Lot 2113

Description

Augustus, (27 B.C. - A.D. 14), silver denarius, Uncertain Spanish mint (Colonia Caesar Augusta), issued 19-18 B.C. (2.716 grams), obv. laureate head of Augustus to right around [CAESAR] AVGVSTVS, rev. [DI]VVS IVLIVS, across to left and right of eight ray comet with tail upwards, (S.1607, RIC 37a, C.98, BMC 323). Extensively water worn, otherwise very fine and rare.

Believed to be from a ancient ship-wreck found in the Adriatic area. The oak-wreath worn by Augustus is that which was presented to him by the Senate in 27 B.C., and the comet that which appeared in the heavens shortly after the death of Julius Caesar.