C. Antestius 146 BC, silver Denarius, Rome

C. Antestius (146 BC), silver Denarius, Rome mint, helmeted head of Roma right behind, C ANTESTI, X (mark of value) below chin, rev. the Dioscuri, each holding spear, on horseback riding right; below, dog running right, both forepaws raised, ROMA in exergue, 3.74g, 9h,(Crawford 219/1e; Sydenham 411; Antestia 1; RBW 939). Old cabinet tone, about extremely fine.

Gaius Antestius, known on his coins as C. Antestius, was a Roman moneyer who lived during the Roman Republic. His name survives today largely because of the coins he helped produce at Rome in 146 BC. Although little is known about his personal life, his coinage provides a fascinating glimpse into Roman society and its values. Antestius was responsible for issuing several denominations, including silver denarii and bronze coins. His denarius depicts the helmeted head of Roma on the obverse, representing the city and the Roman state. On the reverse, the Dioscuri Castor and Pollux are shown riding on horseback, accompanied by a small dog. The design reflects Rome's military traditions, religious beliefs and growing power. The year 146 BC was particularly significant in Roman history. Rome destroyed both Carthage and Corinth, marking a dramatic expansion of Roman power across the Mediterranean. Antestius' coins were therefore produced at a moment when the Republic was becoming one of the dominant powers of the ancient world. While Antestius himself remains a relatively mysterious figure, his name has survived for more than two thousand years through these small pieces of silver and bronze. Each coin provides a tangible connection to Rome during a pivotal moment in its history.

The obverse legend C ANTESTI translates to "Gaius Antestius."

The reverse legend ROMA translates to "Rome."