DR-670 | Crawford: 465/5
Caius Considius Paetus
Caius Considius Paetus

Gens: Considia
Moneyer: Caius Considius Paetus
Date and mint: 46 BC - Rome


Obverse: helmet Bust of Minerva, right, wearing aegis. Dotted border.
Legend:

Reverse: Victoria in chariot, right, holding reins and palm branch on left and crown on right. Dotted border.
Legend: C CONSIDI

Comment: The Considia gens was a plebeian family that achieved some relevance in the late Republican period. The first known member of the family was Caius Considius, who served as praetor in 73 BC, during the Third Servile War. This Considius is remembered for his role in fighting the slave uprisings led by Spartacus.

Monetary: C. Considius Paetus was responsible for issuing this denarius in 46 BC, during the final phase of the civil war between Julius Caesar and the remnants of the Pompeian forces.

Historical context: In 46 BC, Julius Caesar consolidated his power after his victory at the Battle of Thapso in Africa. This victory eliminated the Pompeians who were still resisting, allowing Caesar to return to Rome and reorganize the city, preparing to rule as perpetual dictator. The issuance of this denarius took place in the midst of this consolidation process, with Caesar ensuring his absolute control over Roma.

On the obverse, the bust of Minerva, helmeted and wearing the aegis, highlights power and strategic wisdom. Minerva, goddess of war and intelligence, symbolizes the military and tactical virtues necessary for success in times of war.
The reverse features Victoria on a chariot, a classic symbol of military triumph in Romen iconography. This representation may be linked to Rome's recent victories in Africa, possibly related to Julius Caesar's successes in his civil war. The palm and crown highlight the values of victory and honor, common in military propaganda of the time.

Provenance: Bertolami Fine Arts (2018)
Price: 3,905 €