While we do focus overwhelmingly on silver and gold coins, we do dabble in rounds, bars, and other metals, if the item is interesting enough. This new copper round from Hobo Coin fits that bill, and is the first release in a series called ‘Future in the Past’, which looks to blend historical elements, and give them a futuristic twist.

The first of them is called Romeaterna: Gaius Julius Caesar, and depicts the legendary Roman dictator in classic style, wearing a laurel wreath, and robes, but with one major difference. One side of his face, and his neck, is cybernetic, right down to a red eye. It’s almost like an ancient version of steampunk, an alternative history combining older civilisations and technology. The copper round is antiqued, and with some well-selected colouration. A fascinating depiction.

The obverse features that classic Roman eagle holding a lightning bolt, but again, there are numerous cybernetic enhancements over the bird. The famous SPQR, “Senatus Populusque Romanus,” (Senate and people of Rome) is inscribed above it, with Roma Aeterna below. This latter phrase means Eternal Rome, and was given to the female personification of the city, where the Emperor Hadrian dedicated a custom-built temple to her, but she’d been worshipped for at least 400 years by then. Her depiction greatly influenced the later Britannia, a staple of the coin world today.

The round comes in a square capsule, and with a certificate of authenticity, neatly themed (love that image of Cyber-Rome!). The back of the certificate hints at Greek and Egyptian issues to come. A fascinating combination, and at a launch price of under €30, an affordable one to pick up. Available to pre-order now.