Roman Republic. L. Procilius, Rome, c. 80 BC
Roman Republic. L. Procilius, Rome, c. 80 BC
AR Denarius, 4.05g (18.5mm, 3h).
Laureate head of Jupiter right; behind,SC / Juno Sospita standing right, holding shield and hurling spear; at her feet, snake; on left, L.PROCILI/F
Pedigree: Purchased privately from Jerry Eisenberg, 1950's (coin is accompanied by its original Eisenberg ticket)
References: Moretti, RRSV Vol. 2, D173.1. Crawford 379/1. Sydenham 771. RBW 1408
Grade: A common type but in excellent condition. Wonderful old cabinet toning and iridescence. Flat on head of Juno Sospita, otherwise about Mint State
rr1394
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This denarius of L. Procilius belongs to one of the more familiar Republican types of the early first century BC, yet examples of this quality and provenance are decidedly uncommon. The pairing of Jupiter with Juno Sospita-protector of the Latin city of Lanuvium-underscores the deep religious conservatism of the Roman Republic during a period of political instability following the Social War.
The present coin is a particularly attractive old-collection piece, displaying rich cabinet toning with iridescent highlights characteristic of long-term storage. While lightly flat on the head of Juno Sospita, the remainder of the surfaces are sharply preserved, approaching Mint State in appearance. The presence of the original Eisenberg ticket adds significant historical and collecting interest, firmly anchoring the coin within the mid-20th-century American numismatic tradition.
A classic Republican denarius elevated by condition, eye appeal, and distinguished early provenance.
