C. Naevius Balbus, 79 BCE, a scarcer control mark

C. Naevius Balbus

79 BCE

AR Denarius Serratus – 3.79 g, 19.2x17.5 mm, 5h

Rome mint

Obv: Diademed head of Venus to right, wearing single pendant earring and pearl necklace; behind, S•C; no letter or control mark.

Rev: C•N AE •B AL B Victory driving fast triga to right, holding reins in both hands; above, control mark Q

References: Crawford 382/1b; Sydenham 769b; Babelon (Naevia) 6; RBW 1410 var. (differing control mark); BMCRR --; Banti --

Notes: There are many of these types around. The vast majority of 382/1b types, which have the control mark on the reverse, with Roman numerals ranging from I (1) to CCXXX (230). The much scarcer types contain Roman alphabet letters as control marks on the reverse (nothing on obverse). This coin belongs to this 2nd group, without a control mark on the obverse and with a “Q” control mark on the reverse. Banti does not list the Q control mark on the reverse (closest would be a coin with an O control mark, Banti 7/1). This type is also not listed in Richard Schaefer’s Roman Republican Die Project, processed clippings.