Mark Antony and Cleopatra, 34 BC. Denarius (Silver, 19.5 mm, 3.79 g, 1 h), Alexandria. CLEOPATRAE [REGINAE REGV]M FILIORVM REGVM Draped and diademed bust of Cleopatra to right, wearing a pearl necklace and with, at the point of the bust, a prow to right. Rev. ANTONI ARMENIA DEVICTA Bare head of Mark Antony to right; behind neck, Armenian tiara. Babelon (Antonia) 95. Crawford 543/1. Sydenham 1210. Very rare, a coin of great historical and 'romantic' interest. Toned and with intriguing portraits. Minor marks, otherwise, good very fine.

From the Collection of Prof. James M. Collier, acquired from Baldwin's in London on 11 September 2002, ex Lanz 106, 27 November 2001, 221.

It is quite likely that Antony and Cleopatra are, today, the most famous couple from ancient times. In fact, they were also famous, or infamous, in Roman times as well, and their story has been told and retold ever since. One thing that has always been consistent in their portrayal has been Cleopatra's beauty (combined with brains and a ruthless personality) and Antony's craggy good looks. This coin clearly attests to what we know: Cleopatra is shown as a woman of intelligence, power and determination, who could easily dominate and control anyone she wanted. As for Antony, well, he looks like a powerful athlete, a bad enemy but good 'pal', a decent, honourable chap, whose brains were no match for Cleopatra's.

This lot is sold to benefit the Collier Prize in Ancient Numismatics offered by the American Numismatic Society.