C. Considius Nonianus, 56 BC. Denarius (Silver, 17 mm, 3.82 g, 6 h), Rome. C•CONSIDI•NONIANI - S•C Laureate and draped bust of Venus Erycina to right, wearing diadem and single pendant earring. Rev. The Temple of Venus Erycina on the summit of Mount Eryx: tetrastyle temple seen from front on rocky mountain surrounded by a wall with crenelated tower at each end and a gate in center; above gate, ERVC. Babelon (Considia) 1a. Banti 1/1 (this coin). Crawford 424/1. RBW 1522. Sydenham 888. Beautifully toned, very well centered, and with an impressive pedigree. Minor areas of weakness and the obverse struck a little bit off center, otherwise, good very fine.



The reverse depicts the celebrated sanctuary of Venus Erycina on Mount Eryx in western Sicily, identified by the inscription ERVC above the gate. Long renowned as one of Sicily’s most important cult centres, the sanctuary became closely integrated into Roman religious tradition, particularly after the establishment of the cult of Venus Erycina at Rome during the Second Punic War.