★ The Sidus Iulium ★

Augustus, 27 BC-AD 14. Denarius (Silver, 21 mm, 3.62 g, 7 h), uncertain mint in Spain (Colonia Patricia?), circa 19/8 BC. CAESAR AVGVSTVS Head of Augustus to left, wearing oak wreath. Rev. DIVVS • IVLIVS Sidus Iulium: eight-rayed comet with tail upward. BMC 326. Cohen 97. RIC 37b. Slightly porous and with some scratches and graffiti, otherwise, very fine.

The 'star' on the reverse of this piece is the Sidus Iulium, a comet that appeared during the festivities held by Octavian in honor of Venus Genetrix on 20-23 July 44 BC, and was subsequently connected to Caesar's deification.