10) Proposed views of the villa as imagined once completed and furnished. Can you picture yourself in a toga strolling its colonnades?

'I find antiquity a rewarding study, if only because, while I am absorbed in it, I am able to turn my eyes from the troubles which torment the modern world.'

- Livy writing around 27 BC, prelude to the History of Rome

Hostis generis humani - 'Enemy of the human race.'

A pithy epitaph for Nero courtesy of Pliny the Elder. (Natural History, 7.6)

3) ..with the personalised faces of the deceased, and associated dedicatory inscriptions, finished by a sculptor upon purchase by a customer. For reasons unknown, this sarcophagus was never personalised to its occupant.

3rd century AD, Tipasa Archaeological Museum, Algeria.

‘History is moving pretty quickly these days and the heroes and villains keep on changing parts.’

- Ian Fleming, Casino Royale (Ch.20)

Finally got my copy today. I'm looking forward to reading it. Thank you, Gareth Harney.

Dictator for Life! Sit back and enjoy this exclusive clip from the audiobook of Moneta: A History of Ancient Rome in Twelve Coins (with slideshow) – read with gravitas and intensity by the brilliant Piers Hampton. Audiobook available to buy or stream at all the usual outlets.

Roman pot from York made to resemble the empress Julia Domna, wife of Septimius Severus. The portrait pot most likely commemorates the imperial family's residence at York from 208 until the emperor's death there in 211. Not far removed from novelty Royal Family merchandise today?

If you enjoyed reading 'Moneta' and have a moment to leave a quick review on any of the usual platforms, this first-time author would greatly appreciate it. ⚔️

Roman pot from York made to resemble the empress Julia Domna, wife of Septimius Severus. The portrait pot most likely commemorates the imperial family's residence at York from 208 until the emperor's death there in 211. Not far removed from novelty Royal Family merchandise today?