Rare Gold Coin Commemorating Julius Caesar’s Death Returned to Greece
The Eid Mar Coin: A Symbol of Ancient History
In 42 B.C.E., amidst the tumultuous events of the Roman Empire, a gold coin was minted to commemorate the assassination of Julius Caesar on the Ides of March. This rare artifact, known as the Eid Mar coin, bears the inscription “EID MAR” and depicts twin daggers flanking a cap. The other side features the profile of Marcus Junius Brutus, one of Caesar’s assassins, along with the letters “BRVT IMP” (Brutus, Imperator) and “L PLAET CEST” (Lucius Plaetorius Cestianus), who served as Brutus’ treasurer.
A Record-Breaking Sale and a Dark History
Fast forward to 2020, the Eid Mar coin resurfaced on the international art market, where it sold for a staggering $4.2 million at auction. However, this seemingly triumphant sale concealed a sinister backstory. The coin had been looted from Greece and fraudulently sold, highlighting the rampant problem of antiquities trafficking.
A Triumphant Return
Over two years after its record-breaking sale, the Eid Mar coin has finally been returned to its rightful home in Greece. In a ceremony held at the Greek Consulate in New York City, officials handed over the repatriated coin along with 28 other looted artifacts, some dating back to 5000 B.C.E.
The Scourge of Antiquities Trafficking
Antiquities trafficking is a multi-billion-dollar business that threatens cultural heritage worldwide. Greece, with its rich history and abundance of archaeological sites, has been a particular target for this illicit trade. As Ivan J. Arvelo, a special agent with Homeland Security Investigations, notes, looters and smugglers profit at the expense of cultural heritage, depriving nations of their invaluable artifacts.
The Importance of Repatriation
The repatriation of looted artifacts is essential for preserving cultural heritage and restoring historical connections. These artifacts provide tangible links to the past, offering insights into ancient civilizations and their contributions to human history.
The Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the smuggling and fraudulent sale of the Eid Mar coin is still ongoing. Richard Beale, owner and managing director of Roma Numismatics, a London-based auction house, has been arrested in connection with the case. His admission to smuggling as part of a plea deal suggests that the investigation is far from over.
A Success Story in Cultural Heritage Protection
The return of the Eid Mar coin to Greece is a significant victory in the fight against antiquities trafficking. It demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies and cultural institutions to protect and preserve cultural heritage.
As Greece’s consul general in New York, Konstantinos Konstantinou, stated at the repatriation ceremony, “We applaud the investigators for striking down the illegal international criminal networks whose activity distorts the identity of peoples… and transforms them from evidence of people’s history into mere works of art.”
Greece’s Ongoing Efforts
Greece remains vigilant in its efforts to recover looted antiquities and protect its cultural heritage. The country actively seeks the return of these artifacts through diplomatic channels, legal proceedings, and international cooperation.
The repatriation of the Eid Mar coin and other looted artifacts serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations. These artifacts are not merely objects of monetary value but invaluable pieces of human history that connect us to our past and shape our understanding of the world.
