Lot 3653

Description

Octavian, silver denarius, issued 42 B.C., Rome Mint, 3.55 grams, C.497/2b, S.1322, BMC Gaul 76, Sear Augustus 55a (p.135), Obv. Head of Octavian, to r. CAESAR III VIR R.P.C, border of dots, Rev. Curule chair on which is a wreath, inscribed CAESAR DIC. PER on chair. Good fine, minor surface marks, lightly toned, rare, (72).

The issue is a memorial to Julius Caesar and shows the gilded sella and jewelled wreath which the Senate decreed to him on the occasion of his triumph in 45 B.C. This issue also presents the earliest numismatic portrait of Octavian (later Augustus), and consequently is of great interest.