14-37 AD Roman Empire - Tiberius - Silver Denarius

Product Description:

These Specific coins of the Emperor Tiberius are also know as a “Tribute Penny” which comes from the King James Bible as the coin presented to Jesus when he made his famous speech known as “Render Unto Caesar”

NGC CH XF
3906243-009
Strike 5/5
Surface 2/5

Born in 42 B.C., Tiberius was the stepson of Caesar Augustus, and his surrogate father relied on him for important military decisions. As such, Tiberius spent much of his life campaigning on the Roman frontiers, contributing to the expansion of Augustus’ already enormous empire. Tiberius came to be known as one of Rome's most successful generals, even laying the foundations of Rome's northern frontiers. Although Caesar Augustus did not hold Tiberius in high regard after his failed childless marriage to his daughter Julia, he was forced to recognise Tiberius as his heir after the death of his two sons.

Known as quite shy in his youth, Tiberius was cautious of the Senate, much like many emperors after him, and chose to live in self-imposed exile on the island of Rhodes after divorcing his second wife for quite a few years before his reign. During this exile, there was a reported change in Tiberius’ demeanour; he became angry, resentful, and selfish. He would not return to Rome until Augustus summoned him. Throughout his life, he assumed he would never be bestowed the greatest seat in all of Rome, but this changed rapidly after the death of Augustus’ favoured grandsons. In 14 AD, Tiberius finally held supreme power at the age of 54.

His reign was surprisingly peaceful in regard to military conquest but given his demeanor and distrust of the Senate would lead to a massive accumulation of wealth which was occasionally confiscated from the wealthier of his subjects with some questionable laws and regulations being put in place. Upon his death at old age and many executions of potential heirs he is quoted as saying about the young Caligula when he adopted him “I am nursing a viper in Rome’s bosom,” Without Tiberius, Rome's later history might have been less colourful but likely shorter.

Obverse: Laureate head of Tiberius

Reverse: Livia as Pax