Ancient & Islamic Coins

Roman Imperatorial Coinage, CÆSARIANS, L. Hostilius Saserna, Denarius, 48, head of female Gallic captive right with dishevelled hair, carnyx behind, rev. l hostilivs [sase]rna, cult statue of Diana of Ephesus standing facing with stag and spear, 4.00g (Craw. 448/3; RSC Hostilia 4; BMCRR 3996). Good very fine, bright appearance £180-£220

Hostilius, like other moneyers who supported Cæsar’s cause, drew inspiration from the Bellum Gallicum for his coin designs. Cæsar’s account of his Gallic campaign was widely read among amongst Rome’s aristocratic elite and performed aloud for the city’s illiterate plebeian masses, ensuring widespread awareness of the general’s activities. The obverse of this coins relates to the campaigns in general, while the state of Diana on the reverse refers specifically to the siege of Massalia, where the goddess was patron deity