Aureus - Octavian (CAESAR·III·VIR·R·P·C / S C) (42 BC) front Aureus - Octavian (CAESAR·III·VIR·R·P·C / S C) (42 BC) back
Aureus - Octavian (CAESAR·III·VIR·R·P·C / S C) (42 BC) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Aureus - Octavian CAESAR·III·VIR·R·P·C / S C 42 BC

42 BC year
Gold 7.99 g 20 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Republic (509 BC - 27 BC)
Period
Republic (509 BC - 27 BC)
Triumvir
Octavian (Caius Octavius) (43 BC - 32 BC)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
42 BC
Value
Aureus (25)
Currency
Denarius of 16 Asses (141 – 27 BC)
Composition
Gold
Weight
7.99 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#333371
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Equestrian statue left, holding lituus in right hand, horse decorated with phalerae; in exergue, rostrum tridens.
Border of dots.

Script: Latin

Lettering: S C

Unabridged legend: Senatus Consulto

Translation: By decree of the Senate

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Aureus - Octavian coin is that it features the first known use of the title "Caesar" on a Roman coin, which was a nod to Octavian's status as the adopted son and heir of Julius Caesar. This title would become a hallmark of Roman imperial power and be used by future emperors for centuries to come.