Lot 5024

M. Herennius - AR Denarius (Rome 108-107 BC, 3.85 g) - Diademed head of Pietas to right, PIETAS behind / M HERENNI One of the Catanaean brothers running right bearing his father on his shoulders, C. in right field, dotted border (Crawford 308/1b / Sydenham 567a) - good VF. According to the story the Catanian brothers Amphinomus and Anapius from Sicily carried their older parents upon their shoulders to escape an eruption of the Etna. The gods were impressed by this respect for their parents and allowed them to escape safely.