Denarius of Calpurnius Piso Frugi

Pictured here is a silver denarius, which came in from John Lashmar. Most of the Roman denarii we see date from the Imperial period but this one is earlier and was struck when Rome was a Republic.

On the obverse, facing right, is the head of Apollo with a control mark behind. On the reverse is a horseman in full flight, beneath which is C PISO L F FRVG in a single line with a control letter below.

Denarii of this type were struck under the authority of C. Calpurnius Pico L. f. Frugi during 67 BC. The type is very similar to an issue dating from 90 BC and the two can easily be confused.

In volume I of David Sear’s Roman Coins and Their Values denarii of this type are listed as number 348. They are not particularly scarce as a very large number went into circulation.

Valuation

Lots of denarii struck during the period that Roman was a Republic turn up as detecting finds. Through being in circulation for long periods, they are often quite worn. This specimen is in better condition than most others I have seen as detecting finds. It has a few scuffs and the surfaces are dark but it is otherwise about VF for the period. As it stands, my price range would be £40-50.

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