In a thrilling turn of events, a rare Roman coin linked to one of history’s most dramatic events is set to make waves at an upcoming auction. This 2,000-year-old gold coin, known as the “Eid Mar,” is a historic artifact commemorating the assassination of Julius Caesar. With only three known specimens in existence, this coin is poised to fetch up to $2 million when it goes under the hammer later this spring. The upcoming auction in Zurich promises to attract serious collectors and history enthusiasts alike.
Historical Significance of the Eid Mar Coin
The Eid Mar coin, minted in 44 B.C.E., stands as a significant piece of historical propaganda. It was struck following the assassination of Julius Caesar by a group of Roman senators, led by Marcus Junius Brutus. The coin was created not only as a celebration of Caesar’s death but also as a declaration of Rome’s newfound freedom from tyranny. Arturo Russo, managing director of Numismatica Ars Classic, highlights the coin’s profound historical value, noting that it has been displayed at the British Museum for over a decade due to its exceptional provenance.
Design and Symbolism
The Eid Mar coin features a heroic portrait of Brutus, accompanied by the inscription “BRVT IMP,” which translates to “Brutus Imperator,” underscoring his military victory. This inscription, along with the coin’s design, served as a bold piece of political propaganda in an era when media was virtually nonexistent. The reverse side of the coin displays two daggers and a Phrygian cap, symbols associated with Brutus and his co-conspirator, Gaius Cassius. The daggers likely represent the assassins, while the Phrygian cap, traditionally worn by freed slaves, symbolizes freedom and the triumph over a brutal dictatorship.
The Coin’s Journey and Auction Details
This particular gold coin has been a notable exhibit at the British Museum since 1932, thanks to numismatist Oscar Ravel. Its journey from the ancient Roman world to a modern museum underscores its historical and cultural significance. According to Lucia Carbone, curator of Roman coins at the American Numismatic Society, only about 80 authentic examples of Eid Mar coins exist today, with many having been melted down following Brutus’ death.
The coin is scheduled to be auctioned on May 30 at Zürich’s Hotel Baur au Lac, organized by Numismatica Ars Classica. Russo expresses awe at the survival of this remarkable piece, emphasizing its historical importance and rarity. The auction is expected to attract intense interest, given the coin’s dramatic backstory and its connection to one of history’s most infamous moments.
Conclusion
The upcoming auction of the Eid Mar coin presents a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of Roman history that symbolizes both the end of Julius Caesar’s rule and the beginning of a turbulent era in Rome. As one of only three known specimens, its sale could set new records and offers a chance for collectors to own a tangible piece of history. The coin’s rich symbolism and historical significance make it not just a collector’s item but a testament to the power of historical artifacts in bridging the past and present.
