Roman Republic: Julius Caesar, as Dictator (49-44 BC). AR denarius (18mm, 3.93 gm, 2h). NGC AU 4/5 - 4/5, flan flaw....

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Julius Caesar, as Dictator (49-44 BC). AR denarius (18mm, 3.93 gm, 2h). NGC AU 4/5 - 4/5, flan flaw. Military mint traveling with Caesar in northern Italy, ca. 49-48 BC. CAESAR, elephant advancing right, trampling horned serpent / Culullus, aspergillum, securis (axe surmounted by dog or wolf's head), and apex. Crawford 443/1. Sydenham 1006. Hints of indigo toning.

From The Peh Family Collection, Part II. Ex Heritage Auctions, Auction 3011 (14 April 2011), lot 241.

One of the most popular types Caesar minted were of an elephant stepping on a serpent, with CAESAR in the exergue. Although there is no clear record of what these coins allude to, this design is believed to commemorate Caesar's victory in the Battle of Thapsus in 46 BC, where he defeated the forces of his political rival, Pompey, so efficiently that it was like an elephant stepping on a snake and could be seen as good defeating evil. On the reverse, he included important pontifical religious implements, a reminder to the Roman people that he was a pious man, and that he held numerous religious positions, such as Pontifex Maximus (Highest Priest). This series of coinage effectively communicated Caesar's dual image as a capable military leader and a custodian of Roman tradition, helping to consolidate his support base and establish his legitimacy during the tumultuous events of the civil war.

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