Roman Empire, Caracalla (198-217 CE), Gold Aureus, Obv: a laureate, draped and cuirassed head of the king facing the right, the legend "ANTONINVS PIVS AVG GERM” around the field, Rev: Carcalla, sacrificing over altar and holding scepter, standing left before temple in which stands statue of Aesculapius; small child holding wand to left of cult statue, vexillum between cult statue and emperor, attendant to far right, beaded border around the field on both sides, 6.93g, 19.97mm, (RIC # 270), two suspension holes, about very fine, Very Rare.

Note: Caracalla's health deteriorated unanticipatedly in the last years of his rule. In AD 214, while en route to crusade against the Parthians, he visited the extraordinary holy temple of Aesculapius at Pergamum with expectations of finding a cure for his illness. This fascinating aureus was struck to commemorate the occasion.

Estimate: INR 180000 - 200000