Q. Pomponius Musa, 56 BC. Denarius (Silver, 17 mm, 4.00 g, 3 h), Rome. Laureate head of Apollo to right; behind, two crossed flutes. Rev. [Q]•POMPONI - MVSA Euterpe, the Muse of Lyric, standing right, supporting her head by resting her left elbow on column and holding two flutes in her right. Babelon (Pomponia) 13. Crawford 410/5. RBW -. Sydenham 815. Attractive light toning. Very fine.


Other than on the coins of this moneyer, the name Musa is unknown in Roman history associated with the Pomponia gens. The reference to Hercules Musagetes and the nine Muses is obvious: it is a punning allusion to the name of the moneyer. It is probable that the representation of Hercules, as well as the depictions of the Muses on Q. Pomponius Musa's other denarii, are actual representations of the statuary which M. Fulvius Nobilior had installed in the temple he erected to the Muses in the Circus Flaminius in 179 BC.