Lot 3171
Julius Caesar, d. 44 BC. Gold Aureus (8.07 g) minted at Rome by moneyer L. Plancus, 45 BC. Diademed bust right of Victory; wing at shoulder. Reverse: Jug and moneyer's name. Cr. 475/1a; Syd. 1019a. NGC graded XF*; Strike 5/5; Surface 4/5. Our grade is About EF.
The generic grade of NGC's "XF" corresponds to that of U.S. coinage. The coin grader at NGC presumably adopted "XF" to retain a consistency within their organization. "Extremely Fine," or "EF" connotes an ancient coin with little or no wear, with minimal problems or weakness.
There is an alignment of obverse type between this aureus and the equally rare orichalcum dupondii (Cr. 476). Both are probably commemorating Caesar's victory in Spain, although Michael Crawford in his groundbreaking reference Roman Republican Coinage (1974) suggests that both emissions were minted early in 45 BC, before Caesar's triumphal arrival in Rome.
Estimated Value $3,000 - 4,000.
The Durant Collection.
|
| |
| Realized $10,350 |
