I know the Elephant is cheaper than a life issue with JCs portrait on it. But what would be the most inexpensive coin to look for that fills the JC slot of the 12 Caesars.
Probably the Thessalonica small AE or the 'heavy dupondius' of Octavian from Brundisium{?}. Warning, there are ancient imitations of the heavy dupondius, in much worse style (and lighter) than the official ones. Both are ancient. I'm not sure what the Thessalonica ones go for, but one should still easily be able to find a passable example of the 'heavy' dupondius' under $300. Do a search on acsearch.info. The official ones are in much better style, and stand out. I need to upgrade mine to an official.
If you're willing to take a half a coin (halved in ancient times), one will hardly find one cheaper than this. https://www.vcoins.com/en/stores/in...ugdunum_copia_gaul_36_bc/2030498/Default.aspx The full coins are pretty expensive.
This type can generally be found for around $100 to $200. The portrait style can vary a bit, but some are quite nice. This one is ex Harlan J. Berk: MACEDONIA, THESSALONICA Time of Augustus or later AE (22.75mm, 7.08g, 7h) Struck after 27 BC Obverse: ΘΕΟϹ, bare head of Julius Caesar right Reverse: ΘΕϹϹΑΛΟ-ΝΙΚΕΩΝ, bare head of Augustus right References: RPC I 1555 Well struck and well preserved with a dark patina. An unusually fine and lifelike bronze portrait of Julius Caesar.
This one cost me $80 on Ebay. Obv: T[EOC] ; Bare head of Caesar right. Rev: TECCA?O - NIKEON ; Bare head of Augustus right. RPC 1554
