Roman Empire - Augustus, 27 BC-AD 14. Silver Denarius (3.59 g. 20 mm.), minted in Hispania, Colonia Patricia 18-16 B.C.

SPQR IMP CAESARI AVG COS XI TRI POT VI, bare head right /

CIVIB ET SIGN MILIT A PART RECVPER, Triumphal arch of Augustus: central arch surmounted by a facing quadriga; side arches, on each of which is a standing figure; on left, figure standing right, holding a signum in raised right hand; on right, figure standing left, holding an aquila in raised right hand and bow at side in left.

RIC 134. BMC 428. Cal 728. Co 84. FFC 67.

The reverse type depicts the Arcus Augusti, a triumphal arch erected in AD 19 to commemorate the return of the legionary standards captured by the Parthians from Crassus at the disastrous battle of Carrhae in 63 BC. The two soldiers flanking the emperor on the top of the arch are Parthian warriors shown presenting the standards to Augustus. Interestingly, while the use of the triumphal arch gave the impression that Augustus had reclaimed the standards through military victory, they were in fact returned as part of a bloodless diplomatic settlement.

Very fine. Banker marks. Old cabinet toning. Very scarce!