ROMAN REPUBLIC. C. Coelius Caldus. AR Denarius (4.14 gms), Rome Mint, 53 B.C. NGC Ch AU★, Strike: 4/5 Surface: 5/5. Cr-437/4a; Syd-898. Obverse: Bare head of the consul C. Coelius Caldus right; carnyx and spear to left; Reverse: Veiled figure standing left behind lectisternium; trophy to left and right. A hint of striking weakness is noted on each side, but it does not interfere with the main details. The obverse features an incredibly realistic and lifelike portrait of the moneyers namesake ancestor who served as the first in his family to attain the role of consul. An attractive cabinet tone augments the already strong eye appeal of this piece, as is evident by its star designation.
