RIC (Caligula)-55. "AGRIPPINA M F MAT (C) CAESARIS AVGVSTI" Draped bust of Agrippina facing right; Reverse: "S P Q R MEMORIAE AGRIPPINAE" Carpentum drawn by two mules, the cover supported by standing figures at the corners, ornamented side. Struck to commemorate Caligulas mother, Agrippina Senior. The first and singular "C" in the obverse legend (signifying Gaius, the first name of the Roman emperor Caligula) has been effaced (in antiquity) from the inscription. This is interpreted to be a physical manifestation of the act of Damnatio Memoriae the censorship and condemnation of the deceased emperor (or other individual). The contemporary popular opinion was to subject Caligula to Damnatio Memoriae, though his successor Claudius (Caligulas uncle) forbid the formal process which had to be approved by the Senate. Nonetheless, it is not uncommon to find Caligulas name or portrait effaced, especially on Bronze issues. Very well struck with a lovely patina color blend of mahogany and parchment. Other than the ancient effacement, the coin stands as a wonderful example of this popular type, with an added invigoration of historical influence and a window into the complex political and social world of the early Roman Empire.NGC EF, Strike: 5/5 Surface: 3/5. Damnatio.
