Finding LordM’s Roman Twelve Caesars Collection in the Wild: A Cherry Picker’s Guide

Historical Significance

The Roman Twelve Caesars collection stands as one of the most iconic and historically significant series in ancient numismatics. Spanning from Julius Caesar to Domitian (49 BC to 96 AD), these coins chronicle the dramatic transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire, capturing a pivotal era in Western civilization. For the roll hunter, understanding this historical context is crucial – it helps identify which coins might appear in circulation or bulk lots, and why certain emperors are more valuable than others.

Identifying Key Markers

When searching through circulation or bulk lots for potential Twelve Caesars specimens, several key markers can help identify valuable pieces:

• Portrait Style: Look for distinctive Roman imperial portraits with laurel wreaths, military helmets, or radiate crowns. The Twelve Caesars series features highly individualized portraits that evolved throughout their reigns.
• Inscriptions: Search for Latin inscriptions like “CAESAR,” “IMP” (Imperator), or “AVG” (Augustus). Even partial inscriptions can be valuable clues.
• Metal Composition: The Twelve Caesars were primarily struck in silver (denarii) and gold (aurei). Bronze sestertii and dupondii were also common. Weight and color can help identify the metal type.
• Reverse Types: Many Twelve Caesars coins feature distinctive reverse designs including military trophies, deities, or family members. These can be key identifiers.

Common Varieties to Watch For

“Not just NGC. ‘Caligula’ is used pretty much everywhere, even though you certainly wouldn’t have called him that to his face unless you had a death wish. It’s just one of those things that stuck.”

This forum discussion highlights an important point for collectors: even common knowledge can be misleading. When examining coins, be aware that historical names and attributions may not always be accurate. For instance, while “Caligula” is the commonly accepted name, his actual name was Gaius. This kind of historical nuance can affect both identification and value.

Where to Search

Circulation Finds

While finding genuine ancient Roman coins in modern circulation is extremely rare, it’s not impossible. Look for:

• Old coin collections that may have been broken up and spent
• Foreign coins mixed in with domestic currency
• Coins with unusual weight or appearance that might have been overlooked

Bulk Lots

Bulk lots are often the best source for finding valuable ancient coins at reasonable prices. When purchasing bulk lots:

• Look for lots advertised as “ancient coins” or “world coins”
• Pay attention to weight – heavier lots may contain more valuable specimens
• Don’t be afraid to ask sellers about the provenance of their lots

Estate Sales

Estate sales can be goldmines for ancient coin collectors. Many collectors’ estates contain hidden treasures that heirs may not recognize. When attending estate sales:

• Arrive early to get first pick
• Bring a magnifying glass and basic reference materials
• Be prepared to negotiate – many sellers are unfamiliar with coin values

Value Guide

The value of Twelve Caesars coins varies dramatically based on several factors:

• Rarity: Emperors with shorter reigns (Otho, Galba, Vitellius) are typically more valuable
• Condition: Well-preserved specimens command premium prices
• Metal: Gold aurei are significantly more valuable than silver denarii or bronze coins
• Historical Significance: Coins with important historical connections or unique reverse types can be worth more

“Having all twelve in gold aurei would be amazing. But that is an endeavor for those who have much, much deeper pockets than I do! I imagine the aurei from those short-lived civil war emperors like Otho and Vitellius would be beastly to afford.”

This quote from the forum discussion perfectly illustrates the challenge and excitement of collecting Twelve Caesars coins. While completing a full set in gold is nearly impossible for most collectors, finding individual specimens can be incredibly rewarding.

Boscoreale Toned Coins

One of the most desirable varieties mentioned in the discussion is the Boscoreale toned coins. These coins, buried during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, developed a distinctive toning from the volcanic ash. While finding genuine Boscoreale coins is extremely rare, understanding their characteristics can help identify potential specimens:

• Look for distinctive reddish-purple toning
• Check for coins dated to 79 AD or earlier
• Be aware that many coins have been artificially toned to mimic this effect

Authentication Tips

When you think you’ve found a valuable Twelve Caesars coin, here are some authentication tips:

• Check the weight against known standards for the denomination
• Examine the style and quality of the engraving – ancient coins were hand-struck and have distinctive characteristics
• Look for signs of modern tooling or casting
• Consult reference books or online resources for comparison

“I have two in there. That is likely all the aurei I will ever be able to afford. Really, only a few years ago I never dreamed I would own even one, let alone two.”

This collector’s experience shows that even experienced collectors can be surprised by what they find. Patience and persistence are key when searching for valuable coins.

Conclusion

The Roman Twelve Caesars collection represents one of the most fascinating and historically significant series in numismatics. While finding genuine specimens in circulation or bulk lots is challenging, the thrill of the hunt and the potential for discovery make it an exciting pursuit for collectors of all levels. Whether you’re searching through old collections, attending estate sales, or carefully examining bulk lots, understanding the key markers, historical context, and value factors can help you identify valuable coins that others might overlook.

Remember that even if you don’t find a complete Twelve Caesars collection, each individual coin tells a story and represents a tangible connection to one of the most important periods in human history. Happy hunting!

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