Lot 351: M. Junius Brutus. 54 BC. AR Denarius. Rome mint.

M. Junius Brutus. 54 BC. AR Denarius (20mm - 4.15 g). Rome mint. BRVTVS behind, head of L. Junius Brutus / AHALA behind, head of C. Servilius Ahala. Crawford 433/2; Sydenham 907; Junia 30. Good VF, two scratches on obverse.

From the Ivar Gault Collection.

The reverse type of this coin recalls the expulsion of Tarquinius Superbus, the last king of Rome, by L. Junius Brutus, the moneyer's ancestor, who in 509 BC was elected the first consul of the newly formed Republic. M. Junius Brutus held strong republican views and was strongly opposed to Pompey's intentions of achieving sole rule. At the urging of Julius Caesar, he retired to private life after being accused of a conspiracy against Pompey. Later, he took up the cause of Pompey against Caesar and was an active participant in the assassination of Caesar. He met his own death on the battlefield of Philippi opposing the successors of Caesar, Antony and Octavian. .

• Offered By: VAuctions
• Lot #: 351
• Listing #: 181246
• Closed: Friday, January 31, 2014 6:55:00 PM CT
• Estimate: $300
• Collection: Ivar Gault