KINGS OF NUMIDIA. Juba I. Circa 60-46 B.C. AR denarius. 4.01 gm. 17 mm. Utica mint. His diademed, bearded, draped and cuirassed bust right, scepter over shoulder; REX IVBA to right / Octastyle temple with a flat roof and a small, central pedimented tower. MAA 29. SNG Copenhagen 523. NGC graded Mint State, Strike 4/5 Surface 5/5; crisp full deep strike on both sides, exceptionally well centered, with rich old iridescent toning, hints of gold shimmering throughout. Choice and beautiful example.

Juba was an ambitious ruler notorious for his cruelty and arrogance. He supported Pompey in the Civil War, prevailing at the Battle of Bagradas in 49 B.C. After Caesar arrived in Africa, Juba took his army to help Metellus Scipio, but after Caesar's victory at Thapsus in 46 B.C. he committed suicide brutally through trial by combat with a Roman general and ally.