Denarius of Mn. Fonteius

This Roman silver coin was recently unearthed by Martin Depear, who asked for a full ID and a valuation.

Martin’s find is a denarius. Instead of dating to the Imperial period, this coin was struck when Rome was a Republic. At this time the system was more democratic, rather than dictatorial when later emperors held supreme power.

On the obverse, facing right, is the head of Apollo with a thunderbolt below and MN FONTEI C F starting behind and ending under the chin. On the reverse, set within a wreath, is Cupid mounted on a goat. Denarii of this type were struck under the authority of Mn. Fonteius C.f. during 85 BC. In volume I of David Sear’s Roman Coins and Their Values this type is listed as number 271.

Valuation

This isn’t a particularly scarce denarius but the overall condition is above average for a detecting find. Republican denarii were in circulation for a long time and most of those found in the UK are very worn when they turn up. The obverse of Martin’s coin would grade VF but the reverse isn’t as good. In its present condition my price range would be £60-70.

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