Augustus and the Roman Principate
In 27 BC, the Senate gave Octavian extraordinary powers and the title Augustus. As
the first Roman emperor, Augustus restored peace and created the form of government,
know as the Principate, that would be the model for Roman rulers for almost 300 years.
Gold aureus (33-29 BC)
of Octavian with bare head.
Gold aureus (11-9 BC)
of Octavian with his new title of Augustus and a laurel wreath.
Bronze sestertius
struck by Tiberius (AD 34-35), commemorating Augustus as a god after his death. The
inscription reads "For the Deified Augustus-the Senate and the Roman People."