Pre-Long Beach Auction #80

L. Censorinus. Silver Denarius (4.06 g), 82 BC. Rome. Laureate head of Apollo right. Reverse L CENSOR, Satyr standing left, extending arm and holding wine skin over shoulder; behind, statue on column. Crawford 363/1d; Sydenham 737; Marcia 24. Lustrous and lightly toned. Nearly Mint State.

The meaning of the reverse is obscure. Crawford suggests it has to do with the moneyer's nomen but does not elaborate. Marsyas is best known in Greek and Roman mythology for his hubris. He was said to have challenged the god Apollo to a contest playing the flute, the victor getting to decide whatever punishment the loser would receive. Naturally, Apollo won the contest, and and as punishment for daring to challenge a god, he chose to flay Marsyas alive.
Estimated Value $800 - 900.
Ex Tkalec (29 February 2008), 117.