TYPE Roman Empire, Augustus (27 BC - 14 AD), copper as, Lugdunum (Lyons) mint, struck 10-14 AD, 13.21g DESCRIPTION . Obv: Laur. head of Augustus to right, legend TI CAESAR AVGVSTVS F IMPERAT VII Rev: Front elevation of the Altar of Lugdunum, decorated with corona civica between laurels, these by two figures; all flanked by two columns surmounted each by a statue of Victory, legend [R]OM ET AVG below REFERENCE: S2K 1690, SR 508v GRADING: F+, mostly smooth brown patina, minor sporadic pitting ORDER INFO: R3111, $95 An interesting and important architectural type. The celebrated Altar of Lugdunum was the center of the cult of Roma and Augustus (as reflected on the reverse legend) in that city. It was dedicated by Augustus on August 1, 10 AD (the day and place the future emperor Claudius was born) , and was honored on bronze coinage for a few years thereafter. The altar's prominence was a reflection of the city's overall importance, which was even beyond being Gallia's regional capital and communication hub. Only two of its columns of Egyptian granite survive today.