Silver denarius of Julius Caesar
Unknown Artist
49–48 BCE
Medium
Silver
Dimensions
Diameter: 11/16 x 1/16 in., 0.1oz. (1.8 x 0.1 cm, 3g)
Classification
Coins
Culture & Period
Roman, Gaul · Late Republican
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Museum Accession
Accession Number
X.314.5
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite silver denarius, minted around 49–48 BCE during Late Roman Republic, captures a pivotal moment in history. Struck amid Julius Caesar's civil war against Pompey, at a mobile mint in Gaul, it served as both currency and propaganda. Measuring just 11/16 inch in diameter and weighing a mere 0.1 ounce, this artifact circulated among soldiers and civilians, funding Caesar's campaigns while boldly proclaiming his authority. What makes this coin revolutionary is its portrayal of Julius Caesar himself—among the earliest Roman coins to feature a living statesman's portrait. This break fr...