JULIUS CAESAR. AR Denarius (3.91 gms), Military mint traveling with Caesar in North Africa, 48-47 B.C. NGC AU★, Strike: 5/5 Surface: 5/5. Cr-458/1; CRI-55; Syd-1013. Obverse: Diademed head of Venus right; Reverse: Aeneas advancing left, holding palladium and bearing Anchises on his shoulder. An immensely popular type, owing to Caesars self aggrandized mythical descent from Venus, this enchanting specimen presents breathtaking centering on the reverse, with the strike perfectly placed and hammered onto a somewhat broad flan of good metal. The overall surfaces remain problem-free and wholesome, while a deep cabinet tone--<em>indicative of much time in a well cultivated collection</em>--augments its eye appeal that much more. Undoubtedly deserving of its star designation, and quite likely one of the most beautiful examples of the type that one will ever encounter. Purportedly ex: Mossberg Collection (1946) & Haeberlin Collection (1933), lot 2666 (though unplated).
