Lot 3262
Octavian, as Sole Imperator, Silver Denarius (3.77g), 30-29 BC. Uncertain Italian mint, ca. 30-29 BC. Bare head of Octavian right. Reverse: Naval trophy consisting of cruirassh; helmet, shield, two javelins, and two rudders posted on ship's prow right; IMP CAESAR across field. CRI 419. RIC 265a. RSC 119. Rare. Well struck on a nice large flan and lightly toned. Extremely Fine. Estimate Value $1,000 - 1,300
Struck in the aftermath of Octavian's naval victory at Actium, this attractive denarius type depicts the arms and equipment of a Roman marine. Armor and weaponry used by shipborne soldiers was specially designed so as not to drag a soldier to his doom should be be dumped into the water. The muscle-type cuirass was lighter and easier to get out of than the chain mail widely used by land-based soldiers; likewise the smaller hexagonal shield and lightweight javelins were designed for shipboard use.
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