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Roman Republic, C. Mamilius C.f. Limetanus, 82 BC
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C. Mamilius C.f. Limetanus. Silver Denarius (3.81 g), 82 BC. Rome. Draped bust of Mercury right, wearing winged petasus; behind, A above caduceus. Reverse : C MAMIL LIME(TA)N, Odysseus (Ulysses in Latin form) advancing right, holding staff and extending hand to his dog Argus, coming to greet him. Crawford 362/1; Sydenham 741; Mamilia 6.
The types on this coin allude to the moneyer's claim to descent from Telegonus, son of Ulysses/Odysseus and Circe, and hence from the god Mercury. When Odysseus returns home after twenty years disguised as a beggar and his old dog, who had been neglected, is the only one who recognizes him.
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