large and detailed treatment of the head suggests an intended portrait rather than a simple personification of a conquered Gaul.
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| Realized $3,776 |
