Lot 241: L. Cassius Longinus. 60 B.C. AR denarius. Rome.

L. Cassius Longinus. 60 B.C. AR denarius (19 mm, 3.79 g, 3 h). Rome. Veiled and draped bust of Vesta left; below chin, C; behind, kylix / LONGIN III [V], male figure standing left, dropping tablet inscribed V (Uti rogas) into cista. Crawford 413/1; Sydenham 935; Cassia 10. Test cut on edge. Toned. Good very fine. 

This coin is interesting in that it appears to lack the personal and family names of the moneyer. However, appearances can be deceiving. On the obverse below the chin of Vesta is a control letter, and the only letters employed on this issue are C, A, S, I and L. If one collects enough coins of this moneyer, he can then spell the moneyer''s name in full. But why might a moneyer do this? In the case of L. Cassius Longinus it appears to relate to the recent exposure and suppression of the Catiline conspiracy. One of the most notorious members of the conspiracy, the one who was tasked with setting fire to the city of Rome, was one L. Cassius Longinus, but not the same person as our moneyer!

• Offered By: Barry P. Murphy
• Lot #: 241
• Listing #: 228253
• Closed: Tuesday, December 15, 2015 5:20:00 PM CT
• Estimate: $100