C. Annius T.F. & C. Tarquitius P.F. (82-81 BC) Denarius

A very interesting coin.  Struck by the proconsul Gaius Annius Luscus and one of his two moneyers (Tarquitius) during Sulla's first effort to subdue Sertorius. Sulla had marched on Rome in 83 BC notably with the support of a young Pompey the Great and Crassus.  After a complicated campaign against the Marian Senate, Sulla emerged triumphant in the Battle of the Colline Gate in November 82 BC.  Sertorius, while allied with the Marians, had despaired of their incompetence early and was got an assignment as governor of Hispania in 83 BC.  This coin was struck by Luscus's forces sent by Sulla to subdue Sertorius after the conclusion of the campaign in Italy and Africa. Luscus succeeded and forced Sertorius to flee, but he would return after Luscus had returned to Rome to rout the Sullan forces and set himself up as the effective ruler of Hispania.  His revolt would last until his assassination in 72 BC.

Crawford argues this issue was minted in Spain, though that appears to be unproven.  Also, the appearance of Anna Perenna is interesting as she only appears on this batch of coins issued in 82/81.

C. Annius T.F. & C. Tarquitius P.F. (82-81 BC) Denarius

N. Italy or Spain (3.87 g)

O: C ANNIVS T F T N PRO COS EX

S C / Diademed head Anna Perenna right; scales lower right

R: C TARQVITI P F/ XIIII / Q / Victory, palm frond and reins, quadriga right

Crawford 366/4