Crawford 407/2, ROMAN REPUBLIC, C. Hosidius C. f. Geta, AR Denarius

Rome, The Republic.
C. Hosidius C. f. Geta, 68 BC.
AR Denarius (3.91g; 17mm).
Rome Mint.

Obverse: IIIVIR – GETA; diademed bust of Diana, facing right, with quiver of arrows over shoulder.

Reverse: C.HOSIDI.C.F.; wounded boar running to right, pursued by hound.

References: Crawford 407/2; Sydenham 903; Hosidia 1.

Provenance: Ex Kunker Auction 257 (10 Oct 2014), Lot 8422.

This type was struck in a serrate and plain-edged variety. Obverse and reverse styles differed on both varieties. Additionally, there are very rare hybrids, with the style and legend variety of one type on edge style flans of the other. The hound on the coins of C. Hosidius are shown in two distinct styles: on the non-serrate coins, in an ultra-slim, almost linear body style; and on the serrate coins, in a more lifelike, heavier style. In both cases, the hunting scene suggests that this dog should be a Laconian or Vertragus hound. Indeed, the dog is slim on both types, with a short haired tail – not a bushy tail, like a Molossian.