While the main functions of the magistrates were quite routine and traditional, some chance incidents illustrate that their potential authority (at least that of the consuls and praetors) was much expansive. In the early 80s B.C.E. the praetor Gratidianus responded to problems in the currency with a series of measures not supported by any law. He changed their value (by changing either the composition or the official exchange rate) and established a board to test coins already in circulation and punish, apparently, forgers. In 58 B.C.E. Cicero was exiled with the support of the consuls of that year. Many of his senatorial and equestrian allies staged demonstrations of sympathy by dressing in mourning clothes. One of the consuls forbade them to dress this way and banished at least one knight from the city altogether. When Cicero returned the...