c49-48 BCE

Gaius Julius Caesar, 12 July 100 BCE – 15 March 44 BCE, was a Roman general and statesman. A member of the First Triumvirate, Caesar led the Roman armies in the Gallic Wars before defeating his political rival Pompey in a civil war, and subsequently became dictator from 49 BC until his assassination in 44 BC. He played a critical role in the events that led to the demise of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire. Caesar’s earliest coins feature symbols of his military success and religious influence. This early coin features an elephant trampling a dragon. The elephant was associated with the victories of Alexander the Great. The reverse depicts religious implements associated with Caesar’s office of Pontifex Maximus: the simpulum (ladle used to pour libations), aspergillum (utensil for sprinkling holy water), securis (sacred axe used for sacrifice), and apex (ritual cap worn by priests). Subsequent coins depicted Caesars portrait in profile.