Watch List notes:

Imperatorial Issues

Octavianus and Marcus Antonius. Aureus, mint moving with Octavian in Central or Southern Italy circa 40- 39, AV 7.90 g. CAESAR – IMP Bare head of Octavian r. Rev. ANTONIVS IMP Bare head of Marc Antony r. Babelon Julia 62 and Antonia 14. C 5. Bahrfeldt 29.19 (this coin). Sydenham 1327. Newmann, ANSAJN 2, 1990, Antony and Octavian p. 46, 39.8. Sear Imperators 301. Biaggi 64 (this coin). RBW 1815. Crawford 529/1. Calicó 105 (this coin).
Extremely rare. Two bold portraits well struck and centred on a full flan.
An almost invisible mark on reverse, otherwise good very fine

Ex Hess 1912, Prowe, 302; Naville III, Evans, 1922, 14; Glendining 1956, Platt Hall, 678; NAC 27, May 2004, 287 and NAC 41, 2007, 35 sales.

This is a great coin type with an outstanding provenance. Two very realistic portraits in fine style. MSG.

The accord between Marc Antony and Octavian was always one of necessity rather than of mutual admiration. Neither Triumvir had the military might or political backing to survive alone. As Octavian worked at re-establishing some sense of normality to the Italian peninsula, Antony was working to secure the eastern provinces. Their written accord was coming to an end before either was in a position to "go it alone". The two would finally extend their agreement to "work together" for an additional five years. This coin is a result of that renewal of the triumvirate with the signing of the Pact of Brundisium. Unlike the coin with dual portraits produced at Ephesus under Antony above (lot 27) the present issue has simple legends omitting reference to the triumvirate. MSG.