The caduceus is a staff adorned with two snakes and sometimes wings that was carried by Hermes in his role as messenger of the gods. The two snakes derive from a myth where Hermes separated two fighting snakes and thus symbolizes his additional role as a peacemaker.
(2 coins)
56478
Add to Cart Italy, Apulia, Venusia
AE Semis, 3.41g. 16.5mm. c.205-200 B.C. Draped bust of Hermes to right wearing winged petasos. Rev. VE. Winged boot; caduceus and S (Semis) to left. HN, Italy, 726. SNG ANS 770. Small patina scrape on reverse. Rare and among the best known examples. Fine green patna with some light encrustation. Provenance/Pedigree: Extremely Fine $3,500. |
56666
New Add to Cart Julius Caesar, d.44 B.C.
AR Denarius, 4.10g. 19mm. Moneyer, L. Mussidius Longus, Rome, 42 B.C. Wreathed head of Julius Caesar to right. Rev. L MVSSIDIVS LONGVS. Rudder, cornucopia, caduceus, and apex around central globe. CR 494/39a. Syd. 1096a. Sear, Greek Imperators 116. Spectacular portrait of Caesar and of superb quality. The portrait of the now divine Julius Caesar on the obverse was a powerful propaganda image for the forces of Octavian and Antony who were pursuing his assassins. The reverse type symbolizes Rome's control over the globe(land and sea) with cornucopia and rudder, Caesar's office as Pontifex Maximus with the apex, and the happiness of the Roman people with the caduceus. Provenance/Pedigree: Extremely Fine $22,500. |
