M. Caecilius Metellus, 82-80 BC, Denarius 82-80 BC, Rome.

3,73 g. Head of Apollo right; before, value-mark ROMA / M METELLVS Q F Macedonian shield decorated with elephant`s head; around laurel-wreath. Mediolanum 369/1; Syd. 719. good very fine, horn silver.

Purchased from Munzhandlung Ritter GmbH

Quintus Caecilius Metellus Pius had a long career as a politician and general in the early 1st century BC. He earned the title "Pius" for his unwavering support for his father, Metellus Numidicus. During the Social War, Pius was a solid if unspectacular commander and a more successful judge administering the newly conquered lands of Italy. During the civil war of 84-80 BC, he reluctantly supported Sulla against to the Marian regime of Cinna i Carbo, eventually becoming his deputy. It was during this period that he minted silver denarii of the type presented at an unknown mint in northern Italy. These denarii refer to his title as Pontifex Maximus, or chief priest. 63 BC, the office of Pontifex Maximus, which was sought and finally won by the young Julius Caesar, became vacant.

Collection : Macedonian shield coins