Julius Caesar’s Denarius & the Library of Alexandria Fire

The Library of Alexandria and Julius Caesar’s Denarius

In July 48 BCE, Julius Caesar’s military campaign in Egypt led to the burning of ships in Alexandria’s harbor—possibly triggering the fire that consumed part of the Great Library.

What the Coin Reveals

• Dating the Event: Caesar’s elephant denarius was minted that year, confirming his presence in Egypt.
• Imagery: The elephant crushing a serpent may symbolize Caesar crushing the old world—echoing the literal destruction of Alexandria’s intellectual legacy.

Conspiracy and Mystery

Was the fire accidental—or was it convenient? The coin links Caesar directly to the timing of the destruction. Many suspect the loss of the library’s eastern scrolls may not have been an accident at all.

Why It Matters

Coins like this don’t just confirm Caesar’s location—they hint at motive, and offer material evidence of how conquest and loss often come hand in hand.