The first prominent member of the plebeian gens Naevia was Q. Naevius Matho. Of the two main branches Matho and Balbus, only Balbus appears on republican coinage. Allegedly the Balbi were of Phoenician origin and in ancient times had settled in Spain (Gades) where they had become known for their wealth. With regard to their foreign language, the name Balbus in Latin was associated with stutterers. C. Naevius Balbus, the moneyer for 80 BC, was a Sullan supporter and his use of Venus (patron deity of Sulla) as obverse type on this serratus, together with the reverse type, probably commemorates Sulla's victories against Mithridates VI of Pontus.

Obv. Venus right, wearing a diadem, earring, necklace, behind S.C. (special authorisation by the senate).
Rev. Winged Victory driving a triga, control-mark C XXXXV above, in exergue NAE. BALB.

The obverse with Venus portrayed on the coinage of Naevius has been identified by some as Diana. The coinage of the moneyer Claudius Nero, for instance, of the same year, associated Diana with both victory and Sulla.

Obv. Venus right, wearing a diadem, earring, necklace, S.C. behind.
Rev. Winged Victory driving a triga, control-mark above XXXX, NAE. BALB in exergue.

The use of a triga as a reverse type on republican coinage is rare - previously it occurred in 110 BC on the coinage of Appius Claudius, who was also consul in 79 BC.

Obv. Venus right, wearing a diadem, earring, necklace, S.C. behind.
Rev. Winged Victory driving a triga, worn control-mark above and moneyer's signature in exergue.