Unique Aureus

A unique coin is rare, because the whole point of coins is that they should be uniform, so their value is recognized. But this gold coin struck ca 27-18BC is the only known example of an Augustus Caesar Type 2 aureus. The Caesar side shows an Apollo-like profile facing right and wearing the laurel crown of victory. The Augustus side shows a heifer, facing left, based on a long-lost statue by a Greek sculptor. Considering this coin is 2,000 years old, it is in remarkable condition. It comes up for sale in Dix Noonan Webb's London auction on 22 September estimated at £300,000 plus (CLICK).