Roman Republic (Ancient, pre-41 BC)
P. Fonteius P. f. Capito. Silver Denarius (4.09 g), 55 BC. Rome. P FONTEIVS P F CAPITO III VIR, helmeted and draped bust of Mars right, trophy over shoulder. Reverse: (MN) FO(NT) TR MIL, soldier on horseback rearing right, thrusting his spear at a Gallic enemy who is about to slay an unarmed person; to lower right, helmet and shield. Crawford 429/1; Sydenham 900; Fonteia 17. Wonderful iridescent toning with hues of gold and blue, and underlying iridescence. Scratch in obverse field. Extremely Fine. Estimated Value $300
The reverse commemorates a valorous deed of one Manius Fonteius, but the precise circumstances are lost to us. Both Crawford and Harl suggest he may have served under another ancestor, Marcus Fonteius, who was governor of Gallia Narbonesis from 76-73 BC.