Lot 3172
L. Cestius and C. Norbanus, moneyers, 43 BC. Gold Aureus (8.13 g) minted at Rome. Draped bust right of Sibyl. Reverse: Cybele on throne being drawn left in biga of lions; she holds patera and rests left arm on tympanum. Cr. 491/2; Syd. 1155; BMC 4193. A superb example of this rare coin. NGC graded Ch XF*; Strike 5/5; Surface 4/5.
One of the intellectual benefits of collecting Roman Republican and Imperatorial coins is the importance of interpretation. At the time of their issuance, these numismatic testimonials were, in the main, symbolic. This choice of symbolic types, often commemorating ancestors and times several hundred years prior to their mintage, can lead to many diverse theories. Most numismatists now agree on the obverse type being Sibyl, mainly because of a strong connection with the gens Julia and Julius Caesar in particular. Sibyl was a priestess with the knowlede of the future; Cybele was Mater Deum, Mother of the Gods. She could have been selected for the reverse to show the hope of victory for Caesar.
Estimated Value $6,000 - 7,000.
The Durant Collection.
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| Realized $13,800 |
