Legend has it that, in order to show her wealth and power, Cleopatra made a bet with her lover, the Roman leader Marc Antony — that she could spend 10 million sesterces on one meal. She ordered the second course to be served. In accordance with previous instructions, the servants placed in front of her only a single vessel containing vinegar. She took one earring off, and dropped the pearl in the vinegar, and when it was wasted away, swallowed it. It wasn't just any pearl, it was believed to be largest in the whole of history, a remarkable and truly unique work of nature worth 10 million sesterces. Safe to say, she won the bet.