Lot 74
Imperatorial Rome. Julius Caesar, d. 44 BC. AR (Silver) Denarius (4.09 g), Rome mint, struck January-February 44 BC. Laureate head of Caesar right, simpulum and lituus behind; CAESAR.IMP. Reverse: Venus stands left, head lowered, holding Victory and reversed spear, shield at side; M.METTIVS, G in left field. Crawford 480/3; CRI 100; Alföldi (Caesar in 44 v. Chr.) plate XXI, 128 (these dies). Remarkably well-centered for this series, on ample flan of superb metal. With bold, naturalistic lifetime portrait of the aging Caesar. Very handsome collection toning. A stunning coin, without the usual striking and other problems, rampant in this series, and rare as such. NGC graded Choice About Uncirculated.
The portrait denarii of Julius Caesar are certainly the most studied in Imperatorial coinage. Lifetime portraits first appeared on Roman coins during this relatively brief time span between the Republic and the coinage of the emperors. By placing the denarii in die-link order, time frames have been better understood, identifying this exceptional denarius most probably struck during the second half of February 44 BC, just before the assassination of Julius Caesar on the fifteenth of March of that fateful year.
Estimated Value $12,000 - 14,000.
Illustrated in Money of the World, coin 29.
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| Realized $35,650 |
