The New York Sale
Auction 42 9 Jan 2018
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C. Cassius Longinus. Silver Denarius (3.87 g), 42 BC. Military mint, probably at Smyrna. P. Lentulus Spinther, legate. C CASSI IMP behind, LEIBERTAS before, diademed, weiled and draped bust of Libertas right. rev. LENTVLVS/SPINT in two lines below, jug and lituus. Crawford 500/5; HCRI 223; Sydenham 1305; RSC 6. A magnificent example struck in high relief and attractively toned. One of the finest we have seen. NGC grade AU*; Strike: 5/5, Surface: 5/5. Estimated Value $2,500
From the Dr. Patrick Tan Collection.
Libertas's portrait on this coin is quite lovely, showing a certain graciousness and competent ability not evident on the parallel issues with an unveiled Libertas where the goddess is depicted with a rather large jowl and chin more in line with a caricature portrait. In instances such as this, we must wonder if the engraver was simply more skilled or if perhaps he had a local beauty sit for him whose likeness he skillfully copied.
From the Dr. Patrick Tan Collection.
Libertas's portrait on this coin is quite lovely, showing a certain graciousness and competent ability not evident on the parallel issues with an unveiled Libertas where the goddess is depicted with a rather large jowl and chin more in line with a caricature portrait. In instances such as this, we must wonder if the engraver was simply more skilled or if perhaps he had a local beauty sit for him whose likeness he skillfully copied.