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Contributor: Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.
Issuer: Gens POMPEIA. Sextus Pompey, son of Pompey the Great. 42-40 BC. AR Denarius (3.44 gm). Uncertain Sicilian mint.
Obverse: The Pharos of Messana surmounted by figure of Neptune who holds a trident and a rudder; galley before with aquila on the prow and sceptre on the stern.
Reverse: Scylla wielding rudder in both hands.
Reference: Crawford 511/4a; Sear 335; Sydenham 1348; RSC 2. Grade: aF.
Comments: Comment from CNG: It seems beyond doubt that this coin marks Pompey's "victory" over Octavian's fleet, which was mainly accomplished by an unfavorable wind that drove the latter's ships onto the rocks known as Scylleum near the harbor of Messana. Therefore the dates given for this issue in RSC and Crawford (42-40 BC) are wrong; the disaster at Messana occured circa 38 BC.