Lot 2516
Anonymous Coinage. AR Quadrigatus (Didrachm) minted at Rome, c. 225-216 BC. Laureate head of beardless Janus. Reverse: Quadriga driven right by Jupiter with Victory behind. Cr. 28/3. Minimal flaking at edge and hairline scratch on obverse left cheek. An imposing coin; Nearly Extremely Fine.
Minted before the silver denarius became the main denomination of the Roman Republic, the quadrigatus is easily recognized by the victorious quadriga ridden on the reverse. On some varieties, like this one, the quadriga is actually being driven by Victory with Jupiter standing before, holding thunderbolt and goad. A double-head of the Dioscuri or Janus head of varying style graces the obverse. These coins are thought to have been current just before and during the Second Punic War. The quadrigatus or didrachm is equivalent to six scruples. The weight suggests a continuation of the silver didrachm of Greek times in circulation within Magna Graecia.
Estimated Value $1,500 - 2,000.
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| Realized $949 |
