A rare Roman coin depicting Marcus Junius Brutus, known for his role in the assassination of Julius Caesar, was sold at a Geneva auction for €1.98 million. The sale attracted significant interest, culminating in a European collector securing the artifact after competitive bidding among eight online participants.

Historical Significance of the Coin

Minted between 43 and 42 BC, the coin was produced by Brutus and his allies following the assassination of Julius Caesar in March 44 BC. The obverse features a profile of Brutus encircled by a laurel wreath, while the reverse displays symbols of military victory. This design is interpreted as a propaganda tool, emphasizing Brutus's role in liberating Rome from tyranny and his aspirations for leadership.

Rarity and Provenance

Weighing approximately eight grams and comparable in size to a modern euro coin, this aureus is one of only 17 known examples. Its rarity and historical context contribute to its high value among collectors and historians. The coin resurfaced in the 1950s within a private collection and was later auctioned in Zurich in 2006, where it sold for 360,000 Swiss francs.

Auction Details

The auction, organized by Numismatica Genevensis, saw the coin's final price significantly exceed its initial estimate of over €800,000. The intense bidding reflects the coin's exceptional provenance and the strong demand for rare historical artifacts in the numismatic community.

Broader Implications

The sale underscores the enduring fascination with artifacts from pivotal moments in history. Coins like this aureus offer tangible connections to events that shaped the course of civilizations, serving as both historical documents and works of art. The substantial price achieved at auction highlights the value placed on such items by collectors and institutions alike.