Nomos 15

Gaius (Caligula), 37-41. Sestertius (Orichalcum, 34 mm, 29.95 g, 6 h), Rome, 37-38. C CAESAR AVG GERMANICVS PON M TR POT Laureate head of Caligula to left. Rev. S.PQ.R. / P.P / OB.CIVES / SERVATOS in four lines within an oak wreath tied at the bottom. BMC 38. BN 50. Cohen 24. RIC 37. With a fine portrait of Caligula and a very dark olive-green patina. Minor flatness, some remaining deposits and traces of cleaning, otherwise, good very fine.

Ex Nomos 9, 21 October 2014, 216 and from a Swiss collection, originally acquired privately in Vienna.

Gaius is usually known from his nickname, ‘Caligula’ (Little Boots), which he received from the miniature soldiers’ boots he wore as a child when he was on campaign with his father Germanicus. After Germanicus’ murder in 19, the family’s relationship with Tiberius became extremely tense: all the rest, including his mother Agrippina, were either executed or starved to death by order of Tiberius. Nevertheless, as the only surviving son of Germanicus Gaius became Tiberius’ heir, succeeded him in 37, and promptly proceeded to honor the members of his deceased family. Caligula’s reign started well but, apparently due to a severe infection, his personality changed, his actions became ever more bizarre and erratic, and he himself was murdered in 41.