Ionia. Ephesos. Augustus 27 BC-AD 14. Struck circa 25 BC
Cistophoric Tetradrachm AR

27 mm, 11,77 g

IMP CAESAR, bare head of Augustus to right / AVGVSTVS, capricorn to right, head turned back to left, cornucopiae on its back; all within wreath.

nearly mint state

RIC 477; RPC 2213.

Ex. Nomos Auction 21, 293

Augustus, originally named Gaius Octavius and later known as Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus, was the first emperor of Rome and one of the most significant figures in Roman history. Born in 63 BC, Augustus came to prominence following the assassination of his great-uncle and adoptive father, Julius Caesar, in 44 BC. His rise to power marked the end of the Roman Republic and the beginning of the Roman Empire, a transformation that would shape the course of Western history. After Julius Caesar’s murder, Augustus formed the Second Triumvirate with Mark Antony and Lepidus to defeat Caesar’s assassins, Brutus and Cassius, at the Battle of Philippi in 42 BC. This alliance, however, was short-lived, as tensions soon arose between Augustus and Mark Antony. The conflict culminated in the decisive Battle of Actium in 31 BC, where Augustus defeated Antony and Cleopatra, effectively consolidating his control over Rome. In 27 BC, the Roman Senate awarded him the title "Augustus," meaning "revered one," signifying his new role as the supreme ruler. Though Augustus maintained the outward appearance of a republican government, he held absolute power, marking the true beginning of the Roman Empire. His reign ushered in the Pax Romana, a long period of peace and stability throughout the Roman world that lasted for over two centuries. Augustus’ rule was characterized by significant reforms in nearly all aspects of Roman life. He reorganized the Roman military, establishing a professional standing army, and reformed the financial and administrative systems. His reign also saw a flourishing of culture, with major literary figures such as Virgil, Horace, and Ovid producing some of their greatest works. He also improved Rome’s infrastructure by building roads, aqueducts, and public buildings. Despite his long and successful reign, Augustus faced personal struggles regarding his succession. His only biological child, Julia, did not provide a direct male heir. Over time, he adopted several successors, including his stepsons, Tiberius and Drusus, from his marriage to Livia Drusilla. Ultimately, Tiberius succeeded him after Augustus died in AD 14. Augustus’ legacy is immense, as he transformed Rome from a chaotic republic into a stable, long-lasting empire. His political, military, and social reforms had a lasting impact, and he was deified by the Roman Senate after his death, securing his place not only as a historical figure but also as a god in Roman religious tradition.