Claudius. Gold Aureus (7.77 g), AD 41-54. Rome, AD 50/1. TI CLAVD CAESAR AVG P M TR P X IMP P P, laureate head of Claudius right. Reverse: PACI AVGVSTAE, Pax-Nemesis advancing right, pointing winged caduceus at serpent before, and holding out fold of drapery at neck. RIC 51; BMC 61; Calicó 383. NGC grade VF; Strike: 5/5, Surface: 3/5. Marks. Value $5,000 - UP
This fine aureus of Claudius minted in AD 50/1 features on the reverse the figure of the winged goddess Nemesis with a serpent at her feet. Nemesis was associated with the concept of righteous retribution. As the type occurs regularly on the precious metal coinage of this reign, it was clearly intended to symbolize a fundamental aspect of the emperor's personal policy. Doubtless, it was this idea that was invoked as a justification for the invasion and conquest of Britain commencing in AD 43 and perhaps also for the execution of his wife Messalina half a decade later.