Vercingetorix – Chieftain of the Averni
Moneyer issues of Imperatorial Rome. L. Hostilius Saserna. 48 BC. AR Denarius (18mm, 3.95 g, 3h). Rome mint. Head of Gallic captive (Vercingetorix?) right; Gallic shield behind / Two warriors in galloping biga right: one driving, holding whip and reins, and the other, facing backwards, holding shield and brandishing spear. Crawford 448/2a; CRI 18; Sydenham 952; Hostilia 2. EF, toned. Impressive strike and well centered for issue. Rarely encountered this attractive.
Ex Pat Coyle Collection.
This coin’s obverse may depict Vercingetorix, chief of the Arverni, who was captured in 52 BC at Alesia. Though Crawford and Sear believe this identification unlikely, the large, distinctive, and carefully engraved head suggests the die cutter worked with an eye toward creating an individualized portrait, rather than a stylized personification of a Gaul.
