QAntoniusBalbusDenarius2

AR Q. Antonius Balbus Denarius 83/82 B.C.(4.0g) Q. Antonius Balbus was a member of the Marian party and, in 82 B.C., he was appointed praetor of Sardinia. Before leaving to assume his post, the Senate, which was dominated by members of the Marian party, ordered this issue struck to pay the army preparing to resist the return of Sulla to power. The reverse imagery reflects Balbus’ expectations of victory. Sulla, however, was victorious, and in 82 B.C. Balbus was removed from his office as praetor by L. Philippus and slain. O: Laur.Hd of Jupiter r., S.C. behind; Craw.364/1d; Syd.742; RSC Antonia 1 R: Q ANTO BALB PR; Victory with palm branch and wreath driving quadriga r. G: lovely iridescent toning". FDC S: Edward J. Waddell, Ltd. 5/17/99