Watch List notes:

ROMAN REPUBLIC

Q. Fufius Calenus and P. Mucius Cordus Scaevola. Denarius (Serratus) 70, Rome. H O - VIRT / KALENI, Jugate heads of Honos and Virtus to r. Rev. ITAL - RO / CORDI, Italia with cornucopia and Roma with fasces, r. foot on helmet, clasp hands, on l. winged caduceus. 3.79 g. Cr. 403/1. Syd. 797. A choice cabinet piece and splendid specimen. Iridescent dark patina. Brilliant uncirculated.

The moneyers are Q. Fufius Calenus, a homo novus (equestrian and first of his family to hold office as consul in 74). The type refers to the first Mucius, a legendary ancestor who saved Rome in 508 BC from the Etruscan king Porsenna who was besieging the city. Mucius had gained entry into the Etruscan camp to kill Porsenna but was captured. To show his contempt he held his right hand in an open flame without flinching until it was burned. Porsenna was so impressed by this act of courage that he broke off the siege of Rome.