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Lot description

Claudius I and Agrippina II. Denarius. 50-51 AD. Rome. (Ric-I 81). (Bmcre-75). (Rsc-4). Anv.: TI CLAVD CAESAR AVG GERM P M TRIB POT P P, laureate head of Claudius I to right. Rev.: AGRIPPINAE AVGVSTAE, draped bust of Agrippina II to right, wearing crown of corn ears, her hair in long plait behind. Ag. 3,65 g. Ligera pátina. Leyendas completas. Muy rara. Ex Oslo Myntgalleri 14, (13/052018), lote 873.

This coin, one of the few Roman issues to depict an empress with her own name, features Agrippina II, wife of Claudius I, with the title Agrippinae Augustae. Her image follows the conventions of her official portrait, but it is notable for the inclusion of a crown of wheat ears, an attribute that associates her with the goddess Ceres, symbolizing fertility and the protection of the household. This iconography reinforces her role as the ideal empress and guarantor of dynastic continuity.
The issuance of this coin was part of a series of five new types aimed at legitimizing Agrippina’s position following her controversial marriage to Claudius and her elevation to the rank of Augusta. The union between uncle and niece was widely disapproved of in Roman society, so the coin’s iconography sought to consolidate her public image. However, more than a marriage of love, this was a strategic move for power on Agrippina’s part.
Shortly after her rise, she began eliminating those she saw as threats within the imperial court. Among her first maneuvers, she accused her rival Lollia Paulina of black magic, annulled Claudia Octavia’s engagement to secure her son Nero’s marriage, and ordered the assassination of Lucius Junius Silanus Torquatus' older brother to prevent any retaliation. This coin, therefore, is not only a numismatic testimony to Agrippina’s rise but also a reflection of the imperial propaganda used to reinforce her legitimacy and influence in Roman politics. Choice VF/Almost XF. Est...3500,00.

Starting bid

1.500 €

Current bid

1.600 €

Bid history ( bids)

Lot 40 | Roman Imperial

Historical Background

Lot description