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Mark Antony Legionary Denarius LEG V
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ANT AVG III VIR R P C
galley r. mast with banners at prow
Rev LEG V legionary eagle between two standards
Patrae mint 32-31BC
Legio V Alaudae (also known as Gallica) was the first Roman legion composed of provincial soldiers, as opposed to Roman citizens. Caesar paid the soldiers with his own resources, but the legion was later recognized by the Roman Senate. V Alaudae fought in the Gallic wars until 49 BC, as one of the most brave legions of Caesar, then they were moved to Spain. They served with Mark Antony between 41 and 31 BC and probably fought in Actium. After Antony committed suicide, they were merged into Augustus' army in 30 BC.
Their emblem depicted an elephant and was awarded in 46 BC for bravery against a charge of elephants in the Battle of Thapsus.
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