Augustus Caesar, Rome Mint 19 BC
The above coin was minted in Rome in 19 BC. This coin appears to commemorate the eclipse of 21 BC. The solar eclipse of 21 BC may have been a good omen for Augustus in his greatest diplomatic achievement. In 20 BC Augustus negotiated the return of Roman legionary standards lost at the Battle of Carrhae in 53 BC to the Parthians. Augustus built a temple to house the standards and used propaganda to tell the Roman people of Parthia's submission to Rome. It is likely the threat of war and the solar eclipse may have helped Rome with Parthian negotiations. The solar eclipse of 21 BC appeared to validate Roman domination of Parthia. The star and crescent are present on many coins minted at Roman Carrhae in latter years. The coin below is from the same moneyer of Sabine origin and was minted in Rome in 18 BC. The reverse displays a Parthian kneeling in submission to Roman dominance and returning the lost legionary standards from the Battle of Carrhae in 53 BC. Photo CNG coins.
