CVC & Collectables presents a classic silver denarius of the Roman Republic struck in 103 BC by Lucius Julius Caesar, a prominent member of the gens Julia. This issue is celebrated both for its elegant mythological imagery and for its important dynastic connection—the moneyer was the uncle of Julius Caesar, one of the most famous figures in world history.
Coin Highlights:
- Issuer: Roman Republic
- Moneyer: L. Julius L.f. Caesar
- Denomination: AR Denarius
- Mint: Rome
- Date: 103 BC
- Metal: Silver
- Weight: 3.22 g
- Diameter: 15–17 mm
- Technique: Hammered
- Orientation: Variable
- Grade: NGC Very Fine (VF)
- References: Crawford 320/1; Sydenham 593; RSC Julia 4
Obverse:
Helmeted head of Mars facing left, wearing a crested Corinthian helmet. The control mark F appears above.
Mars, god of war and father of Romulus, symbolized Rome’s military power and ancestral strength—an appropriate type for a member of the Julii, who claimed divine lineage.
Reverse:
Venus driving a biga drawn by two Cupids to the left, holding scepter and reins. The control mark F appears above, with a lyre below.
Venus was the divine ancestress of the Julian family through Aeneas, making this reverse a powerful statement of family prestige and divine favor. The playful Cupids add a uniquely graceful and artistic touch rarely seen on Republican denarii.
Moneyer Background – L. Julius L.f. Caesar
- Family: Gens Julia
- Notable Relation: Uncle of Julius Caesar
- Political Role: Roman magistrate and moneyer
- Legacy: His coinage laid early visual groundwork for the Julian claim of descent from Venus, later exploited on an imperial scale by his nephew
Collectibility:
Crawford 320/1 is a highly desirable Roman Republican denarius, valued for its artistic reverse, mythological symbolism, and direct connection to the Julian lineage. Certified NGC VF examples offer strong eye appeal with clear devices and legends, making them ideal for collectors of Republican silver or early Caesar-related issues.
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