Struck in the final years of the Roman Republic, this denarius is among the most visually striking of its age. Medusa confronts the viewer head on, her gaze protective and apotropaic, framed by coiled serpents. On the reverse, Aurora, goddess of the dawn, flies forward guiding the chariot of the Sun, a symbol of renewal, momentum, and inevitable change. Set in a hand made 18k gold bezel, the coin becomes a powerful object of transition, poised between darkness and light, old order and new.
This is a piece chosen not for subtlety, but for presence. This coin was bought from a reputable US ancient coin dealer.
The History
This denarius was struck during the chaos of the civil wars that followed Julius Caesar’s rise. Lucius Plautius Plancus served as a moneyer in 47 BC, at a time when Rome’s political future was uncertain and traditional symbols were being repurposed to speak to fear, protection, and renewal.
Medusa was not chosen for shock value alone. In Roman belief, her image was apotropaic, meant to ward off evil and danger. Placing her facing outward transformed the coin itself into a protective object, a portable talisman in a world marked by instability and violence.
The reverse completes the message. Aurora, goddess of the dawn, leads the solar quadriga across the sky, ushering in a new day. The imagery is unmistakably hopeful. After darkness comes light. After chaos, renewal. In the context of 47 BC, the symbolism would not have been lost on its users.
Today this type is admired not only for its historical depth but for its extraordinary artistry. The bold frontal Medusa and the dynamic reverse scene make it one of the most iconic Republican denarii ever struck.
What's Included
Authentic Roman Republic silver denarius (47 BC), guaranteed genuine
Custom 18k gold bezel setting, hand-forged to coin’s contours
Choice of 18k gold chains available upon request
Certificate of authenticity with historical notes
Luxury presentation box
Free insured U.S. shipping (international available)
7-day return and exchange policy
Coin Details
Issuer: L. Plautius Plancus
Date: 47 BC
Denomination: Silver denarius
Mint: Rome
Obverse: Head of Medusa facing, coiled snakes on either side; L PLAVTIVS below
Reverse: Aurora flying right, conducting the four horses of the Sun
Material: Silver
Setting: Hand made 18k gold bezel
Medusa and Aurora Hand Set in a Custom 18k Gold Bezel
$1,675.00
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FAQs
Are all coins authentic?
Yes! All coins are genuine, not replicas. Fakes are rare because good forgeries take too much effort for low-value coins, and bad ones are easy to spot.
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What if my pendant needs repair?
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