Exceptional Melpomene
Q. Pomponius Musa. AR Denarius, 66 BC. Obv. Laureate head of Apollo right; behind, sceptre. Rev. Melpomene standing facing, head right, holding club and mask; on right, Q. POM-PONI; on left, MVSA. Cr. 410/4 var.(PO-MPONI); B. 14 var. (same); Banti 25. 3.94 g. 18.50 mm. R. Very rare variety, unlisted in Crawford, Babelon and Sydenham. Great metal and full weight. An outstanding example, brilliant and superb, with underlying luster. Good EF. Melpomene was the Muse of Tragedy.