One of the most characteristic dynastic issues of Augustus, struck at Lugdunum between 2 BC and AD 4. Its iconography is directly connected with one of the most important concerns of his reign – securing the succession to the political system he had created.
The reverse depicts Gaius and Lucius Caesar, sons of Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa and Julia, the daughter of Augustus. Augustus adopted both of his grandsons and prepared them to become his successors. The legend describes them as AVGVSTI F – sons of Augustus and PRINC IVVENT – principes iuventutis, “leaders of the youth”, a title emphasising their exceptional status.
Also significant are the simpulum and lituus placed between the two brothers, symbols associated with Roman priestly colleges. Together with their togas, shields and spears, these attributes presented the young Caesars as being prepared for public and religious office as well as for their future role at the head of the Roman state.
Augustus’ dynastic plans, however, ended in failure. Lucius died in AD 2 and Gaius in AD 4. Their premature deaths forced Augustus to reconsider the question of succession and ultimately opened the way to power for Tiberius.
The present denarius is therefore more than a characteristic Augustan issue. It is direct numismatic testimony to the first great dynastic project of the Roman Empire – a project intended to ensure the continuity of Augustus’ rule, but ultimately frustrated by the premature deaths of both designated heirs.
Roman Imperial
Octavian Augustus (27 BC-14 AD), Denarius 2 BC-4 AD, Lugdunum mint
Obverse: laurate head of August right
CAESAR AVGVSTVS DIVI F PATER PATRIAE
Reverse: Gaius and Lucius Caesar standing, each, togate, resting hand on shield and spear, in field lituus and simpulum, in exergue C L CAESARES
AVGVSTI F COS DESIG PRINC IVVENT
Diameter 20 mm, weight 3.42 g
