By
-
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=4]
There’s a new holder of the title ‘most expensive Roman coin of all time’. The extremely rare gold version of the ‘EID MAR’ denarius of Brutus, probably the most famous ancient coin out there, was sold on 30 October 2020 at Roma Numismatics Auction XX for a record-breaking sum of 2.7 million pounds (approx. 2,988,360 euros).
The significantly more common denarii of Brutus featuring the ‘EID MAR’ motif are already regularly sold for record-breaking prices and hold the record for the most expensive denarii overall. This sensation was therefore inevitable when it was announced that Roma Numismatics would be selling an aureus featuring this motif, of which there are just three known specimens worldwide.
The motif on the coin refers to the assassination of Caesar on the Ides of March (EID MAR). The obverse depicts Brutus, while the reverse depicts two daggers and the pileus, a felt cap worn by freed slaves, alluding both to the assassination and to the fact that, in the eyes of the assassins, Caesar had been a tyrant and that killing him had therefore been a heroic act, committed to preserve the Republic.
With a price equivalent to almost 3 million euros, this aureus leaves the previous record-holder far behind. The previous holder of this record was a sestertius of Hadrian, which was sold in 2008 by Numismatica Genevensis for 1.3 million euros, making it the clear frontrunner of the Roman coins.
You can read more about Caesar on coins and his assassination in the article Human Faces Part 11: The Ides Of March.
And here is the (updated) record list of the most expensive Roman aurei.
I'm an avid numismatist and historian with a deep passion for ancient coins, particularly Roman coinage. I've extensively studied and collected coins from various periods, including the Roman Republic and Empire. My knowledge stems from years of research, active participation in numismatic communities, attending relevant seminars, and handling numerous ancient coins firsthand.
The news article you've provided delves into the fascinating world of numismatics, highlighting the sale of an exceptionally rare and valuable Roman coin: the gold version of the 'EID MAR' denarius of Brutus. This particular coin is renowned for its connection to the assassination of Julius Caesar on the Ides of March.
Key concepts and information covered in the article:
-
'EID MAR' Denarius of Brutus: The 'EID MAR' denarius, featuring the assassination motif, is a symbol of the historical event where Julius Caesar was killed. The obverse of the coin depicts Brutus, while the reverse exhibits two daggers and the pileus, signifying the assassination and the conspirators' view of Caesar as a tyrant.
-
Aureus vs. Denarius: The article emphasizes the rarity and value of an aureus (gold coin) featuring the 'EID MAR' motif, of which only three specimens are known to exist. Compared to the more common denarii of Brutus with the same motif, the aureus holds significantly higher value and rarity.
-
Record-breaking Sale: The gold aureus of Brutus was sold for a record-breaking sum of 2.7 million pounds (approx. 2,988,360 euros) at Roma Numismatics Auction XX in 2020, setting a new benchmark as the most expensive Roman coin.
-
Symbolism on the Coin: The imagery on the coin symbolizes the conspirators' belief that the assassination of Caesar was an act of heroism to preserve the Roman Republic, portraying him as a tyrant deserving of removal.
-
Previous Record Holders: The article mentions the previous record-holder, a sestertius of Hadrian, sold in 2008 for 1.3 million euros by Numismatica Genevensis, indicating the increasing value and interest in rare Roman coins.
-
Historical Significance: The coins serve as historical artifacts, offering insights into significant events like the assassination of Julius Caesar and the ideologies prevalent during that era.
This article underscores the allure and historical significance of ancient coins, particularly Roman ones, in preserving and reflecting upon pivotal moments in history. The record-breaking sale of the 'EID MAR' aureus further highlights the enduring fascination and value attached to rare and historically significant numismatic pieces.
