The Coin’s Significance and Auction Details: A remarkable piece of history, the Roman gold aureus bearing the image of Marcus Junius Brutus, one of the assassins of Julius Caesar, is set to be auctioned in Geneva on Monday. This rare coin is expected to fetch over a million Swiss francs, with the starting bid set at 750,000 francs (approximately $852,000). Considered a numismatic treasure, the coin’s value is not just monetary but historical, as it offers a direct connection to one of the most famous moments in Roman history—Caesar’s assassination. Frank Baldacci, the head of Numismatica Genevensis, calls it “a piece of history” and “the Da Vinci of Roman coins,” indicating its immense value in both historical and numismatic terms.

Historical Importance and Design: The coin, weighing 8 grams and made from gold, is one of only 17 known examples in existence. It features Brutus’s profile surrounded by laurel leaves on one side, and on the other, it celebrates his military victories. Struck in 42 BC just before the Battle of Philippi, the aureus has both political and artistic significance. The inscription “IMP” on the coin suggests that Brutus was promoting himself as a potential emperor, despite not holding that title. This coin serves as a testament to his ambition and the turbulent political environment following the assassination of Caesar, making it a significant historical artifact.

Journey Through Time and Authenticity: Over the centuries, this extraordinary coin has traveled through private collections, often owned by prominent figures such as princes and lords during the Renaissance. It resurfaced in the 1950s and was sold to a private collector in 2006 for 360,000 Swiss francs. Now, it is being returned to the market for the first time in a generation. The coin is encased in an airtight box, guaranteeing its authenticity. Experts have certified it by comparing it with other ancient coins and analyzing its gold content. With its rich history, artistic design, and rare status, the coin is an exceptional opportunity for collectors and historians alike to acquire a unique piece of Roman history.