Augustus (27 BC-AD 14). AR denarius (18mm, 8h). NGC VF, brushed. Lugdunum, 2 BC-AD 4.

Description

Augustus (27 BC-AD 14). AR denarius (18mm, 8h). NGC VF, brushed. Lugdunum, 2 BC-AD 4. CAESAR AVGVSTVS-DIVI F PATER PATRIAE, laureate head of Augustus right / AVGVSTI F COS DESIG PRINC IVVENT, Gaius and Lucius Caesars, togate, standing facing, each supporting grounded shield with inner hand, spears resting against shields; simpulum (on left) and lituus (on right) turned inwards above; C L CAESARES in exergue. RIC I 207.

Augustus minted this series coins in both gold and silver as a way to introduce the world to his beloved grandsons, adopted sons, and heirs apparent, Lucius and Gaius. These coins were part of Augustus’ effort to secure a dynastic succession. However, fate had other plans as both Lucius and Gaius predeceased him, with Lucius dying in AD 2 and Gaius in AD 4, events that deeply saddened Augustus. The premature demise of his grandsons forced him to adopt his stepson, Tiberius, as his heir, as many of his top picks did not outlive Augustus who died at the age of 75.