L. Thorius Balbus, 105 BC. Denarius (Silver, 21 mm, 4.00 g, 6 h), Rome. I•S•M•R Head of Juno Sospita to right, wearing goat-skin headdress. Rev. L•THORIVS / BALBVS Bull charging to right; above, S. Babelon (Thoria) 1. Crawford 316/1. RBW 1168 var. (differing control). Sydenham 598. Minor marks, otherwise, very fine.

From the Red Ox Collection and the collection of the Czech musician Adolf Picek (circa 1885-1978), and formerly in the possession of an Italian banker, whose life was saved by Mr. Picek in the Battles of the Piave River on the Italian Front in 1917-1918 and who presented his savior with 'four socks of old coins' in reward.