Roman Silver Denarius Lugdunum - 27 BCE to 14 CE | Emperor Caesar Augustus

Discover the revered Silver Denarius of Caesar Augustus, struck between 27 BCE and 14 CE. This rare coin embodies the grandeur of Ancient Rome, featuring the laureate head of the first Roman emperor and the heirs-presumptive, Caius and Lucius Caesar. Its exceptional patina highlights its authenticity and age, making it a prized possession for any collector. Procured from a renowned auction house, this piece offers not only a glimpse into Roman history but also a testament to Augustan propaganda and lineage celebration.

The Silver Denarius presented here is a striking testament to the power and influence of Caesar Augustus, the founder of the Roman Principate and an enduring symbol of Roman authority. This particular coin was minted in Lugdunum (modern-day Lyon, France), which underscores its significance, as this city was a key location for the production of Roman coinage during Augustus' reign.

The obverse of the coin proudly displays the title 'CAESAR AVGVSTVS DIVI F PATER PATRIAE', proclaiming Augustus as the son of the deified Julius Caesar and the father of the nation. The laureate head of Augustus symbolizes both his divine right to rule and his military victories.

The reverse features Caius and Lucius Caesar standing with military and priestly symbols, representing their roles as heirs to Augustus and leaders-in-waiting. The presence of two shields, two sceptres, and religious implements signifies their preparedness for both war and peace, reflecting the dual roles of the emperor as a military commander and religious figurehead.

Struck in fine silver, this Denarius weighs 3.71 grams with a diameter of 17 mm. Its rarity is enhanced by its condition, with a beautiful patina that speaks to its age and preservation. The coin's material, silver, sourced from the vast mines of the empire, was chosen for its durability and intrinsic value, making it ideal for coins of significant importance.

This coin was not just currency but a means of disseminating the image and ideology of Augustus, a propaganda tool used by a master statesman. Its rarity and the significance of its iconography make it a highlight for collectors and historians alike.

The coin features Caesar Augustus, who reigned from 27 BCE to 14 CE. Augustus was a ruler famed for establishing the Pax Romana, a period of relative peace and stability throughout the empire. The imagery on the coin, including the laurel wreath, symbolizes victory and divinity, reinforcing Augustus's position as the revered leader who brought major reforms to Rome and expanded its boundaries.