Julius Caesar, as Dictator (49-44 BC). AR denarius (19mm, 3.24 gm, 3h). NGC Fine 4/5 - 4/5. Rome, M. Mettius as Moneyer, March-April 44 BC. CAESAR-IMPER, wreathed head of Julius Caesar right / M•METTIVS, Venus standing facing, head downward left, Victory in extended right hand, transverse scepter in left, resting left arm on shield set on globe; C over B(?) in left field. Crawford 480/17. Sydenham 1055. CRI 101. RSC 35. Rare. For two centuries, Rome had spurned the Hellenistic practice of placing the ruler's portrait on the coinage of the realm, much as they rejected the concept of kingship altogether. So early in 44 BC, many Romans must have been stunned to see the image of Julius Caesar, recently appointed dictator for an unprecedented fourth time, on circulating silver denarii. Like a profusion of other honors and titles, the right to place his image on coins had been bestowed on Caesar by the Roman Senate. Caesar's enemies may have had an ulterior motive in approving the honor, as it almost certainly would fuel the growing suspicion that Caesar intended to name himself king of Rome. If this was the intent, it succeeded, for within three months a conspiracy had been formed and Caesar was duly assassinated at a meeting of the Senate on March 15, 44 BC. The obverse legend acclaims Caesar as "Imperator," or victorious general. Within a few years, Caesar's successors and even his assassins would show no compunction about putting their portraits on their coins.

HID09801242017

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