Roman Empire, Augustus (27 BC-AD 14), as Octavian, uncertain Italian mint

Description

Roman Empire: Augustus (as Octavian) AR Denarius

Reign: 27 BC – AD 14
Period: Struck 31-30 BC
Mint: Uncertain Italian mint (possibly Brundisium or Rome)
Material: Silver (AR)
Weight: 3.83 g

Obverse:

• Design: Head of Augustus (as Octavian) facing left.
• Inscription: None

Reverse:

• Design: Victoria standing left on a globe, holding a wreath.
• Inscription: CAESAR-DIVI F (“Caesar, son of the divine”)

References:

• RIC 254b
• RSC 64
• BMC 603

Condition:

• Grading: Fine to Good Fine
• Notes: Residually lustrous, but flattened

Provenance:

• From the Collection of Dr. Tony Abramson

Historical Context:

This silver denarius was minted during a pivotal moment in Roman history, immediately following Octavian’s decisive victory at the Battle of Actium in 31 BC. The battle marked the defeat of Mark Antony and Cleopatra, leading to Octavian’s uncontested rule over Rome. The coin’s imagery reflects Octavian’s efforts to legitimize his power and connect himself to Julius Caesar, his adoptive father, who was deified after his assassination.

The reverse features Victoria, the goddess of victory, standing on a globe, symbolizing Octavian’s triumph over the known world. The inscription “CAESAR-DIVI F” emphasizes his divine heritage, a critical element in his propaganda campaign to secure his position as the leader of the Roman state. This denarius is a significant artifact from the era that marked the end of the Roman Republic and the dawn of the Roman Empire under Augustus.

For further information, please call 212-319-1077