Salus (Goddess of Safety and Well-Being)

Mn. Acilius Glabrio, 49 B.C.

AR Denarius, 3.87g. 18mm. SALVTIS. Laureate head of Salus to right. Rev. MAN ACILIVS III VIR VALETV. Valetudo standing to left resting left arm on column and holding snake in right hand. CR 442/1a. Syd. 922. RBW 1556. Sear, Imperator 16. Lovely old collection  toning with underlying luster. 

The types may relate to the claim of the Acilia family of having introduced the first physician to Rome.  Mommsen, as referenced in Sear "Imperators" above, mentions that the Greek physician Archagathus came to Rome in 219 B.C. and established his practice at a locale near the Acilia family home.

Provenance/Pedigree:

Ex: NAC, Zurich, Auction 114, 2019, lot 1556.

See more detailed image
Extremely Fine $750.