Lot 148: C. Cassius Longinus. 42 B.C. AR tetradrachm. Military mint, probably at Smyrna. P. Lentulus Spinther, legate.

C. Cassius Longinus. 42 B.C. AR tetradrachm (20 mm, 3.62 g, 6 h). Military mint, probably at Smyrna. P. Lentulus Spinther, legate. C · CASSI · IMP behind, LEIBERTAS before, diademed, veiled and draped bust of Libertas right / LENTVLVS/SPINT in two lines below, capis and lituus. Crawford 500/5; HCRI 223; Sydenham 1305; RSC 6. 

The jug (or capis) and lituus on the reverse refer to P. Lentulus Spinther's membership in the augurate. The augurate was Rome's second most important priestly college with members being responsible for reading the signs of the gods to determine whether or not an anticipated undertaking would be divinely supported or opposed. The obvious implication of their appearance on the reverse of this coin suggests the belief that they had the support of the Olympian deities, who would lead them to reek vengeance upon the triumvirs, Antony and Octavian, during the anticipated showdown at Philippi.

• Offered By: Barry P. Murphy
• Lot #: 148
• Listing #: 237829
• Closed: Thursday, July 10, 2014 5:49:00 PM CT
• Estimate: $500