Lot 2098

Description

Augustus, in memorial of Julius Caesar, (27 B.C. - A.D. 14), plated silver denarius, type of Rome mint, issued 17 B.C. by M. Sanquinius, (3.30 grams), obv. Julius Caesar laureate head to right, comet above showing four rays and tail, around M SANQVI NIVS III VIR, rev. herald or priest in long robe and feathered helmet standing left, right hand holding winged caduceus and left a shield, around AVGVST DI VI F LVDOS SAE, (S.-, RIC 340, C.6 [Julius Caesar], BMC 70). First with piece out of edge and copper core visible on obverse at base, otherwise good fine and very rare.

Ex. Spink Noble Sale 40 (lot 2600 part). The deification of Julius Caesar occurred in December 42 B.C., but the comet appeared shortly after his death. This piece was struck some thirty years later and also commemorates the Ludi Saeculares held in 17 B.C.