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Banner Artemide LXII
Lot # 355
Julius Caesar. AR Denarius, C. Cossutius Maridianus moneyer, 44 BC. Obv. PARENS PATRIAE - CAESAR. Veiled head right, wearing the Etruscan gold crown; to left, apex; to right. lituus. Rev. C·COSSVTIVS and MARIDIANVS. Crosswise; in the four corners A-A-A-F F (aere, argento, auro flando feriundo). Cr. 480/19; B. (Julia) 43; RRSC D 265.14. AR. 3.61 g. 18 mm. A fascinating portrait. Oxidations and scratch on obverse. About EF. This denarius is the most remarkable example of Caesar's vision for his future as an autocrat: there is not the slightest hint of the imagery commonly associated with Greek rulers, such as the diadem or the mention of the word 'rex.' Instead, Caesar chooses the seemingly innocuous title of 'parens patriae' (father of the fatherland), a title granted to him when he was appointed dictator perpetuus (dictator for life). Contrary to common misconception, Caesar is not wearing a laurel wreath, but a crown made of small golden leaves, as clearly seen on this specimen. This was the crown worn by Jupiter Capitolinus and by the dictator during his triumphal procession. Caesar's head is veiled to signify his role as Pontifex Maximus. For the same reason, we also find the symbols of the two most important priestly colleges: on the left, the apex, a pointed leather cap worn by the Flamines during their duties, and on the right, the lituus, the staff used by Augurs responsible for interpreting bird omens in Rome. However, despite Caesar’s careful strategies, strong opposition grew among the Senators, who foresaw their diminishing influence and power. Caesar's assassination was only a matter of time.
Starting price: € 750
Number of bids: 14
Observed by: [login required]
Sold: € 1'400
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