This rare bronze issue from 38 BC unites two faces that defined the final years of the Roman Republic. On the obverse is a youthful Octavian, still consolidating power and not yet the Augustus who would reshape Rome. Opposite him is the deified Julius Caesar, presented with the serene authority of a god. Together they form a political message in metal: legitimacy through lineage and destiny through divine sanction. Now set in a hand made sterling silver bezel, the piece becomes a wearable fragment of Rome’s transformation from republic to empire. The coin was carefully hand set in sterling silver.
The History
In 38 BC Octavian was still consolidating power in the aftermath of Caesar’s assassination. He was young, unproven, and struggling for legitimacy among rivals such as Antony and Sextus Pompey. Coins like this addressed that problem directly.
The obverse shows Octavian with a short beard, a mark of public mourning worn to honor his adoptive father. It reminded viewers of his filial duty and of the blood connection he claimed through Caesar’s will. The reverse depicts Julius Caesar not as a mortal statesman but as Divus Julius, a deified figure whose cult was already taking shape in Rome. By placing his own portrait opposite that of a god, Octavian presented himself as heir not only to Caesar’s political legacy but to his divine sanction.
This coin circulated during a critical phase of Octavian’s rise, helping craft the narrative that would ultimately support his transformation into Augustus, Rome’s first emperor.
What's Included
Sterling silver chain with 14k gold upgrades available at checkout
18k chain options available by message
Peregrine Pendants authenticity documentation
Coin origin and care instructions
Premium packaging suitable for gifting or display
Coin Details
Issuer: The Triumvirs
Figures: Octavian and Divus Julius Caesar
Date: 38 BC
Denomination: Bronze sestertius or dupondius
Mint: Southern Italian mint
Obverse: Bare head of Octavian right, wearing slight beard
Reverse: Laureate head of Divus Julius Caesar right
Octavian and Divus Julius Caesar Bronze Sestertius
Setting Type / Bezel / 18k Gold
$1,650.00
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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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Mostly from reputable ancient coin auctions in Europe and the USA, plus private collections.
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Can I send you my own coin to make a pendant?
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What if my pendant needs repair?
If your pendant ever needs repair or resizing, contact us - we’re happy to help keep your piece in top shape.
