Lucius Cornelius Sulla as Imperator AR Denarius 84-83 BC Roman Republic Rare Silver Coin Gens Cornelia Museum Reproduction CSRD0026

“On this exceptional military issue, Sulla strikes in the East as Imperator without reference to Senatorial authorization, an ominous foreshadowing of the Imperatorial age of the 40s and 30s BC.” – David R Sear. This coin was issued as Sulla was preparing to march on Rome, setting a dangerous precedent later followed in similar circumstances by Julius Caesar. Crawford suggests the two trophies on the reverse represent those erected after Sulla’s famous victory at Chaeronea, where he defeated the forces of Mithridates VI although outnumbered three to one.

The gens Cornelia was one of the most distinguished Roman gentes, and produced a greater number of illustrious men than any other house at Rome. Servius Cornelius Cossus Maluginensis was first to achieve the consulship in 485 BC. The gens was a major contributor to the highest offices of the Republic, and contested for consulships with the Fabii and the Valerii from the 3rd century BC. Over thirty percent of all consulships were held by men from Cornelii; several great commanders also came from this family.
DESIGN:
Obverse side
Diademed head of Venus right; on right, Cupid standing left, holding palm-branch in right hand
Legend:
L•SVLLA

Reverse side
Jug and lituus between two trophies
Legend:
IMPER ITERVM

A perfect choice for Numismatists, Historians, Military Veterans, Collectors.