Rare denarius with nice patina.
Reverse depicts the myth of Jupiter and Europa. Transforming into a white bull to join the herd of Europa's father, the king of the gods abducted the maiden and carried her across the sea to Crete, where according to legend she was made the first queen of the island.
As commonly depicted in ancient art, Europa is seen here seated on the bull's back with her drapery billowing in the wind.
Weak strike but mint state surface.
Roman Republic
L. Valerius Flaccus (45 BC), Denarius 45 BC, Rome mint
Obverse: head of Apollo right, hair tied with band, star above
ACISCVLVS
Reverse: Europa seated on bull right, L VALERIVS in exergue
Diameter 18 mm, weight 4.13 g
