CPR203 - ANCIENT ROMAN SILVER REPUBLIC COIN PENDANT OF SALUS GODDESS OF SAFETY AND WELL-BEING IN 14KY GOLD

SETTING

14K YELLOW GOLD

COIN 

SILVER DENARIUS

COIN AGE

49 B.C.

TOTAL SIZE

.90" diameter overall

ADD A GOLD CHAIN

DISPLAYED WITH A MEDIUM FORSANTINA CHAIN

This impeccably preserved ancient Roman Republic silver denarius coin features a profile of the ancient Roman goddess SALUS.  It is set in a hand-made braided 14K yellow gold pendant setting made in a style that compliments the laurel wreath worn by Salus.  On the reverse side, the goddess VALETUDO is seen standing and holding a large serpent.  The early art style of the Roman coins of this era is reminiscent of the beautiful art styles of the former Greek empire that became assimilated into the successor Roman Empire.  This coin is a splendid example of that art!  The strike and subject matter is perfectly centered and well- struck.  The top-grade condition of the coin has left much of the relief and detail intact after over 2000 years!  The silver of the coin is richly contrasted by the warm 14K yellow gold setting that surrounds it.

Both Salus and Valetudo were divinities of health and well-being.  Later, they became known as patron deities for personal health.  There was a statue to Salus in the temple of Concordia. She is the goddess first known to be associated with the serpent of Aesculapius.  

On the obverse side mounted outward for the wearer, the coin shows the bust of Salus with the inscription SALVTIS behind.  The reverse shows Valetudo standing left holding serpent with the inscription MN ACILIVS III VIR VALETV around.