The Twelve Caesars

27 BC - 96 AD


Please click on the images below to see further pictures...


AUGUSTUS AND AGRIPPA

The obverse displays the heads of Augustus, laureate (on the right) and Agrippa, laureate and wearing a rostral crown (on the left), back to back.
On the reverse is featured a crocodile, right, in chains, with a palm-branch behind; behind the palm, a wreath with long ties.
Inscription: The obverse bears the inscription “IMP DIVI F,” indicating Augustus as the son of the deified Julius Caesar. The reverse field has the inscription “COL NEM,” referring to the colony of Nemausus (modern-day Nîmes, France).

Historical Significance - the crocodile represents Egypt, symbolizing the defeat of Cleopatra and the Roman victory at the Battle of Actium. It may also refer to the veterans of the Actium campaign settled in Nemausus by Octavian (Augustus).

Weight 12.65g

(ref:AHC084)

AUGUSTUS

This coin was minted in the reign of Tiberius.  The obverse of this copper as depicts the bust of Augustus Posthumus. The inscription reads “DIVVS AVGVSTVS PATER”, emphasizing his deified status as the revered father of the Roman Empire.

On the reverse is an eagle standing on a globe. The eagle, a symbol of power and authority, holds a prominent place in Roman iconography. The globe represents dominion over the world—an assertion of imperial control.
Weight 10.4g

(ref:AHC049)

CALIGULA

Copper As. It is rare to see a portrait of Caligula in such a good condition.

On the reverse, is Vesta, veiled and draped, seated on an ornamental throne. She holds a patera (a shallow ritual dish) in her right hand and a long transverse scepter in her left. The inscription is “S-C.”
Weight 8.43g

(ref:AHC071)

CLAUDIUS

This coin displays the bare head of Claudius facing left, accompanied by the inscription (TI C)LAVDIVS CAESAR AVG P M T(R P IMP). On the reverse, Minerva is depicted standing right, brandishing a spear and holding a shield on her left arm, with the letters “SC” (Senatus Consulto) across the field.

Despite its worn condition, the portrait of Claudius and the legend remain clear. This makes it an excellent choice for collectors seeking an affordable piece from the 12 Caesars era.
Weight 8.38g
(Ref:AHC171)

NERO

The obverse features a strong portrait of Nero, in profile, facing right.

The reverse features Jupiter, the king of the Roman gods. He is depicted seated on a throne, holding a scepter in one hand and a thunderbolt in the other, symbolizing his power and role as the god of the sky and thunder.

Coins like this denarius were not just currency but also served as propaganda tools to reinforce Nero's power and association with Roman gods, particularly Jupiter, to legitimize his reign. Jupiter was the chief deity, and by placing his image on coins, Nero was connecting his rule with divine authority, portraying himself as being under the direct protection of the most powerful god.

Weight 2.99g
(ref:AHC199)

NERO

The Twin Janus (Ianus Geminus) with closed double doors and side wall with long latticed windows.

The Temple of Janus stood in the Roman Forum, near the Basilica Aemilia. It was a small structure with a bronze statue of Janus inside. The temple’s most distinctive feature was its double doors, known as the “Gates of Janus.” These doors were open during times of war and closed during peace—a powerful metaphor for the state of the Roman Empire.
Weight 10.2g

(ref:AHC045)

NERO

This is a worn but collectable copper As from the reign of Nero, displaying a reasonable portrait of the infamous emperor.  The reverse features Victory alighting with the letter "SC" (Senatus Consulto) across the field.

Despite its worn condition, the portrait of Nero and the legend remain clear. This makes it an excellent choice for collectors seeking an affordable piece from the 12 Caesars era.
Weight 7.89g
(Ref:AHC172)

OTHO

Victory alighting right.  This depiction is most probably in anticipation of the defeat of Otho's rival Aulus Vitellius for the Imperial Throne.

Note Otho's wig on the obverse. The Emperor Otho, who ruled for a brief period in 69 AD during the Year of the Four Emperors, was known for his vanity and personal grooming habits. Historical accounts describe him as being of moderate height, splay-footed, and bandy-legged. He was meticulous about his appearance, to the extent that he had the hair on his body plucked and wore a wig to conceal his thinning hair. The wig was reportedly so well-made that it was not suspected to be a wig by observers. This attention to detail in his personal grooming was noted by ancient historians and is part of what we know about his character today.

Weight 3.13g

(ref:AHC083)

VESPASIAN

SC on shield supported by two capricorns, with globe below. Minted in the reign of Titus in honour of his father Vespasian

Weight:3.25g

(ref:AHC009)

 

VESPASIAN

Turreted and dr female bust looking right - Minted in Epheses in AD 71

Weight:3.21g

(ref:AHC011)

 If you are not 100% satisfied within seven days of the receipt of goods, we will refund the total paid excluding postage charges. See Terms for more