Aureus of Octavian and Caesar Flashcards
What is on the obverse side of this coin?
bare head of Octavian
What is on the reverse side of this coin?
head of Julius Caesar with laurel wreath
What is the significance of this coin?
one of Octavian’s earliest attempts at attempting to craft his public image by linking himself with Julius Caesar
Why was the difference in Octavian and Caesar’s highest political positions vital?
Caesar had been assassinated for his tyrannical and unconstitutional behaviour
What does the laurel wreath worn by Caesar symbolise?
his military victories
What is the significance of this coin being an aureus?
it was intended to target the Senatorial Classes as they held positions within the Senate.
Octavian seeks to win their favour and not be deemed a threat.
How does both Octavian and Caesar holding the name Gaius Caesar help with Octavian’s image?
it helps to legitimise his relationship with Caesar and links him with the divine
