Roman republic - denarius Blasio 112 BC (JUN23132)

Cn. Blasio Cn.f. 112-111 BC. AR Denarius (17 mm, 3.93 g). Rome mint. Helmeted head of Mars right; wreath behind / Jupiter standing slightly left between Juno and Minerva, who crowns Jupiter with wreath; Y between Jupiter and Minerva. Crawford 296/1d; Sydenham 561b; Cornelia 19. VF, toned

The gens Cornelia was one of the most distinguished Roman gentes, and produced a greater number of illustrious men than any other house at Rome. Servius Cornelius Cossus Maluginensis was first to achieve the consulship in 485 BC. The gens was a major contributor to the highest offices of the Republic, and contested for consulships with the Fabii and the Valerii from the 3rd century BC. Over thirty percent of all consulships were held by men from Cornelii; several great commanders also came from this family.