This silver denarius was issued under Augustus between 2 BC and AD 4, minted at Lugdunum (modern Lyon). Its purpose was strongly dynastic, promoting Augustus’ heirs—his grandsons Gaius Caesar and Lucius Caesar—as successors to the imperial line.

Obverse (Front)

Laureate head of Augustus, facing right.

Legend: CAESAR AVGVSTVS DIVI F PATER PATRIAE (“Caesar Augustus, son of a god, father of the fatherland”).

Reverse (Back)

Gaius and Lucius Caesar, standing frontally, each wearing a toga and resting a hand on a shield with a spear behind it.

Between them appear:

A simpulum (ladle used in religious rites), symbolizing Gaius’ priestly office.

A lituus (curved augural staff), symbolizing Lucius’ role as augur.

Legend: C L CAESARES AVGVSTI F COS DESIG PRINC IVVENT (“Gaius and Lucius Caesars, sons of Augustus, consuls-designate, leaders of the youth”).

Historical Significance

The coin served as imperial propaganda, publicly naming Augustus’ intended successors and presenting them to the Roman people and army.

Both Gaius and Lucius tragically predeceased Augustus (in AD 4 and AD 2 respectively), ending this early succession plan.

Octavian as Augustus, 27 BC – 14 AD Denarius Lugdunum Gaius/Lucius

Description