A splendid coin Guy, of this critically important emperor.
The
caduceus is usually depicted in
Roman iconography as being carried in the left hand of Mercury, or in
his left hand and resting against
his left shoulder. On your coin
Aurelian also carries it in
his left hand, like the god. Mercury was a god of messages and of trade, notably of the grain trade. He was also considered a god of
abundance and commercial
success, particularly by the
Celtic tribes.
Aurelian is famous for
his reforms to improve the
quality of the currency- absolutely necessary if there was to be a much needed improvement in commerce and trade. Only then could the empire return to being a more abundant provider for it's hard pressed citizens. It therefore seems only natural he would want to see
his image associated with Mercury through the presence of the
caduceus.
What I particularly like is the casual, almost jaunty, way he seems to be carrying it over
his shoulder!
Best regards,
Steve