The Social War. Coinage of the Marsic Confederation. 90-88 BC. AR Denarius (21mm, 3.76 g, 12h). Bovianum(?) mint. Series 9b, 89 BC.

Electronic Auction 492
Lot: 327. Estimated: $ 3 000

Roman Republican, Silver

Sold For $ 4 500. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

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The Social War. Coinage of the Marsic Confederation. 90-88 BC. AR Denarius (21mm, 3.76 g, 12h). Bovianum(?) mint. Series 9b, 89 BC. Laureate head of Italia left, wearing single drop earring and pearl necklace / Soldier standing facing, head right, foot on uncertain object, holding spear and sword; recumbent bull to right; Oscan I in exergue. Campana, Monetazione 138 (D95/R116); Sydenham 627; HN Italy 407; RBW 1218 var. (control letter). Attractively toned, a few light scratches, obverse die break, remnants of find patina in Italia’s hair. Good VF. Rare.

Ex Roma XVI (26 September 2018), lot 537.

The revolt of Rome's Italian allies (socii, hence ‘Social War’) broke out toward the close of the year 91 BC and was the culmination of longstanding grievances occasioned by the Senate's inept handling of foreign relations. The Marsi were especially prominent in this movement, hence the name ‘Marsic Confederation’ which is often applied to the rebel state. The main fighting was in the years 90-89 BC and the rebellion assumed alarming proportions when both consuls for 90 BC were defeated by rebel armies. Rome appeared to be in serious danger of defeat, but the movement collapsed as suddenly as it had begun. The victory was probably achieved largely through the political concession of granting Roman citizenship to the enemy. Thereafter, all of Italy south of the Po was united by this common bond. The coinage of the Marsic Confederation is of great interest, consisting principally of silver denarii, some of which bear the names of the rebel generals.

Closing Date and Time: 26 May 2021 at 11:48:40 ET.

All winning bids are subject to an 18% buyer’s fee.