“Augustalis” of Frederick II Hohenstaufen (r. 1215–50)

“Augustalis” of Frederick II Hohenstaufen (r. 1215–50)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Attempting to renew the Roman Empire, Frederick II Hohenstaufen issued a new gold coin called an “Augustalis” modeled on the gold coins of ancient Rome. The reverse bears an eagle, the imperial symbol, and an inscription with Frederick’s name. The portrait and inscription on the obverse link Frederick with Caesar Augustus.

Medieval Art and The Cloisters

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

“Augustalis” of Frederick II Hohenstaufen (r. 1215–50)“Augustalis” of Frederick II Hohenstaufen (r. 1215–50)“Augustalis” of Frederick II Hohenstaufen (r. 1215–50)“Augustalis” of Frederick II Hohenstaufen (r. 1215–50)“Augustalis” of Frederick II Hohenstaufen (r. 1215–50)

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world. Displayed in both The Met Fifth Avenue and in the Museum's branch in northern Manhattan, The Met Cloisters, the collection encompasses the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome in the fourth century to the beginning of the Renaissance in the early sixteenth century. It also includes pre-medieval European works of art created during the Bronze Age and early Iron Age.