MARC ANTONY - denarius COPHORTVS SPECVLATORVM (S25137)

MARK ANTONY. Denarius (32-31 BC). Patrae(?). Legionary issue.

Obv: ANT AVG / III VIR R P C.

Galley right.

Rev: CHORTIS SPECVLATORVM.

Three signa, each decorated with two wreaths and a prow.

Crawford 544/12; CRI 386.

Rare

Condition: Fine.

Weight: 3.40 g.

Serving as scouts and messengers, the cohortes speculatorum filled the role of spies within each legion. Normally ten in number per legion, Mark Antony created a special group of cohortes who specifically served around him, carrying out personal instructions and protecting his well-being, essentially acting as an early secret service–a concept which was further developed during the empire under Augustus.

Diameter: 17 mm.