This era of coins terminated about the time of the birth of Christ, when the
Imperial Coins
were introduced. In noticing these, little save the labels on the case can be given.
Division II.
Julius Cæsar to Trajan, inclusive. Beginning 49 B.C., and ending 117 A.D. A simple catalogue of the illustrious names on these coins would convey an idea of their importance. All the victories of Cæsar are marked by coinage; but out of the two hundred belonging to this case reference need only be made to No. 24, a beautiful gold coin, with the undraped head of Augustus, exquisitely severe, the interest attaching chiefly to the legend, “The Son of God,” referring to the deification of Cæsar.
Division III.
embraces from Hadrian to Elagabalus, 117-222. In the reign of Hadrian much coin was issued, though it did not bear marks of the disasters and revolts that signalized the foregoing. That he was a merciful ruler is indicated by the coins, especially one—Hispania; the reverse showing the emperor raising Spain—a female figure—from the ground. His travels are also illustrated in coin.
Division IV.
From Severus Alexander to Claudius Gothicus, 222-270. These coins indicate the vicious effect of the rulers immediately preceding.