Gaius Cassius Longinus Imperator and Assassin of Julius Caesar AR Roman Imperatorial Denarius 43-42 BC Rare Silver Coin Libertas on Reverse Museum Reproduction CSRD0102

A variant appears to be known with a bust of Libertas veiled and draped on obverse. The reverse type references P. Cornelius Lentulus Spinther’s appointed to the college of Augurs. He traveled with Cassius and Brutus, and the reference to him on their coins indicates he was likely the moneyer in charge of these mints.

One of the main ringleaders in the plot to assassinate Julius Caesar, Gaius Cassius Longinus had been a survivor and hero of the Parthian War of Crassus (53-51 BC). Initially a backer of Pompey, he accepted a pardon from Caesar in 48 BC and loyally served him for the next four years. It soon became apparent the dictator had no intention of stepping down, and thus Cassius was one of the first to plunge his dagger into Caesar on the Ides of March, 44 BC. After fleeing Rome, Cassius returned to Syria and commandeered several crack legions and a fleet. He joined forces with Brutus in 42 BC and the two marched into Thrace to meet the pro-Caesarian legions led by Marc Antony and Octavian. At the first clash at Philippi in early October, Cassius suffered a reverse and rashly fell on his sword before he could be told that Brutus had counterattacked and saved the day. Demoralized by his friend’s death, Brutus was easily defeated three weeks later and took his own life.
DESIGN:
Obverse side
Head of Libertas right, diademed, necklace around neck
Legend:
C CASSI IMP LEIBERTAS

Reverse side
Emblems of the augurate: jug and lituus
Legend:
LENTVLVS SPINT in two lines

A perfect choice for Numismatists, Historians, Military Veterans, Collectors.